Abstract: A biocompatible structure includes one or more base structures for regeneration of different tissues. Each base structure includes alternately stacked polymer layers and spacer layers. The polymer layer includes a polymer and tissue forming nanoparticles. The polymer includes polyurethane. The tissue forming nanoparticles includes hydroxypatites (HAP) nanoparticles, polymeric nanoparticles, or nanofibers. The spacer layer includes bone particles, polymeric nanoparticles, or nanofibers. The weight percentage of tissue forming nanoparticles to the polymer in the polymer layer in one base structure is different from that in the other base structures. A method of producing the biocompatible structure includes forming multiple base structures stacked together, coating the stacked multiple base structures, and plasma treating the coated structure.

Abstract: A reinforced surgical membrane for supporting bone growth by shielding a bone cavity from soft tissue in-growth comprises are a reinforcing layer (2) between a first membrane layer and a second membrane layer (4). The reinforcing layer (2) has defined therein an array of holes (3) which may connect the first and second membrane layers.

Abstract: An implantable medical device for implantation in a hip joint of a human patient is provided. The medical device comprises: at least one artificial hip joint surface adapted to replace at least the surface of at least one of the caput femur and acetabulum. At least one artificial hip joint surface comprises: a positioning hole with at least one opening in said at least one artificial hip joint surface. The hole is adapted to be placed and dimensioned such that the medical device is adapted to be fitted using a positioning shaft and at least partly surround the shaft, for positioning the at least one artificial hip joint surface in a desired position in the hip joint. The hole is adapted to be fitted using the positioning shaft, when the shaft is stabilized and placed in at least one of the femoral bone and the pelvic bone for positioning said medical device inside the hip joint.

Abstract: A spinal implant for stabilizing two adjacent vertebrae having a damaged disc therebetween is assembled in situ. The implant consists of a bone tray, an anchor, a retainer plate, a retainer, and mounting screws. The bone tray bone tray is elliptical shaped and includes an open top side and an open bottom side, the top side and the bottom side adapted to engage the end plates of adjacent vertebrae, respectively, the bone tray having a sidewall connecting the top side and the bottom side, the sidewall having an bore therethrough. The retainer is slidably extending through the bore whereby the distractor anchor is adapted to be inserted between adjacent vertebrae and the retainer extends through the retainer plate. The retainer plate is secured to the vertebrae body by mounting screws. A driver, not shown, is adapted to rotate the retainer which engages the distractor anchor to engage the bone tray.

Abstract: This invention relates to an intervertebral motion disc having two motion surfaces and. wherein the radius of the upper articulation surface of the core member is greater than the radius of the lower articulation surface of the core member, and wherein the first articulation surface of the core member is spherical and the second articulation surface of the core member is curved and non-spherical.

Abstract: Systems for distracting a facet joint and positioning a permanent implant in the joint are disclosed. The implants serve to retain a distracted position of the facet joint which is achieved with positioning of the leading end of a distraction tool in the facet joint and then distracting or enlarging the joint a desired amount. The permanent implant could be part of the distraction mechanism which can be separated from the delivery tool once the joint has been distracted or an auxiliary implant may be positioned before the distraction mechanism is removed from the distracted joint. The permanent implants can be solid, mechanical devices that may have fixation means thereon to hold them in place or injected fluids such as hydrogels or fluids confined within balloons.

Abstract: Described herein are devices, methods, systems, and kits configured for use in the surgical treatment of cervical disc disease. Surgery for cervical disc disease may comprise vertebral fixation with screws and plates as well as insertion of one or more intervertebral implants. In some embodiments, a cervical implant may be connected as one single unit with a cervical plate. In some embodiments, a cervical implant and a cervical plate may be separate elements that are configured to be inserted independently into a subject during cervical spinal surgery. In some embodiments, a cervical implant and a cervical plate are designed to be coupled together.

Abstract: An expandable spinal implant includes a distal projection extending from only one side of the implant, ending in an anterior tip, the anterior portion and anterior tip defining an elongated distal end hook, which is wider than the proximal end. The distal end hook rotates around the spinal cord, aligning the implant with a desired pathway, then inserts into place in the disc space between the vertebrae. The elongated widened distal end hook provides a TLIF approach, distributes loads, provides anterior rim engagement, and creates lordosis.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to medical devices and methods for use in spinal surgery. In particular, the disclosed system relates to an intervertebral spinal implant assembly sized and dimensioned for the lumbar or cervical spine implantable via an anterior approach. The device includes an implant, bone fasteners, and instruments for delivering the implant and bone screws.

Abstract: A bi-directional fixating transvertebral (BDFT) screw/cage apparatus is provided. The BDFT apparatus includes an intervertebral cage including a plurality of internal angled screw guides, a plurality of screw members, and a cage indentation adjacent to the screw guides that independently or supplemented by other screw locking mechanisms prevents the screw members from pulling out of the internal angled screw guides. The internal angled screw guides orient a first screw member superiorly and a second screw member inferiorly. The intervertebral cage is adapted for posterior lumbar intervertebral placement, anterior lumbar intervertebral placement, anterio-lateral thoracic intervertebral placement, or anterior cervical intervertebral placement.

Abstract: Systems and methods for providing deeper knee flexion capabilities. In some instances, such systems and methods include a knee prosthesis that includes a femoral component for replacing at least a portion of a distal end of a femur. In some cases, the femoral component has a posterior condyle that is configured to articulate against a tibial articular surface. In such cases, an articular surface at a proximal portion of the posterior condyle is sized and shaped to extend at least half of an antero-posterior distance between a most posterior portion of the posterior condyle and a plane that is a continuation of a distal one fourth to one third of a posterior cortex of a femoral shaft of the femur. Other implementations are also discussed.

Abstract: A bone graft delivery system can include an elongate tube and a handle having a trigger and a ratcheting mechanism. The trigger is actuated to deliver bone graft material through the tube. The bone graft delivery system can further include a distal tip at a distal end of the tube. The tip has one or more openings to deliver the bone graft material to a desired location and includes a surface suitable to act as a rasp for decorticating bone. A method for delivering bone graft material to a desired surgical location includes providing a bone graft delivery device, positioning the device adjacent the surgical location, decorticating bone, and delivering bone graft material to the surgical location.

Abstract: Devices and methods for preparing a surgical site, and in particular vertebral members, which may include a retractable tool and an actuator. The tool may include distal and proximal members. A distal side of the distal member may be fixed in a longitudinal direction and pivotable at a point of rotation. A proximal side of the proximal member may be pivotably connected to the actuator. In a retracted position, the distal member may be pivotably connected to the proximal member longitudinally in between the point of rotation and the proximal side of the proximal member. Moving the actuator in a distal direction may push the proximal member and the distal member such that the proximal member pivots with respect to the actuator and distal member, the distal member pivots with respect to the proximal member and point of rotation, and the proximal member and distal member move laterally outward.

Abstract: A tool for locating a proper position for a portal incision for hip arthroplasty, the tool having at least one generally elongated body defining an axis, the generally elongated body having a slot at one end, the slot being angled at an approximately 45 degree angle relative to the axis of the generally elongated body, the slot configured to receive a cutting member or guide tool. A second generally elongated body may be connected to the first generally elongated body to form a right angle. If the lengths of the two generally elongated bodies are substantially equivalent, then when the second generally elongated body is inserted into the acetabulum, the first generally elongated body positions the slot in the proper location such that sliding a guide tool or cutting member through the slot allows a portal incision to be created in the proper location. In some embodiments, the generally elongated bodies may have adjustable lengths.

Abstract: Systems and methods for joint replacement are provided. The systems and methods include a surgical orientation device, a reference sensor device, and at least one orthopedic fixture. The surgical orientation device, reference sensor device, and orthopedic fixtures can be used to locate the orientation of an axis in the body, to adjust an orientation of a cutting plane or planes along a bony surface, or otherwise to assist in an orthopedic procedure(s).

Abstract: A suspension system and method for attaching a prosthetic device to a residual limb. In an illustrative embodiment, the suspension system comprises: a prosthetic socket that is attached to the prosthetic device; a socket adaptor that is incorporated into the prosthetic socket, the socket adaptor comprising a power supply, a microprocessor, and a power switch; a plurality of electromagnets, electropermanent magnets or electroadhesors that are arranged in an array and embedded in said prosthetic socket, each of said electromagnets, electropermanent magnets or electroadhesors being connected to the socket adaptor; a magnetically active liner that is adapted to be in intimate contact with said residual limb and that is fabricated from a magnetically active material; and a locking pin that protrudes from said magnetically active liner and that is adapted to attach the liner to the socket.

Abstract: Cobalt in oxidized state for use as anti-artifact layer (4) covering a metallic substrate (1) of a medical device for reducing the production of artifacts in MRI caused by the magnetic property of the (1), wherein the anti-artifact layer (4) is present at outermost surface of the metallic substrate (1) and has at least 30% of cobalt ratio (at % Co) to the total amount of transition metallic atoms present therein, and at least 90% of cobalt atoms present within the anti-artifact layer (4) are converted into at least one of Co(II) oxidized state and Co(III) oxidized state.

Abstract: The invention is directed to an expandable stent for implanting in a body lumen, such as a coronary artery, peripheral artery, or other body lumen. The invention provides for an intravascular stent having a plurality of cylindrical rings connected by undulating links. The stent has a high degree of flexibility in the longitudinal direction, yet has adequate vessel wall coverage and sufficient radial strength to hold open an artery or other body lumen. The stent can be compressed or crimped onto a catheter to a very low profile since the inside radii of curvature of some of the peaks and valleys allow the stent to be crimped to a very low profile onto a catheter and increase radial strength over prior art stents.

Abstract: A delivery apparatus comprises a handle portion and at least one rotatable drive shaft. The handle portion has an actuation mechanism and a display. The actuation mechanism includes a motor and one or more actuators. The rotatable drive shaft has a proximal end portion and a distal end portion. The proximal end portion is coupled to the motor, and the distal end portion is configured to be releasably coupled to a prosthetic heart valve. The actuation mechanism is configured to control and monitor expansion of the prosthetic heart valve, and the display is configured to display a diameter of the prosthetic heart valve.

Abstract: A control system for controlling movement of a medical device delivery system, a stent delivery system and a method for controlling movement of a medical device delivery system are provided. The control system includes a first extendable arm comprising a plurality of first struts interconnected at intermediate points and end points of the first struts. The first arm is movable between a first position and a second position and the first arm is operably connected to one of the first shaft and the second shaft. The control system also includes a first actuator operably connected to the first arm and the first actuator is operable to move the first arm from the first position to the second position. Movement of the first arm moves the first shaft relative to the second shaft to change the position of the second shaft relative to the first shaft.

Abstract: An implantable inflatable gastric balloon device and system comprising a combination flow regulator and timing regulator, useful for inducing satiety and managing obesity. The balloon is administered into the patient's stomach in a deflated state, and then inflated by gas or liquid. The flow portion of the regulator usually acts as a one-way valve allowing gas or liquid to enter but not exit the balloon. The timing portion of the regulator has a degradable plug that gradually degrades over time, eventually allowing this gas or fluid to escape, thus allowing the balloon to escape. The dimensions of the device are configured so that in a deflated state, the balloon can pass by natural physiological processes through the pyloric sphincter and out of the patient through the intestines. Diagnostic methods, and methods for administering and managing the device, are also taught.

Abstract: A gastric constriction device comprises a sheet extending over part of the wall of the stomach. Five bands extend around the stomach to fix the sheet in position relative to the stomach. The lower two bands extend from the first side of the sheet around the stomach only partially towards the second side. These lower two bands are not fixed to the second side. This arrangement results in an unconstricted portion of the stomach. In this manner, the device restricts expansion of the majority of the stomach wall while facilitating expansion of this unconstricted portion. The unconstricted portion is therefore free to expand or bulge outwardly upon ingestion. This expansion may trigger the feeling of satiation due to the presence of the vagal nerves in this portion of the stomach.

Abstract: The present invention provides an endoscopically implantable weight control device that forms a gastric outlet obstruction in a patient's digestive tract. The weight control device includes an inflatable body residing within the patient's pylorus and between the stomach and duodenum. The body features a first bulbous portion and a second bulbous portion, the exterior dimensions of the first bulbous portion exceeding the exterior dimension of the second bulbous portion. The body also includes an intermediate portion with exterior dimensions that are less than the exterior dimensions of both the first and second bulbous portions, wherein the intermediate portion resides within the patient's pyloric valve when the device is implanted. An internal passageway extends through the body, wherein the passageway receives and allows for the passage of chyme from the stomach to the duodenum.

Abstract: A safe sleeve gastrectomy and intestinal switch reduces gastric volume and calorie intake as a weight loss treatment. The safe sleeve gastrectomy and intestinal switch utilizes a safety pocket to increase safety and guide division of the stomach. An instrument tunnel is created to facilitate division of the stomach into a pouch and a sectioned portion. In this manner, over or complete mobilization of the stomach is avoided. The sectioned portion may be lifted for increased visibility to facilitate its mobilization and removal from the patient. The small intestine can then be separated from the stomach and divided into shortened segments, one of which is reattached to the stomach.

Abstract: An adjustable brace includes a first portion for supporting one surface of a patient and a plurality of adjustable portions that allow the internal cross section of the brace to be adjusted. When a limb is injured, a patient may have a swollen limb and the adjustable brace can be set to a large cross section. As the limb heals, the swelling decreases and the limb cross section also decreases due to atrophy. The adjustable couplings are adjusted to reduce the cross section to properly fit the limb of the patient and provide proper protection and support during the healing process.

Abstract: A flex lock system for locking an orthotic brace having a push button for adjusting the range of flexion angles and a push button for adjusting the range of extension angles for the orthotic brace. The flex lock system has a tab having a receiving hole configured to fit around a push button and to prevent the push button from being depressed and adjusting the ranges of flexion or extension improperly. The flex lock system is made of a flexible material that has particular elasticity and compressibility to function as a flex lock as described.

Abstract: An exoskeleton device includes a first brace coupled to a first portion of a wearer of the exoskeleton device and a second brace coupled to a second portion of the wearer. A first joint connects the first and second braces and allows relative movement between the first and second braces. A first brake is controllable between an unactuated state and a plurality of actuated states, and the first brake impedes relative movement between the first and second braces at the first joint while the first brake is in one of the plurality of actuated states. A manual actuator is selectively used by the wearer during relative movement between the first and second braces. Use of the actuator causes the first brake to enter one of the plurality of actuated states such that relative movement between the first and second braces is impeded at the first joint.

Abstract: A foot drop countering assembly includes a band that is configured to extend around a person's leg below and adjacent to a knee of the leg. A tether has a first end and a second end. The first end is attached to the band. An engagement member is attached to the second end of the tether. The engagement member is configured to engage a person's foot to pull the foot upwardly towards the knee.

Abstract: Tightening systems for braces and other objects are provided. One or more housings can be provided, each of which includes a top surface, a set of lobes positioned on and along the top surface, and a set of sheaves that are sized and dimensioned to be rotatably secured between the top surface and the set of lobes.

Abstract: A strap attachment apparatus for a treatment table including a spanning belt formed of flexible material secured across opposite sides of said table with a pair of anchors connected at opposite ends of the spanning belt for attachment to the table. The anchors include body strap retainers that support at least one body strap. The body strap is movable on the retainers to adjust the position of the straps to fit a person on the treatment table while the anchors remain fixed to the table.

Abstract: A method of implanting a penile prosthetic in a patient includes providing an implantable cylinder with a resorbable component attached to an exterior surface of the implantable cylinder and a tow line engaged with the resorbable component. The method includes inserting the tow line into a corpora cavernosum of a penis, directing the tow line through a glans of the penis, and pulling on the tow line and moving the implantable cylinder into the corpora cavernosum of the penis. The method includes locating a distal end of the implantable cylinder in a distal location in the corpora cavernosum of the penis, and disengaging the tow line from the resorbable component.

Abstract: Described are restraints, and methods of using and making the restraints, for restraining a man's testicular retraction response to sexual stimulation. It is believed that the restraints and methods of use thereby tend to slow or postpone the onset of the man's climax, with the potential to prolong the pleasure of the man and/or his sexual partner. More particularly, clip restraints and loop restraints are described and illustrated. The clip restraints are configured to grip a portion of the scrotum and to present deflection or obstruction features above the reposed positions of each of the man's testicles, configured to deflect or obstruct the movement of the testicles toward a retracted position associated with the onset of the man's sexual climax. Advantageously, clips according to the invention may fold to a narrow thickness, convenient for carrying in a pocket or wallet. Clip members of the restraints may be attracted by magnets, biased by springs, or manually adjusted to a stable gripping position.

Abstract: A fluid collection system for collecting fluids leaked from a surgical incision is provided. The fluid collection system broadly includes a baseplate having an adhesive backing that couples the baseplate to a patient's skin and includes a wafer having a centrally positioned opening. The opening receives a first end of a surgical drain tube. A wafer connector is disposed around the opening and detachably couples to a fluid remover connector on a fluid remover The leaked fluid remover defines a septum space and a septum is housed within the septum space. The septum has an orifice that receives a second end of the surgical drain tube. The septum is capable of moving about radially, axially and/or pivotally to alleviate side load tension on the septum caused by displacement of the surgical drain tube.

Abstract: An ostomy bag for receiving waste from a patient's stoma. The ostomy bag may include a finger probe for allowing a user to manually manipulate the stoma to clear blockages of the stoma. The ostomy bag may also include a stoma port for attachment to the patient's skin surrounding the stoma. A mating collar on the ostomy bag sealingly attaches the ostomy bag to the stoma port using a convenient quarter turn connection.

Abstract: A lower garment for a female person has a mechanism that when engaged, secures the garment to the female person, and a fly opening implemented at a specific position in a fabric of the garment, the fly opening comprising a substantially straight slit of a first length covered by a flap of fabric stitched to the fabric of the garment around the slit such that the slit is covered by the flap except for an un-stitched edge of the flap of a length equal to the length of the slit. The specific position in fabric of the garment is a position that enables the female person to engage a tubular portion of an external device through the fly opening, and to move the tubular portion to her vulva and insert same to position of the urethra without disengaging the mechanism that secures the garment to the female person.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a novel thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) elastomer, T-frames made thereof as well as the use of the new TPU in manufacturing of T-frames for intrauterine systems for contraception and therapy.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a body temperature controlling system comprising at least one member receiving a flow of gas from at least one blower in communication with said at least one member, said at least one member directing said flow of gas onto a wearer thereof.

Abstract: Peritoneal heat exchange provides the benefit of extremely rapid cooling of the patient's target organs such as the heart and brain as well as facilitating global patient body temperature reduction to therapeutically effective temperatures. The heat exchange medium of the present invention is a chilled gaseous fluid suspension of frozen ice particles.

Abstract: Various systems and techniques may be used for moisturizing an eye during ocular surgery. In particular implementations, a system and a technique for moisturizing an eye may include the ability to determine whether an eye should be moisturized during ocular surgery and to activate a fluid control device if an eye should be moisturized. The activation of the fluid control device may allow fluid flow from a fluid reservoir to a fluid nozzle coupled to a nozzle mounting device adapted to hold the fluid nozzle stable relative to a patient's eye. The system and the technique may also include the ability to deactivate the fluid control device.

Abstract: Lacrimal implants and related methods providing secure, wedgable retention within a lacrimal punctum and associated canaliculus of an eye are disclosed. The lacrimal implants can comprise an implant body configured for at least partial insertion through the lacrimal punctum and into the canaliculus. The implant body can include first and second portions, and can extend from a proximal end of the first portion defining a longitudinal proximal axis to a distal end of the second portion defining a longitudinal distal axis. The implant body can be configured such that, when implanted using an integral dilator, an angled intersection exists between the proximal and distal axes. In this way, at least a portion of the implant body can be biased against at least a portion of the lacrimal canaliculus located at or more distal to a canalicular curvature, thereby retaining an implanted position of the lacrimal implant using anatomical structures.

Abstract: A glaucoma drainage device regulator (GDDR) is disclosed which comprises a membrane and a lumen to regulate the flow of aqueous in conjunction with different ocular (e.g., glaucoma) filtering procedures. In connection with aqueous shunting, the GDDR can be placed over the tip of a shunt tube in the anterior chamber, either at the time of initial surgery or also in devices which have been previously implanted. In connection with trabeculectomy, the GDDR can comprise a flange for seating the GDDR at the sclerostomy in trabeculectomy surgery.

Abstract: Optical correction methods, devices, and systems reduce optical aberrations or inhibit refractive surgery induced aberrations. Error source control and adjustment or optimization of ablation profiles or other optical data address high order aberrations. A simulation approach identifies and characterizes system factors that can contribute to, or that can be adjusted to inhibit, optical aberrations. Modeling effects of system components facilitates adjustment of the system parameters.

Abstract: An ophthalmic surgical system includes a display device and a user interface. The display device generates a display on an image of a patient's eye comprising a plurality of non-overlapping display sectors. Each display sector displays one of a plurality of user-selectable surgical parameters. A user interface receives a user selection of one or more of the user-selectable surgical parameters to be displayed.

Abstract: A technique for controlling a corneal ablation laser is described. As to a device aspect of the technique, a device comprises a parameter interface, a first determination unit, a second determination unit, a computation unit, and a control unit. The parameter interface receives an adjustment parameter. The first determination unit determines a first point on a corneal surface. The second determination unit determines a second point on the corneal surface that is different from the first point. The computation unit determines a third point on a line between the first point and the second point according to the adjustment parameter. The computation unit further generates a control program that centers an ablation profile on the third point. The control unit controls the corneal ablation laser according to the control program.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide systems for treating the retina and/or other areas of a patient's eye. The procedures may involve using one or more treatment beams (e.g., lasers) to cause photocoagulation or laser coagulation to finely cauterize ocular blood vessels and/or prevent blood vessel growth to induce one or more therapeutic benefits. In other embodiments, a series of short duration light pulses (e.g., between 5-15 microseconds) may be delivered to the retinal tissue with a thermal relaxation time delay between the pulse to limit the temperature rise of the target retinal tissue and thereby limit a thermal effect to only the retinal pigment epithelial layer. Such procedures may be used to treat diabetic retinopathy, macular edema, and/or other conditions of the eye. The treatment beam may be delivered within a treatment boundary or pattern defined on the retina of the patient's eye.

Abstract: The procedures described herein may involve using one or more treatment beams to induce one or more therapeutic benefits. In some embodiments, a series of short duration light pulses may be delivered to ocular tissue at a plurality of target locations with a thermal relaxation time delay to limit the temperature rise of the target ocular tissue and thereby limit a thermal effect to only a desired portion of the ocular tissue. The thermal relaxation time delay may be roughly equivalent to a duration of a scan of the treatment beam between each of the target locations. Such procedures may be used to treat diabetic retinopathy, macular edema, and/or other conditions of the eye. The treatment beam may be delivered at each target location within a sufficiently short duration so as to produce a visual appearance of a treatment pattern on the ocular tissue of the patient's eye.

Abstract: A system for treating retinal diseases includes passing a laser light beam through an optical lens or mask to optically shape the light beam. The light beam is applied to at least a portion of the retina. Due to the selected parameters of the laser light beam pulse length, power and duty cycle, the laser light beam can be applied to substantially the entire retina, including the fovea, without damaging retinal or foveal tissue, while still attaining the benefits of retinal photocoagulation.

Abstract: A vitrectomy probe for treating an eye of a patient, the probe including a body arranged for grasping by a surgeon, and a photodisruption element extending from the body. The photodisruption element includes a needle having a main lumen extending from the body, the needle comprising a port at an end, a fiber cannula within the main lumen, the fiber cannula having a fiber lumen, and an optical fiber within the fiber lumen, the optical fiber being mechanically agitatable within the fiber lumen.

Abstract: In certain embodiments, marking a lenticule includes controlling a focus of pulsed laser radiation having ultrashort pulses. A lenticule marking is created in a cornea of an eye with the pulsed laser radiation to mark the lenticule. The lenticule is then created in the cornea with the pulsed laser radiation.

Abstract: A device for removing earwax from an ear canal includes a shaft; and an earwax collector head at an end of the shaft. The collector head is in the form of a helical strip surrounding a substantially elongated space. The helical strip has a cross section such that an outward facing surface of the helical strip is substantially flat and an interior surface of the helical strip radially tapers to an inward facing edge. A distal end of the helical strip tapers to present a wedge.