Abstract: A fixing structure of a dental handpiece has a transmission assembly for connecting a handpiece head, a positioning sleeve sleeved onto the transmission assembly and having a positioning member thereon, and a casing composed of a front casing and a rear casing. The front casing is sleeved onto the positioning sleeve. The rear casing is detachably connected to one end of the front casing. The front casing is provided with a push member. The push member is inserted inwardly to lean against the positioning member for the positioning member to be tightly pressed against an outer circumferential surface of the transmission assembly so that the front casing, the positioning sleeve and the transmission assembly are fixed and connected together.

Abstract: A dental water jet is provided. The dental water jet may include a base unit, a reservoir supported by the base unit, a handle supported by the base unit, and a container covering an opening of the reservoir. The container may include a base supported by the reservoir and a lid movable relative to the base. The container may be configured to store one or more tips for use with the handle.

Abstract: The application discloses an electric toothbrush head mounted on a driving handle, comprising: a toothbrush head body provided with a connection hole; a connection component mounted in the connection hole and used to connect the toothbrush head body with the driving handle; wherein the connection component comprises a tail hood for being inserted and received in the connection hole; and wherein the tail hood sequentially comprises a middle main shell; the middle main shell is provided with an elastic arm, and the elastic arm is provided with a first boss abutted against the driving handle; an outer side of the middle main shell is wrapped with an elastic piece; an outer side of the tail hood is further sleeved with a silicone sleeve. The applicationsolves the problems in the existing electric toothbrush heads, such as large vibration and noise, and poor user experience.

Abstract: Multi-phase oral care compositions for whitening teeth, including hydrophilic bleaching agent particles in a hydrophobic phase with a melting point of from about 40° C. to about 80° C. The hydrophilic bleaching agent particles can include peroxide compounds and/or hydrogen peroxide adducts. The hydrophilic bleaching agent particle can have a solubility in water of at least about 20 parts, by weight of the particles, in about 100 parts, by weight, of water.

Abstract: Pincers for removing residual dental roots by the application of a contrary force on the mandible and maxilla on a pre-fixed screw. It is constructed in such a manner as to enable the strength of the operator to be multiplied and the final movement of the pincers to be reduced. The operator will need to apply minimal force and thus the procedure becomes simple and safe, thereby preserving the underlying bone structure and facilitating implant osseointegration. Likewise the device can be easily sterilized and assembled/dismantled easily because of the small number of moving parts. Further, there is no need for the mouth to be opened so widely, which results in less movement and less trauma caused by excessive opening of the patient's mouth, and it adapts to the irregular profile of support on the dental arch.

Abstract: In an embodiment, a method of manufacturing customized ceramic labial/lingual orthodontic brackets by additive manufacturing may comprise measuring dentition data of a profile of teeth of a patient, based on the dentition data, creating a three-dimensional computer-assisted design (3D CAD) model of the patient's teeth, and saving the 3D CAD model, designing a virtual 3D CAD bracket structure model for a single labial or lingual bracket structure based upon said 3D CAD model, importing data related to the 3D CAD bracket structure model into an additive manufacturing machine, and directly producing the bracket with the additive manufacturing machine by layer manufacturing from an inorganic material including at least one of a ceramic, a polymer-derived ceramic, and a polymer-derived metal.

Abstract: A processing device receives image data of an actual condition of a patient's dental arch at a stage of an orthodontic treatment plan. The processing device compares the image data of the actual condition of the patient's dental arch to a planned condition of the patient's dental arch for the stage of the orthodontic treatment plan. The processing device determines an updated orthodontic treatment plan based on one or more differences between the actual condition of the patient's dental arch and the planned condition of the patient's dental arch determined from the comparing. The processing device generates one or more three-dimensional (3D) models for one or more new orthodontic aligners in accordance with the updated orthodontic treatment plan.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to an implant surface modification treatment device including an internal electrode having a barrel-shaped structure and a surface on which a plurality of transmission parts are formed, an ultraviolet (UV) discharge vessel having a barrel-shaped structure that accommodates the internal electrode and has a gas-filled area filled with a discharge gas that serves as a UV light source, and an external electrode accommodating the UV discharge vessel inside thereof, wherein an implant fixture is placed inside the internal electrode to perform surface modification.

Abstract: The present invention is a dental implant device that mimics the structure and appearance of a real tooth. In some exemplary embodiments, the implant device may include a top portion, a bottom portion, and a cavity. The top portion is a crown portion adapted to mimic a crown of a real tooth. The bottom portion includes a root portion that is adapted to facilitate blood flow into the device. The cavity is adapted to receive and retain blood flow, which triggers the regeneration of dental pulp and dentin and makes the device vital. The dental pulp will contain real nerve roots which not only enable the artificial tooth to sense hot and cold, but also give the tooth vitality. The device is implanted into a patient's gum line and will gain strength in approximately 1½ months and be at full strength within 3 months.

Abstract: This invention is directed to a device and a method for controlling fecal incontinence. The device of this invention is easily inserted into the rectum, and is designed for remaining where required in the rectum, above the dentate line and hemorrhoidal vein area, despite the peristaltic movements of the intestine.

Abstract: A device to prevent urinary leakage intended to be implanted in a patient includes a compressor to compress the patient's urethra, an electronic controller to actuate the compressor, and a measurer to measure the patient's activity. The measurer is coupled with the controller and the controller functions according to a predictive model of urinary leakage based on patient activity, so as to anticipate a possible urinary leak in relation to the measured activity of the patient.

Abstract: A base plate for an ostomy appliance and related methods are disclosed, the base plate comprising a first adhesive layer with a proximal side configured for attachment of the base plate to the skin surface of a user a plurality of electrodes including a first electrode and a second electrode, the first electrode comprising a first connection part and the second electrode comprising a second connection part; a monitor interface for forming mechanical and electrical connection with a monitor device, the monitor interface comprising a coupling part and a plurality of terminals including a first terminal; and a multiplexer with a number of N input pins and a number of M output pins; wherein the N input pins includes a first input pin and a second input pin, and the M output pins include a first output pin, wherein the first input pin is connected to the first connection part and the second input pin is connected to the second connection part, and the first output pin is connected to the first terminal of the moni

Abstract: The present innovation is a customized compression device for prevention and treatment of keloids and hypertrophic scarring, primarily a frequent complication of ear piercing. The “one size fits all” design of traditional devices can compromise efficacy due to uneven fit and compression. This invention harnesses 3D digital scanning to capture the intricate contours of the ear for every patient, for personalized compression therapy. Using 3D printing, shells are fabricated with biocompatible materials such as Polylactic Acid, shape memory polymers, or silicone-based substances. In primary embodiments, device functionality is achieved with compression clips or spring-open, single-piece structures. The custom fit, potential for infusion of therapeutic agents (e.g., corticosteroids), and engineered porosity combine to improve keloid management from uniform pressure distribution and optimal healing. Additionally, the ‘shells’ can be pigmented to match patient skin tones and encourage compliance.

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 preferentially contracting to exert force on the tissue. Some embodiments may utilize a clamping structure with removable sections.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a device and a method. The device of the present invention comprising a patch comprising: a substrate, and an adhesive on the substrate. Further, the patch is configured to be attached to a skin via the adhesive to form a pocket between the patch and the skin, to allow introduction of a material into the pocket, and to hold the material within the pocket.

Abstract: A nonwoven fabric. The nonwoven fabric can include a first surface and a second surface and a visually discernible pattern of three-dimensional features on one of the first or second surface. Each of the three-dimensional features can define a microzone comprising a first region and a second region. The first and second regions can have a difference in values for an intensive property, and wherein in at least one of the microzones the first region exhibits a Contact Angle of greater than 90 degrees, as measured by the Contact Angle Test Method detailed herein.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to methods and apparatuses for assembling elastic laminates that may be used to make absorbent article components. Particular aspects of the present disclosure include providing a first substrate and a second substrate, the first substrate and the second substrate, each having a width in a cross direction; providing an elastic material; elongating the activated elastic material using a spreader mechanism; and ultrasonically bonding the first substrate together with the second substrate with the elongated activated elastic material positioned between the first substrate and the second substrate using an anvil and an ultrasonic device.

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: An intra-uterine device for treating post-partum hemorrhage (PPH) is described, along with an applicator system. In embodiments, the PPH device is comprised of a mesh pouch that is filled with a plurality of sponges. Each sponge is designed to expand upon absorption of fluids, such as blood. The collective expansion of the sponges within the mesh pouch causes the PPH device to expand within a patient's uterus, thus applying pressure to stanch blood flow. The PPH device is loaded into an applicator which is then inserted into a patient, and a corresponding plunger is used to deploy the PPH device. Following completion of treatment, the PPH device may be removed using a removal strand attached to the pouch that is exposed outside of the patient.

Abstract: An occlusion system implantable in a human or animal body, including a fluidic circuit which includes an inflatable occlusive sleeve, a reservoir with variable volume filled with a fluid. The reservoir includes a fixed portion and a movable portion, an actuator mechanically coupled with the movable portion of the reservoir to linearly displace the movable portion relative to the fixed portion for adjusting the volume of the reservoir. The actuator and the reservoir are laid out in a sealed casing containing a gas. A sensor mechanically bound to the actuator and/or to the movable portion, measures a traction and/or compressive force of the movable portion of the reservoir. Also included is a device for measuring the fluid pressure in the fluidic circuit.

Abstract: Systems for delivering a sheet-like implant including a means of deploying and orienting the sheet-like implant within the body.

Abstract: A method of using at least one implantable mesh extension for repairing a tissue defect or reconstructing tissue, wherein the mesh extension is comprised of a mesh having a width and a length extending between a first end and a second end, includes passing the first end of the mesh extension through tissue adjacent to the tissue defect or tissue to be reconstructed at least once and then passing the first end of the mesh extension through a portion of the mesh. The mesh extension is then pulled to create a first self-locking stitch to anchor the mesh extension to the adjacent tissue so as to immediately resist high tension.

Abstract: A vascular flow diverter includes a tubular mesh framework which includes a mesh cover and an opening. The tubular mesh framework is collapsible and configured to expand from a collapsed shape to a tubular shape when the vascular flow diverter is deployed. The mesh cover conforms to the shape of the tubular mesh, is surrounded by the tubular mesh framework, and is less porous than the tubular mesh framework. The opening is located within the mesh cover. A delivery wire passes through the opening in order to guide the flow diverter into place over an aneurysm.

Abstract: Example stent grafts and methods for placement thereof are provided. An example stent graft may include (a) a main body stent graft defining a lumen that has a first end and a second end, (b) a diaphragm coupled to the main body stent graft, where the diaphragm defines at least three openings and (c) at least three stent graft extensions each defining a lumen, where a first end of each of the three stent graft extensions is coupled to one of the three openings.

Abstract: Systems, methods, and apparatuses for inserting an intraocular lens (IOL) into an eye, are provided. An apparatus comprises an IOL cartridge comprising a nozzle, a compartment, and a plunger case. The nozzle is in fluid communication with the compartment, and the plunger case is in fluid communication with the compartment. The plunger is disposed within the plunger case. The plunger case is configured to removably attach to a handpiece.

Abstract: Described embodiments are directed toward prosthetic valve leaflets of particular configurations that control bending character. In embodiments provided herein, valve leaflets are operable to bend along a base of the valve leaflets.

Abstract: A method for manufacturing a cardiac valve prosthesis is disclosed. This method comprises the following steps: a) shaping human or animal body tissue in a shaping process to give the body tissue a shape of a cardiac valve, and b) fixation and stabilization of the body tissue by a cross-linking agent, thereby preserving the shape given to the body tissue by the shaping process and thus obtaining a cardiac valve prosthesis. Furthermore, a method of implanting an autologous or allogenic cardiac valve prosthesis to an individual in need thereof is disclosed.

Abstract: Apparatus for crimping a frame of an implant includes a crimping assembly having a bath having a floor, and one or more side-walls extending upward from the floor to a side-wall height. A crimping mechanism that defines a crimping aperture is attached to the bath such that the crimping aperture is disposed within the bath below the side-wall height. The crimping mechanism further comprises a handle and is actuatable by moving the handle circumferentially around the crimping mechanism. Actuation of the crimping mechanism transitions the crimping aperture from its open state to its narrowed state. Other embodiments are also described.

Abstract: A system can include a delivery catheter comprising a balloon and an implantable prosthetic heart valve. The prosthetic valve can have a plastically expandable and compressible unitary frame comprising first, second, and third rows of angled struts that define two circumferentially extending rows of diamond-shaped cells that extend continuously around the frame, and a valvular structure comprising a plurality of leaflets. A cusp edge portion of each leaflet is connected to the frame by a skirt that is connected to and disposed between the frame and the cusp edge portions of the leaflets, the skirt being connected to consecutive struts in the first, second, and third rows of struts with sutures. The compressed prosthetic heart valve can be mounted around the balloon and radially expanded to the expanded configuration with the balloon inside a patient's body.

Abstract: An implantable vein frame is contemplated in which two ring members are rigidly joined in spaced axial alignment via one or more interconnecting members. One of the one or more interconnecting members defines a protruding region that acts upon the implant placed within the frame and/or the vein that the vein frame is placed within to define a sinus region. The implant is placed within and scaffolded by the vein frame, and the vein frame is subsequently inserted within a vein via a venotomy, or interposed between two vein segments via vein interposition graft. The vein frame acts to support the structural integrity of the implant, and to scaffold and anchor the implant in place with the vein.

Abstract: A two-step delivery method, system and device is disclosed comprising, in various embodiments, a self-expanding frame. A self-expanding frame is delivered and expanded within a heart chamber followed by delivery of a prosthetic valve comprising prosthetic valves thereon into the expanded self-expanding frame, which is in turn connected to a valve connection region defined on and by the delivered and expanded frame.

Abstract: A modular surgical apparatus is disclosed. Also disclosed is a modular incision apparatus. The modular incision apparatus may be used in a minimally invasive surgery. The modular incision apparatus includes a base having a pair of pivots, a pair of alignment tabs, a proximal opening, and at least one slide guide. The modular incision apparatus includes visual and cleaning access to the blade. The modular incision apparatus is suitable for safely, efficiently, and accurately making small incisions during surgical procedures. The modular incision apparatus provides a means of making small incisions of controlled depth, while reducing the chances of inadvertent exposure of surgical staff to sharp instrument.

Abstract: The present invention provides a system and method for retaining, positioning and releasing a prosthetic heart valve. The system includes a valve holder, and a control handle. The valve holder includes a connection base and at least one holding arm. The holding arms are distributed around a periphery of the connection base, with the holding arms having positioning structures at the distal side thereof for engaging with an outflow side of the prosthetic heart valve. The control handle is coupled to the valve holder for controlling the valve holder.

Abstract: A prosthetic heart valve implant is provided including a frame shaped so as to define upstream and downstream openings at upstream and downstream ends of the frame, respectively, when the implant is in an expanded state for implantation at a heart native valve. A sheet is coupled to the frame. When the implant is in the expanded state, the frame is shaped so as to define the following longitudinal portions arranged along a central longitudinal axis of the prosthetic heart valve implant: a substantially cylindrical mid portion having a diameter greater than respective diameters of the upstream and the downstream ends of the frame; an upstream portion, extending upstream and radially inward from the mid portion; and a downstream portion, extending downstream and radially inward from the mid portion. Other embodiments are also described.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present disclosure include a method for use at a native valve of a heart of a subject. At a distal portion of a delivery tool, a balloon is coupled to a shaft. The distal portion is advanced to the heart with an implant and the balloon disposed within a capsule. The implant includes a tubular frame and one or more shape-memory flanges. The tubular frame is compressed around the balloon, and the flanges are constrained within a downstream capsule-portion of the capsule. The flanges are exposed from the downstream capsule-portion such that the flanges automatically deflect radially outward. Subsequently, the flanges are pressed against a downstream surface of the native valve by moving the implant in an upstream direction. While the flanges are in contact with the downstream surface, the tubular frame is plastically expanded radially by inflating the balloon. Other embodiments are also described.

Abstract: A prosthetic remodeling annuloplasty ring for use in tricuspid or mitral valve repairs to provide support after annuloplasty surgery. The annuloplasty ring includes a relatively rigid core extending around an axis that is discontinuous to define two free ends. A suture-permeable interface surrounding the core includes floppy regions adjacent both free ends of the core. Sutures are used to attach the annuloplasty ring to the annulus, including at least one suture through each of the floppy regions to secure the free ends of the ring and minimize the risk of ring dehiscence, or pull through of the sutures through the annulus tissue. The floppy regions may project from each free end into the gap toward each other, be radially enlarged such as paddle-like extensions, or may comprise outwardly lateral extensions at the free ends of the core.

Abstract: The present invention provides devices for treating functional mitral regurgitation and methods of use thereof. The devices translocate a subject's mitral valve in an apical direction. The devices thereby treat mitral regurgitation while preserving a subject's original mitral valve and chordae tendinae.

Abstract: Bioabsorbable medical devices such as vascular closures, mitral chorea replacements, and mitral leaflet extensions are provided.

Abstract: A heart valve sizing ring is disclosed. The sizing ring includes an outer ring and an inner ring configured and arranged to couple to the outer ring. A tubular portion extends from the inner ring and has a plurality of suture holders arranged about an upper end thereof. The outer ring and inner ring having a pair of complementary mating surfaces configured and arranged to grip sutures therebetween when coupled together. When coupled around sutures, the assembled ring may be tightened down against the heart valve to test the fit as if the sizing ring were a similarly sized prosthetic heart valve ring. Commissures of the heart valve may be suspended from the suture holders of the tubular portion. The surgeon can then remove the sizing ring and replace it with a prosthetic ring.

Abstract: A surgical implant device, including: an implant body; a porous layer disposed adjacent to the implant body, wherein the porous layer includes a lattice of intersecting struts; and a plurality of needle structures protruding from the porous layer opposite the implant body, wherein at least some of the plurality of needle structures traverse the porous layer and are anchored to the implant body. The plurality of needle structures that traverse the porous layer and are anchored to the implant body are coupled to one or more intersecting struts of the lattice. Optionally, some of the plurality of needle structures are spaced apart from the implant body and are anchored only to the porous layer. Preferably, one or more of the implant body, the porous layer, and the plurality of needle structures are formed by an additive manufacturing technique.

Abstract: A partial ankle prosthesis includes a tibial component including a superior surface configured to be attached to a lower end of a patient's tibia; a poly component that is fixedly attached to the tibial component and includes a concave inferior surface of an anti-friction material; and a talar component including an inferior surface configured to be attached to a patient's talus and a single convex superior surface configured to mate with the inferior surface of the poly component; and the partial ankle prosthesis is configured to be implanted in a single compartment of a patient's ankle.

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 method of delivering a fusion cage to an intervertebral disc space bounded by adjacent vertebral endplates, comprising the step of delivering the fusion cage into the disc space without contacting its teeth to the vertebral endplates during delivery, wherein a sheath is interposed between a cage surface and the endplates to prevent contact therebetween during delivery.

Abstract: Pedicle-based intradiscal fixation devices, systems, instruments, and methods thereof. A pedicle-based intradiscal implant for stabilizing an inferior vertebra and a superior vertebra may include a bendable rod configured to engage bone, a bone fastener defining a channel for receiving the bendable rod, and a locking cap for securing the bone fastener and the bendable rod. The implant may be positioned through a pedicle of an inferior vertebra and the bendable rod may be deployable into the vertebral body of the inferior vertebra, through the disc space, and into the vertebral body of the superior vertebra to stabilize the spine.

Abstract: Disclosed are embodiments of medical implants containing an integrated propulsor system. Additionally, methods of insertion are also disclosed.

Abstract: A gap balancing assembly includes an alignment plateau adapted to abut against an articular surface of a first bone, and at least one gap spacer portion adapted to space the articular surface from a second bone, the at least one gap spacer portion having a thickness profile. A spacer member has a first contact surface for being abutted against said tibial alignment plateau, and a second contact surface oriented and spaced relative to the first contact surface to correspond to the thickness profile of the at least one gap spacer portion, the second contact surface adapted to contact a cut guide to align same with the articular surface of the first bone.

Abstract: An implant includes a housing; a blade having a retracted position in the housing and an extended position where the blade extends outwardly from the housing; and a blade actuating component comprising a driven shaft portion and a blade engaging portion. The blade actuating component can move the blade between the retracted position and the extended position. In addition, the blade engaging portion of the blade actuating component has a substantially U-shaped configuration defined at least in part by a superior surface and an inferior surface. Also, when the blade is in the extended position, the superior surface of the blade engaging portion of the blade actuating component is substantially flush with a superior surface of the housing, and the inferior surface of the blade engaging portion of the blade actuating component is substantially flush with an inferior surface of the housing.

Abstract: Skin patch sensors for monitoring and/or affecting body parameters, with alignment, positioning and attachment using magnets. The repeated use of releasable adhesive layers to retain skin patch sensors on skin can cause skin irritation, which can be reduced by rotating a skin patch between attachment times around a magnetically coupled pivot point. Skin patch sensors can be configured with internal coils to inductively couple to external power transmitting and communications coils with solenoids in anti-Helmholtz configurations.

Abstract: A linear force-measuring device for a hydraulic actuator of an orthopedic device. The force-measuring device includes a base, a bearing receptacle and at least one sensor for detecting changes in length between the base and the bearing receptacle, wherein the bearing receptacle is connected to the base via two opposing connecting parts, and the at least one sensor is secured to one of the connecting parts.

Abstract: The disclosure provides example apparatus and methods. One example apparatus includes a first woven stent having a curved form in an expanded state. In the expanded state, at least a first portion of the first woven stent has a weave pattern arranged along an outer curvature of the first woven stent that is different than a weave pattern arranged along an inner curvature of the first woven stent. And the first woven stent is biased toward the curved form due to shape memory.