Abstract: A dental floss 2 containing a multifilament is a flat braided cord. The number of threads constituting the flat braided cord is preferably 6 to 33, and the dental floss preferably has a width of 0.5 to 4.0 mm, and a passage gap of 0.01 to 0.1 mm. The flat cord may contain a monofilament or a multifilament-connected thread together with the multifilament. Constituent threads of the braided cord are obliquely arranged and fixed, and, when the cord is moved in a length direction, the obliquely fixed constituent threads efficiently remove food residue, dental plaque, and the like between teeth. Furthermore, the flat braided cord is flat and thin, and easy to insert between teeth. Accordingly, a dental floss that can efficiently remove food residue, dental plaque, and the like between teeth is provided.

Abstract: A visual oral irrigator includes an oral irrigator, an oral observation instrument and a connecting mechanism. A water outlet of a sprayer is within the field of view of an observation system of the oral observation instrument. A pressure vessel includes a pressurizing device, a housing and a fluid containing space. The pressure of water in the pressure vessel can be increased through the pressurizing device, and a control switch is turned on to enable the water to be sprayed from the sprayer of a spray lance, so that the teeth or the oral cavity can be cleaned visually, and the cleaning process can be shot and photographed in real time. By adopting a detachable design mode for the visual oral irrigator of the invention, both the sprayer and a water tank can be conveniently removed and then cleaned, so that the using process is more sanitary and convenient.

Abstract: A curing light may include a housing sized and configured for placement over a tooth. A first facet positioned within the housing may have a first LED mounted thereon, a second facet positioned within the housing may have a second LED mounted thereon, and a third facet positioned within the housing may have a third LED mounted thereon.

Abstract: A dispensing apparatus (1) for delivering droplets of fluids such as liquids having a low viscosity or being soft gels onto poultry hatchlings that are present in movably mounted hatchling trays (19) comprising at least one reservoir (18), at least one pumping unit (9), connected to at least one reservoir (18), with at least one manifold (8) connected to at least one pumping unit (9), as well as a control unit. The apparatus comprises a plurality of optionally adjustable fluid atomizers (6) being connected by flexible connecting means (7) to at least one manifold (8), whereby the fluid atomizers (6) are detachably and/or slidably connected on at least one mounting rail (5), and that optionally different types of fluid atomizers (6) are distributed onto the mounting rail (5). Additionally, a method for delivering fluid droplets onto poultry hatchlings present in moving hatchling trays (19) is described.

Abstract: An equine thermal therapy overleg device that encircles a pastern of a subject horse and provides thermal therapy to the subject horse. The may include a pastern dual layer component, a distal phalanx cover and a distal phalanx slipper. The arrangement of the pastern dual layer component, a distal phalanx cover and a distal phalanx slipper allow for free movement of the subject horse and for a thermal fluid to contain ice and prevent the ice from becoming lodged around the subject horse hoof.

Abstract: The invention provides new devices for implantation in a patient having irregular textured surfaces, which devices show significantly improved cellular response compared to conventional smooth and textured implants, indicating that significantly improved biocompatibility would be achieved in vivo. Methods for making such new devices and surface textures are also disclosed.

Abstract: A medical implant packaging assembly having an outer tray, an inner tray and a retainer. An implant which may include a hydrated tissue graft may be positioned within the packaging assembly. The inner tray is formed from a moisture barrier material whereby the implant may be maintained in a hydrated state, even if the implant is not immersed in fluid within the packaging assembly, thereby avoiding need for rehydrating steps that are required for dehydrated and/or cryopreserved implants prior to or during surgery. The outer tray and inner tray and a retainer are also made of transparent materials, enabling medical personnel to view the implant through these packaging components prior to and during surgery.

Abstract: A central access vena cava filter catheter having a multi-lumen catheter body with plural longitudinally extending parallel lumens within the single catheter body, a vena cava filter member disposed at a distal end of the catheter body and an outer sheath concentrically disposed about the multi-lumen catheter body and the vena cava filter member. The vena cava filter member may be removably coupled to the multi-lumen catheter for temporary placement and retrieval under recommended indications.

Abstract: Provided is an in-vivo indwelling tube having a high flap strength and capable of smoothing the passing through a conduit of an endoscope. A method for producing an in-vivo indwelling tube having one end and the other end, the method including the steps of: arranging, in a lumen of the first tubular member, the other end of the second tubular member; joining the first tubular member and the second tubular member; arranging the second tubular member in a lumen of a third tubular member in which an axial length is shorter than the second tubular member; joining the second tubular member and the third tubular member; arranging one end of the second tubular member in a lumen on the other end side of the fourth tubular member including a flap with a base end and a free end; and joining the second tubular member and the fourth tubular member.

Abstract: A method of using an implantable device provides an implantable device including a plurality of links (113, 115, 117, 119), a device closure pin (111), a lock-in unit (103) attached and located between two links, and a quick release unit (105) attached and located between two links. The plurality of links (113, 115, 117, 119), lock-in unit (103) and release unit (105) are constructed in a closed contour. The closed contour of the implantable device, in a rigid state (151), is a figure eight comprised of two arcs (125, 127) and two connected interconnecting sections (131, 133).

Abstract: A stent including a tubular body formed of one or more interwoven wires, a first anchor member disposed adjacent the first open end of the stent, a second anchor member disposed adjacent the second open end of the stent, and at least one divider disposed between the first and second anchor members. The first and second anchor members and the divider extend radially outward from the tubular body to divide the tubular body into at least a first saddle region extending between the first anchor member and the divider and a second saddle region extending between the second anchor member and the divider.

Abstract: An endoprosthesis delivery system includes a branched endoprosthesis having a long leg and a short leg, each leg having an end, the short leg including a tail that extends beyond the end of the short leg, a constraint attached to at least a portion of the long leg prior to deployment. The constraint also retains at least a portion of the tail. The constraint is configured to release both the long leg and the tail when the branched endoprosthesis is fully deployed.

Abstract: Endovascular systems for deployment at branched arteries include a main tubular graft body deployable within a main artery including a proximal end and an opposed distal end. The proximal and distal ends have a tubular graft wall therein between. A plurality of inflatable channels are disposed along the main tubular graft body, and at least one stent segment is disposed along the tubular graft wall of the main tubular graft body. The plurality of inflatable channels are configured to be inflatable with an inflation medium. The at least one stent segment is disposed between two or more adjacent inflatable channels of the plurality of inflatable channels.

Abstract: An engineered textile including a low dpf yarn and medical applications including the low dpf yarn. The denier per filament of the low dpf yarn is less than 0.50 and the water permeability of the engineered textile is less than 500 mL/min/cm2.

Abstract: An implantable tendon protection system includes a body adapted to be implanted within a bursa overlying a tendon of a patient to protect the tendon. The body may be fixed to the tendon with adhesive, sutures, staples, and/or anchors. A surgical kit is provided with such a tendon protection system and an insertion cannula. Methods of protecting a tendon of a patient are also disclosed.

Abstract: A method of providing support for an organ in the body of a patient comprises providing a support element with a first portion coupled to a first anchor and a second portion coupled to a second anchor through an aperture. The support element has a central portion between the first and second portions comprising a ribbon-like filamentary element. The first anchor is attached to a first tissue portion at a first location lateral to the organ. The second anchor is attached to a second tissue portion at a second location lateral to the organ. Tension of the central portion between the first and second anchors is adjusted by moving the second portion through the aperture in the second anchor so that the central portion of the support element provides a sling-like support for the organ.

Abstract: Provided herein are systems, methods and apparatuses for an eyelet interference screw and affixation of an implant to tissue employing the eyelet interference screw.

Abstract: Methods for reconstructing a joint include fixating at least one suture inside a joint space, retrieving the at least one suture from inside the joint space, passing the at least one suture through a graft at a location external to the joint space, shuttling the graft into the joint space, and fixating the graft to bone using the at least one suture.

Abstract: Apparatus, including an enclosure, a fluid-tight bag located within the enclosure, and a fluid-tight valve connected to the fluid-tight bag. The apparatus also has a tube, having a first end connected to the fluid-tight bag via the fluid-tight valve, and a second end connected to a balloon within a breast implant fitted to an implantee. The apparatus further includes a spindle, located within the enclosure, connected to the fluid-tight bag, and configured to rotate under control of the implantee so as to roll the fluid-tight bag onto the spindle or to unroll the fluid-tight bag from the spindle, and thus transfer a fluid, contained in the balloon, the tube, and the fluid-tight bag, therebetween.

Abstract: A Light Adjustable Lens (LAL) Tracker comprises an Imaging System, for creating a LAL image by imaging a LAL implanted into an eye; and an Image Recognition System, coupled to the Imaging System, for determining a disk cross-correlator with the LAL image; determining an edge cross-correlator with the LAL image; and determining a LAL position by determining a combined cross-correlator from the disk cross-correlator and the edge cross-correlator. A Tracking-based Illumination Control System comprises the LAL Tracker for tracking a LAL implanted in an eye, including an Imaging System, and an Image Recognition System; and an Illumination Controller, coupled to the LAL Tracker, configured for determining a LAL misalignment factor, corresponding to a LAL misalignment that characterizes a misalignment of the LAL position with a LAL illumination pattern, and generating an illumination control signal in relation to the determined LAL misalignment factor.

Abstract: A corneal implant includes a central portion and a peripheral skirt extending outwards from the central portion, and at least a portion of the peripheral skirt includes a mesh.

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: A prosthesis can comprise an expandable frame, a plurality of distal anchors and a plurality of proximal anchors. The anchors can extend outwardly from the frame. The frame can be configured to radially expand and contract for deployment within a body cavity. The frame and anchors can have one of many different shapes and configurations. For example, when the frame is in an expanded configuration, the frame can have a larger cross-sectional dimension in a middle portion of the frame and a smaller cross-sectional dimension in a proximal portion and a distal portion of the frame, wherein the middle portion is between the proximal and distal portions. As another example, the anchors can have looped ends, the entire anchor may loop out from the frame.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are representative embodiments of 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: Artificial heart valve structures and methods of their fabrication are disclosed. The heart valve structures may be fabricated from a biocompatible polymer and include one or more heart valve leaflet structures incorporated within a conduit. The valve structures may incorporate one or more conduit sinuses, as well as a gap between the lower margin of the valve leaflets and the interior of the conduit. In addition, the valve structures may include one or more valve sinuses created in a space between the valve leaflets and the conduit inner surface. Computational fluid dynamics and mechanical modeling may be used to design the valve leaflets with optimal characteristics. A heart valve structure may also incorporate a biodegradable component to which cells may adhere The incorporated cells may arise from patient cells migrating to the biodegradable component, or the component may be pre-seeded with cells prior to implantation in a patient.

Abstract: An atrioventricular prosthesis device is provided. The device includes a frame at least partially defining and enclosing a central cavity, the frame having a distal portion, a proximal portion, and a middle portion connected therebetween. The device further includes a valve construct formed, at least in part, from a cell growth scaffold, at least partially disposed within the central cavity defined by the frame. The valve construct includes: an annular portion defining an aperture and being connected to the frame for positioning the valve construct within the central cavity of the frame, and a plurality of leaflets extending longitudinally and radially inward from the annular portion. The frame and valve construct are transitionable to a deployed state, in which a diameter of at least a portion of the frame and the valve construct substantially conform to a diameter of a tricuspid and/or mitral valve opening.

Abstract: A loading assembly for crimping and loading a prosthetic heart valve into a delivery device includes a loading base, a base funnel, and a compression member. The loading base has a support and a body extending from the support with a recess defined within the body. The recess is configured to receive a substantial portion of the annulus section of the heart valve in an at least partially collapsed condition. The base funnel is configured to be coupled to the loading base and to at least partially collapse the annulus section of the heart valve as it is inserted into the recess in the loading base. The compression member is configured to be coupled to the loading base with the heart valve inserted in the recess for further collapsing the heart valve and loading it into the delivery device.

Abstract: A handle for a prosthetic heart valve delivery apparatus includes a housing, a motorized mechanism, and a holding mechanism. The housing is configured to be hand-held by a user and includes a distal opening. The motorized mechanism is disposed within the housing and is configured to be releasably coupled to a proximal end portion of a first shaft of the prosthetic heart valve delivery apparatus. When actuated, the motorized mechanism is configured to rotate the first shaft relative to the housing. The holding mechanism is disposed inside the housing and is configured to engage a proximal end portion of a second shaft of the prosthetic heart valve delivery apparatus such that the second shaft is axially and rotationally fixed relative to the housing, and the first shaft extends through the second shaft.

Abstract: Methods of quickly and easily implanting a quick-connect heart valve prosthesis during a surgical procedure are provided. The heart valve may include a substantially non-expandable, non-compressible prosthetic valve and a plastically-expandable frame, thereby enabling attachment to the annulus without sutures. A system and method for deployment includes an integrated handle shaft and balloon catheter. A safety member disposed between the balloon catheter and handle shaft prevents premature catheter advancement prior to heart valve placement at the annulus, and also may prevent premature balloon inflation prior to full catheter advancement.

Abstract: Devices, systems and methods are described for implantation of a prosthesis within a lumen or body cavity and delivery systems for delivering the prosthesis to a location for implantation. A delivery system can include a tether connected to a single directional handle knob for release of the prosthesis within the lumen or body cavity and retraction of the tether towards the handle.

Abstract: A modular valve prosthesis includes an inflow stent, a valve component including a valve stent and a prosthetic valve, and an outflow stent. In a radially compressed delivery configuration, an inflow end of the valve stent is separated from an outflow end of the inflow stent and an outflow end of the valve stent is separated from an inflow end of the outflow stent. In a radially expanded deployed configuration, the inflow end of the valve stent is in contact with the outflow end of the inflow stent and the outflow end of the valve stent is in contact with the inflow end of the outflow stent. A delivery system includes a capsule including first, second and third sections and flexible first and second bands between respective sections. The modules of the modular valve prosthesis are aligned with the sections and gaps between the modules are aligned with the bands.

Abstract: A method of repairing an aortic valve includes, in a following order: an aortic wall incision step; an aortic valve forming step; and an aortic wall suturing step. In the aortic wall incision step, an aortic wall is cut so as to expose an aortic valve side in the inside of an aortic duct to an open atmosphere. In the aortic valve forming step, the aortic valve is formed by restricting a distance between commissures disposed adjacently to each other by placing a thread between the plurality of commissures disposed adjacently to each other. In the aortic wall suturing step, the aortic wall cut in the aortic wall incision step is sutured so as to close the aortic wall.

Abstract: Ultrasound probe systems and methods for using an ultrasound probe to assist during treatment of conditions of the human heart are provided. The method may comprise loading a medical instrument into a guide fastened to the ultrasound probe. The ultrasound probe may be inserted into a patient by way of an incision. The distal end of the ultrasound probe may be navigated to a location adjacent to an exterior surface of the heart. A treatment site may be identified on the exterior surface of the heart based on images obtained from an ultrasound transducer disposed within a distal end of the ultrasound probe. The medical instrument may be advanced within the guide to the treatment site and the medical instrument used for treatment. After treatment, the medical instrument may be withdrawn from the treatment site.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are embodiments related to a method for performing a minimally invasive procedure, the method including delivering an annuloplasty ring in a linear shape using a delivery system. In some embodiments, the delivery of the annuloplasty ring may utilize a trans-septal approach or a trans-apical. In some embodiments, the delivery system may position the annuloplasty ring using a flexible stabilizing mechanism and/or activate one or more anchors to extend outward from the annuloplasty ring.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present disclosure include a cardiac device comprising a band configured to form a loop within a heart and including a first end and a second end, a plurality of sequential locking segments located in a region of the band near the second end, and an actuatable clasp located at or near the first end. Each locking segment may have a ledged region and a ramped region. The actuatable clasp may be configured to form a fixed length loop by locking onto the ledged region of a locking segment after the second end has been inserted into the clasp. Adjacent locking segments may be configured to flex relative to each other, thereby enabling adjacent ramped regions to cooperate with each other to facilitate a sliding of the segments into the clasp.

Abstract: An orthopedic implant can comprise a structural body, a plug and a frangible connection. The structural body can comprise a first surface, a second surface opposing the first surface, and a through-bore extending from the first surface to the second surface. The through-bore can have a bore surface. The structural body can be formed of a porous material. The plug can be disposed in the through-bore. The frangible connection can link the bore surface and the plug. A method of manufacturing an orthopedic implant can comprise producing a porous structural body having a port, producing a plug for positioning in the port, and producing a plurality of frangible crosspieces within the port to connect the plug to the structural body.

Abstract: A computer-implemented method for designing a patient-specific orthopedic implant can include creating a user account associated with a patient. A patient-specific orthopedic implant can be designed based on patient data and imaging data. A healthcare provider can provide feedback for a design of the patient-specific orthopedic implant, treatment protocol, or other aspects of treatment. The patient can provide data and feedback.

Abstract: A knee prosthesis kit includes an implant and an augment. The implant has a base and a stem extending from the base, and the augment has a base and a conical, cylindrical, or anatomic portion extending from the base. The augment base has at least two openings for receiving fasteners for securing the knee augment to the implant. The portion and the base define a bore for receipt of the implant post. A coupler includes a mating portion for receipt in a bore of an implant post, and a cone-shaped portion extending from the mating portion. A method of providing fixation of knee implants includes securing an augment to an implant and positioning a conical, cylindrical, or anatomic portion of the augment within the intramedullary canal of the tibia or femur.

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: An intervertebral disc prosthesis is disclosed comprising at least two plates, namely first and second plates, articulated about each other by means of a curved surface, namely articulation, of at least one of the plates, each of the plates comprising a surface known as a contact surface, intended to be in contact with a vertebral plate of one of the vertebrae between which the prosthesis is intended to be inserted, this contact surface for each of the plates comprising a geometrical centre at equal distance from at least two diametrically opposite points located on the periphery of the plate, in which the geometric centres of the plates are not vertically aligned, this off-setting of the geometrical centres of the plates engendering an off-setting of the edges of the plates in at least one direction perpendicular to the vertical axis of the spinal column.

Abstract: A device and methods for intervertebral spinal fusion of adjacent intervertebral bodies. An intervertebral spacer is positioned within a narrow disc space between adjacent intervertebral bodies of a patient. The spacer is arranged with upper and lower guides. The guides are adapted to simultaneously guide the deployment of upper and lower anchors of an anchoring device into their respective intervertebral bodies. The spacer is also adapted to lock the upper and lower anchors to the spacer in the deployed position.

Abstract: Methods, systems, and apparatus for determining anatomical orientations are described. Data is received that indicates a position of a reference device configured to move with a pelvis of a subject. Data is received that indicates locations corresponding to a reference surface. Data is received that indicates locations on the pelvis. One or more anatomical orientations are determined based on the locations corresponding to the reference surface and the locations on the pelvis. The anatomical orientations are registered to the reference device.

Abstract: A prosthetic foot comprising a foot part, a proximal connecting member which is swiveled to the foot part and an adjustment device with which the foot part can be adjusted relative to the connecting member, and at least one position sensor being associated with the adjustment device and being coupled to a signal generating element.

Abstract: Provided is a wearable assisted-walking device including one lower attachment body to the foot defining a lower anchoring point at the heel of the foot of a leg of the user; an upper attachment body to an upper part of the leg proximal from the knee defining an upper ventral anchoring point and an upper dorsal anchoring point arranged on the opposite side of the coronal plane of the user; and an intermediate attachment body defining a first intermediate anchoring point, a second intermediate anchoring point and a third intermediate anchoring point, each anchoring point movable respect and connected by cables to the leg; the intermediate attachment body being adapted to store the energy by a relative motion between the anchoring points and then use it for assist walking.

Abstract: A post-operative support apparatus for a patient's transfemoral residual limb, includes: a planar, stretchable, tensionable and flexible wrap panel sized to wrap around an outer circumference of a patient's transfemoral residual limb, where the wrap panel includes first fastener(s) for maintaining the wrap panel in place around the patient's residual limb; a planar, stretchable, tensionable and flexible hip-band sized to wrap around an outer circumference of a patient's hip or waist, where the hip-band includes second fastener(s) for maintaining the hip-band in place around the patient's hip or waist; and third fastener(s) releasably fastening the wrap panel to the hip-band.

Abstract: A transtibial socket for a prosthetic lower limb includes a mesh arranged between rigid struts. The mesh includes a plurality of support members and a plurality of tensile members, optionally in combination with spacer members arranged between different support members. At least one tensioning member coupled with the tensile member extends through of past guides in the struts to an adjustable tensioning apparatus that is configured to allow the mesh to be constricted radially by the amputee-user. The mesh allows for the heat dissipation and volume adjustment, while increasing contact area and force distribution around a residual limb.

Abstract: A prosthetic heart valve includes a frame, a valve component, and an actuation mechanism. The frame has a plurality of struts interconnected by a plurality of joints and is movable between expanded and compressed configurations. The valve component is inside the frame and has a plurality of leaflets. The actuation mechanism has a first expansion element coupled to the frame at a first location and a second expansion element coupled to the frame at a second location. The actuation mechanism is configured such that moving the first expansion element and the second expansion element toward each other in a first direction results in the frame moving from the compressed configuration to the expanded configuration, and such that moving the first expansion element and the second expansion element away from each other in a second direction results in the frame moving from the expanded configuration to the compressed configuration.

Abstract: Vascular prosthetic assemblies (e.g., heart valves), such as those, for example, configured to be deployed percutaneously.

Abstract: A medical device such as a stent or medical balloon is functionalised prior to coating with a bioactive material, specifically by carboxylic acidification of the contact surface or surfaces of the medical device. The preferred process involves washing a stent or other medical device in a washing solution which may be sodium hydroxide, soaking in a carboxylic acid solution, rinsing in water to remove excess carboxylic acid, allowing to dry before applying a bioactive agent layer. It has been found that washing after functionalisation removes excess carboxylic acid and enhances the retention of bioactive agent on the contact surface or surfaces of the medical device leading to a more uniform and consistent layer of bioactive agent.

Abstract: An intraluminal prosthesis includes a stent architecture having a series of stent elements repeating along a circumferential axis. One series of stent elements includes v-shaped stent elements having at least four different orientations, and V-shaped stent elements connecting adjacent v-shaped stent elements. One series of stent elements includes R-shaped stent elements having at least four different orientations, and U-shaped stent elements having at least two different orientations, the U-shaped stent elements connecting adjacent R-shaped stent elements. Adjacent series of stent elements can be connected by connectors. Portions of the stent elements may narrow in width along a length thereof. The stent architecture may include radiopaque element receiving members. The stent architecture may be formed by machining a metal or polymer tube. The intraluminal prosthesis may include one or more graft layers.