Abstract: A bone fusion device provides stability to bones during a bone fusion period. The bones include, for example, the vertebrae of a spinal column. The bone fusion device comprises one or more extendable tabs attached to the bone fusion device by associated rotating means. The bone fusion device is preferably inserted by using an arthroscopic surgical procedure. During arthroscopic insertion of the device, the tabs are pre-configured for compactness. In this compact configuration, the tabs are preferably deposed along and/or within an exterior surface of the bone fusion device. After the bone fusion device has been positioned between the bones, one or more tab(s) are extended. In the preferred embodiment, the position of each tab is related to a positioning element and extending blocks. Typically, the tabs advantageously position and brace the bone fusion device in the confined space between the bones until the bones have fused.

Abstract: A method for treating a spine is provided. The method includes the steps of: pre-operatively measuring a first portion of intervertebral tissue adjacent to a neural foramen; intra-operatively measuring a second portion of the intervertebral tissue adjacent to the neural foramen; generating a threshold value based on the measured portions; and selecting an interbody implant based on the threshold value. Spinal implants, surgical instruments and systems are disclosed.

Abstract: A surgical assembly includes a housing, a first arm extending outside the housing and a linkage assembly housed by the housing and connected to the first arm. Movement of the linkage assembly inside the housing is linked to movement of the first arm outside of the housing.

Abstract: An orthopaedic implant system includes a set of provisional orthopaedic implants having different implant sizes, in which each provisional implant facilitates an intraoperative selection of the next-smallest implant size without removing the provisional implant from the bone. All of the implant sizes share a common sagittal configuration of distal and anterior bone contacting surfaces, but have variable sagittal configurations only in the posterior bone contacting surfaces. Thus, where a relatively larger femoral provisional component is mounted to a femur, changing to a smaller provisional component (i.e., “downsizing”) can be accomplished by recutting only two of five original femoral cuts. Cut slots provided in each provisional implant are sized and positioned to correspond to the posterior bone contacting surface geometry of the next-smallest provisional implant size.

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: A stent that has a reduced state, an expanded state, and a delivery state, includes helical windings, a bridge, and a sacrificial bridge. The helical windings define a cylinder with a helical axis including a strut having a straight portion connected to a curved portion, wherein the straight portion aligns with the helical axis. The bridge connects adjacent windings. The sacrificial bridge connects adjacent windings and is configured for removal in the expanded state.

Abstract: An implant delivery catheter enables permanent modification of the implant length in the vicinity of the treatment site prior to radial expansion thereof. The implant is releasable carried between inner and outer tubular members of the delivery catheter which, upon repositioning relative to one another using an actuator mechanism, impart any of tensile, compressile or torquing forces to the implant causing permanent modification of the implant length. In one embodiment, the circumference of the implant is substantially similar both before and after modification of the implant length. In another embodiment, the implant includes a plurality of strut sections interconnected by bridges which are capable of the deformation along the longitudinal axis of the implant.

Abstract: A system for deploying a shape memory catheterization device within a patient, includes a catheter for endovascular insertion of the shape memory catheterization device. A heat source heats the shape memory catheterization device above the transition temperature. A transformation data generator includes a circuit driver for driving a circuit that includes at least one strain gage of the shape memory catheterization device and a detection circuit for generating transformation data based on a strain indicated by the at least one strain gage, wherein the transformation data indicates a shape transformation of the shape memory catheterization device from a catheterization shape to a transformed shape.

Abstract: A medical device includes a balloon expanded scaffold crimped to a catheter having a balloon. The scaffold has a network of rings formed by struts connected at crowns and links connecting adjacent rings. The scaffold is crimped to the balloon by a process that includes using protective polymer sheaths or sheets during crimping, and adjusting the sheaths or sheets during the crimping to avoid or minimize interference between the polymer material and scaffold struts as the scaffold is reduced in size.

Abstract: The invention relates to a balloon catheter comprising a catheter tube, an inflatable balloon, the ends of which are attached to the catheter tube, and a stent attached around the balloon. The stent extends at least partly along the length of the balloon. In an uninflated state, at least the outside surface of the balloon not covered by the stent is provided with a relief structure which is substantially disappeared in an inflated state of the balloon. The invention also relates to a method for manufacturing such a balloon catheter.

Abstract: An endoluminal sleeve device for internally lining a section of the GI tract, comprises a sleeve configured for deployment inside a duodenum, the sleeve having walls of a flexible material defining a sleeve lumen, a proximal end defining a proximal lumen opening, and a distal end defining a distal lumen opening, an anchoring component having a slender transport configuration and a bulky deployed configuration, wherein the anchoring component is locatable at a distance from the proximal sleeve end and connected thereto by an elongated tether.

Abstract: A compression sleeve for wearing over the calf/shin to relieve the discomfort of shin splints. The compression sleeve includes a pocket on its inner face at an upper end of the sleeve, the pocket sized to removably receive a large, flat, substantially incompressible pressure block insert with a substantially flat inner face configured to engage a significant portion of the tibialis anterior muscle on the upper, outer part of the calf with locally increased compressive force with respect to the remainder of the sleeve.

Abstract: An ankle brace is provided, including a main body. The main body has a base portion and an abutting portion for abutting against an ankle, the base portion has at least one first guiding slot, the at least one first guiding slot is arranged next to the abutting portion, the abutting portion has a bottom portion, a circumferential side portion which surrounds and is connected to and between the bottom portion and the base portion and at least one second guiding slot, the bottom portion has a receiving space for receiving a part of the ankle, the circumferential side portion projects above a slot bottom of the first guiding slot, and the at least one second guiding slot is arranged on the bottom portion and penetrates the circumferential side portion and communicated with the at least one of the first guiding slots.

Abstract: An orthopedic device comprises a body having a monolithic structure and arranged to form a closed circumference in a secured configuration, the body having a predetermined shape in an unsecured configuration. The body is formed continuously without interruption from at least one polymeric material. A method for making the orthopedic device includes providing a schematic including a model representing a body part for which the orthopedic device is intended, providing at least one array of coordinates and indicia corresponding to the coordinates proximate to the model at a plurality of locations along the model, and providing a scale set corresponding to the coordinates. The dimensions obtained from measuring the body part may be used to form a custom-shaped orthopedic device.

Abstract: An attachment system for an orthopedic brace incorporates at least one cinching system assembly having a knob rotatable in a first direction and a second direction. At least one cinching plate is engaged by the knob for rotation in the first direction in a first orientation and transitions to a second orientation upon rotation in the second direction. A ratchet wheel is engaged by the cinching plate in the first orientation for rotation in the first direction. At least one ratchet arm engages the ratchet wheel for ratcheting operation and is engaged by the cinching plate in the second orientation for disengagement from the ratchet arm. A shaft is rotated in response to rotation of the ratchet wheel and a strap is extendible from and retractable on the shaft upon rotation of the shaft.

Abstract: A hand elevation device is described that can position and secure a recovering hand and/or wrist for improved recovery. For example, the hand elevation device can secure a hand and/or wrist that has been operated on or injured in a therapeutic position. The therapeutic position can include the hand being positioned above an elevation line. The elevation line can include a horizontal line that intersects the heart of the user wearing the hand elevation device.

Abstract: A method and device producing extracorporeal shockwaves for the treatment of erectile dysfunction

Abstract: A system for affecting, augmenting, or enhancing erection of the penis includes an elastomeric sleeve designed to comfortably and securely encircle the base of the penis. The sleeve is provided with a pair of inflatable chambers, a dorsal insert, and a ventral insert which are configured to apply focal pressure on the dorsal penile veins, while avoiding undue constriction of the corpora cavernosa or compression of the urethra, dorsal penile arteries, or nerves. The system includes fluid transfer apparatus having a reservoir for pressurized fluid, a pump, and valves for controlling the flow of fluid to the inflatable chambers. The system also includes an inflatable sealing apparatus which, when used in combination with a conventional vacuum erection tube, forms an airtight seal between the sleeve and the open end of the inflatable sealing member.

Abstract: A noninvasive penile erection device is provided having an inflatable sealing adapter that forms a substantially air tight seal between a conventional vacuum tube and a penis inserted therein. The sealing adapter is formed of a rigid tube slidable within the front end of a vacuum tube, and has an inflatable member along its inner circumference adapted to encircle the base of the penis and apply a radially inward force thereto sufficient to create an air tight seal there between during evacuation pumping.

Abstract: A base plate of an ostomy appliance includes a film, an adhesive disposed on a proximal surface of the film, an annular ring connected to the distal surface of the film, and a release liner removably attached to the adhesive. A stoma-receiving through-going hole is formed through the film and the adhesive and the release liner. A first section of the base plate extends radially from the stoma-receiving through-going hole to a second section of the base plate, and the second section extends radially from the first section to an outermost perimeter edge of the base plate. The base plate is formed to have a heat-set curvature such that a proximal side of the second section is convex and a distal side of the second section is concave relative to the annular ring.

Abstract: A device for collecting urine discharged from a body of a user includes a fluid collection assembly having at least one layer for drawing urine discharged from the body into an interior cavity, an external covering that covers a portion of the at least one layer, and at least one fenestration for receiving urine, wherein the fenestration is a portion of the fluid collection assembly that is uncovered by the external covering. The device further includes a cap enclosing a first end of the assembly, a tube having a first end in fluid communication with the cap, and a shape retaining element configured to conform the assembly to a curved configuration and maintain the curved configuration until the configuration is adjusted. The assembly is configured to be disposed against the body of the user, with the at least one fenestration in operative relation with a urethral opening of the user.

Abstract: A positioning mouthpiece comprises an upper component having a mouth portion and a fastening portion, and a lower component having a mouth portion and a fastening portion. The fastening portion of the upper component and the fastening portion of the lower component are attached to each other such that limited back and forth movement and lateral movement of the mouth portion of the upper component and the mouth portion of the lower component can take place.

Abstract: A device for moving a lower jaw forward includes an upper teeth mounting portion on which upper teeth of a human body are mountable, a lower teeth mounting portion on which lower teeth of the human body are mountable, a sensing portion capable of sensing information which determines a movement time of the lower teeth mounting portion, and a driving portion capable of moving the lower teeth mounting portion relative to the upper teeth mounting portion according to a sensing result of the sensing portion. The driving portion includes a power portion which provides a force for moving the lower teeth mounting portion and a driving connection portion which connects the power portion to the lower teeth mounting portion.

Abstract: A wearable thermal gel-pack comprising a gel-pack body having a first portion including an inner surface and defining a gel cavity encapsulating a gel material therein and a second portion including a container with a first member coupled to the first portion, a second member pivotally coupled to the first member to form a joint and with an outer surface opposing the inner surface of the first portion, and a container cavity defined by the first and second members, the container cavity juxtaposed to and fluidly uncoupled to the gel cavity, the first and second members of the container having a closed position with a watertight configuration and an open position with a container opening in fluid communication with the container cavity and a strap couplable to the second member at a location along a strap length and operably configured to surround the inner surface of the first portion.

Abstract: Methods, devices, and systems employ cryolysis of oropharyngeal adipose tissues to selectively remove fat cells from the tissues causing obstructive sleep apnea. In various embodiments, a chilled liquid—e.g., a liquid or air—is applied to the target tissue at a temperature and for a duration sufficient to cause cryolysis.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a system and method for delivery viscoelastic, materials into the eye based on the intraocular pressure of the eye, thereby reducing the distraction of the surgeon from other activities involved in the surgery, and increasing the consistency and accuracy of the use of viscoelastic materials during surgery, from surgeon to surgeon.

Abstract: The present invention provides an energized ophthalmic device with an active agent release system and an associated method. The active agent release system can be suitable to dispense an active agent including, for example, a vitamin, lubricant, a saline, a solvent, and/or medicament, at one or more predetermined times, through the use of an energization element contained in the ophthalmic device. The energization element may be a battery and/or an energy receptor antenna. The release of the active agent can be according to a signal received wirelessly, a predetermined time, and/or a sensed condition, which can cause an activation element to conduct a current to at least a portion of a metal cap under stress causing it to fold and thereby expose the active agent to a surrounding environment.

Abstract: Injection devices for delivering pharmaceutical compositions into the eye are described. Some devices include a resistance component for controllably deploying an injection needle through the eye wall. The resistance component may be disposed on a removable injector attachment or on a portion of the injection device housing. Other devices may include a filter for the removal of air, infectious agents, and/or other particulate matter from the composition before the composition is injected into the eye. Related methods and systems comprising the devices are also described.

Abstract: An injector (1) for folding and injecting into the eye of a patient a flexible intraocular lens, the injector comprising an assembly of an injection nozzle (202), a lens compartment that holds an unfolded flexible intraocular lens (400) and is in communication with the injection nozzle, an injector body (3) communicating with the lens compartment and a plunger (2) that is inserted in the free end of the injector body, wherein lens compartment and injector body comprise a mechanism whereby the lens is first folded by forces compressing the lens in a non-axial direction in response to an axial movement of the plunger over a first distance and is subsequently expelled from the injector through the injection nozzle in response to an axial movement of the plunger over a second distance.

Abstract: A surgical system combines a cannula and an instrument in a manner that allows small gauge instruments to be used effectively, with little or no bending with respect to the manipulating proximal side of the instrument. Such design overcomes the shortcomings of prior art, and applies to various microsurgical procedures, including ophthalmology, allowing the use of smaller endo-photocoagulation probes, illumination probes, combination probes, vitrectors, scissors, manipulators, picks, diathermy, and others. By using smaller gauge, patient recovery is expected to be faster.

Abstract: Two through-holes and a slit extending therebetween are provided in each of bilaterally symmetric locations near a top edge of left and right sides of an eye shield sheet made of transparent resin sheet. The eye shield sheet is obtained by forming an elastic rod into an approximate U-shape securable to the head of a wearer, and includes a curved section at each temple region of the wearer that curves inward to fit into the slit and the two through-holes. Attachment of the sheet to the frame is completed by the wearer first bending the entire sheet and positioning the sheet on the inner side of the frame, and then inserting the curved sections of the frame one side at a time into the sheet simply by pressing the curved section against the slit to open the slit and continue pressing until the frame fits into the two through-holes.

Abstract: A manifold for treating a tissue site may include a first side and a second side opposite the first side. The second side of the manifold may be configured to face the tissue site, and to contract a greater amount than the first side of the manifold when exposed to a compressive force. In some illustrative examples, the manifold may be configured to distribute reduced pressure to the tissue site, and to contract when exposed to the reduced pressure. The manifold may be suitable for use with dressing assemblies, treatment systems, and methods for treating a tissue site.

Abstract: A wound care device for delivering topical oxygen therapy and negative pressure wound therapy for treatment of a wound. The wound care device may include an oxygen supply membrane electrode device (MEA), a vacuum pump and motor, a pressure sensor, and a power supply and electronic controls. A dressing may be connected to the wound care device for administering topical continuous oxygen therapy and negative pressure wound therapy to a wound. The wound care device may be operated to provide simultaneous topical oxygen therapy and negative pressure wound therapy, continuous oxygen therapy with intermittent negative pressure wound therapy, and alternating oxygen therapy and negative pressure wound therapy.

Abstract: A wound care device that can be effectively attached to a wide range of wound locations without the use of any adhesives, can apply controlled, consistent pressure to the wound, and can be configured to allow the clinician to see relevant areas of the patient's body is disclosed. The wound care device includes a contact pad connected with a securing strap. The securing strap includes an inelastic strap segment and an elastic strap segment. The elastic strap segment is coupled with an attachment segment, which attaches to the inelastic strap segment and cooperates with the elastic strap segment to compress the contact pad to the wound.

Abstract: Methods and tooling for forming performance zones in substrates are provided. The methods and tooling for forming performance zones in substrates may be for use on an absorbent article manufacturing line.

Abstract: A skin protection sweat guard system having a thin, tissue-like exterior with an absorbent cotton interior which stops skin from becoming irritated when it rubs on other skin folds. It may be offered in a variety of shapes and sizes for all parts of the body. As designed it stays in place via the wearer's natural body moisture, without the need for adhesives. Provided are versions for between the toes, under the stomach, and under the breasts.

Abstract: Method of absorbing moisture around breasts of a person by inserting a bra liner made at least partly of absorbent material under a breast support between the skin of the chest and skin of each of right and left breasts, and partly between the right and left breasts. The bra liner includes a left portion, a right portion and a central portion between the left and right portions, the central portion including a flap partly separated from the left and right portions. The flap is folded about a center line of the body to thereby interpose the folded flap between the right and left breasts and maintain the right and left breasts out of contact with one another.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a SMS nonwoven laminate having a basis weight of less than about 20 gsm, said nonwoven laminate comprising outer layers of continuous spunbond filaments and an internal layer of from about 18% to about 43%, by weight of the nonwoven laminate of meltblown fibers, said nonwoven laminate having been hydroentangled to create visibly distinct patterns on the surface of at least one of the outer layers of said nonwoven laminate; and wherein prior to said hydroentangling, the content of meltblown fibers in the nonwoven laminate was from about 20% to about 45%, by weight of the nonwoven laminate.

Abstract: A laminate comprises a first layer comprising a plurality of lower opacity zones positioned within a higher opacity zone is provided. The plurality of lower opacity zones form a first pattern. The laminate comprises a second layer comprising a second pattern. The laminate comprises a non-joined span of the first and second layers having a dimension of at least about 20 mm. A first portion of the second pattern is visible through at least some of the plurality of lower opacity zones when the first layer, within the non-joined span, is in a first position relative to the second layer, within the non-joined span. A second portion of the second pattern is visible through at least some of the plurality of lower opacity zones when the first layer, within the non-joined span, is in a second position relative to the second layer, within the non-joined span.

Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for moving and/or transferring discrete articles are described. In particular, the methods and apparatuses relate to flexible arrangements to move and/or transfer discrete articles that vary in size and/or shape with minimal to no change in equipment.

Abstract: A multi-functional swab for cleaning waste from an ear. The swab includes a first swab tip having a swab pad in a looped shape with an open center and a second swab tip having a unified, whole swab pad, the first and second swab tips being connected by a stem. The swab tips may be constructed of cotton and can be applied around the ends of the stem. Alternatively, the looped swab tip may be made of plastic or possible certain soft metals. In addition, the swab tips may be formed by simply creating a swab pad, e.g. formed of interwoven cotton, and, in the case of the looped swab tip, cutting out a piece of the center. The swab tip with a looped shape may be used to clean the ear but because of the looped structure would be better capable of manipulating and removing waste.

Abstract: There is provided an anti-irritant diaper having an absorbent material constructed with a shape defined by a front area, a middle area, a rear area, a pair of leg cuffs and closing tabs. A resilient, flexible band is removably disposed longitudinally and centrally along the absorbent material. A pocket is formed within the middle area for receiving excreted solid waste, so that the pocket forms a space above it separating the pocket from the wearer's skin, the flexible band maintains the structure of the pocket. There is also provided a removable one-directional flexible partition having a pair of dividers situated above the pocket, each of the dividers being attached at one end to one of the pair of leg cuffs, each divider being segmented into a plurality of flaps.

Abstract: A line-up of at least three hygiene absorbent articles of different sizes, each article comprising a pair of fasteners separated by a wingspan (W) that can be fastened to a fastening area (44) on the front region of the article so that the front region and the waist region form a waist opening. The fastening area in the front region comprises an innermost pair of fastening indicia (A-A), an outermost pair of fastening indicia (C-C) and preferably at least one intermediate pair of fastening indicia (B-B). The outer waist circumference of the article of a given size matches within 30 mm the inner waist circumference of the article of the next upper size in the line-up, the circumferences being calculated by adding the wingspan and the spacing between the innermost pair or outermost pair of indicia respectively.

Abstract: Undergarment with opening at crotch area and an attachable, replaceable crotch piece covering crotch area for maintaining vaginal hygiene. This undergarment comprises of a) Undergarment with open crotch area b) changeable crotch piece to cover open crotch area of undergarment. The crotch piece can be attached to the undergarment with adhesives or fasteners either from outside or inside.

Abstract: Methods and tooling for making three-dimensional substrates and/or apertured substrates are provided. The three-dimensional substrates and/or apertured substrates may be used in absorbent articles, such as diapers and pants, for example. The methods and tooling may be used on an absorbent article manufacturing line.

Abstract: Three-dimensional laminates and methods for making the same are provided. The three-dimensional laminates may be apertured and may have welds between various substrates. The three-dimensional laminates may be used in absorbent articles, such as diapers and pants, for example, as topsheets, as topsheets and acquisition layers, or as outer cover materials, for example. The three-dimensional laminates may be produced on an absorbent article manufacturing line.

Abstract: Three-dimensional laminates and methods for making the same are provided. The three-dimensional laminates may be apertured and may have welds between various substrates. The three-dimensional laminates may be used in absorbent articles, such as diapers and pants, for example, as topsheets, as topsheets and acquisition layers, or as outer cover materials, for example. The three-dimensional laminates may be produced on an absorbent article manufacturing line.

Abstract: Three-dimensional laminates and methods for making the same are provided. The three-dimensional laminates may be apertured and may have welds between various substrates. The three-dimensional laminates may be used in absorbent articles, such as diapers and pants, for example, as topsheets, as topsheets and acquisition layers, or as outer cover materials, for example. The three-dimensional laminates may be produced on an absorbent article manufacturing line.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a superabsorbent polymer composition. Since the superabsorbent polymer composition comprises aluminosilicate particles capable of effectively adsorbing and decreasing compounds inducing odor in sanitary products such as a diaper, etc. without deterioration of the properties of superabsorbent polymer such as centrifugal retention capacity, absorbency under load, and penetration, and does not induce caking, it can be usefully used in sanitary products, etc.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for a superabsorbent polymer. The preparation method controls the time from the addition of a foaming agent to the initiation of a polymerization reaction, thereby forming an appropriate pore structure in a superabsorbent polymer. The superabsorbent polymer produced through the preparation method can exhibit a remarkably improved absorption rate while exhibiting excellent absorption performance.