Abstract: A method for non-surgically treating an internal nasal valve of a patient comprising, injecting a working device into the internal nasal valve of the patient, wherein the injected working device in the nasal tissue causes an alteration of an internal or external nasal valve. A device introduced by injection into the nose, allowing for structural support or filling of defects in the nose, and causing a change in external shape of the nose. The device and inserts and implants described also have use in cosmetic applications relating to the facial tissue.

Abstract: The invention relates to a prosthetic heart valve (100) for an endoprosthesis (1) used in the treatment of a stenotic cardiac valve and/or a cardiac valve insufficiency. The prosthetic heart valve (100) comprises of a plurality of leaflets (102), which consist of a natural and/or synthetic material and have a first opened position for opening the heart chamber and a second closed position for closing the heart chamber, the leaflets (102) being able to switch between their first and second position in response to the blood flow through the heart.

Abstract: An assembly can comprise a radially expandable and compressible annular frame, at least one linear actuator assembly coupled to the frame and at least one locking mechanism coupled to the frame. The linear actuator can be configured to apply a distally directed force and/or a proximally directed force to the frame to radially expand or compress the frame. The locking mechanism can comprise a first sleeve member connected to the frame at a first location, a second sleeve member having internal threads and being connected to the frame at a second location, and a first screw configured to engage the internal threads of the second sleeve member to retain the frame in a radially expanded state.

Abstract: A delivery device may generally include a support member, a distal sheath, an outer shaft and a straightening member. The support member is adapted to hold a prosthetic heart valve. The distal sheath is slidable relative to the support member between a first position in which the distal sheath is adapted to maintain the prosthetic heart valve in a collapsed condition, and a second position in which the distal sheath is adapted to expose the prosthetic heart valve. The outer shaft is connected to the distal sheath and has a curved portion. The straightening member is slidable on the outer shaft between a proximal position in which the straightening member does not cover the curved portion of the outer shaft, and a distal position in which the straightening member covers and substantially straightens at least a portion of the curved portion of the outer shaft.

Abstract: Prosthetic mitral valves described herein can be deployed using a transcatheter mitral valve delivery system and technique to interface and anchor in cooperation with the anatomical structures of a native mitral valve. This document describes prosthetic heart valve designs that interface with native mitral valve structures to create a fluid seal, thereby minimizing mitral regurgitation and paravalvular leaks. This document also describes prosthetic heart valve designs and techniques to manage blood flow through the left ventricular outflow tract. In addition, this document describes prosthetic heart valve designs and techniques that reduce the risk of interference between the prosthetic valves and chordae tendineae.

Abstract: A valve clamp for treating the cardiac valve regurgitation. The valve clamp includes a first clamp part, a second clamp part, and a connecting part. The first clamp part has the first clamping arms. The second clamp part has a corresponding number of second clamping arms. The first clamping arm and the second clamping arm can clip an object therebetween through the interaction force generated by closing and pushing against each other. Moreover, the valve clamp can also include a closed ring, which is sleeved outside the periphery of the first clamp part and the periphery of the second clamp part, such that the clamping arms can close as needed, and the clamping is tighter. The valve clamp has the advantages of a minimally invasive implantation, a simple manufacture, a low difficulty of operation, good effects, etc.

Abstract: An adjustment tool enables manipulation of a prosthetic anatomical device such as an annuloplasty ring. The tool includes a compression member which is operative for retarding rotation of the adjustment shaft to preclude inadvertent rotation thereof during use of the tool by the surgeon. A locking device is associated with the adjustment tool to enable the releasable attachment of the tool to the anatomical device during its adjustment by manipulation of the tool. The locking device is oriented into operative and inoperative positions by the engagement and disengagement of locking elements. A scale may be provided on the adjustment tool to assist a surgeon in determining the size or amount of adjustment to the size of the anatomical device during its adjustment.

Abstract: A membrane having at least one strip of a shape memory material and the at least one strip is sandwiched between a first layer and a second layer. A method for guiding bone regeneration which excludes the use of a tenting screw is also disclosed. The membrane may be useful for gradual displacing of the soft tissue covering bones. The gap developing between the bone and the displaced soft tissue may be filled with regenerated bone. The membrane allows the regenerated bone to form while the soft tissue heals. The membrane and method may be useful in dentistry for treating vertical bone defects. The membrane and method may also be useful for regenerating soft tissue between the bone and the displaced soft tissue.

Abstract: A surgical implant, which in use, provides a barrier between layers of tissue such that tissue on one side of the implant does not adhere to tissue on the other side, the improvement comprising that the implant is made of suitably anatomically shaped surgically acceptable sheet material.

Abstract: Disposable temporary spacer device for an articulation of the human body or for a bone cavity, wherein the spacer device includes at least one first component adapted to be constrained to a bone portion or end, wherein the spacer device is made from a biologically compatible material and comprises interconnected pores distributed in the entire volume occupied by the spacer device, in which the interconnected pores have a size and occupy a percentage of the volume of the spacer device such that it is able to absorb and consequently elute one or more pharmaceutical or medical substances in liquid or fluid form or in paste, cream, gel, wax, or viscous form.

Abstract: A modular femoral prosthesis for use during performance of a hip revision procedure includes a proximal body component, a distal stem component, and a locking bolt. Surgical instruments and methods for use in implanting such a modular femoral prosthesis are disclosed.

Abstract: Disclosed are compositions comprising a meniscal tissue. For example, disclosed are compositions comprising a meniscal tissue, wherein the meniscal tissue comprises one or more engineered channels. Disclosed are compositions comprising a meniscal tissue comprising viable cells native to the meniscal tissue and devitalized blood vessels. Disclosed are compositions comprising a previously cryopreserved meniscal tissue, wherein after cryopreservation and subsequent thawing the meniscal tissue comprises a) cells native to the meniscal tissue and greater than 30% of the cells are viable, b) extracellular matrix that is native to the meniscal tissue, c) one or more growth factors that are native to the meniscal tissue, and d) depleted amounts of one or more types of functional immunogenic cells. Also disclosed are methods of producing and using these compositions comprising meniscal tissue.

Abstract: Provided is a method for forming an implant with an autonomous manufacturing device. The method includes accessing a first computer-readable reconstruction of a being's anatomy; accessing a second computer-readable reconstruction of an implant; accessing a third computer-readable reconstruction comprising the first computer-readable reconstruction superimposed with the second computer readable reconstruction; generating at least one computer-readable trace from a point cloud; and forming an implant with an autonomous manufacturing device, wherein the autonomous manufacturing device forms the implant into a shape defined by at least one dimension of the computer-readable trace.

Abstract: An implant and method for posterior sacroiliac fusion having a plate for placement across the posterior surface of the sacroiliac joint, a transverse pin to slide through the plate and transverse the joint as well as provide an aperture to receive bone graft, and a sacral screw to be inserted through the plate.

Abstract: Systems and methods for joint preparation and fusion are disclosed. The system includes a cutting device having a handle, and rigid blade member. The blade member may include cutting edges on first and second sides, and may be curved in one or more planes. The blade member may be deployed to project outside of an outer tube, and the cutting device may be rotated to create a circular cavity. In a method of use, a cannula provides access to a procedure site such as a joint. A pathway to the joint is created, and the cutting device is inserted and deployed to undercut a cavity in the joint. A fusion device may be implanted across the joint to provide compression and fuse the joint. The system may also include instrumentation for creating access to a joint, bone graft insertion and implant insertion.

Abstract: An implantable prosthetic hip system generally includes acetabular components, femoral components, and tooling for implanting the components. The acetabular components include an acetabular socket and a bushing received within the acetabular socket. The acetabular socket defines a reamer with cutters for preparing the acetabulum. The femoral components generally include a cutter cap, a head cover, and a screw. Tooling includes a cutting bit that is used to cut a flat on the femoral head. The cutter cap is advanced in a cutting action onto the femoral head to remove the sides of the head and the cutter cap is also implanted on the femoral head. The head cover is positioned on the cutter cap, and retained with a coupling screw. The acetabular socket and the head cover are assembled with a bushing therebetween. Methods of implantation are also provided.

Abstract: A patient-specific augment can be attached to an implant component for a bone of a joint of a patient. The patient-specific augment has first and second surfaces. The first surface is a three-dimensional patient-specific surface that closely matches and can mate to a substantially unaltered and unresected surface of a bone defect of the specific patient only in one position. The second surface is designed to engage a non-custom surface of the implant.

Abstract: A fixation device for a knee replacement. The fixation device includes a stem configured to be fixedly attached to one of a tibial component of the knee replacement and a femoral component of the knee replacement. The stem has a continuously tapered outer surface and has a distal end that is distal to said one of the tibial component and the femoral component. A tapered projection is positioned on the continuously tapered outer surface and is tapered in the same direction as the continuously tapered outer surface. The stem and the tapered projection are configured so that the continuously tapered outer surface and the tapered projection engage a patient's bone when the stem is inserted into a bone canal within the patient's bone. In addition, the continuously tapered outer surface of the stem at the distal end of the stem and the tapered projection are configured to mechanically fix the knee replacement to the patient's bone by being wedged within the bone canal.

Abstract: A prosthesis may include a stem, a ball stud, an adaptor, and a head. The stem may include a longitudinal axis and a bore having a central axis that is angled relative to the longitudinal axis. The ball stud may include a cylindrical shaft and a ball end. The cylindrical shaft may be received in the bore of the stem. The adaptor may include a tapered outer surface and a ball socket rotatably receiving the ball end of the stud. The head may be rotatably supported by the adaptor and may include a semispherical articulating surface and a female taper rotatably receiving the tapered outer surface of the adaptor.

Abstract: A spinal implant that allows for fluid injection of material is disclosed. The implant includes a fitting with a passage and holes that are in fluid communication with the passage. The holes extend through upper and lower surfaces and/or into a central cavity of the implant. The implant allows for material to be introduced into the implant after initial implantation thereof. Methods of implanting the implant are also disclosed.

Abstract: A bi-directional fixating transvertebral (BDFT) screw/cage apparatus including an intervertebral cage for maintaining disc height, and a method of inserting the same is provided. The intervertebral cage includes a first internal screw guide and a second internal screw guide, a first screw member and a second screw member, and a central screw locking lever coupled to the intervertebral cage, wherein the central screw locking lever prevents the first screw member and the second screw from pulling-out of the first internal screw guide and the second internal screw guide. The central screw locking lever includes a rotatable handle and stem portion, or a screw locking horizontal bracket. A pliers device for inserting and removing the bi-directional fixating transvertebral (BDFT) screw/cage apparatus, a posterior cervical and lumbar facet joint staple, and a staple gun for a posterior cervical and lumbar facet joint staple also are provided.

Abstract: Presented are intervertebral disc implants (20) for the total replacement of an intervertebral disc (3) within the cervical spine, comprising two articulating members (21, 25), where the inferior member (21) on its upper surface is adapted for engaging an upper vertebral body (1) and its lower surface has an convex projection (23), and the inferior member (25) on its lower surface is adapted for engaging a lower vertebral body (4) and its upper surface has an saddle shaped projection (27), which is convex in its longitudinal anterior-posterior profile and which is concave in its transversal lateral profile with the general same diameter as the convex projection (23) of the superior member (21), therefore allowing flexion-extension-motion over a variable center of rotation, and in addition allowing rotation and lateral bending through a second independent center of rotation which is located above the intervertebral disc implant (20) at a distance which is defined by the diameter of the convex projection (23) o

Abstract: This disclosure relates to intervertebral disc prostheses which may have an upper plate, a lower plate, and a mobile core, with the upper surface of the core being in contact with at least a part of the lower surface of the upper plate. In some configurations, limit stops reduce friction while limiting or preventing the movements of the core relative to the lower plate, in translation and in rotation, respectively, along an axis substantially parallel to the lower plate and about an axis substantially perpendicular to the lower plate. Instrumentation for insertion of the prostheses into intervertebral spaces is also described.

Abstract: A system for fusing together opposing vertebra of a spine that defines a disc space therebetween. The system comprises a disc preparation instrument and an inserter assembly for use in the interbody fusion procedure. Disc preparation instrument comprises an elongate handle supporting a trial device at one end thereof. Inserter assembly comprises an elongate inserter supporting at one end thereof an interbody cage implant for insertion into the disc space. Disc preparation instrument provides a scoring element that scribes vertebral endplates at an appropriate scored location for anchor blades on the cage implant to engage the vertebral bodies. Inserter is used to introduce cage implant with anchor blades into the disc space to an appropriate depth so that the blades will be precisely positioned at the scored location created by the scoring element for penetration into the vertebral endplates.

Abstract: A spinal interbody device, system and method can include use of an interbody cage and plate. The interbody cage can include at least one of a key and a keyway configured to mate with at least one of a mating keyway and key located on the plate. The key and keyway can be configured such that the cage and plate are quickly and easily attached and detached from each other, and such that positional relationship between the cage and plate can be arrived at quickly, accurately, and with tactile and/or audile notice to the practitioner.

Abstract: Systems including a provisional tibial prosthesis system are disclosed. The provisional system can include a tibial component, a base component, and a shim component. The tibial component can have a proximal surface and a distal surface, the distal surface can be configured to seat on a resected proximal surface of a tibia. The base component can have a proximal surface and can be configured to couple with the tibial component when disposed on the proximal surface thereof. The shim component can have a proximal surface and a distal surface. The proximal surface can be configured as an articulating surface sized and shaped to articulate with a femoral prosthesis and the distal surface can be configured to couple with the base component at the proximal surface thereof.

Abstract: A dual purpose prosthetic foot system enables a person to use the same prosthetic to either walk or swim. The foot part is joined at the ankle and can be locking in either a walking position or a swimming position. The foot allows common swimming equipment such as flippers to be attached.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a device for assisting and locking joints, having a supporting structure in the joint, at least one tensioning system fixed to the supporting structure and at least one artificial tendon connected to the tensioning system. The tension system interacts with the locking system in order to assist the user's joints when needed.

Abstract: In one aspect, novel robust electroactive polymers (EAPs) is described, which contract and expand at low voltages to provide for a shape-morphing system, e.g., a prosthetic liner, and potentially entire prosthetic socket, to contract and expand in strategic areas as needed to maintain a comfortable and good fit throughout the day. In some embodiments, as the residual limb changes, these novel robust EAPs can change dynamically as needed to maintain a comfortable, snug fit of the prosthetic liner or socket with the hard shell of the prosthetic socket device. In some embodiments, the EAPs used in prosthetic liners or sockets can also be used to detect pressure as the device is being used, and automatically adjust to maintain fit through a control unit, so that the patient does not even have to stop and adjust his or her device as he or she goes about an active day.

Abstract: A prosthetic liner for application on a stump, comprising an elastic base, which has a proximal opening for insertion of the stump in a receiving space, and a distal end. At least one pneumatic piston is arranged on the outer face of the prosthetic liner.

Abstract: An illustrative stent may comprise an elongated tubular member having a first end and a second end and an intermediate region disposed therebetween. The elongated tubular member may include at least one barb attached thereto. The barb may be configured to be tucked under a filament of the stent during delivery of the stent and protrude radially from the stent, when the stent is deployed.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a close-cell structured stent which is composed of curved struts that intersect at a crossing angle of 90 to 170 degrees in the longitudinal direction. Methods for making the stent, use of the stent as a vascular stent, an esophagus stent, an intestine stent, a bile conduct stent, or a urinary tract stent, and use of the stent in the manufacture of stent graft for the treatment of abdominal aortic aneurysms are also provided. The stent has both excellent longitudinal flexibility and radial strength.

Abstract: This disclosure concerns medical devices, such as catheters and implantable devices, having radially adjustable features. More particularly, the catheters and implantable devices can radially expand and contract to perform various functions within the body. Expansion and contraction can be performed by a radially adjustable structure mounted on the medical device. For example, a medical device can include an body configured for in vivo introduction, a strip attached to the body and rolled into a ring such that layers of the strip radially overlap each other, and at least one motor actuatable by electrical energy to move the radially overlapping layers of the strip relative to one another and change a diameter of the ring and the body.

Abstract: Some embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to endoluminal prostheses having one or more reinforced fenestrations therein. The one or more reinforced fenestrations can have improved sealing capabilities with respect to branch grafts deployed within the fenestrations, improved tear resistance and expandability, and improved pull-out resistance for branch grafts. In some embodiments, the endoluminal prosthesis can have a main graft body defining a flow lumen therethrough, a first opening passing through a wall of the main graft body, and a first support member supported by the main graft body and overlapping an edge of the first opening, the first support member being configured to at least increase the tear resistance of the main graft body adjacent to the first opening. The support member can be stitched or otherwise attached to the main graft adjacent to the fenestration.

Abstract: A deployment system (10, 410) includes an inner shaft (36, 436), removably disposed in a self-expanding stent-graft (40), and shaped so as to define (a) at least one conduit therealong (50, 450), which is (i) not coaxial with the inner shaft (36, 436), and (ii) shaped so as to define at least first (52, 452) and second enclosed longitudinal segments (54, 454), and (b) a restraining longitudinal portion (56, 456) that is longitudinally disposed between the first (52, 452) and second enclosed longitudinal segments (54, 454).

Abstract: The present embodiments provide a prosthesis deployment system, and method of deployment of a prosthesis using the same, having a positioning member at least partially disposed within a tubular segment of a tip assembly. The positioning member is movable between nondeployed and deployed configurations. In the nondeployed configuration the positioning member can permit the tip assembly to move relative to the enlarged body assembly. When an enlarged body is at a position farther away from a tip body, which may be at the edge of the tubular segment, the positioning member can move or flare to its deployed configuration to inhibit the enlarged body from moving relatively closer to the tip assembly. Axial force applied to the tip assembly during withdrawal of the tip assembly can be transmitted via the positioning member to the enlarged body assembly to facilitate its withdrawal from the body.

Abstract: A sphincter assist device includes a plurality of interconnected and adjacent links which define a ring. Each link includes a body section and a latch cam. The body section includes a first set of side beams and a first set of snap arms. The latch cam includes a post extending from the body section and a cam disposed at an end portion of the post. The cam is engagable with the first set of snap arms of an adjacent link. Translation of the cam displaces the first set of snap arms and the first set of side beams to transition the sphincter assist device between open and closed configurations. The first set of snap arms, in combination with the first set of side beams, exert a positive non-linear force profile on the cam, thus defining a non-linear force profile of the sphincter assist device between the open and closed configurations.

Abstract: An apparatus for gastric bypass is disclosed. The apparatus for gastric bypass includes a primary passage having an input and an output. The apparatus also includes a bypass conduit, coupled to the primary passage, having an input and an output, wherein the passage input is interspersed with the conduit input. The apparatus further has a primary regulator coupled to the primary passage and adjustable to control a primary flow profile from the input to the output of the primary passage. The apparatus also has a bypass regulator coupled to the bypass conduit and adjustable to control a bypass flow profile from the input to the output of the bypass conduit.

Abstract: A reusable joint stabilizer for application to a joint of a patient, the stabilizer including a web having a pattern selected to provide a desired stability and restriction in the range of motion of the joint, the web being securable about the joint of the patient and formed of a plurality of flexible and non-stretchable strips interconnected in a desired pattern and a plurality of non-adhesive and reusable flexible tacky strips aligned with and connected to at least selected ones of the non-stretchable strips for positioning adjacent to skin of the patient proximate the joint. The tacky strips transfer forces between the exterior of the web and the skin of the patient contacted by the tacky strips to provide a desired stability of the joint and a desired restriction in the range of motion of the joint.

Abstract: A splint for facilitating the recovery of a person from injury through the immobilization or partial immobilization of an arm, wrist, and/or hand of said person. The splint may include dynamic traction elements and/or support inserts, which may be customizable to a desired configuration, to allow for individualized treatment for recovery from an injury.

Abstract: A custom cranial remodeling device to correct a deformed head of a subject comprises an inner layer shaped to contact the head of the subject at predetermined areas, the inner layer is deposited by an additive manufacturing device and an outer layer deposited by the additive manufacturing device. The inner layer and the outer layer are each formed by the additive manufacture device utilizing a device data file derived from a subject data file, the subject data file representative of the shape of the deformed head, the device data file determining the shape of the cranial remodeling device to correct the shape of the deformed head.

Abstract: The present invention is a device and method for external urinary incontinence treatment for men that can be self-deployed by a patient or by a care giver. Via the device, a urine removal tube is reversible connected to the glans penis of a treated patient for the removal of urine from a treated patient. The device of the present invention is composed of a penis connecting component and a tube connector component. The tube connector component reversibly contact-connects a urine receiving component to the glans penis of a treated patient. The tube connector component is reversibly connected, anchored and fixated in place to the glans penis of the treated patient by the penis connection component. The connection, disconnection and again reconnection of the penis connection component to the glans penis is easy and simple to carry out.

Abstract: A portable urination device comprises a guiding body and two connection units. The guiding body has a guiding portion, a first port and a second port. The guiding portion is formed of two side walls, and the bottom edge of the side wall is of a closed structure. The first port and the second port are oppositely disposed and are respectively located at two ends of the guiding portion. The two connection units are respectively extended between the first port and the second port of the guiding body. The two connection units are used for the user operation, the first port is used for receiving urine of a user, and the urine is discharged from the second port through guiding of the guiding portion, or discharged from the first port after buffering of the guiding portion. The urination device is easily used, and the user is dispense with contacting the public toilet stool.

Abstract: A lateral pharyngeal wall tractor including a bone fixer, a traction mechanism and a lateral pharyngeal wall fixer; wherein the lateral pharyngeal wall fixer is configured to be fixed on an M. palatopharyngeus or other submucous tissues of a lateral pharyngeal wall; the bone fixer is configured to be fixed on a processus alveolaris or a hamulus pterygoideus or a processus pterygoideus as a supporting point; one end of the traction mechanism is connected to the bone fixer, the other end is connected to the lateral pharyngeal wall fixer; the elastic traction force produced by the traction mechanism is greater than the collapse force of the lateral pharyngeal wall which is produced by negative pressure during inspiration, but is less than the contraction force which is produced by the muscle of the lateral pharyngeal wall during deglutition.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are splints for a mandibular advancement device, each splint comprising one or more guided fins, wherein each guided fin is located at a distance D from back of the splint; a back post; at least one threaded rod connecting the back post to the guided fin, wherein the distance between the guided fin and the back post is changed when the threaded rod is turned either clockwise or counterclockwise; and a guiding mechanism.

Abstract: A modular stimulus applicator system and method are disclosed. The system includes a plurality of wirelessly controlled stimulus pods, anchored to a patient's body, and configured to deliver stimulus to the patient's body. The stimulus can be heat, vibration, or electrical stimulus, or any combination thereof. The stimulus pods are controlled by a control station that can include a user-interface through which the patient can control application of the stimulus.

Abstract: Described herein is an apparatus to insert an implantable therapeutic device into a patient. The apparatus includes a proximal handle and a distal placement portion coupled to the proximal handle and configured to hold the implantable therapeutic device. The distal placement portion includes a first side having a first engagement structure at a distal end of the first side, the first engagement structure configured to surround at least a first portion of a proximal end region of the implantable therapeutic device. The distal placement portion includes a second, opposite side having a second engagement structure at a distal end of the second side, the second engagement structure configured to surround at least a second, opposite portion of the proximal end region of the implantable therapeutic device.

Abstract: A method of improving meibomian gland function in a patient includes inserting a cannula into an interior of a meibomian gland of the patient through an orifice thereinto, the cannula including at least one opening in communication with the interior of the meibomian gland, and injecting a blood product into the interior of the meibomian gland through the inserted cannula via the at least one opening.

Abstract: An ultrasonic phacoemulsification needle with improved safety and manufacturability, comprising: a metal connection body and a plastic needle in a splitting structure. The plastic needle is connected at the distal end of the metal connection body, and the metal connection body is connected to the distal end of an ultrasonic hand piece. The ultrasonic phacoemulsification needle employing a design of splitting the connection body and the needle alleviates the difficulties for manufacturing otherwise caused by the conventional phaco tip designs. It reduces the surgical costs from patients. In addition, the ultrasonic phacoemulsification needle using a plastic body reduces the likeliness of punctuating the capsule bag, which otherwise easily occurs in the metal needle case due to the extremely sharp rigid tip at the end of the needle, thus the risks of surgery are reduced and safety is improved.

Abstract: An ophthalmic surgical instrument includes a housing and a snare operably coupled to the housing. The snare is configured to transition between an insertion configuration and a deployed configuration, in which the snare is sized to encircle lenticular tissue. The ophthalmic surgical instrument is designed to prevent elevation and/or tilting of the lenticular tissue as the snare transitions toward the insertion configuration to divide the lenticular tissue.