Abstract: Devices and methods for retrieving percutaneously implanted catheter systems such as a heart valve repair system. The devices include at least one locking connector at the distal end of a flexible elongated extension for coupling to an implanted tubular member. The locking connector may be a tubular anchor having a pair of distal prongs which are biased outward and face in a proximal direction, as well as an expandable auxetic midsection. Inserting the tubular anchor into the implanted tubular member flexes the distal prongs inward such that they prevent proximal movement of the tubular anchor. A user pulls on the proximal end of the tubular anchor to expand the auxetic midsection and lock the two pieces together. The devices and methods are particularly useful to attach extensions to implanted concentric tubes to enable relative axial force application.

Abstract: A lateral retractor system for forming a pathway to a patient's intervertebral disc space includes a single dilator and a retractable dual-tapered-blade assembly. The dilator may feature a narrow rectangular body for insertion at an insertion orientation parallel to the fibers of the patient's psoas muscle, 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 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, while simultaneously and continuously assessing for encroachment upon one or more nerve structures within 360-degrees of the instrument.

Abstract: A surgical instrument according to an embodiment may include: a housing that is to be attached to a driving unit of a robot arm and is provided with a plurality of driven members to be driven by a plurality of drive members of the driving unit; a shaft whose one end portion is connected to the housing; a plurality of end effectors; a support body that is rotatably supported by the other end portion of the shaft and rotatably supports the plurality of end effectors; and a plurality of driving elements that are respectively connected to the plurality of driven members to drive the plurality of end effectors and the support body to rotate.

Abstract: An improved catheter is provided for removing an obstruction(s) from a blood vessel, for example, for retrieving a clot/thrombus in the neurovasculature for the treatment of stroke. The catheter has a collapsed state sufficiently small and flexible for easier delivery through challenging vasculature and also has an expanded state sufficiently sized and robust for removing the obstruction. The catheter may include a self-collapsing and expanding mechanism to transition a portion of an outer tube (e.g., a braided portion) between the collapsed and expanded states. Such mechanism may include an inner actuator tube slidable over an actuation wire to collapse a distal branched section of the actuation wire, thereby collapsing the braided portion. The catheter may also include an intermediate coiled tube for reinforcing the braided portion in the expanded state.

Abstract: An atherectomy system includes a drive mechanism that is adapted to rotatably actuate an atherectomy burr and a controller that is adapted to regulate operation of the drive mechanism. In some cases, the drive mechanism includes a drive cable that is coupled with the atherectomy burr and an electric drive motor that is adapted to rotate the drive cable. The controller is adapted to regulate operation of the electric drive motor such that the drive mechanism emulates one or more performance parameters of an air turbine.

Abstract: Described herein is a prosthetic valve device having an optimized valve component for durability and functionality of the collapsible leaflets. Specially designed commissures contribute to the optimization along with identified parameters. In other embodiments, the invention is a frame formed from a unique cutting pattern.

Abstract: Embolic implants delivery systems and methods of manufacture and delivery are disclosed. The devices can be used for aneurysm and/or fistula treatment. The designs offer low profile compressibility for delivery to neurovasculature, while maintaining advantageous delivery and implant detachment control features.

Abstract: One or more sensors are incorporated onto one or more of an implantable device and a surgical tool used for placement and/or adjustment of the implantable device. The implantable device includes an adjustable membrane element for controllable coaptation of a body lumen, such as coaptation of a urethra as treatment for urinary incontinence. In various embodiments, the one or more sensors can be configured to detect information indicative of at least one of a shape of the adjustable membrane element, a position of the adjustable membrane element relative to the body lumen, or a shape of the body lumen.

Abstract: A vascular prosthesis (e.g., stent), and packaging and delivery system to selectively deliver a vascular prosthesis are described. In some embodiments, the vascular prosthesis utilizes a low porosity and high porosity section, and the packaging and delivery system allows the prosthesis to be delivered such that the position of the low porosity and high porosity sections of the prosthesis can vary.

Abstract: A braid for treating an aneurysm can include a first radially expandable segment operable to move from a collapsed state within a microcatheter to a deployed state distal of the microcatheter. The first radially expandable segment can be capable of radially expanding to form an outer occlusive sack in the aneurysm in the deployed state. The braid can also include a second radially expandable segment operable to move from the collapsed state within the microcatheter to the deployed state distal of the microcatheter, wherein the second radially expandable segment is capable of radially expanding inside the outer occlusive sack to form an inner occlusive sack in the outer occlusive sack in the deployed state. An expansion mechanism can be included and be disposed at a proximal end of the first and second radially expandable segments.

Abstract: A sinus dilation instrument useful with a navigation system and including a handle, a rigid probe, a balloon, and an identifier device. The probe extends from the handle, forms a curved segment, and carries the balloon. The identifier device is programmed to generate a signal indicative of an instrument identification assigned to the instrument, and is a frontal, maxillary or sphenoid sinus instrument. The signal is formatted to be recognized by an IGS. Once connected, the IGS recognizes the instrument and can retrieve information indicative of a spatial location of the balloon, for example via an instrument tracking device. A surgeon can “plug and play” the sinus dilation instrument with the IGS to perform a procedure.

Abstract: Retrieval of material from vessel lumens can be improved by electrically enhancing attachment of the material to the thrombectomy system. The system can include a catheter having a distal portion configured to be positioned adjacent to a thrombus in a blood vessel, an electrode disposed at the distal portion of the catheter, and an interventional element configured to be delivered through a lumen of the catheter. The electrode and the interventional element are each configured to be electrically coupled to an extracorporeal power supply.

Abstract: A delivery cylinder for a prosthetic implant can include a first tubular portion and a second tubular portion. The second tubular portion has a plurality of strut members coupled to the first tubular portion that define a volume for containing the prosthetic implant in a radially compressed state. The strut members can include respective flex regions configured such that application of force to the strut members causes deformation of the flex regions and corresponding radially inward or outward movement of the strut members relative to a longitudinal axis of the delivery cylinder between an expanded configuration and a contracted configuration.

Abstract: Catheters incorporating a thin film polymeric layer or layers. The thin film may have a wall thickness of about 0.00025? +/? less than 0.0001? to about 0.0015? +/?0.0002?, for example. The thin film may be formed by extruding a sheet and cutting the sheet into elongate ribbons, each having two opposing long edges. The ribbon may be rolled or wrapped to define a tubular shape with a gap between the long edges. Heat and pressure may be applied to close the gap, abut the edges and form a longitudinal joint. The joint may extend along a portion of the length of the tubular shaft or most of the length of the tubular shaft. The tubular-shaped thin film layer may have a uniform wall thickness around the circumference, and the uniform wall thickness may extend across the joint.

Abstract: A delivery device can provide sequential delivery of a plurality of intraluminal devices held in a compressed state on the delivery device. Delivery platforms on the delivery device can hold an intraluminal device in a compressed position and be positioned between pusher bands that may also be radiopaque markers. A post deployment dilation device can be included. The post deployment dilation device can be a plurality of expansion filaments, a bellows, or a balloon. An intravascular device deployment method can include allowing a self-expanding intravascular device to expand, aligning the post deployment dilation device under the intravascular device, and causing the post deployment dilation device to expand radially to push outward on the intravascular device.

Abstract: A heart valve delivery system may include a handle, a shaft having a proximal end fixedly connected to the handle and extending distally along an axis away from the handle to a free end, and a tube surrounding the shaft. The tube may have a proximal end connected to the handle and extend distally along the axis away from the handle to a distal end. The tube may be axially movable relative to the shaft and the handle between a fully extended position at which the tube extends distally farther than the shaft, and a fully retracted position at which the shaft extends distally farther than the tube. The system may include an inserter for guiding insertion of the tube. In addition or in alternative to the inserter, the system may include a funnel for loading the prosthetic valve into the tube.

Abstract: A method for closing an opening in biological tissue of intra-abdominal structures, which includes the steps of (i) providing a tissue closure system that includes a suture guide sub-system for engaging tissue disposed proximate the tissue opening and a suture passer sub-system that slideably engages the suture guide sub-system, (ii) inserting the suture guide sub-system into and through a tissue opening, (iii) inserting the suture passer sub-system with a section of suture engaged thereto into and through a first tissue region, (iv) rotating the suture guide sub-system, (v) inserting the suture passer sub-system with another section of suture engaged thereto into and through a second tissue region, (vi) withdrawing suture guide sub-system, (vii) releasing both sections of the suture captured by the suture guide sub-system, and (viii) drawing both sections of the suture together, wherein the first and second tissue regions are drawn together and the tissue opening is closed.

Abstract: An assembly may include a retractor pivotally coupled to a guide rod. The retractor may include a generally arcuate projection having a convex retractor surface, a concave cutting shield surface, and a retractor coupling feature. The guide rod may include an elongate member and a rod coupling feature that may be configured to engage the retractor coupling feature to pivotably couple the guide rod to the retractor. The assembly may be placed on a lateral side of a medial collateral ligament of a knee joint to retract the medial collateral ligament away from a tibial plateau of the knee joint and protect the medial collateral ligament during a tibial plateau resection procedure.

Abstract: Expandable devices are disclosed herein. Several of the embodiments are directed towards an expandable device comprising a mesh configured to be expanded at a blood vessel bifurcation of a human patient. The mesh may comprise a tubular body portion and one or more circumferentially discontinuous articulating portions. The mesh may be expanded such that the one or more articulating portions are positioned at an angle to the tubular body portion.

Abstract: An embolic filter is disclosed and can include a head. A plurality of bent legs can extend from the head. Each bent leg can be configured to engage an inner wall of a vein and prevent the embolic filter from migrating in a cranial direction. A plurality of straight legs can also extend from the head. Each straight leg can be configured to prevent the embolic filter from migrating in a caudal direction.

Abstract: A branched stent includes a main branch having a tubular main lumen and a side branch that branches off from the main branch. The main branch and the side branch are made from a strand-shaped starting material. The side branch is configurable between a first state in which the side branch lies within the main lumen and a second state in which the side lies outside the main lumen. In the second state, the side branch defines a tubular side branch fluidically connected to the main lumen. The side branch is formed at least in part of a shape-memory material.

Abstract: A catheter with three distinct compression resistance coils, including a body coil and two pull wire coils, is disclosed. The triple coil system can provide maximal resistance to compression of the catheter's proximal shaft, as well as maximization of the curve angle that the catheter tip can achieve. Additionally, the tri-coil catheter can allow for a lower initial compression load and a more flexible proximal shaft. A gap between the outer diameter of the pull wire and the inner diameter of the pull wire compression coil that is equal to about 10-30% of inner diameter of the pull wire compression coil can provide optimal catheter performance.

Abstract: An implantable medical device includes an elongate member having a cross-sectional dimension that is less than 0.00085 inch, wherein the elongate member is made from a material comprising a platinum-tungsten alloy having a percentage of tungsten that is at least 10% by weight or alternatively the implantable medical device includes an elongate member made from a material comprising an alloy containing rhenium.

Abstract: A method of implanting a continuous iris-expanding ring in an eye involves ejecting the continuous iris-expanding ring from a distal end of a cannula toward an iris of the eye, securing a distal portion of the continuous iris-expanding ring device ring to the iris of the eye, and securing a proximal portion of the continuous iris-expanding ring to the iris of the eye. The continuous iris-expanding ring is in a collapsed configuration in the cannula prior to being ejected and in an expanded configuration when the proximal portion and the distal portion of the continuous iris-expanding ring are secured to the iris of the eye and extend across the pupil.

Abstract: An assembly comprising a drive gear coupled to a shaft and a dial. The drive gear is configured to rotate along a first axis based on movement of the dial. The assembly includes a first linking member located along a second axis and configured to rotate about the second axis based on contact with the drive gear as the drive gear is rotated. The assembly includes a second linking member located along the second axis and configured to rotate about the second axis based on rotation of the drive gear and a coupling between the first linking member and the second linking member. The assembly includes a linking member selector configured to rotate about the first axis and for selecting at least a position corresponding to the first linking member that causes the coupling between the first linking member and the second linking member.

Abstract: Aspects of the present disclosure are directed toward apparatuses, systems, and methods for stent access and device delivery. In certain instances, the apparatuses, systems, and methods may include a plurality of struts arranged about the one or more cutting blades on a tip portion.

Abstract: A medical device is disclosed and may have a spiral shape structure that can function as a stent, such as a flow diversion stent to treat aneurysms. The medical device may have a spiral shape structure that can function as an occlusive device, for instance to occlude aneurysms. The medical device may include a shape setting structure to selectively adjust the shape of the medical device.

Abstract: A luminal stent includes a tube body that can be compressed and expanded in the radial direction, and an anti-leakage structure. The tube body is divided by the anti-leakage structure into a first tube body positioned on one side of the anti-leakage structure, and a second tube body positioned on the other side of the anti-leakage structure, with at least part of the first tube body being encircled by the anti-leakage structure. In a compressed state, the maximum compression diameter of the anti-leakage structure and the first tube body encircled by the anti-leakage structure is greater than or equal to the maximum compression diameter of the second tube body.

Abstract: A vascular filter system for deploying a vascular filter utilizes a plurality of tensors that extend radially outward from a deployment sheath. The ends of the tensors are coupled with an attachment ring of the vascular filter and a plurality of attachment barbs are coupled with the attachment ring for securing the filter to the vessel wall. A method for retrieving the vascular filter from the vessel utilizes a reverse curve catheter, a guidewire that extends therethrough and an intravascular snare. The guidewire is advanced around the filter and into the snare which secures the guidewire around the filter for retrieval. A vessel distention device utilizes one or more distention tensors having a distention feature on the extended end, such as a blunt tip, to press on the inside vessel wall. The distention tensors extend out radially from a sheath to press on the vessel wall.

Abstract: An introducer may include a layered tubular member having an inner liner including at least one folded portion extending along a distal region of the inner liner in a delivery configuration; a reinforcing member disposed over at least a portion of the inner liner, the reinforcing member including a plurality of longitudinal spines defining a plurality of openings disposed between adjacent longitudinal spines, wherein each folded portion is circumferentially overlapped by one of the plurality of openings; and an outer sheath disposed over the reinforcing member, wherein the outer sheath includes at least one perforation circumferentially overlapping each folded portion; and a tip member fixedly attached to a tapered distal region of the layered tubular member. The inner liner may extend to a distal end of the layered tubular member. At least a portion of each folded portion may terminate proximal of the distal end of the layered tubular member.

Abstract: Apparatus for progressively dilating the lumen of a narrow natural vessel such as an iliac artery and implanting a tubular device enabling access through the dilated lumen to conduct subsequent procedures via the dilated lumen, includes an inflatable integrated balloon locatable at least partially within the tubular device, the tubular device having a length L1 providing a self-expanding tubular body having at least a portion including stents, so that when the integrated balloon is removed the dilated lumen of the natural vessel remains dilated and supported by the tubular device.

Abstract: A clot retrieval device for removing clot from a blood vessel including a plurality of ring elements comprising a plurality of struts forming one or more closed cells having one or more crown elements and attached together by connecting tethers at connection points, a plurality of openings through which clot may pass and enter the device, each opening being disposed between respective ring elements. Each ring element can be self-expandable from a collapsed configuration to an expanded configuration wherein a radial force biases the ring elements toward the expanded configuration. At least one of the crown element terminates in an apex away from a center axis of the device.

Abstract: A left atrial appendage occluder for improving sealing effect and a manufacturing method thereof are provided. The left atrial appendage occluder includes a sealing portion and an anchoring portion coupled to the sealing portion. The sealing portion and the anchoring portion abut against each other. A tight connection between the sealing portion and the anchoring portion can be achieved by applying a pre-tightening force, such that the left atrial appendage occluder can be better attached to and occlude the left atrial appendage after being release.

Abstract: A finger-splinting sheath device is provided for use as a self-treatment aid in assisting a bowel in a patient suffering from complications of pelvic organ prolapse, namely rectocele. The finger-splinting sheath device generally includes a monolithic molded body including a flange-element, and a sheath-element having a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the sheath-element is coupled to the flange-element at the proximal end and is closed at the distal end. The sheath-element generally includes an elliptical cross-section configured to receive two-fingers therein, wherein the sheath-element functions to splint the two fingers during use. A method for using the device includes inserting the device with two fingers within the sheath-element into the vagina and applying pressure to the vaginal walls to assist a bowel movement.

Abstract: A stabilizing retractor system for distal radius fracture repair includes a backing plate configured to support the back of the wrist and having a first side accessible on a first side of the wrist, a second side accessible on a second side of the wrist. A first soft tissue retractor is engageable with the backing plate and has a first radius engaging concavity on a first side, and a first soft tissue retracting surface on a second side. A second soft tissue retractor is engageable with the backing plate and has a second radius engaging concavity on a first side, and a first soft tissue retracting surface on a second side. The first and second tissue retractors may be advanced apart from each other to retract tissue, and retained by a tie which connects the first and second retractors around the back of the backing plate.

Abstract: Devices and methods for treating vascular defects, such as, for example, balloon-type aneurysms, are described herein. In one embodiment, an apparatus includes an insertion portion and an expandable implant. The expandable implant is configured to be deployed in an aneurysm and is coupled to the insertion portion. The expandable implant has a first portion and a second portion coupled to the first portion. The expandable implant is movable between a first configuration in which the first portion and the second portion are substantially linearly aligned and a second configuration in which the second portion at least partially overlaps the first portion.

Abstract: In one embodiment, an access instrument for creating a surgical working portal includes a body having a first end and a body length, a first slot having a first slot length running along the length of the body from the first end, and a second slot having a second slot length running along the length of the body from the first end, wherein the first slot length and the second slot length are less than the body length.

Abstract: The present disclosure is related to an occlusion device having a mesh structure. The occlusion device configured to transition between a two-dimensional configuration and a three-dimensional configuration. In the two-dimensional configuration and at rest, the occlusion device is flat or planar. In the three-dimensional configuration, the occlusion device defines an internal volume.

Abstract: A catheter assembly according to the present invention includes a handle assembly, an introducer sheath, and a distal tip assembly. The distal tip assembly can include first and second retaining sleeves and a slotted tip with a non-traumatic tip guard positioned at the proximal end of the slotted tip. The handle assembly can include a fixed main handle and two or more rotating handles that allow a user to control the distal tip assembly of the catheter. Each control knob on the handle assembly controls a portion of the components on the distal tip of the catheter by allowing for precise manipulation of various delivery shafts. Each delivery shaft extends from the handle assembly to respective positions towards the distal end of the catheter.

Abstract: Guidewires and methods of use of guidewires having improved atraumatic tips that can distribute force to lessen trauma as well as anchor the guidewire to facilitate improved catheter exchange.

Abstract: The device disclosed herein is used to the remove a thrombus from the vasculature. It includes an aspiration catheter and a thrombus retrieval device that extends through the lumen of the aspiration catheter. An expandable braided assembly extends over a distal region of the retrieval device, and an activation wire extends through the lumen of the retrieval device to attach to and control the expansion of the braided assembly. Applying tension to the activation wire causes the braided assembly to expand to a diameter of the practitioner's choosing. For example, the practitioner may apply a first level of tension to the activation wire to deploy the braided assembly to a first diameter and then later change the diameter by applying a different level of tension. The expanded braided assembly contacts the thrombus and is pulled proximally toward the aspiration catheter to assist in thrombus removal.

Abstract: Vascular delivery systems configured to deliver an implant to a location within a vasculature can include one or more control wires controllable by a user to detach the implant from the delivery system. Control wires can cause a feature of the delivery system to mechanically engage a hub at a proximal end of an implant. Proximal or distal movement of the control wire can allow the feature to disengage from the hub, thereby allowing release of the implant.

Abstract: A flow diversion device configured in accordance with embodiments of the present technology may include, for example, a housing including openings to channels that intersect at a junction. The flow diversion device may also include, for example, a flow control component disposed at the junction and movable to selectively form pathways for fluid communication based on a position of the flow control component. For example, when the flow control component is in a first position, a first pathway may allow fluid flow causing deployment of the prosthetic heart valve device and, when the flow control component is in a second position, a second pathway may allow fluid flow causing recapture of the prosthetic heart valve device. The flow diversion device may include a handle movable to position the flow control component in the first or second positions thereby selectively controlling fluid flow of the delivery system.

Abstract: Implantable medical devices, such as embolic devices and blood flow filters are disclosed, the devices being made at least partially out of a platinum-tungsten alloy, wherein a percentage of tungsten in the alloy is equal to or greater than about 10% of the alloy by weight.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide medical devices and methods for treating a target site within the body. For example, one embodiment provides a stent graft for treating a target site proximate to a bifurcated lumen, wherein the stent graft includes a first tubular structure having proximal and distal ends and a side wall extending therebetween. The first tubular structure includes an opening defined within the side wall and is configured to define a first portion having first and second ends and a second portion having first and second ends. The opening corresponds to the first ends of the first and second portions and the second ends of the first and second portions respectively correspond to the proximal and distal ends of the first tubular structure, and at least a portion of the first and second portions are configured to be positioned within respective branches of a bifurcated lumen.

Abstract: The techniques of this disclosure generally relate to a modular assembly including first and second stent-grafts. The first stent-graft includes a body portion having a first diameter and a waist portion having a second diameter less than the first diameter. The waist portion is at a distal end of the first stent-graft. The second stent-graft includes a captured proximal portion configured to be located within the first stent-graft. The captured proximal portion includes a seated portion configured to be located proximal to the waist portion. The seated portion has a third diameter greater than the second diameter to form a mechanical interlock between the first stent-graft and the second stent-graft.

Abstract: A device of a shape memory material configured to implement a predetermined level of expansion while allowing contraction and twist can be implemented in a portion of a vascular system, such as in the left ventricle of the heart of a patient suffering from heart failure with preserved ejection fraction.

Abstract: A system for piercing through biological tissue and providing access to internal structures; particularly, intra-abdominal structures, and closing an opening in the tissue. The system includes a suture guide sub-system having a tissue positioning sub-system for engaging segments of tissue disposed proximate the tissue opening and a suture passer sub-system that slideably engages the suture guide sub-system. The suture passer sub-system includes suture deployment and capture means that is configured to removably secure a suture thereto and deliver the suture to the segments of tissue disposed proximate the tissue opening.

Abstract: A tubular medical instrument which can be easily ejected from a transfer device and accurately placed in a case the tubular medical instrument is released from the transfer device and placed at an affected area is provided. A tubular medical instrument includes ends portions, and a central portion, wherein each of the end portions is a region including one axial end of the tubular medical instrument and having a length of 10% with respect to an axial length L1 of the tubular medical instrument, the central portion is a region including an axial center of the tubular medical instrument and having a length of 10% with respect to the axial length L1 of the tubular medical instrument, and a ratio (difference V/difference W) is 3 or more.

Abstract: A packable cooking system is provided. To pack the system, the fuel canister is connected to the lid. The legs of the fuel stabilizer are folded and it is placed in the bottom of the pot. The pot support legs of the burner are rotated to their storage position forming an L-shape with the burner mixer tube and the folded burner assembly is placed in the bottom of the pot with the pot support legs along the bottom and side walls of the pot and the burner mix tube extending upward from the bottom of the pot along the side wall. This orientation, when the connection is off-center, allows the fuel canister that has been secured to the lid to fit within the pot in its offset position beside the upward extending burner mix tube with the folded fuel stabilizer below the fuel canister.