Abstract: A bone fixation apparatus and method for repairing fractured bones is provided. A first pin is located on the bone adjacent the fracture and a flexible line is led to a second pin located on the other side of the fracture. A third pin is provided spaced from the first pin on the same side of the fracture and the flexible line is extended from the second pin to the third pin. A fourth pin is provided spaced from the second pin on the same side of the fracture and the flexible line is extended from the third pin to the fourth pin. Finally, the flexible line is extended from the fourth pin back to the first pin. The flexible line may be doubled up. A similar arrangement of pins and flexible line is made diametrically on the opposite side of the bone.

Abstract: In one aspect of the present invention, a cardiac lead is provided that includes a connector for coupling to a cardiac stimulator that has a first rotatable member, and a tubular insulating sleeve that has a first end coupled to the connector and a second end. A tip assembly is coupled to the second end. The tip assembly has a second rotatable member. A coiled wire is coupled between the first rotatable member and the second rotatable member. The coiled wire is composed of a shape-memory material and is operable to transmit torque between the first rotatable member and the second rotatable member. Where the lead is provided with a bend, the shape-memory coiled wire retains a straight set, enabling smooth rotation of a fixation corkscrew without precession of the lead tip.

Abstract: The present invention provides a system and a method for closing septal defects and the like. The system includes a closure device having a pair of occluding disks, each disk being formed of a membrane and an elastically deformable frame carried about the periphery of the membrane. The frame, which may be formed of a superelastic material, is capable of being collapsed for passage through a catheter and elastically returning to a predetermined shape for tautly holding the membrane. A central portion of the membrane of each disk is attached to a central portion of the other membrane to define a conjoint disk. The method of the invention involves collapsing the frames of the disks, inserting the closure device into a catheter, and positioning the distal end of the catheter adjacent a septal defect. The first disk is then urged out of the distal end of the catheter to permit its frame to elastically return to a predetermined shape, pulling the membrane taut on one side of the defect.

Abstract: An implantable distractor that provides controlled forceful movement either to facing bone ends created by osteotomy or across cranial sutures for the purpose of fostering bone deposition to support bone growth (distraction osteogenesis). The improved Distractor adjusts separation of such through precise, forceful, incremental movements. The mechanism has an actuator powered by intermittent electrical current flow through a shape-memory-effect (SME) actuation component. The SME component deforms forcefully. This force is amplified to result in incremental separation of two plates affixed to bone on either side of the osteotomy or suture.

Abstract: The present invention accordingly provides a device or apparatus for manipulating matter in a confined or inaccessible space, comprising manipulator means at least partly constructed of one or more bent or twisted elongate shape memory alloy members having pseudoelasticity at the intended manipulation temperature, and a hollow housing (preferably of elongate tubular form) or cannula capable of holding at least the shape memory alloy member(s) in a relatively straightened state, and actuating means for extending the shape memory alloy member(s) from the housing to manipulate matter within the said space and for withdrawing the shape memory alloy member(s) into the housing, the arrangement being such that the shape-memory alloy member(s) bend(s) or twist(s) pseudoelastically in a lateral or helical sense to manipulate the matter on extending from the housing at the said manipulation temperature, and become(s) relatively straightened on withdrawal into the housing at the said temperature.

Abstract: A biodegradable device for repairing torn meniscal cartilage comprising a shaft and tissue gripping means at both ends. One end is adapted to pierce the tissue and the opposite end is adapted to fit a driver. The central portion of the device is essentially smooth along its length. The device has been subjected to a drawing operation after fabrication leaving the molecules in the shaft in a higher state of residual stress. When the device is exposed to an aqueous environment, the water absorbed by the polymer lowers the glass transition temperature of the polymer. Lowering glass transition temperature allows increased molecular mobility causing the device to contract. The contraction pulls the torn tissues into close apposition during healing. As the tissue heals, the tension is released by the polymer resorbing.

Abstract: A medical device for causing the hemostasis of a blood vessel located along the gastrointestinal tract. The medical device comprises a tissue-penetrating device having a pair of hollow jaws, and a clip that is insertable into the tissue-penetrating device. Methods for causing the hemostasis of a blood vessel located along the gastrointestinal tract by using the medical device of the present invention are also provided.

Abstract: A device for sutureless attachment of soft tissue to bone has an elongate substantially cylindrical stud and a head disposed on a proximal end of the stud. The stud has a sidewall that defines a nominal diameter and the head has a diameter that is greater than the nominal diameter. At least one barb is provided to retain the stud within bone. The at least one barb may be constructed from a shape memory alloy and the stud and head may be constructed from a bioabsorbable material.

Abstract: A medical device such as a stent, surgical staple, bone anchoring device or bone fixation device, intended to be deployed within the body, composes a shape memory alloy (SMA) portion with an austenitic and unaustenitic state with different memorized configurations in each of these states. The SMA which is initially in an initial configuration in which it can be placed into position within the body, can be mechanically deformed into an operational configuration in which it remains deployed within the body.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a spinal fixation assembly includes an elongated member, such as a spinal rod, configured for placement adjacent the spine and a bone engaging fastener, such as a bone screw having a lower portion configured for engaging a vertebra and a head that is at least partially spherical. The assembly further includes a receiver member defining a bore therethrough from a top end to a bottom end, a recess for receiving the head of the bone screwing fastener therein, and a lower opening at said bottom end of the receiver member through which the bone screw extends. The recess is configured to at permit pivoting of the bone screw within the receiver member until the head is fixed within the recess. The receiver member also includes a channel communicating with the bore and having an upper opening at the top end of the receiver member for insertion of the spinal rod into the channel.

Abstract: The present invention provides a device or apparatus for manipulating matter in a confined or inaccessible space, comprising manipulator means at least partly constructed of one or more bent or twisted elongate metallic members having pseudoelasticity at the intended manipulation temperature, and a hollow housing (preferably of elongate tubular form) or cannula capable of holding at least the metallic member(s) in a relatively straightened state, and actuating means for extending the metallic member(s) from the housing to manipulate matter within the said space and for withdrawing the metallic member(s) into the housing, the arrangement being such that the metallic member(s) bend(s) or twist(s) pseudoelastically in a lateral or helical sense to manipulate the matter on extending from the housing at the said manipulation temperature, and become(s) relatively straightened on withdrawal into the housing at the said temperature.

Abstract: A kit for producing a modular prosthesis is provided, the kit including a first prosthesis member having a cavity such as a bore formed in it, and a clamp releasably clamped in the cavity. The clamp, which may be a rod having an axial bore through a portion of its length, is subjected to an external stimulus such as a stretching force to cause the diameter of the clamp to be reduced enough so that the clamp is received in the cavity. As the stimulus is withdrawn, the clamp returns toward its initial configuration, and in so doing, expands against the walls of the cavity. A second prosthesis member may be configured to receive a portion of the first member such that expansion of the clamp in the cavity of the first member concurrently causes that member to expand into contact with the second member to clamp the members together.

Abstract: A device or apparatus for manipulating matter in a confined or inaccessible space, comprises a manipulator at least partly constructed of one or more bent or twisted elongate metallic members having pseudoelasticity at the intended manipulation temperature, and a hollow housing (preferably of elongate tubular form) or cannula capable of holding at least the metallic member(s) in a relatively straightened state, and an actuator for extending the metallic member(s) from the housing to manipulate matter within the space and for withdrawing the metallic member(s) into the housing, the arrangement being such that the metallic member(s) bend(s) or twist(s) pseudoelastically in a lateral or helical sense to manipulate the matter on extending from the housing at the manipulation temperature, and become(s) relatively straightened on withdrawal into the housing at the temperature.

Abstract: A fixation apparatus including a body portion and a plurality of leg portions extending from the body portion. The body portion is resiliently deformable between an initial orientation and an insertion orientation upon application of a force to the body portion. The leg portions are oriented at an angle relative to the opposite leg portion when the body portion is in the initial orientation and the leg portions are substantially parallel when the body portion is moved to the insertion orientation for insertion of the leg portions into tissue. The leg portions at least partially return to the initial orientation when the force applied to the body portion is released such that the leg portions anchor the fixation apparatus to the tissue.

Abstract: A system for anchoring tissue to bone includes an anchor member having an outer, bone engaging wall, a distal end, and a proximal end, a suture receiving slot extending partially into the anchor member, forming an internal passageway ending in a suture seat. The suture seat is integral with the anchor member and is formed within the anchor member.

Abstract: A link piece for bony elements comprises a central portion and at least two anchoring portions rigidly connected to the central portion. The central portion is made of a shape memory effect material and the central portion comprises a central hole, whereby a shape variation of this central portion causes a variation of the distance between the at least two anchoring portions while these at least two anchoring portions move from each other along a straight line.

Abstract: A binding device and method of use for providing a compressive force across tissue boundaries to promote healing. The binding device includes a strap adapted to form a loop about injured tissue and a tension member attached to the strap, wherein the tension member maintains a predetermined stress level in the loop which compresses the edges of the tissue together to foster healing. The tension member is preferably a shape memory effect alloy, such as nitinol, a nickel-titanium alloy. The binding device also includes a one-way locking mechanism which keeps the strap in a loop.

Abstract: A medical/dental apparatus utilizing the properties of shape memory materials to variably control the spatial relationship between two or more elements having portions which are proximately disposed and overlapping relative to one another. Another portion of each element is connectable to part of a patient's body.

Abstract: The present invention provides a device or apparatus for manipulating matter in a confined or inaccessible space, comprising manipulator means at least partly constructed of one or more bent or twisted elongate metallic members having pseudoelasticity at the intended manipulation temperature, and a hollow housing (preferably of elongate tubular form) or cannula capable of holding at least the metallic member(s) in a relatively straightened state, and actuating means for extending the metallic member(s) from the housing to manipulate matter within the said space and for withdrawing the metallic member(s) into the housing, the arrangement being such that the metallic member(s) bend(s) or twist(s) pseudoelastically in a lateral or helical sense to manipulate the matter on extending from the housing at the said manipulation temperature, and become(s) relatively straightened on withdrawal into the housing at the said temperature.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a spinal fixation assembly includes an elongated member, such as a spinal rod, configured for placement adjacent the spine and a bone engaging fastener, such as a bone screw having a lower portion configured for engaging a vertebra and a head that is at least partially spherical. The assembly further includes a receiver member defining a bore therethrough from a top end to a bottom end, a recess for receiving the head of the bone screwing fastener therein, and a lower opening at said bottom end of the receiver member through which the bone screw extends. The recess is configured to at permit pivoting of the bone screw within the receiver member until the head is fixed within the recess. The receiver member also includes a channel communicating with the bore and having an upper opening at the top end of the receiver member for insertion of the spinal rod into the channel.

Abstract: The present invention accordingly provides a device or apparatus for manipulating matter in a confined or inaccessible space, comprising manipulator means at least partly constructed of one or more bent or twisted elongate shape memory alloy members having pseudoelasticity at the intended manipulation temperature, and a hollow housing (preferably of elongate tubular form) or cannula capable of holding at least the shape memory alloy member(s) in a relatively straightened state, and actuating means for extending the shape memory alloy member(s) from the housing to manipulate matter within the said space and for withdrawing the shape memory alloy member(s) into the housing, the arrangement being such that the shape-memory alloy member(s) bend(s) or twist(s) pseudoelastically in a lateral or helical sense to manipulate the matter on extending from the housing at the said manipulation temperature, and become(s) relatively straightened on withdrawal into the housing at the said temperature.

Abstract: The present invention relates to devices for displacing two bodies relative to each other. The device of the invention is made up of two pieces respectively associated with the two bodies, a mechanism for applying a force between the two pieces, a projecting portion secured to the piece, a cavity complementary to at least a part of the projecting portion formed in the other piece, the pieces being displaceably mounted relative to each other in such a manner that the projecting portion engages in the cavity, the piece in which the cavity is formed being of a first material that is suitable for passing from an undeformable hard first state to a deformable soft second state, while the piece which is secured to the projecting portion is of a substantially undeformable second material, and a controller for controlling the passage of at least the portion of the first material that surrounds the cavity from the first state to the second state, and vice versa.

Abstract: A temporary stent comprises a coil of tubular thermoplastic material and a heating element inside the tubular material, or a film with a metal film resistive heating element coated thereon. A method of temporarily supporting the wall of a vessel comprises the steps of inserting a thermoplastic body having a first outer dimension less than the inside dimension of the vessel into the vessel to the desired support position; heating the thermoplastic above its softening transition temperature and expanding it to a second outer dimension larger than its first outer dimension; cooling the thermoplastic body to below its softening transition temperature while at its second outer dimension; allowing the cooled thermoplastic body to temporarily support the vessel; heating the thermoplastic above its softening transition temperature to soften the thermoplastic; and removing the softened thermoplastic body from the vessel.

Abstract: The present invention is an in-vivo methodology for repairing a ruptured or fragmented segment of a pre-existing therapeutic appliance which has been previously surgically positioned or implanted within the body of a living human. The repair methodology provides for specific apparatus and techniques using a guiding catheter and deformable, thermoelastic shape-memory alloy rods in order to access and repair the flawed or failing therapeutic appliance in place. The repair methodology thus eliminates the need for surgical excision procedures and avoids the requirement for replacement substitute units in order to alleviate and solve the problem of having a flawed therapeutic appliance in-vivo.

Abstract: A construction element that contains a shape memory element which changes shape in response to a change in the temperature of the memory element. The temperature is varied by a fluid which flows through channels adjacent to the shape memory element. The fluid typically flows through an inner channel of the memory element and an outer element formed by the element and an outer elastic pipe. A plurality of shape memory elements can be coupled together to create a robotic arm or an endoscopic instrument. The arm or endoscope can change shape by varying the temperature of the fluid. The fluid temperature and the corresponding shape of the arm/endoscope can be controlled by a computer.

Abstract: The present invention provides a device or apparatus for manipulating matter in a confined or inaccessible space, comprising manipulator means at least partly constructed of one or more bent or twisted elongate shape memory alloy members having pseudoelasticity at the intended manipulation temperature, and a hollow housing (preferably of elongate tubular form) or cannula capable of holding at least the shape memory alloy member(s) in a relatively straightened state, and actuating means for extending the shape memory alloy member(s) from the housing to manipulate matter within the said space and for withdrawing the shape memory alloy member(s) into the housing, the arrangement being such that the shape-memory alloy member(s) bend(s) or twist(s) pseudoelastically in a lateral or helical sense to manipulate the matter on extending from the housing at the said manipulation temperature, and become(s) relatively straightened on withdrawal into the housing at the said temperature.

Abstract: An implantable bone lengthening apparatus may utilize an entirely self-contained lengthening mechanism which includes a shape memory material-powered hydraulic pump, a shape memory material-powered ratchet mechanism, a permeable head piston mechanism, and a bellows extension mechanism. The bone lengthening nails are more compact, simpler, eliminate unnecessary shifting or torsional movement, and maintain alignment of the bone during its natural healing process.

Abstract: The present invention provides a device or apparatus for manipulating matter in a confined or inaccessible space, comprising manipulator means at least partly constructed of one or more bent or twisted elongate metallic members having pseudoelasticity at the intended manipulation temperature, and a hollow housing (preferably of elongate tubular form) or cannula capable of holding at least the metallic member(s) in a relatively straightened state, and actuating means for extending the metallic member(s) from the housing to manipulate matter within the said space and for withdrawing the metallic member(s) into the housing, the arrangement being such that the metallic member(s) bend(s) or twist(s) pseudoelastically in a lateral or helical sense to manipulate the matter on extending from the housing at the said manipulation temperature, and become(s) relatively straightened on withdrawal into the housing at the said temperature.

Abstract: Medical devices which are currently proposed to use elements made form shape memory alloys may be improved by the use of stress-induced martensite alloy elements instead. The use of stress-induced martensite decreases the temperature sensitivity of the devices, thereby making them easier to install and/or remove.

Abstract: A clamp for securing a rod adjacent to a bone includes a rod holder constructed from shape memory material. A bone hook also constructed from shape memory material connects to the rod holder to affix the rod holder adjacent to the bone. The bone hook consists of a pincer that encircles the bone or, alternatively, two separate members coupled together during surgery to encircle the bone. A blocker constructed from shape memory material fits within the rod holder to secure the rod within the rod holder. The blocker permits slidable motion of the rod within the rod holder or, alternatively, rigidly secures the rod within the rod holder.

Abstract: A system for internal fixation of bone includes a fixation plate having a number of bores therethrough, a corresponding number of screws each having an enlarged head portion and an elongated shaft portion defining bone engaging threads thereabout and a non-threaded portion between the head and threaded portions, and a corresponding number of screw anti-backout members each having a bore therethrough. The screw anti-backout members are positioned within the bores of the fixation plate and are initially sized to slidingly receive an elongated shaft therethrough. The screws are advanced through the plate bores and screw anti-backout members so that the fixation plate is secured to the underlying bone with the bores of the screw anti-backout members surrounding a non-threaded portion of the shafts. The system is thereafter heated sufficiently to shrink the bores of the screw anti-backout members, thereby trapping the non-threaded portions of the screw shafts between the fixation plate and the threaded portions.

Abstract: An implantable linear actuator device for use in orthopedic correction procedures, the device comprising a housing including a first tubular portion and a second tubular portion, the second tubular portion slidably received in telescoping relationship within the first tubular portion; and a drive mechanism secured within the housing and connected between the first and second tubular portions, the drive mechanism including a main screw shaft rotatably journalled at one end in the first tubular portion and threadably connected at an opposite end to the second tubular portion; a one-way rotatable clutch engageable with the main screw shaft such that rotation of the clutch in one direction will effect rotation of the main screw shaft in the one direction but rotation of the clutch in an opposite direction will not rotate the main screw shaft; and a shape memory alloy component fixed between the clutch and the first tubular portion such that, upon application of heat, the component causes the clutch and the screw

Abstract: A medical/dental apparatus utilizing the properties of shape memory materials to variably control the spatial relationship between two or more elements having portions which are proximately disposed and overlapping relative to one another. Another portion of each element is connectable to part of a patient's body.

Abstract: A method and implant for the surgical treatment of scoliosis is disclosed. The method involves the segmental fixation of a rigid rod or rods to the abnormally curved portion of the spine. The rod is constructed of a shape-memory alloy such as nitinol. Prior to implementation, the rod is annealed and contoured into an ideal shape for a given patient. At the time of surgery, the rod is deformed to accommodate the existing curvature of the patient's spine and segmentally fixed thereto using novel bone clamps. The rod is then inductively heated to the transition temperature post-operatively to effect shape recovery and thereby apply corrective forces to the spine.

Abstract: A bone anchor and a bone anchor installation tool for deploying the bone anchor in bone.

Abstract: An elongated flexible housing for an atherectomy or other intracorporeal catheter which is formed of a shape memory alloy such as an alloy formed predominantly of NiTi intermetallic compound. The housing preferably has an inner chamber with a tissue cutter or other diagnostic or therapeutic system provided within the chamber to sever stenotic material which is urged into the chamber through a opening or window in the housing. In one embodiment the housing has at least one section which is relatively flexible with adjacent sections which are relatively stiff to provide an increase in the overall flexibility of the housing.

Abstract: The present invention is a prosthesis (10) for replacing a body part which includes a first element (16) adapted to receive at least a portion of a second element (18) in an operative manner. The present prosthesis (10) also includes a variable locking ring (20) made of a shape memory material having a transformation temperature range ("TTR"). The locking ring (20) is used to allow insertion of the second element (18) into the first (16) at least at temperatures below the TTR and to lock the elements (16, 18) together at least at temperatures above the TTR. With it at a temperature below its TTR, the locking ring (20) is positioned between the two elements (16, 18). With it so positioned, the locking ring (20) is adapted to interlock the elements (16, 18) together at temperatures above its TTR by at least attempting to change its shape.

Abstract: An osteosynthesis clip is made of a thermoelastic martensitic alloy, the martensitic and austenitic transformation temperatures M.sub.s and A.sub.s of which can vary, depending on the applications, between -20.degree. C. to 70.degree. C. The clip includes side branches intended to be inserted on either side of the focus of a fracture of a bone to be repaired. The side branches are connected together by at least one connection portion. The side branches and the connection portion are educated respectively, to curve substantially toward the center of the clip and to shorten under the effect of temperature, when temperature exceeds the austenitic transformation temperature A.sub.s of the material. The clip is comprised of a unitary and monobloc wire consisting of the alloy. At least one of the side branches which form the clip is made by at least a partial folding back of the wire onto itself.

Abstract: The invention described herein provides a surgical apparatus for use in endoscopic or laparoscopic procedures having a hand manipulatable proximal end portion, a working distal end portion, and a and a hinge member disposed between the end portions. The hinge member provides articulation of the distal end and is made from a temperature-responsive material which is substantially rigid at ambient temperatures and which is tractable above a predetermined temperature.

Abstract: An improved anchoring device for use in bone holes, bone tunnels and other assorted workpieces, and being particularly compatible with fabrication from both polymeric and bioabsorbable materials. The improved anchoring device has novel fastening means which permit the anchor to be fastened within a bone hole or bone tunnel while minimizing the stress induced on the body of the anchor during installation.

Abstract: A suture anchor for anchoring one end of a conventional suture to bone comprising a coupling member, at least one barb made of a resilient elastic material projecting form said coupling member, and means for attaching one end of a suture to said suture anchor. The coupling member and the at least one barb and adapted to securely anchor one end of the suture in bone when the suture is attached to the attachment means so that the other end of the suture extending outside the bone can be used to attach objects to the bone. A novel application tool is also provided.

Abstract: Osteosynthesis plate, made of a thermoelastic martensitic alloy whose transformation temperatures are:martensitic transformation temperature Ms below 10.degree. C.;austenitic transformation temperature As above 15.degree. C.,the cross-over from the martensitic temperature to the austenitic temperature bringing about a shortening of the length of the plate, characterized in that it is educated to take a rectilinear shape at a temperature below the martensitic transformation temperature Ms of the material of which the plate is made, and an undulated shape at a temperature above the austenitic transformation temperature as of the said material.

Abstract: An orthopedic bone probing device to locate cavities, holes, and crevices in bones. For instance, where holes are drilled in bones to accommodate fastening devices it is important to ascertain if there are any sites where the drilling penetrated the entire side wall of the bone resulting in an undesirable hole in the side wall of the bone. The device of this invention consists of a cannula containing a shaft of superelastic material that assumes a retractable position angular to the axis of the cannula upon being ejected from one end of the cannula and the other end of the cannula is retained by a plunger that limits the amount of shaft that can be ejected and necessitates the removal of the shaft if the cannula is to be removed.

Abstract: Surgical needles are fabricated from a shape memory alloy. The alloy has a low temperature state, in which the needle is formable into an elongated shape to pass through an elongated tube, and a high temperature state, in which the needle forms an arc. The needle is particularly adapted for use in endoscopic surgery. A needle that has a remembered curved shape is straightened and passed to a surgical site through a cannula. It is then returned to its curved shape by heating it at the surgical site. After use, it is withdrawn through the cannula.

Abstract: A system for attaching an object to a workpiece including an anchor assembly and an installation tool is provided. The anchor assembly includes a body and at least two barbs. The body has a first portion having a first end, a reduced second portion having a second end and a middle portion connecting the first and second ends of the first and second portions respectively. The barbs extend from the first end of the first portion axially and radially outwardly to outer ends located radially outwardly of an axial projection of the maximum transverse cross-section of the first portion. Each barb is curved in its normal unstressed state, but is capable of being elastically deformed into longitudinal channels in the middle portion of the anchor assembly. The anchor assembly is deployed in a hole in the workpiece by an installation tool which is adapted to receive the reduced second portion of the anchor assembly in its distal end.

Abstract: A suture anchor for anchoring one end of a conventional suture to bone comprising a coupling member, at least one barb made of a resilient elastic material projecting form said coupling member, and means for attaching one end of a suture to said suture anchor. The coupling member and the at least one barb and adapted to securely anchor one end of the suture in bone when the suture is attached to the attachment means so that the other end of the suture extending outside the bone can be used to attach objects to the bone. A novel application tool is also provided.

Abstract: Medical devices which are currently proposed to use elements made from shape memory alloys may be improved by the use of stress-induced martensite alloy elements instead. The use of stress-induced martensite decreases the temperature sensitivity of the devices, thereby making them easier to install and/or remove.

Abstract: An assembly is provided for seeking an area of interest within a body. The assembly includes an elongated directable member having a distal end for insertion into the body. The distal end includes a tip portion. The assembly also includes a deflector coupled to the directable member for deflecting the distal end of the directable member to direct the directable member within the body. The assembly further includes a sensor located in close proximity to the top portion of the directable member for sensing an area of interest within the body. The sensor generates an indicator signal upon detection of the area of interest. The assembly still further includes a control unit coupled to the deflector for controlling deflection of the distal end of the directable member by the deflector. The control unit generates a control signal to drive the deflector.

Abstract: A biocompatible titanium alloy with low elastic modulus containing titanium, about 10-20 wt. % or 35 to about 50 wt. % niobium and up to 20 wt. % zirconium useful for fabricating of orthopedic implants. This invention relates generally to high strength, biocompatible alloys suitable for use as a material for a medical prosthetic implant and, in particular, a titanium alloy which has a relatively low modulus of elasticity (e.g. closer to that of bone than other typically-used metal alloys) and does not include any elements which have been shown or suggested as having short term or long term potential adverse effect from a standpoint or biocompatibility.

Abstract: A device for removing foreign objects from anatomic organs such as the ear canal or throat having a housing shaped like a flashlight, an electrical power source such as a battery or AC power from a wall socket, and a tip extending from the housing, the tip having at least one wire loop made from a shape-memory-effect alloy such as Nitinol switchably connected to the electrical power source such that when electric current flows through the wire loop the wire loop heats up and returns to a previously programmed shape such as a curet or tweezers so as to facilitate removal of the foreign object.