Abstract: Methods for generating intermediate stages for orthodontic aligners using machine learning or deep learning techniques. The method receives a malocclusion of teeth and a planned setup position of the teeth. The malocclusion can be represented by translations and rotations, or by digital 3D models. The method generates intermediate stages for aligners, between the malocclusion and the planned setup position, using one or more deep learning methods. The intermediate stages can be used to generate setups that are output in a format, such as digital 3D models, suitable for use in manufacturing the corresponding aligners.

Abstract: Methods, apparatuses, and systems for generating dental aligners and treatment plans for dental aligners that determine the benefit of interproximal adjustment procedures, such as interproximal reduction (IPR) and interproximal spacing procedures. These methods and systems may automatically evaluate a patient's dentition (e.g., upper and lower jaw) to generate recommendations for performing an interproximal adjustment procedure.

Abstract: A device and method for accelerating the conversion of oral bone graft to alveolar bone following extraction in a patient includes a vibrational dental device having a mouthpiece for contacting the dentition. Instructions are provided for using the vibrational dental device by placing the mouthpiece over the dentition, applying a vibratory force during a predetermined number of sessions throughout a predetermined treatment period, wherein the conversion of bone graft material to mature bone is enhanced and/or accelerated compared to without vibratory treatment.

Abstract: Systems and methods for fabricating indirect bonding trays are disclosed. Physical models of a patient's teeth can be created with non-functional placeholder brackets, impressions of which can be transferred to indirect bonding trays. This can create wells in which functional brackets can be placed into, reducing errors created from transferring functional brackets from the physical model onto the indirect bonding trays.

Abstract: Orthodontic device for treating malocclusions, comprising a support body, fixable to a first tooth and on which a housing seat is made, and a spacer bar, placed to connect between the support body and a second tooth. The spacer bar comprises a hinging portion, rotatably connected to said support body around a rotation axis, an elongated central portion and an end portion, extended starting from the central portion in an opposite position with respect to the hinging portion and fixable to the second tooth. In particular, the hinging portion of the spacer bar comprises two opposite planar surfaces, substantially perpendicular with respect to the rotation axis, and a lateral surface, placed to connect the planar surfaces and with at least partially cylindrical shape. In addition, the housing seat of the support body is at least partially counter-shaped with respect to the hinging portion.

Abstract: A computer-implemented method and system of determining a material surface from a volumetric density file includes generating a density frequency distribution of a volumetric density file of a dental impression and determining an iso-value of density between air and a particular material in the density frequency distribution. A computer-implemented method and system of creating a digital model from a CT scan of a physical dental impression includes selecting an iso-value of density for a digital volumetric density file having one or more voxels, generating one or more digital surface points in virtual 3D space for each of one or more voxels, and selecting a subset of digital surface points from the one or more digital surface points. A computer-implemented method and system of optimizing a digital surface includes moving one or more digital surface points to satisfy a criteria of optimum digital surface selection.

Abstract: The present invention is a novel prosthetic scan body device. The device is a component that is used in digital dentistry to fabricate a well-fitting implant-supported or implant-retained prosthesis by capturing the position and the orientation of the dental implants in the dental arch from its relation to the dental prosthesis. The prosthetic scan body device is designed to be inserted into the implant related structure or component on the intaglio side of the dental prosthesis in order to transfer the implant position into an STL file and a digital model. The STL file can be imported into a computer-aided design (CAD) software, which allows for precise customization and completion of the new prototype or prosthesis design. This process will lead to improved patient outcomes and satisfaction.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a pre-sintered multi-layered dental mill blank comprising a top layer, a bottom layer, and at least one intermediate layer. The pre-sintered multi-layered dental mill blank or a part prepared thereof has one or more desirable properties when being fully sintered by a speed sintering process. The present invention also relates to a process for preparing a dental restoration using the pre-sintered multi-layered dental mill blank as well as to a dental restoration as such. The present invention further relates to a process for sintering a dental restoration precursor.

Abstract: A method for producing an interdental cleaning device and an interdental cleaning device that includes a handle element and a brush element. The handle element is formed from a fibrous material, paper, or cardboard, and the brush element is connected to the handle element. For connecting the brush element to the handle element, a receiving portion of the handle element is arranged around a connecting portion of the brush element.

Abstract: A dental hygiene device for cleaning surfaces between adjacent teeth is disclosed. The dental hygiene device includes a housing configured to be held by a hand during flossing; where the housing includes a chamber within the housing; a toothpaste dentifrice solution contained within the chamber; and dental floss disposed within the housing on a spool, the dental floss and the spool configured to thread through the chamber, where the chamber comprises one or more apertures configured to allow the dental floss to receive a thin coat of the toothpaste dentifrice solution while passing through the chamber, where the chamber comprises a floss directing implement to improve adhesion of the toothpaste dentifrice onto the surface of the floss as it passes through the chamber.

Abstract: The present invention is a dental floss pick that includes a length of floss, a first elongate arm, a second elongate arm, a vertical support, a first rotational gate, a first stop member, a base member, and a lock button. The vertical support has a first end, a second end, and an open bottom. The first elongate arm is secured to the first end. The second elongate arm is secured to the second end. The open bottom has a first threading. The first rotational gate is located within the first elongate arm. The first stop member is located adjacent to the first rotational gate. The base member has an open top, a feed portion of floss, and a closed bottom. The open top has a second threading. The second threading is complementary to the first threading of the vertical support to secure the base member to the vertical support. The length of floss is configured to extend between the first elongate arm and the feed portion of floss. The lock button is disposed in the base member.

Abstract: The present invention provides dental amalgam recycling systems, useful for recycling particles from a dental liquid effluent drawn, for example, from a suctioning device.

Abstract: A veterinary saw assembly having a tool coupler for coupling to an external power tool and a drive coupler for driving a cutting string from the power tool. The cutting string can be an abrasive wire. The power tool can be a drill. The saw assembly can be used for dehorning or foetotomy procedures. Also disclosed are saws that include the saw assembly, cutting strings for use with the saw assembly, methods of stringing the saw assembly with a cutting string, and a kit including the cutting string and instructions for its use.

Abstract: The present invention refers to a patch for covering a defect in the annulus fibrosus of an intervertebral disc, and in particular also in the posterior longitudinal ligament, of a spine. A further aspect of the present invention refers to a surgical kit, including such a patch and at least one fastening element for fastening the patch body to the spine.

Abstract: Pre-formed mesh configurations for repair/prevention of a parastomal hernia during ostomy treatment are disclosed. More specifically, pre-molded meshes for Sugarbaker and keyhole technique repairs have unique shapes to provide support to the abdominal wall adjacent a stoma formed during an ostomy procedure to prevent/repair formation of a parastomal hernia.

Abstract: Endovascular prostheses used to treat diseased blood vessels, such as arteries, are disclosed. In some embodiments, an endovascular prosthesis is configured to be implanted within a diseased blood vessel adjacent a diseased section. The endovascular prosthesis may include a fenestration tube through which a guidewire extends in a sealed configuration. The fenestration tube can be selectively openable and configured to sealingly receive an expandable endovascular prosthesis that extends into a side branch vessel of the diseased blood vessel.

Abstract: A temporary diameter reduction constraint arrangement for a stent graft in combination with a stent graft is disclosed. The stent graft has a proximal end and a distal end and comprises a biocompatible graft material tube and a plurality of longitudinally spaced apart self-expanding stents fastened thereto, including at least an end stent and a plurality of intermediate stents. The constraint arrangement comprises: an elongate receiver extending longitudinally within the graft material tube; a first wire extending longitudinally along the graft material tube in a first serpentine pattern; and a second wire extending longitudinally along the graft material tube in a second serpentine pattern, wherein at least one of the first and second wires repeatedly loops over the receiver along a longitudinal length of the stent graft thereby securing the stent graft to the receiver. In one embodiment there is also a plurality of loops of thread to reduce the stent graft.

Abstract: A human hair implant procedure involves inserting a length of barbed surgical thread through a cannula so that a first portion including a distal end of the barbed surgical thread is near a distal end of the cannula and a second portion is outside the proximal end of the cannula, then inserting the distal end of the cannula through an entry point of the skin of the human and advancing the cannula under the skin until the proximal end of the cannula is near the entry point of the skin. Then, removing the cannula from under the skin, leaving in position under the skin the first portion of barbed surgical thread which secures a hold to tissue under the skin, and finally, attaching hair to the second portion of barbed surgical thread.

Abstract: An implantable prosthesis having a tissue infiltratable body of biocompatible material includes a plurality of body components arranged radially or circumferentially about a longitudinal axis of the body extending from a proximal end to a distal end of the body. The longitudinal axis may define a central axis of the prosthesis. Each body component includes an outer layer defining a cavity. The outer layer may be substantially conically shaped and/or pleated. A filler may be disposed within the cavity. The body may be attached to abase. The body is configured to augment and/or reconstruct an anatomical shape of a human breast.

Abstract: A heart valve prosthesis including separable ventricular and members is provided. The ventricular member has a first hub that has a connection feature. Each of at least three arms are coupled at a first end to the first hub and have a second end opposite the first end. The arms are preloaded toward a location of heart valve leaflet when the ventricular member is implanted. The atrial member has a second hub coupled to a frame array and has a connection feature configured to couple to the connection feature of the first hub for securing the atrial and ventricular members together. The frame array is preloaded toward a location of the heart valve leaflets when the atrial member is implanted. Concavities are formed at the periphery of the frame array to receive the arms of the ventricular member in an engaged configuration. Valve tissue may be trapped between the arms and the concavities.

Abstract: Systems and methods for treatment of tricuspid valve disease. The systems and methods can anchor a supplemental valve apparatus in the vena cavae and provide a competent valve positioned in the right atrium or in or through the tricuspid annulus without requiring an anchor in the tricuspid annulus. The supplemental valve apparatus can include a supplemental valve coupled to at least one supplemental valve structure, which can extend into at least one of the inferior vena cava or superior vena cava with the supplemental valve positioned in or adjacent the right atrium. The valve apparatus can be delivered percutaneously by a delivery system, which can include the supplement valve apparatus positioned between an inner and outer shaft that can be retracted to deploy the supplemental valve apparatus in or adjacent the right atrium. Methods of delivery and treating a tricuspid valve by a supplement valve apparatus are also described herein.

Abstract: A prosthetic aortic valve includes an annular, annulus inflow portion that is designed to reside in or near the patient's native aortic valve annulus, and an annular, aortic outflow portion that is designed to reside in the patient's aorta downstream from at least a portion of the valsalva sinus. The annulus inflow portion and the aortic outflow portion are connected to one another by a plurality of connecting struts that are confined to regions near the commissures of the patient's native aortic valve. The connecting struts are designed to bulge out into the valsalva sinus to help anchor the prosthetic valve in place. The valve is circumferentially collapsible to a relatively small diameter for less-invasive delivery into the patient. The valve circumferentially expands to a larger operational diameter when deployed at the implant site.

Abstract: A heart valve prosthesis includes a self-expanding frame adapted to radially collapse for advancement through a patient's vasculature. A first anchoring feature is shaped for placement on an atrial side of a native heart valve annulus. The first anchoring feature extends radially outwardly and then curves upwardly along the perimeter. A second anchoring feature extends from an outlet end portion of the frame for capturing native leaflets. A valve body is positioned within an interior of the frame. Elongate longitudinal struts extend distally beyond the distal end portion of the frame for securing the valve body to the frame. Elongate tips with enlarged ends extend from an inlet end portion of the frame for engagement with a delivery device.

Abstract: A covering for a prosthetic valve comprises a first portion configured to couple to an outflow side of a prosthetic valve and a second portion configured to couple to an inflow side of the prosthetic valve. The first portion is annular in shape and has a first edge alternating between one or more first tips and one or more first valleys. The second portion is also annular in shape and has a second edge alternating between one or more second tips and one or more second valleys. The one or more second tips are configured to couple to the one or more first tips to at least partially cover posts of the prosthetic valve. The one or more second tips have a tapered form.

Abstract: A prosthetic device, such as a prosthetic heart valve, can include a radially compressible and expandable frame and a screw actuator that is coupled to the frame and configured to be rotated to radially expand the frame from a radially compressed state to a first radially expanded state. The frame includes an over-expansion structure that is configured to allow relative sliding movement between the screw actuator and the frame in a longitudinal direction to permit the frame to radially expand from the first radially expanded state to a second radially expanded state when an external expansion force applied to the prosthetic heart valve exceeds a predetermined force.

Abstract: Disclosed embodiments of introducer devices provide hemostatic sealing and allow a delivery catheter to be inserted through the introducer seals without the use of a separate loader device that covers a medical device that is mounted on the catheter. Some disclosed introducers comprise a housing, a distal sheath extending distally from the housing and adapted to be inserted into a patient's vasculature, a distal hemostatic seal mounted within the housing and a proximal hemostatic seal mounted within the housing, and a slidable tube positioned within the housing that is movable longitudinally relative to the distal hemostatic seal between a proximal position and a distal position, wherein in the proximal position a distal end of the tube is positioned proximal to the distal hemostatic seal with the distal hemostatic seal closed, and wherein in the distal position the distal end of the tube extends through the distal hemostatic seal.

Abstract: Fixation device for fixation of heart valve leaflets includes an elongate central member defining a longitudinal axis of the fixation device and first and second arms rotatable about at least one arm hinge point between an open position and a closed position. The fixation device further includes a first gripping element rotatable about a first gripping element axis of rotation to capture a first leaflet of a heart valve between the first gripping element and the first arm, and a second gripping element rotatable about a second gripping element axis of rotation to capture a second leaflet of a heart valve between the second gripping element and the second arm. At least one of the first gripping element axis of rotation and the second gripping element axis of rotation is variably offset from the arm hinge point by an axis offset distance defined along the longitudinal axis.

Abstract: An implantable prosthetic device includes a coaption portion, paddles, and clasps. The paddles are moveable from a closed position to an open position. The clasps are also moveable from an open position to a closed position. The clasps include a fixed arm and a plurality of movable arms. The implantable prosthetic device can be used to repair a native valve, such as a native mitral valve.

Abstract: It is proposed to provide and implantable tube valve for implanting in a urinary tract, comprising: an implantable tube; a valve member mounted inside the tube and pivotable between an open position and a closed position and an actuator for pivoting the valve member; wherein the valve member comprises a pivot part, said pivot part formed as a single beak part; said valve member provided with a safety mechanism including a biasing element, an actuator, and the pivot part, wherein the beak part is arranged to pivot the pivot part towards the open position when a pressure exerted on the beak part exceeds a predetermined pressure.

Abstract: A method of designing a craniomaxillofacial implant that is a rigid plate of substantially uniform thickness, including: positioning a surface element of the plate as a departure from a reference location within a base outline, the departure being represented by a fraction of the length of a normal path projected from the reference location to a predetermined soft tissue layer at a supported location within an anatomic region of interest, and the fraction being based upon a required patient-specific support at the supported location.

Abstract: A method for performing a cranioplasty includes the steps of prefabricating a sonolucent craniofacial implant based upon information generated by preoperative scans, creating a cranial, craniofacial, and/or facial defect, and attaching the craniofacial implant to the cranial, craniofacial, and/or facial defect. The craniofacial implant is composed of a material that is sonolucent and exhibits attenuation of less than 6 dB/cm.

Abstract: A method for manufacturing a personalized bionic artificial cervical disc prosthesis and a prosthesis can include establishing a three-dimensional simulation model of a cervical spine with a degenerated cervical disc; modifying morphological structures and material properties of the degenerated cervical disc to obtain a three-dimensional simulation model of the artificial cervical disc prosthesis; implanting the three-dimensional simulation model of the artificial cervical disc prosthesis into the three-dimensional simulation model of the cervical spine, applying a load to the three-dimensional simulation model of the cervical spine to mimic physiological motion of the cervical spine, and calculating kinematics and biomechanical indexes of an implanted segment and adjacent segments; adjusting the three-dimensional simulation model of the artificial cervical disc prosthesis until the abnormal ICR can be corrected and optimum biomechanical effects can be obtained after the prosthesis is implanted; and manufactu

Abstract: Provided is a method for manufacturing a prosthesis for a fractured long bone of a patient. The method includes: providing data representative of the fractured long bone of the patient, the fractured long bone comprising a diaphyseal fragment comprising a medullary cavity; based on the data provided, designing the prosthesis specifically to the patient, wherein the prosthesis comprising a stem part configured to be inserted into the medullary cavity for securing the stem part to the diaphyseal fragment.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a glycosaminoglycan impregnated biopolymer-based scaffold implant for repair and regeneration of damaged and diseased human menisci. The biopolymer can be any suitable natural or genetically engineered biopolymers. This scaffold implant has several advantages over prior art implants including higher biomechanical strength and lower surface friction. A method of making the scaffold implant is also disclosed.

Abstract: Disclosed is a knee prosthesis for error correction and a use method thereof, belonging to the technical field of knee prostheses. A knee prosthesis for error correction includes a tibial insert and a tibia tray. The tibial insert is arranged on the tibia tray, and includes a first spacer, a second spacer and a supporting spacer. The first spacer and the second spacer are respectively located on both sides of the supporting spacer and spliced to form a whole spacer. The whole spacer is provided with an anti-falling piece, and the whole spacer is clamped with a tibia tray platform. The supporting spacer is provided with a connecting piece, and the supporting spacer is respectively connected to the first spacer and the second spacer through the connecting piece. According to the present disclosure, the problem of imbalanced spacing between femur and tibia after surgery caused by improper osteotomy is improved.

Abstract: Implants, devices, systems and methods for maintaining, correcting and/or fusing joint deformities are disclosed. The implant including a first member, a second member, and a coupling member with a first end and a second end, wherein the first end engages the first member and the second end engages the second member. Methods of using the implants for maintaining, correcting and/or fusing joint deformities are also disclosed.

Abstract: An intervertebral implant has a hollow space formed within the implant and accessible through an elongate opening extending through a recessed portion of the side wall, and the hollow space is shaped to receive an engagement portion of a drive shaft of an insertion tool; and the intervertebral implant includes at least two guiding surfaces facing each other and being configured for sliding engagement by a portion of a sleeve of the insertion tool movably holding the drive shaft.

Abstract: Embodiments herein are generally directed to vertebral implants and implant trials for use with vertebral implant assemblies. In some embodiments. these implants and implant trials may be used in conjunction with corpectomy procedures.

Abstract: The present disclosure includes an orthopedic device, such as an implant, that comprises one or more latticed regions to aid in fusion or osteo-integration between the implant and a specific patient. The implant may have periodic, organic, hybrid lattice structures or a combination thereof to further facilitate biocompatibility and improve mechanical characteristics of the implant. Methods for fabricating a customized device are also described herein.

Abstract: The present invention provides articulating expandable devices and insertion tools for deploying the articulating expandable devices. The articulating expandable devices are capable of being inserted into narrow spaces and turning around corners. The articulating expandable devices are capable of increasing in height and width when expanded from a closed configuration to an open configuration to occupy a larger volume and to present a larger surface area. The articulating expandable devices are lockable and are capable of rigidly occupying a space after expansion. In some embodiments, the articulating expandable devices are useful as interbody devices for spinal fusions.

Abstract: A device for removing a prosthesis component is disclosed. The device includes an elongated body having a proximal handle and a distal end, a coupling portion at the distal end configured to couple with the prosthesis component and a cutting element having a pivot and a hook-shaped portion. The cutting element is movable about the pivot between a first position in which the hook-shaped portion is retracted to allow the coupling portion to abut onto the prosthesis component, and a second position in which the hook-shaped portion is configured to wrap the prosthesis component at least partially. The hook-shaped portion has a sharp end configured to cut off a bone portion at a rear surface of the prosthesis component.

Abstract: An orthopaedic surgical instrument system includes a sensor adapter and multiple surgical instruments. The sensor adapter includes a housing with a force sensor positioned within the housing and a sensor contact configured to transfer force to the force sensor extending from the housing. Each surgical instrument includes a sensor connector configured to receive the sensor adapter at a predetermined location relative to the surgical instrument. Each sensor adapter further includes a registering feature to engage an anatomical feature of a patient or another surgical instrument. The surgical instruments may include a shim that may be attached to a gap assessment tool or a tibial insert trial. Methods associated with the surgical instrument system are also disclosed.

Abstract: A prosthetic hand assembly includes a hand structure including an actuatable wrist, a palm, and a plurality of actuatable fingers coupled with a plurality of actuators each configured to selectively direct movement of the actuatable wrist, a camera disposed on one side of the hand structure, the camera is selectively operable to generate a plurality of successive images of an object positioned adjacent the hand structure, a processor coupled with the plurality of actuators, the processor is communicatively coupled with the camera and configured to receive the plurality of successive images of the object, wherein the processor is configured to determine one or more characteristic of the object from the plurality of successive images of the object, the processor is configured to selectively drive the plurality of actuators to affect the actuatable wrist and plurality of actuatable fingers based on the one or more characteristics.

Abstract: A prosthetic coupling device includes an internal mount including a proximate shaft portion and a distal mounting portion, a threaded sleeve formed around the distal mounting portion of the internal mount, the threaded sleeve including outer threads, and a rotatable barrel formed around the proximate shaft portion and the distal mounting portion of the internal mount, the rotatable barrel including internal barrel threads that interface with the outer threads of the threaded sleeve. The prosthetic coupling device further includes a detachable coupler formed to fit within the distal mounting portion of the internal mount, the detachable coupler including a coupler detent formed on a radially external surface of the detachable coupler.

Abstract: A prosthetic or orthotic device using at least one of measurements of residual limb length or circumference to define a prosthetic socket assembly configuration, comprising modular socket components fitted to the individual user's residual limb having a mounting point for an attachment, at least one compliant member attached to at least one stabilizing unit, and at least one second compliant member attached to at least one stabilizing unit wherein the first compliant member and the second compliant member work in cooperation with the stabilizing unit(s) to control bone position and support the limb within the interface.

Abstract: A suspended sleeve assembly includes a suspension stand and a compression sleeve. An upper portion of the compression sleeve is attached onto the suspension stand, but a lower portion of the compression sleeve is unattached from the suspension stand. The suspended sleeve assembly can also include a support stand. The suspended sleeve assembly can be used to shape a prosthetic socket. The compression sleeve applies a circumferential pressure onto the prosthetic socket as the prosthetic socket is being inserted into the compression sleeve as a patient steps into the compression sleeve and applies at least a portion of body weight to the compression sleeve. The prosthetic socket can be heated and shaped by hand, so that it fits the residual limb of the patient. The suspended sleeve assembly can also be used to shape other prosthetic components, such as a negative plaster cast.

Abstract: The present invention provides a stent and a drug-loaded stent. The stent includes at least one stent mesh, wherein each stent mesh comprises a plurality of stent struts sequentially connected circumferentially around the stent mesh, wherein the plurality of the stent struts are sequentially connected end to end, and a joint is formed at the connected ends of adjacent stent struts. The stent mesh is configured to expand or collapse as a result of widening or narrowing of angles at the joints. Each stent strut includes at least one main section and at least one broadened section. The main section has a width smaller than that of the broadened section. In each stent mesh, the broadened sections of adjacent stent struts are staggered along an axis of the stent mesh. The drug-loaded stent is of a similar structure.

Abstract: An implantable device including a metal substrate; that contains particles having a size of 1 ?m or more; if the wall thickness of the metal substrate is greater than or equal to 0.04 mm and less than or equal to 0.12 mm, the largest particle size is less than or equal to 15 ?m and the average content of the particles is less than or equal to 40 ppm; if the wall thickness of the metal substrate is greater than 0.12 mm and less than or equal to 0.2 mm, the largest particle size is less than or equal to 20 ?m and the average content of the particles is less than or equal to 100 ppm; The size of the particles and the average content of the particles are reasonably controlled according to the wall thickness of the metal substrate, improving the plastic deformation capability of the implantable device.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an endoluminal device for implantation in a body lumen, such as a pancreatic duct. The device is provided with a distal end region having greater flexibility than that of a medial region of the device.

Abstract: A prosthesis is disclosed for placement across an ostium opening from a main body lumen to a branch body lumen. The prosthesis has a radially expansible support and a bifurcation traversing portion. The radially expansible support is configured to be deployed in at least a portion of the branch body lumen. The bifurcation traversing portion has a biostable portion having a first end and a second end. The first end is located adjacent to the radially expansible support. The bifurcation traversing portion also has a biodegradable portion having a first end coupled with the second end of the biostable portion. The biodegradable portion has a second end disposed at an end of the prosthesis opposite the radially expansible support. When deployed, the bifurcation traversing portion extends from the radially expansible support across a bifurcation and into a main body lumen such that the carina is supported thereby.