Abstract: A hand controller for enabling a user to perform an activity and method for controlling a robotic arm is provided. The hand controller includes a bar with a grip and a plurality of motors to provide a force feedback to the user in response to the movement of the plurality of mechanical arms. The method involves receiving input corresponding to the manipulation of a bar and providing a force feedback in response to the movement of the plurality of mechanical arms.

Abstract: A medical instrument system includes a plurality of joints, a plurality of actuators, and a plurality of transmission systems. The transmission systems have proximal ends respectively coupled to the actuators. Each of the transmission systems have a distal end attached to an associated one of the joints to allow the transmission of a force for articulation of the medical instrument system. The system also includes a sensor coupled to measure a configuration of the medical instrument; and a control system coupled to receive configuration data, including a current configuration of a tip of the medical instrument from the sensor and a desired configuration of the tip of the medical instrument. Using the difference between the desired configuration and the current configuration of the tip of the medical instrument, the control system generates control signals for the actuators that cause the actuators to apply a set of tensions to the plurality of transmission systems.

Abstract: A mechanical teleoperated device for remote manipulation is provided that is primarily intended for use in minimally invasive surgery. The device generally comprises a slave unit having a number of slave links interconnected by a plurality of slave joints, an end-effector connected to the distal end of the slave unit, a master unit having a corresponding number of master links interconnected by a plurality of master joints, and a handle connected to the distal end of the master unit for operating the mechanical teleoperated device. The device further comprises mechanical transmission means arranged to kinematically connect the slave unit with the master unit such that the movement applied on each master joint of the master unit is reproduced by the corresponding slave joint of the slave unit.

Abstract: A surgical drape is made from a pair of rectangular panels of drape material which are interconnected at a separation zone so that the panels to be pulled apart following a procedure. A fenestration is punched out of the material of one of the panels, near the perforated zone. The fenestration is covered by a flexible, transparent plastic window, preferably made of a polyethylene film and the perimeter of the window is bonded to the drape panel around the fenestration. The window is larger than the fenestration, and is folded or gusseted at its corners so that its center can rise well above the plane of the fenestration, in order to provide clearance for instruments which may be protruding from a surgical site over which the drape is placed.

Abstract: A waste container includes a neck defining an opening through which waste can be inserted into the waste container, and an insert snap-fit into the opening. The insert has an engagement portion engaged with the neck to secure the insert into the opening, and a body portion having a plurality of differently-sized apertures for allowing passage of waste through the insert and into the waste container.

Abstract: An illumination system includes a surgical tool and an attachable cannula comprising a transparent or semi-transparent material capable of carrying light from the proximal end to the distal end of the cannula, thereby illuminating the surgical field through components that do not occupy space that may otherwise be used for optics of the tool. The illumination system further comprises one or more illumination sources disposed at the proximal end. The illumination source may be optically coupled with the cannula at the hub or other appropriate location. The cannula comprises a sterilizable polymer which functions as a waveguide. A waveguide is a material medium that confines and guides light. When in use, the light source connected to the hub provides light which may be guided to the distal end of the cannula or any other suitable location. Thus, the sheath provides structure-guided illumination resulting in the illumination of the surgical site.

Abstract: A navigation support system for medical instruments comprises a signal processing unit with an input for real-time video image signals from an optical instrument, input for instrument position signals and access to tomography image data, and output for outputting image signals. The signal processing unit generates output image signals from the image signals, the image data and the position signals and generates the output image signals such that the real-time video image signals are displayed permanently centrally on an image display unit connected to the navigation support system in a round or oval central image display of an overall image, wherein the central image display extends at least in one direction of extension across more than half of the overall image and that the secondary images generated by tomography image data, in dependence on the instrument position signals, are displayed adjacent to or partially superimposed over the central image display.

Abstract: Apparatus, consisting of an envelope transparent to X-rays, and a fluid transparent to X-rays and contained within the envelope. Multiple charged particles, opaque to X-rays, are suspended within the fluid. There are at least two electrodes on opposite sides of the envelope, that are configured to apply a field to the multiple particles, so that, absent the field, the particles disperse throughout the fluid.

Abstract: Endodontic instruments are described which have at least a section with a center of mass offset from an axis of rotation so that when the instrument is rotated, the section bends away from the axis of rotation.

Abstract: A method of diagnosing an orthodontic condition and providing information regarding orthodontic treatment can include analyzing patient data, which can include online activity of an individual, an image of an individual and a combination thereof, receiving at least a portion of patient data onto a server, accessing one or more databases that comprises or has access to at least one of information derived from orthodontic treatments, information derived from a website, and a combination thereof, and instructing at least one computer program to analyze at least a portion of the patient data and identify at least one diagnosis of an orthodontic condition. A system can include one or more computer programs configured to perform a method according to the disclosure.

Abstract: A dental template to position an object on a patient's tooth includes digitizing the patient's tooth; adding virtual objects to predetermined locations on the digitized tooth; and fabricating the dental template to locate the object on the patient's tooth. The template can be used for etching or for positioning brackets on teeth.

Abstract: Force modules and assemblies for use in orthodontic corrections include an elongate hollow outer body extending between proximal and distal ends, a plunger, biasing member (e.g. spring), and push rod. The plunger and push rod are slidably received within different ends of the hollow outer body. The biasing member is positioned within the hollow outer body and provides an expansion force, which provides a desired corrective force. The outer body, plunger, biasing member, and push rod can be configured in a telescoping relationship in order for the components to be telescopically compressed and expanded during use. The distal end can include a bendable pin or latch mechanism for attachment to a buccal tube. The push rod can include a hook, hole, or slot for attachment to an archwire. Various connectors for coupling an orthodontic force module to a buccal tube portion of a molar bracket are also disclosed.

Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus for implant-bar-supported restoration that includes a superstructure and a plurality of dental bars. At least two of the plurality of dental bars have different shapes or different sizes, and the superstructure is coupled with the plurality of dental bars. Also disclosed is a dental bar including a plurality of separate pieces, wherein: each of the plurality of pieces is shaped and configured to be coupled with a dental implant; each of the plurality of pieces is shaped and configured to be coupled with a superstructure; and each of the plurality of pieces has a different shape or different size.

Abstract: Dental implants including radiopaque markers provided therein or thereon. The implant may also include customizable length characteristics. For example, a kit may include implants with different diameters (e.g., 3 diameters), where all of the implants are of a single (e.g., long) length. The appropriate diameter implant may be selected from the kit by the practitioner, and the long length implant may be cut (e.g., with a dental drill) to the appropriate length needed. The implants include radiopaque markers on or within the implant. For example, three series of markers may be provided on different “faces” of the implant, so that the three series of markers serve as reference points when scanning, allowing triangulation of the exact position of the implant in relation to the surrounding hard and soft oral tissues.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for producing a denture base semi-finished product with the following steps: 1) Recording and digitalizing the oral cavity situation of a patient, wherein a digital three-dimensional oral cavity model of the patient is produced, or providing a digital three-dimensional oral cavity model of the oral cavity situation of a patient; 2) Implementing a first calculation in which a digital three-dimensional first model (A) of a denture base is calculated, wherein the oral cavity model of the oral cavity situation is used as a basis for the first calculation; 3) Conducting a second calculation, in which a digital three-dimensional second model (B) of a denture base semi-finished product is calculated from the first model (A) of the denture base, wherein volume is added at least in sections to the three-dimensional model (A) of the denture base; and 4) Producing the denture base semi-finished product with a Rapid Prototyping method, wherein with the Rapid Prototyping method, a CAM met

Abstract: A 3D virtual model of an intra oral cavity in which at least a part of a finish line of a preparation is obscured is manipulated in virtual space by means of a computer or the like to create, recreate or reconstruct finish line data and other geometrical corresponding to the obscured part. Trimmed virtual models, and trimmed physical models, can then be created utilizing data thus created. The virtual models and/or the physical models may be used in the design and manufacture of copings or of prostheses.

Abstract: The present application describes a method for designing and manufacturing a denture device for a patient. A method is described for designing a virtual denture and manufacturing a functional fitting replica denture from the virtual denture. An apparatus comprising a functional fitting replica denture is prepared having denture teeth having a fit substantially similar to the final denture. The methods and apparatus described herein reduce the number of visits required to manufacture the final denture.

Abstract: A toothbrush includes a handle and a bristle-carrying head part, which are connected to each other by a neck part, the head part having a multiplicity of tufts of bristles consisting of bristles. An anchor is oriented at right angles to the longitudinal axis. Two or more tufts of bristles have a bristle tuft half with bristle ends standing up higher in relation to the bristle ends of the other bristle tuft half.

Abstract: A tooth brush device having bristle touch-points composed of a polymer material (e.g., silicone) provides improved biofilm removal from teeth. The tooth brush device comprises a head with an apex, a base opposite the apex, a front surface, and a back surface opposite the front surface. The front surface of the head includes bristle touch-points arranged along rows. The rows are arranged orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the head extending from the apex of the head to the base of the head. Each of a plurality of the bristle touch-points is a single solid elongate structure extending from the head and is composed of a polymer material. The device further includes a neck coupled to the base of the head and a handle coupled to the head via the neck.

Abstract: The invention provides a dental curing device comprising a light source having a wavelength capable of inducing polymerization of a photopolymer, and a noncontact thermal detector in alignment with said light source and capable of measuring the temperature or temperature change of the photopolymer upon polymerization.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates generally to systems, components, devices and methods for assisting a patient to empty his or her weakened or paralyzed bladder or a neobladder efficiently. The system and method includes a pressure sensor for sensing the pressure in the urinary bladder of a patient and an alert mechanism which alerts the patient of the bladder fullness and the need to void. An actuating device is operably coupled to the system to selectively activate a compression assembly. When activated, the compression assembly compresses the bladder to permit emptying of the bladder.

Abstract: Absorbable implants for breast surgery that conform to the breast parenchyma and surrounding chest wall have been developed. These implants support newly lifted breast parenchyma, and/or a breast implant. The implants have mechanical properties sufficient to support a reconstructed breast, and allow the in-growth of tissue into the implant as it degrades. The implants have a strength retention profile allowing the support of the breast to be transitioned from the implant to regenerated host tissue, without significant loss of support. Three-dimensional implants for use in minimally invasive mastopexy/breast reconstruction procedures are also described, that confer shape to a patient's breast. These implants are self-reinforced, can be temporarily deformed, implanted in a suitably dissected tissue plane, and resume their preformed three-dimensional shape. The implants are preferably made from poly-4-hydroxybutyrate (P4HB) and copolymers thereof.

Abstract: A device for transcatheter insertion into the aortic root at the sinotubular junction by a wire guide and a catheter for protecting surrounding tissues, the device including an assembly serving as a valvular embolic filter, configured to slide in a guided manner inside the catheter, the assembly configured to form, in the aortic root of an aorta, a safety enclosure ensuring a valve function and a protective function against embolic accidents, wherein the assembly includes, a tubular body, and a filtration and valve part configured to deploy outside the catheter or retract inside the catheter, wherein the tubular body is secured, at one end, to the filtration and valve part, wherein the filtration and valve part forms the valvular embolic filter and a temporary valve, wherein the filtration and valve part is configured to prevent regurgitation of blood when deployed outside the catheter for covering a native aortic valve with a seat secured in the aortic root at sinuses of valsalva without obstructing a blood

Abstract: A urethral stent for arrangement in the urethra of a patient is disclosed. The ethereal stent includes a tubular body having first and second openings, retention elements connected to the tubular body at the first opening and to the tubular body at a distance from the first retention element, and a valve. The valve includes a valve seat formed by the first opening and a valve element that is pivotably connected to the tubular body and/or the valve seat. The valve is pivotable between a closed position and an open position to close and open the lumen, respectively. The valve is at least partly made of a ferromagnetic material and has an area which exceeds the area of the first opening. A bladder control assembly comprising the urethral stent is also disclosed.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods are described for regulating blood flow in an ascending aorta of a subject including inserting a device (20) into the ascending aorta. When in a deployed state, the device defines an inner surface (24) that defines a conduit (26) through the device, at least a portion (25) of the inner surface diverging, such that a cross-sectional area of the conduit at the downstream end (34) of the diverging portion is greater than a cross-sectional area of the conduit at the upstream end (30) of the diverging portion. The device is deployed within a longitudinal portion of the ascending aorta, such that blood flow through the portion of the ascending aorta, via any flow path other than through the conduit, is less than 20 percent of total blood flow through the portion of the ascending aorta. Other applications are also described.

Abstract: An implantable vascular device comprises an expandable and compressible implant body, a housing, a rotatable member, and a locking member. The housing is coupled to a first end portion of the implant body. The rotatable member is coupled to the housing and to a second end portion of the implant body such that rotating the rotatable member relative to the housing and the implant body expands or contracts the implant body. The locking member is coupled to the rotatable member and configured to move between an unlocked state and a locked state. In the unlocked state, the locking member allows the rotatable member to be rotated relative to the housing and the implant body. In the locked state, the locking member prevents the rotatable member from being rotated relative to the housing and the implant body.

Abstract: This disclosure details methods for improving the joint kinematics of an unstable joint. An exemplary method includes reconstructing an anterior cable region of a superior capsule of a glenohumeral joint. The anterior cable region may be reconstructed by fixating a graft at a greater tuberosity of a humerus to stabilize a glenohumeral joint. The graft is generally localized at the anatomical attachment site of the native anterior cable of the superior capsular ligament and extends from a superior glenoid to an anatomical attachment site of the native capsule or anterior cable. The graft can be an autograft or an allograft.

Abstract: An ophthalmic device including an ophthalmic lens having anterior and posterior surfaces and at least one diffraction grating is described. The diffraction grating(s) are on the anterior and/or posterior surface(s). The diffraction grating(s) include zones. A first zone is at a first distance range from a center of the lens. A second zone is at a second distance range further from the center than the first distance range. A repeat zone is at a third distance range further from the center than the second distance range. The first zone includes echelette(s) having a first step height and a first radius of curvature. The second zone includes echelette(s) having a second step height and a second radius of curvature. The repeat zone includes echelette(s) having at least one of the first step height and the first radius of curvature.

Abstract: Apparatuses, systems, and methods for implanting an intraocular lens into an eye are described. For example, an intraocular lens injector may include a passage formed in a distal end portion of the intraocular lens injector. The passage may define an interior surface, and a ramp may be formed on the interior surface so as to cause a leading haptic of an intraocular lens (IOL) being advanced through the passage to lift above a surface of an optic of the IOL to ensure proper folding of the IOL.

Abstract: Methods, apparatus, and systems used to deliver a prosthetic heart valve to a deficient valve. In one embodiment, for instance, a support member is positioned to at least partially surround the native leaflets of a valve. A locking member is used to couple both ends of the support member, forming a support band. An expandable prosthetic heart valve is delivered into the native heart valve and expanded while the expandable prosthetic valve is at least partially within the support band, thereby causing one or more of the native leaflets of the native heart valve to be frictionally secured between the support band and the expanded prosthetic heart valve.

Abstract: A prosthetic mitral valve includes an anchor assembly, a strut frame, and a plurality of replacement leaflets secured to the annular strut frame. The anchor assembly includes a ventricular anchor, an atrial anchor, and a central portion there between. The ventricular anchor and the atrial anchor are configured to flare radially outwards relative to the central portion. The annular strut frame is disposed radially within the anchor assembly and is attached to the anchor assembly. The central portion is configured to align with a native valve orifice and the ventricular anchor and the atrial anchor are configured to compress native cardiac tissue therebetween.

Abstract: An apparatus can include: (1) a steerable tube, having a proximal section, a distal section, and a central longitudinal axis, the tube defining a primary lumen and two secondary lumens; (2) two wires, each extending from the distal section proximally through a respective secondary lumen; (3) a handle, coupled to the proximal section, and including a steering knob that is coupled to the wires such that rotation of the knob adjusts a degree of tension in the wires; (4) a pull ring coupled to the distal section of the tube such that the pull ring circumscribes the longitudinal axis at the distal section of the tube, and defining two recesses, a distal end portion of each wire being disposed in a respective one of the recesses; and (5) at least one cap, bridging the recesses and the distal end portion of the wires. Other embodiments are also described.

Abstract: A system includes a medical device for implanting in a valve of a subject, the implantable medical device having a self-expanding frame; and a holder configured to retain the frame of the implantable medical device in a constricted configuration and to control expansion of the frame. The holder has a controllably constrictable and expandable loop, wherein the loop is disposed about at least a portion of the self-expanding frame such that constriction or expansion of the first loop controls constriction or expansion of the frame.

Abstract: The invention relates to methods and devices for plicating the tricuspid valve leaflets to bicuspidize the valve.

Abstract: Systems, devices, and methods are provided for orthopedic implants. The implants may include a base member, such as an acetabular shell or an augment, that is configured to couple with an augment, flange cup, mounting member, or any other suitable orthopedic attachment. Any of the implantable components may be include one or more porous surfaces. The porous surface may be textured by protrusions that connect to and extend from the surface. The sizes and concentration of the protrusions may be varied for specific applications to accommodate different implants and patient anatomies. A porous implant may also include one or more internal or external solid portions that strengthen the implant.

Abstract: Systems and apparatuses including a tibial insert for replacement of a knee joint of a patient are disclosed. The insert can comprise a proximal surface configured to interface with a bearing, a post and a distal surface. The post can extend from the proximal surface and can be configured to be received in a recess in the bearing. The bearing can be configured to pivot about the post to move relative to the proximal surface. The distal surface can be spaced from the proximal surface and can be configured to interface with a tibial baseplate. The distal surface can be configured with a connection mechanism to connect with the tibial baseplate.

Abstract: In some exemplary embodiments, an ankle replacement prosthesis includes a tibial component which provides a convex bearing surface, and a talar component which provides a concave bearing surface configured to interface with the convex bearing surface of the tibial component to provide a joint of the ankle replacement prosthesis. The tibial component is configured to be attached to a patient's tibia and the talar component is configured to be attached to the patient's talus.

Abstract: An implant system comprises an implant plate adapted to be positioned on a surface of a resected bone. The implant plate has a plurality of openings. A plurality of independently positionable pegs attach the implant plate to the bone. Each peg has a longitudinal axis and comprises: a peg body and a retaining device. The peg body is inserted into a peg hole in the bone. The peg body has a transverse dimension in a direction normal to the longitudinal axis, the transverse dimension larger than the openings of the plate. The retaining device is separate from the peg body, and is configured to attach to the peg body, with at least a first portion of the retaining device positioned above an upper surface of the implant plate, and a connecting portion of the retaining device extending through one of the openings of the implant plate.

Abstract: An intervertebral cage and intervertebral cage apparatus and a method for using the intervertebral cage and/or the intervertebral cage apparatus. The intervertebral cage can be any desired material including a memory material. The intervertebral cage apparatus can include the intervertebral cage and one or both of a variable volume pouch and a deployment cable. The variable volume pouch can be inserted into an internal volume of the intervertebral cage and affixed to the intervertebral cage. The variable volume pouch can be filled with material to achieve an expanded state. The variable volume pouch can assist in the deployment of the intervertebral cage. The deployment cable can be attached to the intervertebral cage and can include features to facilitate that attachment. The deployment cable can apply a force to the intervertebral cage to deploy the intervertebral cage, and can include features to lock the intervertebral cage in the deployed configuration.

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

Abstract: The invention relates to an operating instrument for minimally invasive or conventional implanting of a spinal implant into the intervertebral space comprising an outer tube which has a hollow handle on its proximal end, wherein the inner rod can be moved in the outer tube and the hollow handle, and the inner rod is provided with a threaded region which extends beyond the distal end of the outer tube, wherein the threaded region serves for fastening to the rear region of an implant and for tensioning the implant with its rear region against the distal end region of the outer tube, wherein the distal end region of the outer tube is at least partially adapted to the rear region of the implant, wherein the tensioning of the implant against the outer tube takes place by means of a tensioning device having a lever.

Abstract: The invention relates to a connection device for connecting a first and a second prosthesis part, in particular of a tibial and a femoral trial prosthesis for trial arrangement on the corresponding bones, wherein the connection device has a first connection element and a second connection element. The first connection element has inner walls, serving as a guide, and a mating piece and serves for arrangement on the first prosthesis part, and the second connection element is enclosed at least in part by the inner walls of the connection element and is movable in a displacement direction along the inner walls relative to the first connection element and has a groove for receiving a portion of the second prosthesis part.

Abstract: Various aspects of the present disclosure characterize apparatuses and/or methods as may be implemented with a variety of prosthetic components and applications. As may be consistent with one or more embodiments described herein, respective manipulators are operable and/or operate to manipulate a prosthetic foot component about respective (e.g., separate) axes. A sensor circuit senses movement characteristics of the prosthetic foot component (e.g., movement, surroundings, and/or load applied due to movement). The manipulators operate with the sensor circuit to manipulate the prosthetic foot component about the axes in response to the sensed movement characteristics indicating that the prosthetic foot component is elevated over a surface.

Abstract: The present disclosure illustrates a prosthetic foot that may reduce snagging on external obstacles. In some embodiments, a prosthetic foot includes a symmetric wear member that is rotatable to allow a user to alter an orientation of the symmetric wear member for even wear. A cuff may couple to the symmetric wear member, and include the proximal end comprising a receptacle with an opening having an adjustable diameter. The receptacle may be sized and shaped to receive and selectively retain the prosthesis pylon by adjusting the diameter of the opening. The prosthetic foot may further include a vertical adjustment mechanism that selectively alters a depth of the receptacle of the cuff to vertically displace the prosthesis pylon.

Abstract: A method and devices for relieving pressure in the left atrium of a patient's heart is disclosed. The method includes using an ablative catheter in a minimally invasive procedure to prepare an opening from the coronary sinus into a left atrium of the patient's heart. Once the opening is prepared, the opening may be enlarged by a technique such as expanding a balloon within the opening. A stent is then placed within the coronary sinus of the patient, with a transverse portion expanding within the opening, allowing blood to flow from the left atrium to the coronary sinus and then to the right atrium. Pressure within the left atrium is thus relieved.

Abstract: A medical assembly includes a balloon expandable endoprosthesis comprising a plurality of ringed stent elements flexibly connected to each other via at least one flexible connector, the endoprosthesis being deployable from an undeployed state with an undeployed diameter to a deployed state with a deployed diameter. The medical assembly further includes a catheter assembly comprising a balloon, and a cover along the balloon. The endoprosthesis is coaxially located about the balloon and the cover. One or more portions of the balloon and the cover reach an intermediate diameter between the undeployed diameter and the deployed diameter in which the portions of the balloon and the cover are inflated by increasing an inflation pressure within the balloon and approximately maintained at about the intermediate diameter until the inflation pressure increases by at least 1 atmosphere to overcome a yield strength of the cover.

Abstract: A method for delivering catheters, and stents composed of soft, compliant polymers through anatomical passages. These devices have a bulbous anchorage end with a diameter greater than the rest of the catheter. To facilitate implant and delivery a pusher catheter or sheath with an internal lumen larger than the outer diameter of the catheter but smaller than the outer diameter of the bulbous anchorage end. The distal end of pusher catheter or the sheath physically engages the proximal end of the bulbous anchorage end and applies an axial force to coaxially advance the catheter over a guidewire though anatomical passages. This method allows a physician to move the catheter to an anatomical site without the device exhibiting buckling due to axial force applied. Similarly, this delivery method will allow more force to be applied to the distal end of the catheter diminishing the likelihood of buckling.

Abstract: An apparatus may be used after a surgical procedure to protect against leaks and to separate healing tissue from foreign materials such as nutritional contents. In some cases the apparatus may be easily delivered to a surgical site before, during or after a surgical procedure such as gastric bypass surgery, but this is only an example. The apparatus may include expandable anchors at either end and a collapsible central portion extending between the two expandable anchors.

Abstract: A gastrointestinal device and method for retrieving the device are disclosed. The device may include a stent including a plurality of strands forming first and second ends, the strands configured to move between a retrieval configuration, with substantially parallel strands, and a deployed configuration, wherein the strands form proximal and distal portions having first and second diameters larger than the pyloric sphincter. The device may include a connector assembly including proximal, middle, and distal connectors. The middle connector may be coupled to the proximal and distal connectors when the strands are in the deployed configuration. The strands may be attached to the proximal and distal connectors and the first and second ends. The device may include a release mechanism configured to decouple the proximal connector from the middle connector. Decoupling of the proximal and middle connectors may allow the strands to move from the deployed to retrieval configuration.

Abstract: A female urine device includes a shell and a resilient liner. The shell includes a bottom wall, a first sidewall, a second sidewall and a rear wall integrally connected to define an inner chamber. A forward opening is defined by forward ends of the walls. An upper rim is defined by upper ends of the walls. The resilient liner is disposed on the inner chamber. The liner extends forward past the forward opening of the shell to form a spout portion of the liner. At least one thumb rest is disposed on a sidewall of the shell and extends perpendicularly therefrom. The at least one thumb rest is sized to receive a thumb of a female and is operable as a fulcrum to enable the female to leverage the rim into sealing engagement with the female's genitalia when the female urine device is in use.