Abstract: Medical devices and methods of using medical devices are disclosed. An example tissue retraction device includes a first tissue engagement member coupled to an elastic member by a coupling assembly. The coupling assembly including a first coupler body having a first end region and a first compression member. Further, the first end region of the first coupler body is configured to extend into a portion of a lumen of the elastic member and the compression member is designed to compress the elastic member onto the first coupler body such that the elastic member is fixedly engaged with the coupler body.

Abstract: An example retraction system includes a first retraction assembly, the first retraction assembly including a first arm coupled to a rack, a second arm coupled to the rack, a first retractor blade coupled to the first arm and a second retractor blade coupled to the second arm. The retraction system also includes a second retraction assembly, the second retraction assembly including a carriage configured to engage a blade post having a blade coupled to a distal end and a handle coupled to a proximal end, the blade post adjustable relative to the carriage. The retraction system also includes a third retractor blade coupled to the blade post.

Abstract: The system includes a frame composed of materials and geometry allowing selective deformation in a plane perpendicular to a patient's anatomy at the surgical site but resisting deformation in a plane parallel to the anatomy. The frame is connected to stabilizing features and sheets, which are attached to adhesive to secure the frame to the patient. The features, sheets, and adhesive layers extend both into and beyond the frame. An integrated sheet covers the prospective incision site on the patient. When positioned at the site, the frame conforms to the patient. Anchor points are distributed along the frame to reversibly secure and provide a stable base for surgical retractors, even when unilaterally applied. By adaptable positioning and design of the stabilizing members and adhesive layers on the frame, the system is able to provide optimal tractional stability when experiencing tensile loads in myriad surgical environments including ophthalmic and spinal surgery.

Abstract: The disclosure herein provides methods, systems, and devices for a sterile ophthalmic surgical drape system that can provide a sterile operating field for use by a doctor, surgeon, nurse, and the like during ophthalmic medical procedures. The sterile field created by the drape system can allow a doctor, surgeon, nurse and the like to perform a medical procedure, such as ophthalmic surgery, outside of an operating room and in locations such as a doctor's office or a military operating room war setting. The sterile ophthalmic surgical drape system can comprise a drape, a frame apparatus, a hole of sufficient size for a microscope, a fan, a filter, air directors, and slits. The drape system can comprise a collapsible frame apparatus. The drape system may be configured to be used in conjunction with a surgical tray that houses pre-sterilized tools for use in a medical procedure.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to the field of tissue dissection. Specifically, the present disclosure relates to medical devices that lift and retract tissue during a dissection procedure to improve visualization of the target tissue and mitigate obstructions for dissection tools. In particular, the present disclosure relates to devices that transition from a constrained to an unconstrained bowed configuration to immobilize and retract the dissected portion of target tissue during a dissection procedure.

Abstract: A universal pair of pedicle screw-mounted retractor blades and locking shims configured for mounting over and locking onto the tower or extended top threaded post of a pair of adjacent pedicle screws pre-positioned in adjacent vertebrae. Each cylindrical retractor blade body has a proximal flange with an inverted post extending distally, configured for attachment to a handle or arm of a ratcheting retractor. The L-shaped locking shim is removably positioned along a grooved slot within the retractor blade body and temporarily locked into place within the tulip portion of the pedicle screw using a set screw.

Abstract: A method includes positioning a patient on a surgical support structure having a fixture. The method includes attaching, to a portion of a body of the patient, a first adhesive layer on a widened pad end of a surgical restraint device. The method includes extending an elongate strap member of the surgical restraint device in a direction in which the portion of the body of the patient is to be moved relative to a remaining portion of the body using tension in the elongate strap member. The method includes attaching an attachment end of the elongate strap member to the fixture of the surgical patient support structure to maintain the moved portion of the body in tension, exposing a surgical site on the body.

Abstract: A surgical access system includes a connector including an arm, a coupling element, a rod, and a ridged slider. The arm includes first and second notched sections disposed in opposed lateral sides thereof. The coupling element includes a body section defining an opening therethrough, and opposed tabs protruding therefrom that are configured to receive the second notched section therebetween such that the arm is pivotably coupled to the coupling element. The rod includes a shaft having a plurality of angled grooves defined partially along a length thereof. The rod extends through the opening of the coupling element and the first notched section of the arm. The ridged slider includes a first surface having a plurality of ridges extending along a partial length thereof. The ridged slider extends through the coupling element with the plurality of ridges operably engaged with the plurality of angled grooves of the rod.

Abstract: A method of facilitating access to a neonate through a caesarean incision in the woman's abdomen by opening the incision, includes providing a supporting ring dimensioned to allow delivery of a neonate through the ring and comprising a non-adjustable pelvic-region retractor and handle fixed to the supporting ring and articulating the supporting ring to insert the non-adjustable pelvic-region retractor into the incision to cover and hold back the woman's bladder with the supporting ring disposed over the woman's abdomen. A first adjustable saddle-shaped retractor is then inserted into the incision to cup a first section of abdominal tissue on an abdominal side of the incision, before attaching the first adjustable saddle-shaped retractor to the supporting ring while it is cupping the first section of abdominal tissue at a first position spaced apart from the non-adjustable pelvic-region retractor to anchor the supporting ring to the woman and partially open the incision.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to the field of tissue dissection. Specifically, the present disclosure relates to medical devices that lift and retract tissue during a dissection procedure to improve visualization of the target tissue and mitigate obstructions for dissection tools. In particular, the present disclosure relates to devices that transition from a constrained to an unconstrained bowed configuration to immobilize and retract the dissected portion of target tissue during a dissection procedure.

Abstract: Retractor assemblies and methods of using them to retract tissue. A retractor assembly as described herein may include first and second arms pivotally coupled and each arm formed of a plurality of stacked and separated plates, spaced to define a gap therebetween, providing strength while affording a reduction in weight of the retractor assembly. The retractor assembly may also include a ratcheting locking mechanism.

Abstract: A surgical retractor for cardiac surgery with a hollow tube-shaped first base body with a first base body longitudinal axis on which at least one first rib comprising a first end, a second end, and a first rib longitudinal axis is laterally disposed with its first end, and with a second base body with a second base body longitudinal axis on which at least one second rib comprising a first end, a second end, and a second rib longitudinal axis is laterally disposed with its first end, wherein in the first base body a first transport rod with a first transport rod longitudinal axis is disposed such that it is supported rotatably about the first transport rod longitudinal axis, wherein the at least one second rib penetrates the first base body in a through hole transversely to the first base body longitudinal axis, and wherein the at least one second rib comprises several recesses spaced apart with respect to one another along the second rib longitudinal axis, and the first transport rod comprises at least one pr

Abstract: An Achilles tendon repair that provides a minimally invasive surgical procedure that requires at least two medical devices comprising: at least one fascial elevator separator and at least one suture passer elevator separator with a paddle guide that assist with repair of Achilles tendons wherein a fascial elevator separator paddle guide that has a U-shaped portion at a distal end provides separation of a Paratenon from an Achilles tendon and also provides a surgical plane along a designated length of the Achilles tendon that eliminates a possibility of damage to either the Sural Nerve or Saphenous Vein. The suture passer elevator separator also provides for precise placement of multiple locking sutures along the medial and lateral free edge if the Achilles tendon which allows even tensioning of the surgical repair.

Abstract: A surgical retractor assembly is provided that can assume both open and closed positions, and is easily convertible from one position to the other. The retractor assembly involves an arcuate frame member that can be engaged to an arcuate connector, which together form a generally circular or elliptical retractor frame assembly. The frame member has a groove for the insertion of one or more mobile carriages that hold retractor blade posts and allow the posts to move in multiple directions. The carriages may be locked to prevent movement in one or more directions, as well.

Abstract: The present invention includes a system, kit and apparatus to aid in the realignment of one or more bones of a patient. The present invention provides a substantially rigid orthopedic stabilization scaffold for attachment of one or more external fixators for the realignment of one or more bones of a patient. The orthopedic stabilization scaffold includes a first anchorable frame and a second anchorable frame that are removably attachable to an operating table and connected adjustably by one or more crossbars.

Abstract: A surgical adaptor comprises a first member is attachable to a first surgical instrument having a projection that defines an axis, A second member is attachable to a second surgical instrument such that the second surgical instrument is movable in at least two degrees of freedom relative to the axis. Surgical systems, instruments and methods are disclosed.

Abstract: A surgical retractor assembly is provided that can assume both open and closed positions, and is easily convertible from one position to the other. The retractor assembly involves an arcuate frame member that can be engaged to an arcuate connector, which together form a generally circular or elliptical retractor frame assembly. The frame member has a groove for the insertion of one or more mobile carriages that hold retractor blade posts and allow the posts to move in multiple directions. The carriages may be locked to prevent movement in one or more directions, as well.

Abstract: A laryngopharyngoscope retractor system including: a plurality of components including: a base frame with a coupling region and a spatula holder that is adjustable in terms of position and orientation by way of adjusting screws; a spatula that is releasably fastenable in the spatula holder; two cheek holder adapters that are releasably fastenable to the base frame; and two cheek holders, each of which is releasably fastenable to a respective cheek holder adapter, wherein one or more of the base frame, the spatula holder, the spatula, the cheek holder adapter and the cheek holder, in the respective regions provided for the releasable connection to another one of the plurality of components have a visible unique code that corresponds to the corresponding regions on the other of the plurality of components.

Abstract: The present disclosure describes various embodiments of adjustable implants, particularly permanent breast implants, intended for implantation into a subject, particularly a human subject. In some embodiments, the adjustable implant comprises a shell including a resilient shell membrane, a first reservoir containing a fluid, e.g., a saline, a second reservoir including a resilient second-reservoir membrane, and a pump. The pump may include a first pump actuator, a first pump inlet, and a first pump outlet. The first reservoir and second reservoir may be disposed within the shell and be in fluid communication via the pump. Fluid may be transferred between the two reservoirs to change the profile of the implant.

Abstract: A method for retracting body tissue providing a retractor system that includes a rail having two opposed widened rail portions separated by a narrowed portion, each widened portion engageable by a separate clamp. The clamps are configured to support the rail to a fixed surface, or to support a surgical device. Each clamp may independently be positioned or slid along the rail to a desired location without interference with a clamp on an opposing widened rail portion. A device clamp is formed of spherical mating portions which enable alignment of a surgical device along six degrees of freedom, and tightenable by securing a single fastener. A retractor blade mount enables an angular and tilting disposition of a retractor blade, as well as remote manipulation of the retractor blade.

Abstract: The invention relates to a retractor. The retractor comprises an elongate support member having a screw thread along at least part of its length and a first arm having a first anatomy engaging member depending therefrom. The retractor also comprises a second arm having a second anatomy engaging member depending therefrom and a threaded portion which cooperates with the screw thread to move the second arm along the support member. The retractor also comprises a driver operable to move the second arm along the support member by cooperation of the threaded portion and the screw thread whereby separation between the first and second arms changes. The retractor further comprises a bridging part attached towards a first end thereof to the first arm and attached towards a second, opposite end thereof to the second arm, the bridging part having a third anatomy engaging member depending therefrom.

Abstract: The present disclosure generally relates to a table-mounted retractor system for open-spine surgery. The table-mounted retractor system includes a frame, wherein the frame is situated lateral to the patient. The table-mounted retractor system further comprises a plurality of retractor hooks wherein each of the plurality of retractor hooks are in operative association with one of a plurality of tension lines, wherein each of the plurality of tension lines is engaged with the frame. Each one of the plurality of retractor hooks are operable to engage with the flesh of a patient as each of the tension lines pull the flesh back laterally towards the frame along each side of the patient.

Abstract: A method of facilitating access to a neonate through a caesarean incision in the woman's abdomen by opening the incision, includes providing a supporting ring dimensioned to allow delivery of a neonate through the ring and comprising a non-adjustable pelvic-region retractor and handle fixed to the supporting ring and articulating the supporting ring to insert the non-adjustable pelvic-region retractor into the incision to cover and hold back the woman's bladder with the supporting ring disposed over the woman's abdomen. A first adjustable saddle-shaped retractor is then inserted into the incision to cup a first section of abdominal tissue on an abdominal side of the incision, before attaching the first adjustable saddle-shaped retractor to the supporting ring while it is cupping the first section of abdominal tissue at a first position spaced apart from the non-adjustable pelvic-region retractor to anchor the supporting ring to the woman and partially open the incision.

Abstract: A surgical retractor assembly for providing surgical exposure. The surgical retractor assembly consists of multiple ring segments connected by adjustable ratchet mechanisms to form a complete ring. The ratchet mechanisms are attached to tissue retractor blades which provide exposure of the wound when expanded, without the requirement of a direct connection/attachment to an operating table. The tissue retractor blades are attached in a manner which is adjustable and facilitates the ability of the overall surgical retractor assembly (ring segments and connectors) to be raised or lowered with respect to the patient. The ring segments also allow attachments of additional retractor blades or other surgical retractor accessories for additional surgical exposure.

Abstract: A device for measuring a tension of a sheet-like tissue containing cardiomyocytes includes a first gel adapter holder having a frame member and a first gel holding member protruding toward a part of an inside face of the frame member for fixing one end of a film-like gel; and a second gel adapter holder having a second gel holding member for fixing the other end of the gel and a connection member connected to the second gel holding member. A kit includes the tension measuring device; a substrate having a pair of gel molding protruding members fitted along the inside face of the frame member; and a gel forming lid body having a face parallel to a gel contact face of the substrate so as to form an upper face of the gel. Further, a system for measuring the tension includes the tension measuring device.

Abstract: Methods and devices for retracting tissue in a surgical procedure to allow access to the surgical site. Retractor systems and methods that comprise a retractor frame comprising rotatable arms and a linearly translatable arm, the rotatable arms and the linearly translatable arm each coupled to blades that can angulate.

Abstract: A support, positioning and handling device for surgical equipment and instruments such as, for instance, drills, comparators, or resection guides, for arthroplasty operations, in particular for distal femur and/or proximal tibia resection. The device comprises a plurality of linear guides and an angular guide which make it possible to determine the position and angle of operation of the surgical instrument, while also allowing to move it with an extreme accuracy. The plurality of guides guarantees a three-dimensional displacement and inclination of a tool-holder turret, which holds an instrument-holder arm which features an engagement surface with the instrument inclined by a predetermined amount, in order to vary the inclination of the latter. The device allows to perform the arthroplasty surgery without having to drill intramedullary holes, reducing trauma to the patient.

Abstract: A lateral retractor system for forming a surgical pathway to a patient's intervertebral disc space includes a single dilator and a retractable dual-tapered-blade assembly. The single dilator may feature a narrow rectangular body for insertion at an insertion orientation parallel to the fibers of the patient's psoas muscle and at an approximate 45-degree angle to the patient's spine. The retractable dual-tapered-blade assembly consists of only two blade subassemblies, each having a blade bordered by adjustable wings, along with built-in lighting and video capabilities. The dual-tapered-blade assembly may be passed over the single dilator at the insertion orientation and rotated approximately 45-50 degrees from the insertion orientation to a final rotated orientation parallel to the intervertebral disc space before the two blade subassemblies are retracted away from one another to create the surgical pathway. Other embodiments are also disclosed.

Abstract: Disclose herein are embodiments related to a delivery system for performing a minimally invasive procedure, the system including one or more station legs configured to attach to an operating surface and a cross-beam connected to the one or more station legs and running from 0° to 45° relative to a top of the operating surface, wherein a distance between the operating surface and the cross-beam is adjustable. Additionally, an embodiment may have a first arm connected to the cross-beam, a second arm connected to the first arm, and an axial member connected to the second arm, the axial member comprising an axial joint. The delivery system may then be configured to advance to an internal target site using the axial joint while maintaining a stationary trajectory in relation to the internal target site with the delivery system trajectory is modifiable at the target site.

Abstract: A retractor assembly for positioning tissue during a surgical procedure, having two opposing arms disposed adjacent to one another and sized and configured to be urged substantially laterally away from one another during actuation of the retractor assembly into an open position, and one or more posts, each post being connected to, or integral with, and extending radially outwardly from a respective one of the opposing arms, each of the one or more posts having a length sufficient so that each of the one or more posts will extend through a respective aperture defined by a modular component to be detachably attached to the respective one of the opposing arms. Related methods of positioning tissue during surgery are also described.

Abstract: The present disclosure describes various embodiments of adjustable implants, particularly permanent breast implants, intended for implantation into a subject, particularly a human subject. In some embodiments, the adjustable implant comprises a shell including a resilient shell membrane, a first reservoir containing a fluid, e.g., a saline, a second reservoir including a resilient second-reservoir membrane, and a pump. The pump may include a first pump actuator, a first pump inlet, and a first pump outlet. The first reservoir and second reservoir may be disposed within the shell and be in fluid communication via the pump. Fluid may be transferred between the two reservoirs to change the profile of the implant.

Abstract: The device can include a first member connected to a second member via junctions. The members can be statically or pivotally connected at the junctions via arms extending from cross-beams of the members. The junctions can be configured to provide a biasing force. Methods of using the device may include collapsing the device and inserting it through an incision, allowing the biasing force to cause continuous traction and counter-traction adjacent to a leading dissection edge so that retraction of the skin from the tissue can be facilitated during a surgical procedure.

Abstract: A surgical retractor assembly is provided that can assume both open and closed positions, and is easily convertible from one position to the other. The retractor assembly involves an arcuate frame member that can be engaged to an arcuate connector, which together form a generally circular or elliptical retractor frame assembly. The frame member has a groove for the insertion of one or more mobile carriages that hold retractor blade posts and allow the posts to move in multiple directions. The carriages may be locked to prevent movement in one or more directions, as well.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device for reducing the retraction of the edges (4.1) of an opened fascia (4) of a patient (1) having an open soft tissue defect, in particular having an open abdominal wall (2) or an open soft tissue defect on the back, via which a tensile force (A, B) can be applied to the edges (4.1) of the fascia (4) by a force component (A1, B1) directed away from the body of the patient (1), such that the device (11) holds the edges (4.1) of the fascia (4) under tension and spaced apart from each other and that furthermore there is an open soft tissue defect, in particular an opened abdominal wall (2), or an open soft tissue defect on the back.

Abstract: A telescoping retractor holder includes a length-adjustable support, the one end section of which can be supported on an operating table, and including a retractor lever, the one, distal end of which includes a retractor receptacle adapted to releasably grip a retractor, and the other, proximal end section of which can be operatively connected in a supporting manner to the other free end section of the telescoping support, preferably by way of a detachable connecting means, for the application of a lever force.

Abstract: The present invention includes a system, kit and apparatus to aid in the realignment of one or more bones of a patient. The present invention provides a substantially rigid orthopedic stabilization scaffold for attachment of one or more external fixators for the realignment of one or more bones of a patient. The orthopedic stabilization scaffold includes a first anchorable frame and a second anchorable frame that are removably attachable to an operating table and connected adjustably by one or more crossbars.

Abstract: A lateral retractor system for forming a surgical pathway to a patient's intervertebral disc space includes a single dilator and a retractable dual-tapered-blade assembly. The single dilator may feature a narrow rectangular body for insertion at an insertion orientation parallel to the fibers of the patient's psoas muscle and at an approximate 45-degree angle to the patient's spine. The retractable dual-tapered-blade assembly consists of only two blade subassemblies, each having a blade bordered by adjustable wings, along with built-in lighting and video capabilities. The dual-tapered-blade assembly may be passed over the single dilator at the insertion orientation and rotated approximately 45-50 degrees from the insertion orientation to a final rotated orientation parallel to the intervertebral disc space before the two blade subassemblies are retracted away from one another to create the surgical pathway. Other embodiments are also disclosed.

Abstract: Methods and devices for retracting tissue in a surgical procedure to allow access to the surgical site. Retractor systems and methods that comprise a retractor frame comprising rotatable arms and a linearly translatable arm, the rotatable arms and the linearly translatable arm each coupled to blades that can angulate.

Abstract: A tapered sleeve is provided that includes a lubricating coating on an inner surface. An implant (e.g., a pre-filled silicon breast implant) is introduced into a large end of the sleeve and extruded into a surgical pocket of minimal access incision size through a small-sized end of the apparatus.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device for reducing the retraction of the edges (4.1) of an opened fascia (4) of a patient (1) having an open soft tissue defect, in particular having an open abdominal wall (2) or an open soft tissue defect on the back, via which a tensile force (A, B) can be applied to the edges (4.1) of the fascia (4) by a force component (A1, B1) directed away from the body of the patient (1), such that the device (11) holds the edges (4.1) of the fascia (4) under tension and spaced apart from each other and that furthermore there is an open soft tissue defect, in particular an opened abdominal wall (2), or an open soft tissue defect on the back.

Abstract: A dilation system for accessing a surgical target site to perform surgical procedures. In one version, the dilation system includes a wedge assembly and an actuating mechanism. The wedge assembly comprises includes a base and a plurality of blades extending from the base so that the distal end of the blades extend away from the base. The mechanism is operably associated with the blades so as to cause the distal end of the blades to move from a closed condition to an expanded condition.

Abstract: Methods and devices for retracting tissue in a surgical procedure to allow access to the surgical site. Retractor systems and methods that comprise a retractor frame comprising rotatable arms and a linearly translatable arm, the rotatable arms and the linearly translatable arm each coupled to blades that can angulate.

Abstract: A blade assembly for a tissue retractor includes a blade, a mount, and a positioner member. The blade includes a length extending from a proximal portion with a coupling to a distal portion for retracting soft tissue. The mount includes a receiving portion that receives the coupling. The positioner member is rotatably coupled to the mount and engages the proximal portion to apply a force that positions the blade relative to the mount.

Abstract: A surgical retractor system having a frame and a plurality of arms connected thereto is disclosed. At least one arm is moveable relative to the frame and the relative movement is constrained to a direction along the longitudinal axis of the arm. At least one retractor blade is removably connected to each of the plurality of arms. The blade is fixably rotatable about an axis normal to the longitudinal axis of the arm to which it is connected.

Abstract: A basin system is provided comprising a basin, a tissue supporting plate, a platform ring and a suspension rod, the basin system configured to permit a single clinician to effectively and accurately perform the dissection with minimal movement of the resected tissue within the basin system, wherein the platform ring and the suspension rod each comprise a plurality of grooves, permitting a clinician to secure resected tissue within the basin system and tie it down in three dimensions.

Abstract: An orthopedic surgery system includes: a retractor support arm; a table mounting assembly for securing the retractor support arm to the operating table; a first blade mounting arm slidably engaging the retractor support arm; a second blade mounting arm slidably engaging the retractor support arm in spaced relationship with respect to the first blade mounting arm; a first retractor blade connected to the first blade mounting arm; a second retractor blade connected to the second blade mounting arm; and a plate support assembly for releasably engaging an orthopedic plate wherein the plate support assembly slidably engages at least one of the retractor support arm or the first blade mounting arm or the second blade mounting arm. In one version of the invention, the system used in anterior cervical spine surgery and the orthopedic plate is an anterior cervical plate.

Abstract: A clamp ring includes a generally arced portion. The generally arced portion has a top half and a bottom half each having a guide channel formed therein, the top half and the bottom half each have an exterior portion and an interior portion defining boundaries of the guide channels. The interior portions together have a partially circular cross section with a number of interior reliefs formed therein and the exterior portions together have a partially circular cross section with a number of exterior reliefs formed therein that is greater than zero and equal to or greater than the number of interior reliefs formed in the interior portions.

Abstract: A three-blade spinal retractor utilizes adjustable and lockable translating arms with angulating blades to provide triangulated medial/lateral and cephalad/caudal tissue retraction for spinal surgeries via the adjustably lockable translating arms. A medial/lateral translating arm with an angularly adjustable retraction blade co-acts and cooperates with angularly adjacent first and second cephalad/caudal translating arms with angularly adjustable retraction blades for tissue retraction and surgical site access. A plate having a medial/lateral adjustment system adjustably holds the medial/lateral translating arm, a first cephalad/caudal adjustment system adjustably holding the first cephalad/caudal translating arm and a second cephalad/caudal adjustment system adjustably holding the second cephalad/caudal translating arm. The translating arms each have a blade holder that provides angular adjustment of the blade.

Abstract: A novel retractor system can be attached to a table and can be adjusted at desired points in x-y-z axes, and which provides spine surgeries be made in a healthier manner via retractors which are mounted on the retractor carrier wings, and a set, which provides fusion of spines via this system by using an insert.

Abstract: A tissue retraction system includes a dilator and a first retractor member and a retraction assembly. The dilator is configured to be inserted into a tissue body and also includes at least one engagement member. The first retractor member includes a body and at least one engagement member that is configured to attach to the at least one engagement member of the dilator so as to removably attach the retractor member to the dilator body. The retraction assembly includes a retractor body and at least a second retractor member that is movably supported by the retractor body. The retractor body is configured to be attached to the first retractor member. The tissue protection system may also include a neuromonitoring member configured to determine a characteristics of the tissue.