Abstract: An interbody implant and inserter tool for spinal fusion. The interbody implant includes a cage portion and a nose portion. In some embodiments, an outer surface of the nose portion defines at least a first concave profile in a first direction, and may define a second concave profile in a second direction, the second direction being perpendicular to the first direction. The outer surface may also define an oblong cross-section normal to a nose axis. The oblong cross-section may be axisymmetric or continuously curved (or both) about the nose axis. The concave profile(s) enable easier initial insertion of for more precisely locating the interbody implant, so that the greater insertion forces required during implantation do not occur until the interbody implant is securely and accurately placed.

Abstract: The present invention provides a spinal implant structure. The spinal implant structure comprises a first tube, a second tube and at least one expansion arm. The second tube is disposed on the horizontal orientation of the first tube and does not overlap with the first tube. The diameter of the first tube is larger than that of the second tube. One end of the expansion arm is connected to the first tube, and the other end of the expansion arm is free end. The expansion arm and the first tube create an angle. The expansion arm includes a supporting arm. One end of the supporting arm is connected to the expansion arm, and the other end of the supporting arm is connected the second tube. The support arm, in response to a change in a distance between the first tube and the second tube, drives the expansion arm to move, thereby increasing the included angle and expanding the spinal implant structure.

Abstract: A unique, universal Zero-Profile Expandable Intervertebral Spacer (ZP-EIS) device for fusion and distraction throughout the entire spine is provided which can be inserted via anterior, anterolateral, lateral, far lateral or posterior surgical approaches dependent on the need and preference. Multiple ZP-EIS embodiments each with unique mechanisms of calibrated expansion are provided. Two of these embodiments incorporate bi-directional fixating transvertebral (BDFT) screws and five other embodiments do not incorporate BDFT screws. A tool for implantation into the intervertebral device and calibrated device expansion is also disclosed.

Abstract: A surgical implant particularly for use in spinal surgery. The implant has a pair of integral locking structures extending from opposite sides thereof for receipt in channels machined into orthopedic components like adjacent vertebral bodies. The implant has a main body containing channel portions forming communication between the adjacent bones and a space between the adjacent bones permitting bone growth into the space through the implant.

Abstract: Stand-alone interbody fusion devices for engagement between adjacent vertebrae. The stand-alone interbody fusion devices may include frames and one or more endplates coupled to the frame. The frame may be configured and designed to provide the apertures which are designed to retain bone fasteners, such as screws or anchors, and secure the implant to the adjacent vertebrae.

Abstract: Various spinal implants and methods for stabilizing the spine are provided. In one exemplary embodiment, a spinal implant is provided having an expandable container with an interior volume that is selectively expandable between a compressed condition and an expanded condition. The expandable container is coupled to a superior endplate member having a bone-contacting surface and an engagement surface effective to mate with a superior surface of the expandable container, and an inferior endplate member having a bone-contacting surface and an engagement surface effective to mate with an inferior surface of the expandable container. In addition, at least one inlet port is formed in the expandable container and is effective to communicate a fluid to at least one cavity disposed within the interior volume of the expandable container.

Abstract: An implant includes a plurality of anchoring members and an interbody device. The interbody device includes a front, a rear, a first lateral side, a second lateral side, a central cavity, and a plurality of bores each configured to receive the plurality of anchoring members. The interbody device further includes a porous portion and a solid portion, the solid portion having a higher density than the porous portion. The solid portion substantially surrounds the porous portion on the lateral outer portions of the front, rear, first lateral side, and second lateral side.

Abstract: An implant for insertion into the disc space between vertebrae. The implant including a spacer portion, a plate portion coupled to the spacer portion, a plurality of bone fixation elements for engaging the vertebrae and a retention mechanism for preventing the bone fixation elements from postoperatively uncoupling from the implant.

Abstract: Orthopedic guide, and methods of using the guide, for alignment of bone under fluoroscopic imaging. In an exemplary embodiment, the guide may include a radiopaque rod, a radiolucent carrier, and a radiopaque indicator held by the carrier. The rod and the indicator may be parallel to the same plane, and may form an angle between one another of less than 90 degrees when projected orthogonally onto the plane. The rod may be configured to be aligned with an axis defined by one or more bones of the leg, and the indicator aligned with a joint of the leg, in an anterior-posterior, fluoroscopic view of the leg. The angle formed between the rod and the indicator may correspond to an anatomic orientation of the axis and the joint relative to one another in a frontal plane of the leg.

Abstract: A system and method for improving installation of a prosthesis, particularly an acetabular cup. The system and method may include implementation of a constant velocity relative motion between a prosthesis and an installation site. For example, an installation system may be fixed relative to the installation site, with the prosthesis fixed into an initial position. The prosthesis is moved at constant speed (i.e., with minimal if any acceleration or applied impulses) relative to the installation site. That is, one or both of the prosthesis or the installation site may be in motion. Resistive forces to installation of a prosthesis may thus be reduced by maintaining the prosthesis constantly in motion relative to the installation site. Securing a processing/implanting tool directly to the installation site may offer advantages.

Abstract: A method for treating a spine is provided. The method includes the steps of: disposing an interbody implant adjacent a posterior portion of an intervertebral disc space; connecting a surgical instrument with at least one fixation element fastened with tissue adjacent the posterior portion; and manipulating the surgical instrument such that tissue adjacent the posterior portion engages the interbody implant and one or more vertebra rotate about the interbody implant. Spinal implants; surgical instruments and systems are disclosed.

Abstract: Insertion tool assemblies for positioning an implant at a target location in a patient. Insertion tool assemblies that comprise first and second jaw portions configured to engage an implant; a sleeve assembly coupled to the first and second jaw portions; and a handle coupled to the sleeve assembly.

Abstract: In order to position an ankle prosthesis including a tibial implant and a talus implant provided with a talo-calcaneal anchoring keel, the invention proposes a surgical instrumentation assembly including: a tibial phantom (60) of the tibial implant, adapted so as to be attached to the tibia (T) of a patient, and an aiming guide (80) adapted for setting into place an instrumentation element (90) through the talus (A) and the calcaneus (C) of the patient, along an axis (Z-Z) for implanting the talo-calcaneal anchoring keel, the tibial phantom and the aiming guide mechanically cooperating with each other to restrict movement of the tibial phantom and the aiming guide relative to each other along vertical and medio-lateral directions, wherein the aiming guide is configured to guide placement of the instrumentation element.

Abstract: The present invention provides a three-dimensional bioprinter for fabricating cellular constructs such as tissues and organs using electromagnetic radiation (EMR) at or above 405 nm. The bioprinter includes a material deposition device comprising a cartridge for receiving and holding a composition which contains biomaterial that cures after exposure to EMR. The bioprinter also includes an EMR module that emits EMR at a wavelength of about 405 nm or higher. Also provided is a bioprinter cartridge which contains cells and a material curable at a wavelength of about 405 nm or greater. The cells are present in a chamber and are extruded through an orifice to form the cellular construct.

Abstract: A prosthetic adaptor includes a post plate, a grip plate coupled to the post plate, and an equipment interface coupled to the post plate. The equipment interface can be coupled to the post plate at an end of the post plate distal from the grip plate. The post plate can include a concave surface. The concave surface can be configured to receive a Hosmer-like prosthetic hook.

Abstract: A lower-leg exoskeleton that includes an inflatable actuator configured to be worn over a front portion of a leg of a user and configured to be disposed directly adjacent to and surrounding a joint of the leg of the user. The inflatable actuator is configured, when worn by the user, to receive and transmit an actuator load generated by the inflatable actuator around the joint of the user to a load contact point. Inflation of the inflatable actuator generates a moment about the joint of the user to cause flexion of the leg of the user.

Abstract: An actuator device and method of manufacturing the same that includes at least two or more panels disposed in a frame is disclosed. Each of the two or more panels include a first rotationally-actuating artificial muscle fiber section between a first contact point of the frame and a tether point located on the panel and a second rotationally-actuating artificial muscle fiber section between the tether point and a second contact point on the frame. The tether point is approximately halfway across the length of the panel. A first and second muscle support is disposed on the panel between the tether point and the first contact point. The actuator device also includes a synchronization rod attached to the at least two or more panels.

Abstract: A stent is disclosed that has an elongated body composed of a bioabsorbable polymer having a proximal end, a distal end, two open spiral channels formed on the exterior surface of the body to provide fluid communication between the proximal end and the distal end. The stent also has a central lumen open at the proximal and distal ends of the stent for the passage of a guide wire. A method for using the stent and a kit containing the stent are also disclosed.

Abstract: An intraluminal vascular prosthesis assembly, having a hollow cylindrical body with a first end and a second end is provided. The assembly includes, at its first end, a first vascular prosthesis portion, and at its second end, a second vascular prosthesis portion which has only a prosthesis material. The vascular prosthesis assembly has a stent portion which is provided between the first vascular prosthesis portion and the second vascular prosthesis portion, the stent portion being free of prosthesis material to allow fluid flow there through and received within the aortic arch and spanning the brachiocephalic artery, left common carotid artery, and left subclavian artery when placed within the aortic arch of a patient.

Abstract: A compound stent device includes a first stent portion and a second stent portion, where the second stent portion is formed from a biodegradable material, and the first stent portion is formed from either non-biodegradable material or is biodegradable significantly more slowly than the second portion. The compound stent device is deformable from a first diameter to a second larger diameter Immediately after expansion, the first stent portion and the second stent portion cooperate to provide a first contact area of support for a length of a surrounding vessel. After decomposition of the second stent portion, the first stent portion provides a second contact area of support for the length of the surrounding vessel which is at least 10 percent smaller than the first contact area.

Abstract: Described herein is a braided stent having have a plurality of different segments that can reduce or eliminate foreshortening and allow the proximal end of the stent to more reliably open when deployed in a curved vessel. The segments can be connected together by interlocking loops positioned at the end of each segment and can be formed of one or more radially progressing wave patterns.

Abstract: A stent may include a tubular stent body having a lumen extending therethrough. The stent may further include an anchor portion attached to an end of the tubular stent body, where the lumen continues through the anchor portion, and where the anchor portion includes at least one opening configured to facilitate tissue ingrowth. The anchor portion may be detachable from the tubular stent body while the stent is in a deployed state.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an intraluminal vascular prosthesis for implantation into a blood vessel, with a stent framework and a prosthesis material secured onto the stent framework, wherein the vascular prosthesis has a hollow-cylindrical body with a lumen passing there through and a circumferentially closed jacket, wherein at least one substantially U-shaped or V-shaped fenestration-cut in the prosthesis material of the vascular prosthesis is provided, which is dimensioned and formed, such, that via the fenestration-cut a flap-like access to the lumen of the vascular prosthesis for at least one side branch branching off from the hollow-cylindrical body can be formed.

Abstract: A tubular medical instrument which can be easily ejected from a transfer device and accurately placed in a case the tubular medical instrument is released from the transfer device and placed at an affected area is provided. A tubular medical instrument includes ends portions, and a central portion, wherein each of the end portions is a region including one axial end of the tubular medical instrument and having a length of 10% with respect to an axial length L1 of the tubular medical instrument, the central portion is a region including an axial center of the tubular medical instrument and having a length of 10% with respect to the axial length L1 of the tubular medical instrument, and a ratio (difference V/difference W) is 3 or more.

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: A method of making a delivery system for a prosthesis includes providing a catheter shaft, sliding a plurality of rings over the catheter shaft, each of the rings having an inner diameter larger than an outer diameter of the catheter shaft, fixing a pull wire to each of the plurality of rings at a common circumferential location of the catheter shaft, and coupling a sheath to the pull wire, the sheath positioned over the prosthesis at a distal end of the catheter shaft. Fixing the pull wire to each of the plurality of rings can include wrapping a heat shrink film around each of the plurality of rings and the pull wire, and heating the heat shrink material.

Abstract: A shoulder abduction device having an integral storage compartment includes a block that is padded. A cavity extends into the block from an upper face of the block and is configured to stow an article. Each of opposing endpoints of a strap is selectively couplable to a respective opposing end of the block. The strap is configured to loopedly position around a waist of a user, positioning the opposing endpoints to couple to the block so that the block and the strap are coupled to the user with the block positioned on a side of a torso of the user. The block is configured to abduct a shoulder of the user.

Abstract: The invention refers to a device (1) for use as a therapeutic aid for the therapeutic treatment of a symptom of Parkinson's and its use as device for therapeutic treatment. The invention provides for the device (1) to have at least two pressure transducers (2) that can be arranged and set up to deliver pressure impulses to contact points on the left and right pectoral muscles of a patient.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a medical fixation apparatus for a lesion. According to an embodiment, a medical cast comprises: an expansion band having a predetermined length; a pair of elastic fibers which are coupled to opposite widthwise edges of the expansion band, are coated with a water-curable synthetic resin, and can surround a body part; and a plurality of coupling units, which have a flat shape and, when the pair of elastic fibers surround a body part, are arranged at a predetermined interval along an edge at which the pair of elastic fibers face each other to connect the pair of elastic fibers.

Abstract: A fecal management device, and methods for applying a fecal management device to a patient, are described herein. In some embodiments, the fecal management device comprises a sheath having a first end and a second end, a first connector at the first end of the sheath, said first connector comprising a substrate that includes a first adhesive and a second adhesive, the second adhesive disposed relatively outwardly with respect to the first adhesive, the substrate having a multi-lobed contour with two opposing concave regions, a sheath port located at the second end of the sheath, the sheath port configured to removably mate with a collection bag port, and a collection bag, wherein the collection bag includes the collection bag port.

Abstract: A peristomal support belt system includes a supply of material having a first length and a first end and a buckle configured for attachment to the first end. The supply of material is cut to a second length to form a section of material having the first end and a second end, the second length extending from the first end to the second end. The buckle is configured for attachment to the second end. A method of making a peristomal support belt and a peristomal support belt are also provided.

Abstract: A foldable urination device comprises a body having left and right curved fold lines and left and right side fold lines. Left and right long tabs are connected to respective left and right sides of the body. The left curved fold line and the left side fold lines are disposed on the left side of the body, and the right curved fold line and the right side fold line are disposed on a right side of the body, wherein the central fold line is disposed between the left and right curved fold lines and side fold lines. When the foldable urination device is folded along the curved and side fold lines, the foldable urination device forms a curved passageway having an entrance and an exit. The curved fold line has greater curvature on a top part of the body and lesser curvature on a bottom part of the body. The left long tab is adhered to the right side of the body. A folded handle is attached to the left long tab.

Abstract: A medical appliance for the treatment of one or more sleep disorders such as obstructive sleep apnea in a patient, the appliance comprising: a biasing member for inserting behind and exerting a force upon the patient's soft palate or tongue, wherein the biasing member is inserted in a reduced or minimized form and then expanded or firms once in place to exert the force. The appliance may be nasally inserted or be placed through the mouth. In a particular configuration, both the soft palate and tongue are biased to prevent obstruction of the flow of air in the nasopharyngeal airway.

Abstract: According to one embodiment, an apparatus for improved breathing is provided. The apparatus may include an improved oral appliance, an improved mask, an improved coupler to couple an oral appliance to a mask, and/or a combination of these improvements.

Abstract: A delivery device includes a housing, an insertion member, a transfer member, and an actuator. The insertion member includes a distal end portion configured to be removably coupled to an implant. At least a portion of the insertion member is movably disposed within a passageway defined by the housing. The transfer member includes a coupling portion configured to be coupled to the insertion member to transfer a force from the actuator to the insertion member such that the insertion member is moved relative to the housing. The coupling portion of the transfer member is configured to move relative to the insertion member when the force exerted by the actuator exceeds a threshold value.

Abstract: Flexible thermal devices comprising an elastic fabric ring having an inner fabric layer and an outer fabric layer and first terminal circumference at a first edge and a second terminal circumference at an opposite second edge, a plurality of panels defined between the inner fabric layer and the outer fabric layer creating a first panel row, and a plurality of gel cells being retained in the plurality of panels in the panel row, wherein the panels are bordered by stretch stitches joining the inner fabric layer and the outer fabric layer, and methods of treatment using the Flexible thermal devices.

Abstract: A tape 400 or wrap is provided which includes first and second elongated elastic layers 345, 346 sized to conform to the shape of a portion of the external skin of the body of a wearer; and a heated area comprising an exothermic material 310 sandwiched between said first and second elastic layers 345, 346, wherein said exothermic material 310 is activated by exposing said exothermic material 310 to oxygen; wherein said tape 400 or wrap has a elasticity of at least about 10-90% and said heated area is capable of substantially expanding and contracting with the tape or wrap. Methods of using the tape 400 or wrap are also provided.

Abstract: A method is provided and may include accessing a terminal branch of an ophthalmic artery through a skin of a head of a subject via a first device, positioning at least one of the first device or a second device within the ophthalmic artery of the subject, and performing an atherectomy of the ophthalmic artery or a junction between the ophthalmic artery and an internal carotid artery of the subject, using the at least one of the first device or the second device, so as to treat a blockage, a stenosis, a lesion, plaque, or other physiology in the ophthalmic artery or the junction between the ophthalmic artery and the internal carotid artery of the subject.

Abstract: Systems and methods here may be used to support a laser eye surgery device, including a base assembly mounted to an optical scanning assembly via, a horizontal x axis bearing, a horizontal y axis bearing, and a vertical z axis bearing, mounted on the base assembly, configured to limit movement of the optical scanning assembly in an x axis, y axis and z axis respectively, relative to the base assembly, a vertical z axis spring, configured to counteract the forces of gravity on the optical scanning assembly in the z axis, and, mirrors mounted on the base assembly and positioned to reflect an energy beam into the optical scanning assembly no matter where the optical scanning assembly is located on the x axis bearing, the y axis bearing and the z axis bearing.

Abstract: An ophthalmic device including a cannula having a cannula distal end, a lumen, and one or more orifices coupled to the lumen is provided. The cannula is configured to deliver a fluid. A sleeve is disposed around the cannula and has a sleeve distal end. A handle is coupled to the sleeve and the cannula, the handle having an actuator. An internal mechanism is coupled to the actuator and configured to retract the sleeve relative to the cannula. The internal mechanism includes a follower fixedly coupled to the sleeve and moveable between distal and proximal positions, and a release member movable between an activated position and a release position. The release member is coupled to the actuator and configured to release a force that urges the follower from the distal position to the proximal position when the release member moves from the activated position to the release position.

Abstract: Intraocular drainage devices, intraocular implantation procedures, and inserter devices for intraocular implantation procedures are disclosure. A disclosed intraocular drainage device includes a tube having a distal end and a body disposed proximal to the tube. An inlet port is disposed on the distal end of the tube and configured to receive an influent fluid from an anterior chamber of an eye. An inlet fluid pathway is coupled to the inlet port and extends at least partially through the tube. A plurality of outlet fluid pathways extend at least partially through the body and branch from the inlet fluid pathway. A plurality of outlet ports are disposed on the body and coupled to the plurality of outlet fluid pathways. A disclosed inserter device for an ocular implantation procedure includes a handle, a needle, and a plunger. The needle is disposed on a distal end of the handle and configured to hold an intraocular drainage device. The plunger is coupled to the needle and disposed in the handle.

Abstract: An interface dressing (1) comprising an elastomeric matrix (5), the elastomeric matrix (5) being provided with a plurality of through-holes (6), each through-hole (6) having a contour (C) around a central axis (A), in which at least some of the plurality of through-holes (6) are arranged so as to form at least one pattern in which each through-hole (6) is adjacent to at least one other through-hole (6), the adjacent through-holes (6) having contours (C), images of which, when moved in translation in a plane perpendicular to the central axes (A) in order to merge images of said central axes (A) by means of said translational movement, do not become superposed.

Abstract: A sports muscle care tape includes: a substrate tape extending in a lengthwise direction; and an adhesive layer formed on a bottom surface of the substrate tape. The adhesive composition comprises germanium, a polymer represented by formula 1, sorbic acid, a cucumber extract, a pineapple extract, a Dendropanax morbifera Lev extract, 1,3-butylene glycol, tourmaline, zeolite, a photocatalyst, and activated carbon. The sports muscle care tape may perform the basic functions of a sports tape and, at the same time, effectively protect an affected part by absorbing external impact. In addition, the sports muscle care tape may promote blood circulation and metabolism, has antibacterial activity, may deodorize the sweat, odor and the like generated in taped skin, and thus can be hygienically used.

Abstract: A conformable wound dressing system is provided. The system includes a backing and a dressing support layer. The backing has a first major surface, a second major surface opposite the first major surface, a perimeter that includes first and second lateral edges extending from a first end to a second end, and a longitudinal axis extending form the first end to the second end. An adhesive is on the first major surface and a dressing support layer is on the second major surface. The dressing support layer comprises a first section and second section where the first section is disconnected and spaced apart from the second section to define a gap extending from the first end of the backing to the second end of the backing.

Abstract: In some illustrative examples, a medical drape suitable for treating a tissue site may include an adherent surface including first adherent force profile oriented along a first axis and a second adherent force profile oriented along a second axis. The first adherent force profile may have an average force less than an average force of the second adherent force profile. Other apparatuses, systems, and methods are also provided.

Abstract: A treatment system including a tension relief layer having a central elastic region coupled between a pair of opposing wings; a porous region within the central elastic region that allows for the passage of material from an incision or wound to an upper surface of the tension relief layer; and a conformable sealing layer configured to be applied over the tension relief layer and adhered forming a sealed space around at least a portion of the wound. At least a portion of each of the opposing wings have adhesive lower surfaces. The opposing wings are configured to be stretched away from one another towards a first tensile configuration and while held in the first tensile configuration adhered to skin on opposing sides of the incision or wound. Related devices, systems and methods are also described.

Abstract: In a half-open underpants-shaped diaper, a lateral end portion of a back waist portion is joined by a first joining portion to a lateral end portion of a front waist portion. The back waist portion includes an elastic region and a fastening portion on the other lateral side, the elastic region stretching/contracting in the lateral direction. The fastening portion is fastenable to the front waist portion when putting on the diaper, so that an end of the fastening portion closer to the elastic region is positioned on an end of an absorbent main body opposite to the first joining portion, the elastic region being located on a non-skin side of the other lateral end portion of the front waist portion, and having a stacking part in which the elastic region is stacked on the other lateral end portion of the front waist portion.

Abstract: A absorbent member manufacturing method of the invention is a method for manufacturing an absorbent member (100) including synthetic fibers (10b). The method involves: a transporting step of transporting a plurality of sheet fragments (10bh) including synthetic fibers (10b) to an accumulating depression (41) by using a duct 3; an accumulating step of accumulating, in the accumulating depression (41), the plurality of sheet fragments (10bh) transported in the transporting step, and forming an accumulation (100a?) which is a constituent member of the absorbent member (100); and a pressing step of pressing the accumulation (100a?) over its entirety in the thickness direction.

Abstract: An absorbent member manufacturing method of the present invention is a method for manufacturing an absorbent member (100) for an absorbent article and including synthetic fibers (10b) and hydrophilic fibers (10a). The method involves: a transporting step of transporting the hydrophilic fibers (10a) and a plurality of sheet fragments (10bh) to an accumulating depression (41) by using a duct (3); an accumulating step of accumulating, in the accumulating depression (41), the plurality of sheet fragments (10bh) and the hydrophilic fibers (10a), and obtaining an accumulation (100a) which is a constituent member of the absorbent member (100); and a depression forming step of forming a depression (100e) in the accumulation (100a) by applying pressure to a portion thereof.

Abstract: A tampon applicator.