Abstract: Disclosed herein are systems and methods for determining alignment angles between a first prosthetic component and a second prosthetic component that are joinable together in a fixed orientation relative to each other, wherein the fixed orientation includes a first angle and optionally also a second angle that are perpendicular to each other, and wherein the first and/or second angles are selectable from a range of angles to provide a desired fixed orientation between the two prosthetic components. The system includes a magnet fixedly coupled to the first prosthetic component and one or more magnetic intensity sensors configured to be coupled to the second prosthetic component in a fixed orientation relative to the second prosthetic component such that the sensors are operable to sense a magnetic field of the magnet and produce an output signal in response to the strength of the sensed magnetic field.

Abstract: A vacuum assisted suspension system includes a prosthetic foot and a pump mechanism connected to the foot and fluidly couplable to a prosthetic socket. The pump mechanism includes an elongate pivoting member rotatable relative to the prosthetic foot about a joint and including a distal recess. A piston is connected to the foot and is movably received in the recess. A fluid chamber is defined between the piston and the interior of the recess. When no weight is placed on the foot a volume of the fluid chamber is zero or near-zero and when weight of a user is placed on the prosthetic foot the pivoting member rotates away from the piston and expands the volume of the fluid chamber to draw fluid into the fluid chamber from the prosthetic socket.

Abstract: A stent apparatus for use in surgical applications having a hollow tubular section with a proximal end and a distal end. Additionally, the stent apparatus can have at least one anchor point connected to the hollow tubular section. The hollow tubular section may also have a modifiable member, and a magnetic connection node. The stent may also be wrapped in a material that has magnetic properties. The delivery of the stent can include a stent delivery tool for inserting a stent into a vessel.

Abstract: A luminal endoprosthesis (1) at least partially delimits a prosthesis lumen (2), for implantation in an anatomical structure (3) that at least partially defines at least one cavity (4) and includes a pathological portion (13). The luminal endoprosthesis (1) includes two or more layers (5, 6, 7), at least one layer (5, 6, 7) having at least one threadlike element (8) forming an armor (9). The luminal endoprosthesis (1) includes an anchoring portion (10), for anchoring to an anatomical portion (11) of the walls of the cavity (4) of the anatomical structure (3). A working portion (12) faces the pathological portion (13) of the anatomical structure (3). The two or more layers (5, 6, 7) are separated from each other at least in the working portion (12) of the luminal endoprosthesis (1), avoiding connecting elements between one layer (5, 6, 7) and at least one adjacent layer.

Abstract: A method of connecting an expansion ring to at least one end of a braided implant, the method including positioning the braided implant about a tube; everting an end portion of the braided implant over a first end of the tube; assembling an expansion ring to the braided implant, the expansion ring being a multi-leaved expansion ring comprising clips terminating with an open-ended coupling opening, wherein the openings are pushed over a set of intersecting wires of the braided implant at respective circumferential locations on or adjacent the first end of the tube; closing the openings over the set of intersecting wire; trimming ends of the braided implant; and reversing eversion of the braided implant thereby positioning the expansion ring internal to the braided implant.

Abstract: A medical device includes a tubular support structure having a plurality of ringlets arranged sequentially along a common longitudinal axis thereof, a plurality of long connecting elements and optionally, a plurality of short connecting elements to connect the plurality of ringlets. Each of the plurality of ringlet is formed by of plurality of crowns connected along a circumferential direction, each crown being formed by two straight struts arranged in V-shaped configuration. At least one of the plurality of long connecting elements connects adjacent ringlets. In addition, consecutive long connecting elements connecting adjacent ringlets are to form a mirror-reflection of each other about a radial plane of reflection.

Abstract: A variable flow stent is described for use with AV fistulas, TIPS procedures or dialysis grafts. The flow may be varied by adjusting the diameter of the stent. Embodiments include: a covered stent having a secondary chamber that functions as an air or fluid bladder; an expandable chamber within an interior stent covering; a retractable jack device with hooks that engage (snag) opposing walls of the stent; and, a stent with a hollow chamber or pocket in the interior stent covering into which an expandable balloon can be inserted. A self-healing valve is described for inflating or deflating expandable elements within the stent and may be implemented using a self-healing membrane. A radiopaque collar may be used to provide a marker surrounding the self-healing valve. If under-shunting or over-shunting occurs over time, the variable diameter stent may be adjusted using a second procedure.

Abstract: A stent apparatus for use in surgical applications having a hollow tubular section with a proximal end and a distal end. The stent apparatus may also have a plurality of radially extending anchoring points centrally located between the proximal and distal ends. The stent being compressible can also include a sheath that is of a material that can be pulled away to remove it from the stent and deploy the stent and the plurality of radially extending anchoring points.

Abstract: A stent delivery apparatus and/or system including a hollow tubular body with a proximal opening at a proximal end of the hollow tubular body and a distal opening at a distal end of the hollow tubular body. The hollow tubular body can define the proximal opening and the distal opening. A support rod can be passed through the proximal opening and/or the distal opening. The support rod may have a tip, and tip can be olive shaped. A stent may be supported by and/or surround the support rod. The tip of the support rod may also engage with the stent during delivery.

Abstract: A delivery system for delivering an implantable stented device to a lumen of a patient, the delivery system including an elongated body having a proximal end and a distal end, a driver mechanism positioned at the proximal end of the elongated body, an elongated threaded rod located axially distal to the driver mechanism, and a sheath including an elongated tubular portion having a hollow interior portion with a first diameter that is sized for compression and retention of the implantable stented device in a compressed configuration for delivery to a body lumen.

Abstract: The present disclosure describes treatment of the vasculature of a patient with an expandable implant. The implant is constrained to a reduced delivery profile for delivery within the vasculature by at least one sleeve. The implant may be constrained to other diameters, such as an intermediate configuration having a diameter larger than the delivery profile and smaller than the deployment diameter. The sleeves may be expanded, allowing for expansion of the diameter of the expandable implant, by disengaging a coupling member from the sleeve or sleeves from outside of the body of the patient. The expandable implant may comprise a number of side branch fenestrations or fenestratable portions.

Abstract: Devices and methods for treating obesity are provided. More particularly, intragastric devices and methods of fabricating, deploying, inflating, monitoring, and retrieving the same are provided. More particularly, apparatuses and methods for enabling volume-occupying intragastric devices to pass through the digestive system are provided.

Abstract: A topical treatment for anorectal disorders with and without utilization of a contoured seat cushion with a temperature-adapted or electrical stimulation element that can provide hot or cold temperatures or electrical stimulation to the anorectal region.

Abstract: A patellofemoral support comprises a sleeve and a strap assembly. The strap assembly is arranged to extend helically about the sleeve. A buttress is arranged to removably secure to an inside surface of a first portion of the strap assembly or to the sleeve.

Abstract: Systems, methods, and apparatus provide artificial knees. Artificial knees include a thigh link configured to move in unison with a thigh of the person, a shank link configured to be rotatably coupled to said thigh link, and a compression spring rotatably coupled to the thigh link and coupled to a second end of shank link with a second end of the compression spring. During a first range of motion, the compression spring is configured to provide an extension torque between the thigh link and the shank link causing said artificial knee to resist flexion. After said first range of motion, the compression spring is configured to provide a flexion torque between the thigh link and the shank link encouraging said artificial knee to flex resulting in toe clearance during the swing phase. During the swing phase, the compression spring provides no torque between the thigh link and the shank link.

Abstract: Orthopedic braces and associated methods are described for treatment of lower back injuries and chronic back pain. An orthopedic brace may include a pair of back panels, a pair of front panels, and a closure system. A lateral end of each front panel is releasably coupleable to a lateral end of each back panel at a desired angle. A ventral end of each front panel includes an attachment provision configured to allow one of the front panels to releasably attach to the other of the front panels generally over an abdomen of a wearer. The brace also includes a pocket on the ventral end of at least one of the front panels, the pocket configured to temporarily receive a hand of the wearer to aid in donning the orthopedic brace.

Abstract: A choanal atresia apparatus for use in prevention of stenosis following choanal atresia repair in patients. Two tubular choanal tubes each have an interior surface and an exterior surface, an anterior end and a posterior end, and a central axis. A plurality of axially spaced apertures in each of the two choanal tubes are for discharging nasal secretion. A strip has opposed ends coupled to the posterior ends of the two choanal tubes respectively. The strip couples the two choanal tubes in a laterally spaced relationship. The choanal tubes and the strip are fabricated of a medical grade plastic.

Abstract: A gas management system for use with an ostomy pouch includes an insert port defining an insert-receiving passage in communication with an inner chamber of an ostomy pouch and an exterior of the ostomy pouch. The insert port may be integrated into one or more walls of the ostomy pouch. An insert is selectively received in the insert-receiving passage of the insert port, the insert including at least one vent therein. An odor absorbent element is disposed in the insert. The insert-receiving passage and the vent of the insert defining a pathway for gases passing from the inner chamber of the ostomy pouch and through the absorbent material to pass out of the gas management apparatus. A guard may be supplied to carry a used insert upon removal from the insert port, as well as a replacement insert. The guard may have a wall to seal the used insert and the replacement insert. In certain embodiments, an applicator may be used to facilitate insertion of replacement inserts.

Abstract: An adapter for securing a skin barrier for ostomy collection allows placement of the skin barrier in a variety of positions to avoid interfering with surgical incisions, bandages and/or drains. An oblong or elliptical shaped skin barrier may be rotated or oriented to an alternate position and attached to a belt using the adapter. The adapter has a linkage for receiving the belt, typically a set of pins or protrusions, and another linkage for engaging the skin barrier through the same apertures intended to receive the belt at an alternate position. The adapter allows the oblong skin barrier to be rotated to a position that avoids incisions or surgical structures without cutting an adhesive region and compromising adhesion of the skin barrier. The adapter provides full retention capability of the adhesive and the support belt are for maintaining a fluidic barrier to the ostomy collection bag or pouch.

Abstract: Devices for treating obstructive sleep apnea include appliances for securing to one or more teeth of a patient and connected to a lingual bridge configured to change shape and apply pressure to a patient's tongue, preventing backward movement of the tongue and blockage of the patient's airway. The lingual bridge is composed of a shape memory alloy to allow the bridge to change shape once deployed in a patient's oral cavity and exposed to increased temperature in the patient's mouth. Pulse generators and electrodes are included to electrically stimulate the nerves and muscles of the tongue to assist in keeping the tongue from moving backward in the mouth during sleep.

Abstract: Disclosed is a male hygiene product. The male hygiene product includes a first packet containing a cleaning article therein and a second packet containing a condom therein. The first packet and the second packet are packaged in a manner such that the cleaning article and the condom are accessible together.

Abstract: This invention relates to various methods and systems of using therapeutic hypothermia to treat medical conditions such as cardiac arrest, myocardial ischemia, cerebral ischemia, ischemia, stroke, traumatic brain or spinal cord injuries and hypoxic-ischemic injury.

Abstract: An optical system for a laser therapy instrument for the application of laser radiation on and in the eye, includes a femtosecond laser, an objective. The objective or at least one lens or lens group of the objective is shiftable in the direction of the optical axis being intended for shifting of the focus position from the region of the cornea to the region of the crystalline lens and vice versa. The optical system may include at least two optical assemblies designed for the axial variation of the focus of the therapeutic laser radiation, with the focus variation range ?z differing between the individual assemblies and a changing device, designed for the insertion of any one of these assemblies into the therapeutic laser beam path at a time.

Abstract: A conjunctival cover including an annular generally curved shell having a conjunctival portion structured to conform to and overly at least part of the conjunctiva of an eye. The annular generally partially spherical shell defines a generally central opening. The central opening is sized to leave a cornea of the eye substantially or partially uncovered when the conjunctival cover is applied to the eye.

Abstract: Methods and devices are provided for targeted administration of a drug to a patient's eye. In one embodiment, the method includes inserting a hollow microneedle into the sclera of the eye at an insertion site and infusing a fluid drug formulation through the inserted microneedle and into the suprachoroidal space of the eye, wherein the infused fluid drug formulation flows within the suprachoroidal space away from the insertion site during the infusion. The fluid drug formulation may flow circumferentially toward the retinochoroidal tissue, macula, and optic nerve in the posterior segment of the eye.

Abstract: A cataract lens nucleus breaker for eye surgery, comprising a tube body, an operating rod and a draw ring; the tube body is a hollow tube having a tapered portion and a thin tube portion extending outwardly from a front end thereof, and an opening portion at a rear end thereof; an edge of the opening portion has an operating portion, the tapered portion has a venting hole; the operating rod has a front end disposed in the tube body and a rear end protruding from the opening portion; the draw ring is formed by a wire having a connecting portion connected to the front end of the operating rod, and a nucleus breaking ring; the nucleus breaking ring is housed in the tapered portion and can be pushed and pulled back to the taper portion by the operating rod.

Abstract: A photo detector is selectively coupled to a first integrator or a second integrator with switching circuitry when the laser pulses. An integration time of the signal from the photo detector can be substantially greater than an amount of time between successive laser beam pulses in order to provide an accurate measurement of each laser beam pulse of a high repetition rate pulsed laser. The laser may comprise a clock coupled to an optical switch of the laser system, and control circuitry can control switching and coupling of the detector to the first integrator or the second integrator in response to the clock signal. The first integrator and the second integrator can be selectively coupled to an output such that the first integrator or the second integrator is coupled to the output of the energy detection circuitry when the other integrator is coupled to the detector.

Abstract: A ventilation tube includes a hollow main portion having an inner wall, an outer wall, a distal end and a proximal end. The outer wall defines an outer wall width dimension. At least one distal member is coupled to and extends from the distal end and has an outer end. At least one proximal member is coupled to and extends from the main portion and has an outer end. In an undeployed state, the outer end of the at least one proximal member is more greatly spaced apart from the outer wall width dimension than the outer end of the at least one distal member. In a deployed state the outer end of the at least one distal member changes in position relative to the outer wall width dimension and the outer end of the at least one proximal member remains unchanged relative to the outer wall width dimension.

Abstract: A tympanostomy tube delivery device comprises a shaft assembly and a handpiece. All or a portion of the shaft assembly is selectively coupleable and removable from the handpiece. The handpiece includes a housing defining an opening that can receive a portion of the shaft assembly. The shaft assembly comprises a cannula, a piercer/dilator tube, a shield tube, and a pusher tube operable to translate relative to the cannula. The pressure equalization tube is positioned within the shield tube of the shaft assembly. The piercer/dilator tube and the shield tube are operable to pierce the tympanic membrane and dilate an opening formed therein. The pusher tube is operable to drive the pressure equalization tube out of the shield tube of the shaft assembly and into the opening formed in the tympanic membrane. Upon completion of the procedure, all or a portion of the shaft assembly may then be removed and replaced.

Abstract: The invention relates to a wound dressing device for securing a dressing in position on a wound, wherein the wound dressing device comprises: a retaining device for encompassing a portion of the body; a dressing, and; a fastening element that can secure the dressing in position. The fastening element being configured at least substantially external to the retaining device, the dressing being configured at least substantially internal to the retaining device, such that the dressing can be secured to the fastening element through the retaining device. The invention also relates to a method of applying the device and to a combined dressing and fastening element.

Abstract: A dressing for treating a tissue site with negative pressure, methods of manufacturing the dressing, and methods of using the dressing are described. The dressing includes a debriding manifold having a plurality of first regions with a first density, and a plurality of second regions with a second density less than the first density. The dressing can include a cover configured to be disposed over the debriding manifold. The cover includes a perimeter extending beyond the debriding manifold.

Abstract: A porous conduit may be suitable for use in treating a tissue site, and may include a central lumen and a porous wall positioned substantially concentric about the central lumen. The porous wall may have an open porous structure that may define a plurality of interconnected pores in fluid communication with one another. As part of a system, the porous conduit may be used with a manifold adapted to be positioned at a tissue site, a sealing drape adapted to cover the manifold to provide a sealed space relative to the tissue site, and a therapy device including a reduced-pressure source. The porous conduit may be disposed in the sealed space and in fluid communication between the sealed space and the reduced-pressure source.

Abstract: A negative pressure wound closure system and methods for using such a system are described. Preferred embodiments of the invention facilitate closure of the wound by utilizing a stabilizing structure that preferentially contracts to provide for movement of the tissue. Some embodiments may utilize a protective layer, such as a mesh or net layer, attached to a top surface of the stabilizing structure. The protective layer prevents a drape positioned over the stabilizing structure from being drawn into cells of the stabilizing structure, and permits visualization of the collapse of the cells.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are devices, systems and methods for delivering reduced pressure to a load-bearing wound site. The device can include a distal port configured to connect to a wound dressing positioned over the wound site; a proximal port located a distance from the distal port and configured to connect to a reduced pressure source, and a conduit body having an inner channel extending between the distal port and the proximal port. When the distal port is applied to the wound dressing positioned over the wound site the proximal port is positioned at a non-load bearing location remote from the wound dressing. The inner channel has a non-circular profile having a width larger than a height of the conduit body.

Abstract: The bandage assembly includes a panel that may be positioned over a wound. An adhesive layer is coupled to the panel. The adhesive layer engages a user's skin. The panel is retained on the wound. A button is coupled to the panel. The button is engaged by the user. The button transfers direct pressure to the wound. The button stops bleeding of the wound.

Abstract: A pre-cut strip of kinesiology tape comprises a fabric. The fabric includes a weave of fibers, where the fibers include an elastic fiber covered by a covering material. The fabric also includes a first end and a second end, where the second end is opposite the first end. The fabric further includes one or more rounded corners. The pre-cut strip of kinesiology tape also includes a longitudinal cut in the fabric. The longitudinal cut passes through at least a portion of the fabric and extends from the first end to a predetermined distance from the second end. The pre-cut strip of kinesiology tape also includes adhesive on a first surface of the fabric, where the adhesive is configured to adhere the fabric to a human body.

Abstract: Porous formulation storage cushion, formulation delivery systems including porous formulation storage cushions, and methods of additively manufacturing a porous formulation storage cushions are described. In an embodiment, the porous formulation storage cushion defines a plurality of pores configured to absorb a formulation, such as through wicking the formulation through capillary action. In an embodiment, the plurality of pores is configured to define a capillary force gradient along a length of the porous formulation storage cushion.

Abstract: Disclosed is a wearable article comprising a main body and a ring-like elastic belt comprising an outer cover layer, a backsheet, a front belt artwork region; and a back belt artwork region; and wherein one or both of the front and back belt artwork regions comprises a belt artwork; a transitional region on the front waist panel and the back waist panel where the outer cover layer exists; and a crotch artwork region on the crotch panel comprising a crotch artwork; wherein at least some of the belt artwork and some of the crotch artwork are printed on the backsheet, wherein when the opacity of the outer cover layer is OC and the opacity of one or both of the front belt and the back belt comprising the belt artwork is OB, respectively, the difference between OC and OB is less than about 20%.

Abstract: Disclosed is biodegradable underwear having side fastening and unfastening means, wherein the biodegradable underwear is possibly coupled with a biodegradable sanitary napkin, a sensor or both. Disclosed also is a biodegradable sanitary napkin comprising a sensor. Further disclosed is biodegradable underwear comprising a belt and a biodegradable garment.

Abstract: An absorbent article, having a topsheet, an absorbent core, an an intermediate layer is described. The intermediate layer is attached to an inner surface of the topsheet layer, and has a first surface facing the inner surface of the topsheet, an opposing second surface, and a thickness. An ink zone extends from the second surface of the intermediate layer through the intermediate layer and at least to the inner surface of the liquid-permeable topsheet, wherein the ink zone comprises a plurality of discrete ink deposits having a first portion and a second portion. The first portion has a first colorant and the second portion has a second colorant. The first colorant and the second colorant contrast in color with the topsheet, and wherein at least some of the plurality of discrete ink deposits is disposed on the inner surface of the liquid-permeable topsheet layer.

Abstract: A system and method for folding a discrete absorbent sanitary product includes conveying a product in a machine direction along a main conveyor, folding the product at a first folding station, and later folding the absorbent sanitary product at a second folding station. The product is folded at each of the first and second folding stations by engaging the product with a first drum and rotating the absorbent sanitary product in a first rotational direction, contacting the product with one or more folding fingers traveling in the machine direction, engaging the product with a rotating member adjacent to the first drum and downstream therefrom in the machine direction, the rotating member rotating in the first rotational direction, and folding the product over the one or more folding fingers via rotation of the rotating member in the first rotational direction.

Abstract: Methods of making disposable absorbent articles and disposable absorbent articles that comprise: a first, second, and third fastener elements to a web such that: the first fastener element is spaced from the second fastener element by a first distance along a length of the web; the second fastener element is spaced from the third fastener element by a second distance along the length of the web; and the second fastener element is disposed between the first and third fastener elements.

Abstract: An applicator for a tampon is provided. The applicator has an inner tube and an outer tube. The inner tube is slideable within the outer tube. The applicator has a forward end and a rear end, and the inner tube has at least one inwardly protruding flange.

Abstract: An applicator for a tampon comprising an inner tube slideable within an outer tube is provided. A plurality of protrusions is provided on the outer surface of the inner tube at its forward end and a plurality of spikes is provided on the inner surface of the outer tube at its forward end. The applicator has one or more of these features: i) the same or different number of protrusions and spikes; ii) one or more of the protrusions are arranged in an asymmetric manner around the outer surface of the inner tube such that the distance between two adjacent protrusions is not the same for all adjacent pairs of protrusions; iii) one or more of the spikes are arranged in an asymmetric manner around the inner surface of the outer tube such that the distance between two adjacent spikes is not the same for all adjacent pairs of spikes.

Abstract: Elasticated materials and articles comprising elasticated materials are disclosed. A method may comprise advancing first and second substrate materials and a stretched elastomeric strand in the machine direction. The method may further comprise advancing the first and the second substrate materials with the elastomeric strand positioned therebetween to a bonding apparatus. The bonding apparatus may comprise first and second elements forming a bonding nip. The method may further comprise oscillating the strand in a cross-machine direction and advancing the first and second substrate materials, and the strand, through the bonding nip and bonding the first and second substrate materials together with at least first and second bonds. The first and second bonds may be disposed on opposite sides of the strand and spaced apart a distance less than its un-tensioned diameter, and the first and second bonds may be located along an arcuate portion of the strand.

Abstract: An elastic sheet for an absorbent article includes a first fibrous layer disposed on a first surface of the elastic sheet, a second fibrous layer disposed on a second surface of the elastic sheet opposite to the first surface, and contractible elastic members secured between the first fibrous layer and the second fibrous layer. The first fibrous layer and the second fibrous layer each include continuous fibers of thermoplastic and gathers formed between adjacent ones of the elastic members. The gathers are disposed in an intersecting direction intersecting with a direction in which the elastic members extend. An average flexural rigidity value of the first fibrous layer and the second fibrous layer in accordance with a KES method is 0.0035×10?4 to 0.022×10?4 (N·m2/m). A thickness under a compression load to the gathers in accordance with the KES method is 0.22 to 1.5 mm.

Abstract: A method for manufacturing a composite sheet includes a first step of, in a state that a curved part of a first sheet whose one surface rises and whose another surface is recessed and that a second sheet is overlaid on the first sheet, revolving a first roller to convey the first sheet and the second sheet; a second step of passing the sheets between the first roller and a second roller revolving so that a pressing part protruding outward in the radial direction from the outer peripheral surface of the second roller is inserted into the recess of the first roller; forming, in a region within the second sheet opposing the curved part, a protruding part which is surrounded by a flat part; and a third step of joining a boundary part of the first sheet to the second sheet.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing an activated composite web includes laminating a film layer to a nonwoven web to form a composite web, forming a plurality of apertured protuberances in the film layer, and passing the composite web through intermeshing elements to form an activated composite web. The intermeshing elements form a plurality of first lanes, with first widths, substantially unaffected by activation, and a plurality of second lanes, with second widths. The second widths are less than the first widths. Portions of the plurality of apertured protuberances define first apertures in the first lanes and second apertures in the second lanes. The cross-sections of the second apertures are larger than the first apertures. The first apertures have their major axes substantially aligned in the first direction while the second apertures have their major axis substantially aligned in the second direction. An activated composite web also is provided.

Abstract: A medical device including a plasma-treated porous substrate that is functionalized to provide a hydrophilic surface, and a process for preparing such a medical device, are disclosed. The method includes plasma treating at least a portion of a surface of a porous substrate with a gas species selected from oxygen, nitrogen, argon, and combination thereof. The gas species is configured to functionalize the surface of the medical device and form a hydrophilic surface.

Abstract: An absorbent article includes a liquid-permeable nonwoven topsheet having a bulk greater than or equal to 10 cm3/g, a backsheet, and one or more absorbent laminates disposed between the topsheet and the backsheet. Each of the laminate(s) can comprise one or more substrate laminae, each comprising a nonwoven or tissue, and one or more absorbent laminae, each comprising SAP particles.