Abstract: A disarticulated compression socket configured to secure a residual limb. The disarticulated compression socket may include a rigid socket frame having one or more compression apertures each having one or more disarticulated compression inserts. Each disarticulated compression insert may be coupled with, and responsive to, a compression actuator configured to adjust the disarticulated compression insert individually, or in concert. In one preferred embodiment, at least one compression actuator may be coupled with one, or a plurality of disarticulated compression inserts and further configured to retract and/or expand the coupled disarticulated compression inserts securing the residual limb within said socket frame. Control of the compression actuators may be manual or automatic in response to a signal from a sensor.

Abstract: The present invention is directed at a removable stent for providing reinforcement to a selected region of a selected body lumen including a resilient cylindrical layer, including at least one bioresorbable extrusion exterior from the resilient cylindrical layer for resisting migration of the removable stent when the removable stent is positioned in the selected region of the selected body lumen. The present invention also includes a temporary implantable endoprosthesis which includes a tubular, radially compressible and axially flexible structure, including at least one bioresorbable extrusion exterior from the resilient cylindrical layer for resisting migration of the removable stent when the removable stent is positioned in the selected region of the selected body lumen.

Abstract: The kit includes: a first implant (16) defining a window (26), and a second implant (18) including a second tubular body (42) designed to be positioned in the window (26). The second implant (18) includes a retaining member for retaining the second implant (18) relative to the first implant. The kit further includes a retaining ring (20) for retaining the second implant (18) attached on the first tubular body (22) in the window (26) and delimiting an insertion passage (60) for the second implant (18). The retaining ring (20) is elastically deformable in the window (26) to allow a reversible increase of at least 20%, advantageously at least 30%, of the outer contour of the insertion passage (60).

Abstract: A stent and method for treating an end of a pre-woven stent is provided. The method includes providing a pre-woven stent including a plurality of sharp ends. A pair of wire portions that extend in opposite helical directions around the stent are bent and woven into the stent to define a pair of overlapping crown portions. When the wires are woven into the stent a double weave portion of the stent is defined. The wires can be cut to define tail portions that are removed from the stent, leaving a single crown portion. The sharp ends can be alternatively treated by curving the ends to define rounded looped ends.

Abstract: Described herein are flexible implantable occluding devices that can, for example, navigate the tortuous vessels of the neurovasculature. The occluding devices can also conform to the shape of the tortuous vessels of the vasculature. In some embodiments, the occluding devices can direct blood flow within a vessel away from an aneurysm or limit blood flow to the aneurysm. Some embodiments describe methods and apparatus for adjusting, along a length of the device, the porosity of the occluding device. In some embodiments, the occluding devices allows adequate blood flow to be provided to adjacent structures such that those structures, whether they are branch vessels or oxygen-demanding tissues, are not deprived of the necessary blood flow.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing a polymeric stent by forming a pattern on a polymer tube with a laser, where the pattern formed on the polymer tube comprises a plurality of repeating units comprising a plurality of unit cells, each having a V-shaped configuration and polymeric stents formed by the methods. The pattern may be formed on the polymer tube (e.g., polylactic acid tube) using a second harmonic generator laser in which a wavelength ranging from 940 nm to 1552 nm is converted.

Abstract: A stent delivery system is provided that includes a self-expanding stent with a longitudinal length and a plurality of individual suture loops spaced along the longitudinal length of the stent, wherein the stent is compressed by the plurality of individual suture loops. The stent delivery system also includes a longitudinal pull member that secures the plurality of individual suture loops about the stent, wherein the plurality of individual suture loops are configured to separate from about the stent when the longitudinal pull wire is removed.

Abstract: An anchoring guidewire and methods for use, where the anchoring guidewire comprises: (a) an outer core, (b) an anchoring basket, (c) a steerable tip, and (d) an actuator core. The outer core, the anchoring basket and the steerable tip are axially aligned with one another. Further, the actuator core may be movably disposed within both the outer core and the anchoring basket and may be coupled to the steerable tip.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods are provided for flaring a stent deployed within a branch vessel including an ostium communicating with a main vessel, a first end of the stent extending at least partially from the branch. A catheter is provided that includes a first balloon carried on its distal end, and a second balloon that includes a distal section overlying at least a portion of the first balloon and a proximal section. The catheter distal end is introduced into the main vessel and positioned through the ostium and stent into the branch until the first balloon is disposed within the stent. The first balloon is expanded to anchor the stent, and the second balloon is expanded to flare the first end of the stent. Optionally, the first balloon is expanded further, e.g., to expand the stent within the branch body lumen and/or dilate the lesion.

Abstract: A method of moving a stent device into an outer sheath of a stent device delivery system is disclosed. The stent device is crimped into a collapsed configuration onto the loading mandrel. The loading mandrel is pushed toward the outer sheath as the engaging surfaces resist relative longitudinal movement between the stent device and the loading mandrel to move the stent device into the outer sheath. Upon entering the outer sheath, the stent device expands radially until radially constrained by the outer sheath.

Abstract: A device to release from an implant bed in the device a self-expanding implant by pulling back proximally, the length of the implant, a rolling membrane with an inner sleeve that extends distally to the distal end of the implant and an outer sleeve that extends proximally, from the distal end of the inner sleeve, the outer sleeve, during said release, pulling the distal end of the inner sleeve back proximally over the abluminal surface of the remainder of the inner sleeve, proximal of its distal end, the device having a slitter, that is caused to move proximally contemporaneously with the outer sleeve, to slit the inner sleeve progressively, starting at a distal point in the inner sleeve, and progressing proximally along the length of the inner sleeve.

Abstract: An eating aid robot and a method performed thereby are provided. The robot comprises an arm capable of engaging an eating tool at an end of the arm. The arm is moveable to move the eating tool horizontally and vertically, wherein the arm is configured to be positioned with the eating tool in at least two vertical levels. The robot is connectable to a maneuver device which sends a signal to the robot, wherein the arm follows a cycle of different vertical and horizontal movements and pauses when the arm is kept still with the eating tool in at least one of the vertical levels. The method comprises receiving the signal from the maneuver device, and selecting a subsequent movement and/or pause of the cycle for the arm based on in which of the movements or pauses of the cycle the arm currently is when receiving the signal.

Abstract: A neck movement support device includes a stationary member, a movable member connected to the stationary member and rotatable relative thereto about an anteroposterior neck movement axis, a yoke extending away from the movable member and rotatable therewith about the anteroposterior neck movement axis, a handle connected to the yoke and rotatable relative thereto about a mediolateral neck movement axis, and a head hardness connected to the handle and rotatable relative thereto about a craniocaudal neck movement axis. A head of a user is securable to the head hardness, so as to constrain the head to move or remain stationary along with the head hardness about the anteroposterior, mediolateral and craniocaudal neck movement axes.

Abstract: A moldable ankle flexible brace is disclosed. The flexible ankle brace may include a heat-moldable, multi-layer leg support portion, a heat-moldable, multi-layer foot support portion, a pair of hinges connecting the leg support portion to the foot support portion, an opening for receiving a user's ankle, and a closure mechanism. The flexible ankle brace may include a middle layer that is substantially stiff at a temperature below about 130° F. and moldable at temperatures above 130° F. Also disclosed is a method of using a flexible ankle brace to treat an ankle. The method may include, for example, heating the brace to above 130° F. placing the heated brace on a patient's ankle and molding the brace to conform to the shape of the patient's ankle.

Abstract: A method and orthotic for treating, substantially preventing, or minimizing the possibility of, human infant occipital plagiocephaly and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), utilizes or provides a garment dimensioned to fit a human infant. The garment (such as a vest or jacket) has an open top portion, a substantially closed front, a substantially closed rear, a first receptacle on the front, and a second receptacle on the rear and functionally cooperating with the first receptacle. Third and fourth receptacles are preferably also provided, the first and second receptacles on the left side of the garment, and the third and fourth on the right side. The garment may be primarily of a stretchable mesh fabric. A cylindrical or prismatic bolster (e. g. of firm foam or rubber) is provided in each of the first and second receptacles.

Abstract: The Ostomy bag with gas check valve and water bottle connection is constructed of an impermeable bag that is further defined with a tapered design. A bottom portion of the impermeable bag includes an outlet from which the contents of the impermeable bag may be selectively released. The impermeable bag also includes a stoma port on a side surface, which is adapted to make fluid connection with a stoma of an end user. The impermeable bag is further defined with a top ridge that is distally opposite of the bottom portion. Located along the top ridge of the impermeable bag is a gas check valve, and which is adjacent to a water bottle connection.

Abstract: A wearable toilet seat includes a back cover portion 11 is fitted at the main body of the toilet seat 10 equipping the defecated fecal receiving portion 14 and the discharged urine receiving portion 15 from the back side and the bottom surface of the main body 10, the rinse solution nozzle 17 equipping the upward spray nozzle 43 and the horizontal spray nozzle 44 and the wind-guide long hole 25 opening upward are arranged as facing the defecated fecal receiving portion 14 in the main body 10, the anterior cover portion 12 is covered on the wind-guide long hole 25 as having a gap in a manner that the air blasting route 46 is on the wind-guide long hole 25, and the assembly ligula 90 of the frontal marginal region of the anterior cover portion 12 is fixed with the assembly ligula 21 of the defecated fecal receiving portion 14 and the assembly ligula 36 of the discharged urine receiving portion 15 at the hip receiving portion 13.

Abstract: A bone anchor for a tongue manipulation device which has a tissue anchor for attachment to the tongue, the bone anchor, for example for attachment to the mandible and a tether line which fixes the tissue anchor to the bone anchor. The bone anchor has a spool arrangement with a indexing part and a spool part. In a first configuration the spool part is operable to spool the tether line without operation of the indexing part, and in a second configuration the spool part is operable to spool the tether line with operation of the indexing part. This means the spooling to take up slack in the tether line does not cause wear to the indexing springs, and it also means the user can feel when the slack has been taken up.

Abstract: A heat transfer system may include a heat transfer machine adapted to thermally couple to an heat transfer pack housed within an heat transfer device and transfer heat from the heat transfer pack using a power supply. The heat transfer device may include a housing and a heat transfer pack. The heat transfer pack may be adapted to thermally couple to the heat transfer machine, transfer heat to the heat transfer machine while thermally coupled to the heat transfer machine, and transfer heat from a mammal's skin when the heat transfer device is in contact with the mammal's skin and uncoupled from the heat transfer machine.

Abstract: A dispenser for the delivery of a droplet of a liquid comprises a housing which defines an outlet orifice, a tip seal, biased against the housing to seal the outlet orifice, and a dosing pump for pumping a liquid to the outlet nozzle. The dispenser further comprises an actuation pump configured to provide a hydraulic opening force to the tip seal for opening of the outlet orifice. Preferably the actuation pump is configured to operate at a higher pressure than the dosing pump.

Abstract: A device for inducing production of tears may include a body extending from a proximal end to a distal end. The body may be configured for insertion through a puncta of a subject. The device also may include a stimulus delivery mechanism positioned between the proximal end and the distal end and an induction coil operably coupled to the stimulus delivery mechanism. Further, the device may include an external controller wirelessly coupled to the induction coil for inductively transferring energy to the induction coil.

Abstract: A device for inducing production of tears may include a body extending from a proximal end to a distal end. The body may be configured for insertion through a puncta of a subject. The device also may include a stimulus delivery mechanism positioned between the proximal end and the distal end and an induction coil operably coupled to the stimulus delivery mechanism. Further, the device may include an external controller wirelessly coupled to the induction coil for inductively transferring energy to the induction coil.

Abstract: A therapeutic system comprises an ocular insert placed on a region outside an optical zone of an eye. The ocular insert comprises two structures: a first skeletal structure and a second cushioning structure. The first structure functions as a skeletal frame which maintains positioning of the implant along the anterior portion of the eye and provides support to the second, cushioning structure. This first structure maintains the attachment of the therapeutic system to the anterior portion of the eye for at least thirty days. In some embodiments the first structure remains a constant size and shape, e.g. a ring shape, a ring with haptics, or a curvilinear ring that is confined to and restrainingly engages the inferior and superior conjunctival fornices so as to retain the implant within the tear fluid and/or against the tissues of the eye.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an anterior capsulotomy guide device for cataract surgery. The present invention relates to an anterior capsulotomy guide device for cataract surgery which is temporarily inserted for anterior capsulotomy during cataract surgery, wherein the anterior capsulotomy guide device comprises a ring-shaped body, and a cut portion is formed by cutting a part of the body. According to the present invention, it is possible to carry out anterior capsulotomy with precise size and shape during cataract surgery, thereby maximizing the effect of cataract surgery.

Abstract: An intraocular shunt deployment device can release an intraocular shunt into an eye using a deployment mechanism that coordinates action between a pusher component, a shaft component, and a housing of the device. The deployment mechanism causes axial movement of the components in response to a rotational input force.

Abstract: Configurations are described for conducting ophthalmic procedures to address cataract-related clinical challenges. In one embodiment, a one-piece patient contact interface may be utilized to couple a diagnostic and/or interventional system to a cornea of a patient; in another embodiment, a two-part configuration may be utilized; in another embodiment, a liquid interface two-part embodiment may be utilized.

Abstract: A steerable laser probe may include a handle having a handle distal end and a handle proximal end, a plurality of actuation controls of the handle, a housing tube having a housing tube distal end and a housing tube proximal end, and an optic fiber disposed within an inner bore of the handle and the housing tube. An actuation of an actuation control of the plurality of actuation controls may gradually curve the housing tube. A gradual curving of the housing tube may gradually curve the optic fiber. An actuation of an actuation control of the plurality of actuation controls may gradually straighten the housing tube. A gradual straightening of the housing tube may gradually straighten the optic fiber.

Abstract: An ophthalmic instrument for the application of laser radiation in a patient's eye, particularly for the examination and/or surgical laser treatment of the cornea and the lens of the eye, includes a femtosecond laser, an objective and optical assemblies. The optical assemblies are arranged in front of the objective, and selectively vary the focus position in the coordinate direction X,Y and Z either within the region of the cornea or within the region of the lens of the eye. The objective or at least one lens group is movable relative to the eye. The variation of the position of the lens group objective shifts the focus position from the cornea to the lens of the eye and vice versa.

Abstract: A corneal marking system, and methods for its use, has a tilt-detecting device attached to a corneal marker, adapted to produce a signal when the corneal marker is in a horizontal position. Use of measurement devices may be coordinated between the marker and a level-measuring device positioned on a patient's head. Devices capable of measuring one, two or three axes are used and processors are provided to evaluate the data produced by the devices and provide a physician with a signal that the positions of the patient's head and the marker are such that an accurate marking procedure can be performed.

Abstract: A manifold member for use in applying reduced pressure to a tissue site on a patient looks or feels like medical cotton gauze but has a plurality of plurality of interlocking synthetic fibers and a plurality of asperities that provide enhanced performance. Other manifold members, systems, and methods are disclosed.

Abstract: A reduced-pressure treatment system includes an isolation device for isolating a tissue site from surrounding tissue for reduced-pressure treatment that is formed from a first material having a first bio-absorption term and at least a second material having a second and different bio-absorption term. The different materials allow the isolation device initially to function well for reduced-pressure treatment and then to experience degradation at a quicker pace which facilitates healing.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing a manifold pad that is, at least in part, radiopaque includes providing a manifold member having a plurality of flow channels; providing a radioopacifier; and heating the manifold member and the radioopacifier in a heating vessel at an elevated temperature to form the manifold pad. The manifold pad may distribute reduced pressure at a tissue site and allow for detection using radiography. Systems, manifold pads, and other methods are also presented.

Abstract: Disclosed are methods for using open-celled polymeric foam wound dressings made from high internal phase emulsions (HIPEs). The wound dressings have a high capillary pressure and may reduce or obviate the need for treatments like negative pressure wound treatment (NPWT). Also disclosed are structures for HIPE foam wound dressings. The HIPE foam wound dressings typically include at least two layers of HIPE foam with different, but homogeneous, average cell sizes. The average cell sizes form a cell size gradient, with cell size typically decreasing from the front or face layer of foam toward the back layer of foam. The back layer of foam may be a collapsed layer, while the front layer or layers may be expanded. Compared with HIPE foams for other absorbent applications, the wound dressing foams may be higher in hydratable salts and higher in initial moisture levels.

Abstract: An apparatus for transferring, at high speed and in a very effective and accurate manner, particulate material from a feeder into reservoirs of a moving endless surface, e.g. a drum, by use of a pressure means, e.g. a specific three-dimensional plate, for applying pressure onto said particulate material present between said plate and said moving endless surface, and then transferring the particulate material with said moving endless surface with reservoirs to a substrate; the apparatus and method being particularly useful for the production of absorbent structures for absorbent articles.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for rotating and transferring a discrete article. The rotation apparatus may include a rib portion defining a longitudinal rib axis. A head assembly may be positioned adjacent to the rib portion. The head assembly may include a transfer member. The transfer member may define a longitudinal transfer axis. A support member extending from the transfer member toward the rib portion may rotate about the longitudinal transfer axis. A first follower and a second follower may be operatively engaged with the support member. The first follower may include a first follower outer surface defining a first longitudinal follower axis and the second follower may include a second follower outer surface defining a second longitudinal follower axis. The first follower and the second follower may be positioned such that the first longitudinal follower axis and the second longitudinal follower axis intersect the longitudinal rib axis.

Abstract: The pants has two zippers symmetrically arranged from a waistband's front center extend slantwise downward to a lateral side of the pants. A detachable wrapping member is integrated with the pants. The wrapping member has a belt whose two ends thread through corresponding loops at bottom corners of the wrapping member, and a bottom portion of the wrapping member is flipped upward to reliably cover a crotch area of a user, preventing excrement or urine from overflowing. A clamping member uses Velcro fastening elements or snap buttons to lock a planar object of an absorbent member, and the clamping member can provide secured positioning, increased friction, and load distribution so that the absorbent member can be reliably worn. The clamping member contains a clamping element that is concealed when not in use. The clamping element then can be flipped to further secure its locking the absorbent member.

Abstract: A patient treatment system includes one or more automated patient transporters configured to move a patient from a preparation area to one of a plurality of alternative treatment areas, and to position the patient relative to a therapeutic radiation beam. Both transportation of the patient and positioning of the patient are optionally performed while the patient is secured to one of the patient transporters. A control system may be used to both position and transport the patient responsive to a patient treatment plan.

Abstract: Patient support apparatuses—such as beds, cots, stretchers, or the like—include a plurality of user controls that allow a caregiver to control the steering and/or driving of one or more wheels from multiple different locations around the patient support apparatus (e.g. head end, foot end, and/or the sides). The control is carried out by force sensors that detect both an orientation of the applied forces and a magnitude of the applied forces. Translational and/or rotational movement is effectuated, depending upon the magnitude and direction of the forces, as well as the physical location of the applied force relative to a reference point on the support apparatus, such as the center. One or more object sensors may also be included in the support apparatus to assist in steering and/or navigating.

Abstract: A safety system for an aerial vehicle, preferably including: a ballistic subsystem, preferably including one or more rockets operable to adjust motion of the aerial vehicle and a mounting unit that couples the ballistic subsystem to the aerial vehicle; and/or a deployable parachute subsystem. An aerial vehicle, preferably including a safety system. A method for aerial vehicle operation, preferably including activating a safety system.

Abstract: A person support apparatus includes one or more motorized actuators that are braked in different manners depending upon whether or not electrical power is available to the control system. When electrical power is not available, a delay circuit delays closing a first switch that, when closed, short circuits the terminals of one of the motors. When power is available, other switches are opened and closed in a manner that short circuits the terminals of the motor while the first switch remains open. The other switches may be part of an H-bridge. The control system may also detect back emf (electromotive force) generated by the motor when electrical power is available and issue a notification to a technician or other user if an amplitude and/or duration of the detected back emf exceeds a threshold.

Abstract: A number of patient beds are disclosed. Some patient beds have siderails that are movable by a patient so that the patient can egress from the bed without interference from the siderails. Various caregiver control panels and patient control panels for controlling features and functions of a patient bed are also disclosed. For example, a cart with caregiver control inputs, including hand inputs on a graphical user interface (GUI) and foot inputs, is disclosed. Patient positioning and transfer devices are also disclosed. Various types of in-bed physical therapy devices are also disclosed.

Abstract: A robotic sports apparatus includes a plurality of robotic arms and a plurality of fastening members operably coupled to a respective robotic arm of the plurality of robotic arms. Each fastening member is configured for receiving a limb of a patient. Each robotic arm is configured to move each respective fastening member in at least one of a different direction or a different speed relative to one another for opening neural pathways in the patient.

Abstract: Described herein are various embodiments of differential air pressure systems and components for differential air pressure systems. The air pressure systems have a chamber for receiving at least a portion of a user's body. Pressure in the chamber can be changed to adjust force on the user's body. Described herein are various methods and related structures for sealing a user into a pressurizable chamber. Also described herein are various methods and related structures for changing the shape and/or height of the chamber. Described herein are various types and configurations of chambers and support structures for chambers. Also described herein are various methods and related systems for treating various conditions using the differential air pressure systems, including but not limited to obesity, cardiac disease, multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, or Down Syndrome.

Abstract: A method of activating the brain of a subject by delivering at least one gas pulse or fluid pulse of a predetermined amplitude and duration to a predetermined area or areas on the subject's body.

Abstract: A massager device includes a structure having a contact face and a handling face. A pair of notched rollers is on the contact face of the structure. The notched rollers freely rotates around intersecting axes. The notched rollers are attached to the structure by elastic suspensions. A gripping shape is on the handling face of the structure, opposite to the contact face. The gripping shape forms a cap wrapping the surface of the structure.

Abstract: A sexual aid device that is configured to provide pleasurable stimulation to an erogenous zone of a human body wherein the sexual aid is configured to transmit video images to a remote source. The sexual aid includes a body that is phallic in shape and includes a first end and a second end. A stimulation member is disposed within the body and is configured to provide vibration. A camera is installed on the second end of the body and is operable to provide video images to a transceiver mounted to said first end of said body. A control panel is secured to the second end of the body and is operable to provide control of the stimulation member and camera. A light is further included being secured to the second end of the body and further being adjacent to the camera.

Abstract: A method for treating patients with sensor agnosia is described that uses a gaming system with a specialised two handed game controller that can provide isolated haptic feedback to the patient's hand that has the greatest sensory agnosia. The controller is designed to be easy to use for patients with limited dexterity and requires the user to use both hands to control the controller. The gaming system provides a range of interactive computer games that provide contextually relevant haptic feedback of varying durations and intensities. Haptic feedback is provided in response to events in a game, and whilst the controller requires two hands, each hand is vibrationally isolated so that haptic feedback is only provided to the desired hand. The system logs usage statistics of the patient and these can be sent back to a clinician for analysis. The system and controller is particularly suitable for children with Cerebral Palsy, but may be used to treat patients with sensory agnosia due to range of conditions.

Abstract: A system and method for the present invention utilizes a generator, in combination with a radiation unit, to direct waveform energy towards a target tissue using a predetermined protocol directed by titration-like feedback. The effect of the waveform energy on cellular structures of the target tissue is periodically monitored, and the predetermined protocol is halted when the cellular structure has been transformed into a desired phenotype.

Abstract: Techniques and devices for extending a piston, for example connected to a medical device such as a mechanical CPR device, to accommodate different sized patients, are described herein. In some cases, a piston of a mechanical CPR device may include an inner piston at least partially slidable into an external piston sleeve. In one aspect, an external piston spacer may be attached to an outward surface of the inner piston to extend the length of the piston. In another aspect an internal bayonet sleeve may contact one or more locking rods at various positions, enabling adjustment of the length of the inner piston. In yet another aspect, a piston adapter may be removably attached to the end of the piston. In all aspects, the change in length of the piston may be detected and used to modify movement of the piston, for example to more safely perform mechanical CPR.

Abstract: An electrotherapy system includes a control device, a pulse generator and an electrode pad unit. The control device receives a user input associated with one of twelve meridians of a human, and outputs a control signal associated with the one of the twelve meridians. The pulse generator generates an electrical stimulation signal according to a reference frequency of a reference signal and the one of the twelve meridians with which the control signal is associated. The electrode pad unit contacts a user at a location corresponding to the one of the twelve meridians, and is coupled to the pulse generator for introducing the electrical stimulation signal from the pulse generator to the user.