Abstract: The disclosed embodiments relate to a temporomandibular joint prosthesis including a joint portion, a fixation portion, and at least one flexible unit. The joint portion is configured to be as a temporomandibular joint and movably connected to cranial skeleton. The fixation portion is configured to be fixed on mandible. The flexible unit is located between and connected to the joint portion and the fixation portion. The fixation portion is movable with respect to the joint portion via the flexible unit.

Abstract: A graft cage includes cross-sectional portions and longitudinal members. Each portion includes base transverse members forming a cage base; a first arm including first arm transverse members; a second arm including second arm transverse members; base connecting struts, each base connecting strut extending between first one and second one of the base members; first arm connecting struts, each first arm connecting strut extending between a first one of the first members and a second one of the first members; and second arm connecting struts, each second arm connecting strut extending between first one and second one of the second members. The longitudinal members connect the portions to one another. Intersections of the portions with the longitudinal members forming pores in the first and second arms. The pores receive an arm tip of a further graft cage therein to interlock the cage with the further cage.

Abstract: Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are directed towards an implantable device for complete replacement of temporomandibular joint comprising of a condyle component to reconstruct a mandibular end of the temporomandibular joint designed for movement within the implantable device with a plate; and a condyle surface where the plate is configured to mechanically secure the condyle component to a ramus surface of a patient undergoing implant with the aid of screws; and the condyle surface polished to generate a mirror effect to reduce the friction in the implantable device and infection rate; a zygomatic arch component to reconstruct a temporal bone (glenoid fossa) of the temporomandibular joint comprising at least one of: a plate; a plurality of multiple threaded counter sink holes; a plurality of conically tapered holes and a zygomatic arch surface, whereby the multiple threaded counter sink holes are structured within the plate; and a fossa component configured to be positioned between the condyle

Abstract: The disclosure relates to a reconstruction prosthesis including a main section, at least one serpentine structure, and at least one mount section. The at least one serpentine structure is connected to one end of the main section. The at least one mount section is connected to the main section via the at least one serpentine structure. The at least one mount section is configured to be connected to osseous tissue. When the at least one serpentine structure is deformed by force, the relative position of the main section and the at least one mount section is changed.

Abstract: A graft scaffold geometry is provided for use in the repair of segmental large bone defect. The scaffold geometry has a first (central) conduit with one or several hook-shaped chamber, which form a second conduit, integrated to the lateral side of the scaffold. The purpose of the hook-shaped chamber(s) is three-fold: 1) to facilitate the insertion and containment of biological augmentation constructs, such as growth factor-impregnated carrier devices; 2) stabilize the local surrounding soft tissue envelope to allow ingrowth of new blood vessels; and 3) to improve the manipulation of the composite bone free flap during implantation. Whether one or all of these mechanisms are active in a given situation, the overall result is that the hook chamber enables enhanced containment of graft-augmenting synthetic osteoinductive constructs, prevents their displacement, and maintains their proximity to the scaffold, thus improving the chances of success of the graft.

Abstract: A bone graft containment device includes a plurality of cage segments connected to one another along a longitudinal axis, each of the cage segments connected to an adjacent one of the cage segments via a connection which permits movement of the cage segments relative to one another so that the bone graft containment device is deformable to a desired configuration for placement within a target space of a bone, each cage segment extending along from a first end to a second end and including a channel extending therethrough so that channels of the plurality of cage segments, in an initial configuration, are aligned along the longitudinal axis, the channels configured to be packed with a bone graft material.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for forming a patient-specific surgical implant based on mold system. The apparatus comprises a forming tool and a mold that may be generated using imaging and processing techniques and rapid prototyping methods. The mold apparatus includes at least two non-adjacent surface features for securing an implant forming material (such as a titanium mesh) during the forming process, enabling the implant forming material to be stretched beyond its elastic and thus permanently deformed with the correct patient-specific curvature. The implant may include one or more anatomic surface features for guidance and registration when transferring the implant to a patient.

Abstract: The invention relates to an implant for attaching to a bone, having bone support surfaces or bone formfitting sections which are inclined relative to each other in order to rest on the surface of the bone. Two bone formfitting sections are aligned relative to each other in a sub-region of the implant such that surrounding the bone in the sub-region secures the position of the implant. The invention also relates to a method for producing an implant according to the invention.

Abstract: An implant having a surface layer consisting of fibres and a matrix, having a first surface opposite to a second surface, and having a thickness that is at most 5% of the largest dimension of the surface layer; a porous biodegradable part having a first surface and opposite to a second surface, where its first surface is attached to the surface layer's second surface and having a thickness of 1-8 mm; and a collagen membrane layer having a first surface opposite to a second surface, where its first surface is attached to the porous part's second surface without covering the porous part's edges; and where the porous part comprises material selected from the group consisting of bioactive glass, bioactive ceramic, hydroxyapatite, tricalciumphosphate and mixtures thereof.

Abstract: Mandible endoprosthesis implant and mandible endoprosthesis implant system and surgical kit comprising the same, the mandible endoprosthesis implant comprising: first end second implant elements which can be coupled in a manner so as to allow a relative pivotal movement therebetween. The present disclosure further provides methods for surgically repairing a mandible.

Abstract: A temporo-mandibular prosthesis including a glenoid part and a condylar part intended to be articulated relative to the glenoid part. The glenoid part including a glenoid support made in a metallic material; and a glenoid insert made in a non-metal lie material, and defining a seat for a head of said condylar part to define said articulation, wherein the glenoid support defines a housing having an opening through which said glenoid insert is insertable into said housing, said opening opening on an external side (E) of said glenoid support, the glenoid support comprising a tab configurable in a passive position and in an active position in which said tab allows and forbids, respectively, the insertion and the extraction, respectively, of said glenoid insert into and out of said housing, respectively.

Abstract: A soft tissue implant for correction of temporalis depressions or hollowing. The implant has a symmetric shape or external configuration, so that the device may be used as either a right or left temporalis implant. The implant may lie under or on top of the remaining temporalis muscle, or in the location formerly occupied by the temporalis muscle, to correct post-craniectomy temporal hollowing. The implant is manufactured from a medical grade, long term implantable silicone polymer material. The implant has a shell which forms the base of the device, with the base having an exterior surface and an interior surface with spaced projecting support structures. The implant is fully flexible or bendable.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides intramedullary mandibular implants for the temporomandibular joint. The mandibular implants include a stem portion, a collar portion and a head portion. The stem, collar and head portions may be integral. The stem portion may define an inferior end and the head portion may define a superior end of the implants. The head portion may be arcuate in the sagittal plane to provide an articulating surface with a fossa or a fossa component. The collar portion may be intermediate of the head and stem portions and form a channel between an interior surface of the collar portion and an exterior surface of the stem portion. In use, the stem portion may be implanted within a condyle of a mandible such that an end portion of the condyle is situated within the channel of the implant and the head portion articulates with the fossa or fossa component.

Abstract: A mandibular bone plate (10) can include a body (40) that defines a bone facing surface (44), an outer surface (48) that is opposite the bone facing surface, and a plurality of bone anchor holes (52) that extend through the body from the bone facing surface to the outer surface. The body can include a chin portion (56) and first (60) and second (64) extension portions that extend from the chin portion such that the bone facing surface of the chin portion faces the inferior surface of the mandible when the mandibular bone plate is attached to the mandible and the bone facing surfaces of the first and second extension portions at least partially face the lingual surface of the mandible when the mandibular bone plate is attached to the mandible.

Abstract: Provided are biocompatible and implantable scaffolds for treating a tissue defect, such as a bone gap. The scaffolds can have a modular design comprising a tissue scaffold rack designed to accommodate one or more modules. Also provided are methods for fabrication and use of such scaffolds.

Abstract: Prostheses, methods and related instrumentation for treating disorders of the knee by displacing a connective tissue acting on the patella to alter the location, angle or magnitude of forces exerted by the tissue on the patella so as to achieve a therapeutic effect in patellofemoral compartment of the knee.

Abstract: Fluid communication may be improved for an ethmoid sinus by installing a port or wick in the wall of the ethmoid sinus to provide a fluid passageway across the wall of the ethmoid sinus. Fluid communication for an ethmoid sinus may also be improved by inflating a balloon in a retrobullar space, remodeling the posterior wall of the ethmoid bulla to expand the transition area in the retrobullar space. In addition, a wall defining the retrobullar space may be pierced to provide a passageway for fluid communication.

Abstract: A scaffold for bone augmentation constituted of: a superstructure configured and dimensioned to substantially ameliorate a bone defect, the superstructure comprising: a biocompatible material having a strength and tensility sufficient to be permanently stationed between an upper jaw and a lower jaw; a first face arranged to face the bone defect; a second face, opposing the first face; a plurality of perforations extending from the first face to the second face; and bone augmentation material deposited within said plurality of perforations, wherein the perforations are of a size sufficient to secure bone augmentation material deposited within the plurality of perforations.

Abstract: One aspect of the present disclosure relates to a system for treating obstructive sleep apnea in a subject. The system can include a power source and a neuromuscular stimulator in electrical communications with the power source. The neuromuscular stimulator can include a controller and at least one electrode. The controller can be configured to receive certain power and stimulation parameters associated with a therapy signal from the power source. The at least one electrode can be configured to deliver the therapy signal to a target tissue associated with control of a posterior base of the tongue of the subject.

Abstract: A device for covering and/or reconstructing a bone defect site and a method for producing a cap of a covering device for a bone defect site, wherein the device for covering and/or reconstructing a bone defect site consists of a cap (moulded shell, rigid shell, shaped body) and of at least one fixing means for fixing the cap on a bone. The cap is distinguished by having a dimensionally stable (rigid) nature, and a wall of the cap directed towards the bone defect or a wall of the cap directed away from the bone defect corresponds to the shape of the regenerated bone.

Abstract: A porous metal augment is sized for use in mandibular or maxillar bone. The porous metal material of the augment facilitates and promotes ingrowth of the surrounding bone into the porous metal structure, thereby rebuilding a suitable foundation for affixation of dental implants. A non-porous core or insert can be embedded within the porous metal body of the augment, and can be made of a material suitable for firm threaded fixation of dental implants thereto. For example, the metal core can be formed of a titanium structure that has sufficient strength and resiliency to form a firm and long lasting threaded connection with a threaded stem of a dental implant.

Abstract: In accordance with the purpose(s) of the present disclosure, as embodied and broadly described herein, embodiments of the present disclosure, in one aspect, relate to TMJ implantation materials and implants (e.g., temporomandi bular joint (TMJ) methods of making TMJ implantation materials and implants, methods of forming a TMJ implantation material or an implant, and the like.

Abstract: The presently disclosed technology is directed towards an adjustable prosthesis prosthesis for replacing a mandible along with the ramus with a mandibular condyle. The prosthesis articulates to the skull at the temporal bone region. The prosthesis, of embodiments of the disclosed technology, has a horizontal/sagittal (or generally horizontal) and/or vertical (or generally vertical) adjustment screw which is accessible after implantation. In one embodiment, the adjustment screw is accessible by way of using a tool and rotating an adjustment rod. The adjustment rod is accessed via a sub-periosteal intral-oral incision, through points in the oral cavity post-surgical placement. The adjustment rod allows the length of the device, both a horizontal portion and vertical portion, to be adjusted post-placement.

Abstract: Embodiments relate to systems and methods for a cranial implant assembly adapted for insertion during a craniectomy procedure. In aspects, the inventive cranial implant assembly can contain a peripheral attachment member for attachment to the edge of a skull opening, as well as an articulated spanning member that over-arches and holds a cover in place over the opening. The articulated spanning member contains a central implant fastened or connected to a swollen dura in the skull opening. As swelling of the dura subsides, tension is exerted on guidewires in both the spanning member and cover to draw those constructs into a rigid state. The tips of the spanning member can gradually approach the peripheral attachment member, and register into place using a locking mechanism, such as a pair of opposing magnets. As a result, only one surgical operation or procedure Is required to both perform a craniectomy and implant a supporting assembly for eventual skull regeneration.

Abstract: The presently disclosed technology is directed towards an adjustable prosthesis for replacing a mandible along with the ramus with a mandibular condyle. The prosthesis articulates to the skull at the temporal bone region. The prosthesis, of embodiments of the disclosed technology, has a horizontal/sagittal (or generally horizontal) and/or vertical (or generally vertical) adjustment screw which is accessible after implantation. In one embodiment, the adjustment screw is accessible by way of using a tool and rotating an adjustment rod. The adjustment rod is accessed via a sub-periosteal intra-oral incision, through points in the oral cavity post-surgical placement. The adjustment rod allows the length of the device, both a horizontal portion and vertical portion, to be adjusted post-placement.

Abstract: Systems and methods for detecting an obstructive sleep apnea event are disclosed herein. The systems and methods may use an electrical output generating ionic polymer metal composite sensor attached to a region in an airway passage in an oral cavity. The electrical output may be wirelessly transmitted as a signal for indication of an obstructive sleep apnea event. The signal may be further analyzed for treatment of the obstructive sleep apnea event.

Abstract: The present invention relates to mosaic implant (15) comprising a plurality of mosaic plates (17) connected by a wire or mesh anchoring arrangement (9). Methods for forming such implants and methods for using said implants for correction of bone and soft tissue defects are described.

Abstract: A system for treating obstructive sleep apnea includes an anchoring element having scar tissue located in an inframandibular region, and a tongue implant having at least one arm extending therefrom, whereby the tongue implant is implantable in a tongue with the at least one arm being connectable with the anchoring element for coupling the tongue implant with the anchoring element. In one embodiment, the anchoring element includes a first implant part such as a flexible layer implantable in the inframandibular region and the scar tissue is formed on, in, and/or around the first implant part. The tongue implant is coupled with the anchoring element and/or the scar tissue through the at least one arm. The length of the at least one arm may be adjusted for shifting the tongue anteriorly.

Abstract: An arrangement and an implant are provided for increasing the stress resistance of the implant arranged in an upper jaw bone. The implant has access via parts to the sinus cavity. At said parts, the implant is arranged with a convex or rounded front surface which, upon access, lifts the sinus mucous membrane, without piercing the latter, and thus forms a closed space between the parts and the underside of the mucous membrane. The implant is provided, at least at said parts, with growth-stimulating substance or substances which interact with cell-containing body fluid which penetrates or has penetrated into the space, so that new bone is formed around said parts of the implant.

Abstract: Prosthetic apparatuses with probiotic microorganisms to control colonization of pathogenic bacteria are disclosed. The prosthetic apparatus may include a first portion having a first mating surface, a second portion having a second mating surface that conforms to the first mating surface, and at least one strain of probiotic microorganisms retained between the first and second mating surfaces prior to implantation of the prosthetic apparatus.

Abstract: Porous craniomaxillofacial implants may include a plurality of polymeric particles sintered together at a plurality of contact points to form a porous network having pores; and an antioxidant disposed on a surface of at least some of the polymeric particles and/or in the pore of the porous network, so as to stabilize the implants from at least some oxidative damage during storage, transportation, and/or implementation (in vivo and/or ex vivo). Preferably, the polymeric particles include at least one of polyethylene, a polyethylene-polypropylene copolymer, a polyethylene-polybutylene copolymer, polytetrafluoroethylene, and expanded polytetrafluoroethylene.

Abstract: A method of fixating a graft to an area of deficient bone in the jaws comprising: exposing the area of deficient bone by incising and retracting soft tissue; selecting a drill bit having a diameter corresponding to the area of deficient bone to receive a graft; contacting the selected drill bit with the exposed deficient bone to form a generally cylindrical seat transversely into the side of the deficient bone for receiving the graft; selecting a cylindrical graft having a length and circular cross-sectional corresponding to the diameter and depth of the formed seat; fixating the graft to the formed seat with at least one screw; and closing the soft tissue to cover the previously exposed deficient bone.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention are related to temporomandibular joint replacement apparatus and methods, amongst other things. In an embodiment, the invention includes an apparatus for treating dysfunction of the temporomandibular joint including a base plate comprising a bottom surface defining a tongue, and a surface plate comprising a substantially convex surface. The surface plate can be configured to be fastened to the base plate. Other embodiments are also included herein.

Abstract: A biocompatible prosthetic device comprising a thin low friction spacer for location to overlie a bone member in an interpositional location between opposed bone joint articular surfaces. The prosthesis is preferably a thin spacer with at least one low friction surface, the spacer being adapted for location about a bone member in an interpositional location between opposed bone joint articular surfaces preferably about a margin of articular cartilage of a bone member's condyle, preferably without any modification of the articular surface of the condyle. One preferred use of a prosthesis is in a human temporomandibular joint as a thin cap-like member fitted closely over the mandibular condyle to be disposed intermediate of the mandibular condyle and the mandibular fossa of the temporomandibular joint.

Abstract: A dental implant system for placement within a jaw of a patient includes an envelope including an outer surface and an inner surface defining a barrel. At least one barrier is located in the barrel. The barrel having a first region on one side of the barrier and a second region on an opposing side of the barrier. An expander member is movable within the barrel along a longitudinal axis of the barrel from the first region to the second region. The barrier prohibits the expander member from moving from the second region to the first region.

Abstract: A system, method and devices for mandible reconstruction wherein a replacement mandible, either full or partial, is formed by cutting and reconnecting a donor bone, the devices comprising guide or template members that provide the correct angles needed for cutting the donor bone in order to replicate the configuration of the mandible being reconstructed. The system comprises a plurality of wedge-shaped members.

Abstract: The presently disclosed technology is directed towards an adjustable prosthesis for replacing a mandible along with the ramus with a mandibular condyle. The prosthesis articulates to the skull at the temporal bone region. The prosthesis, of embodiments of the disclosed technology, has a horizontal/sagittal (or generally horizontal) and/or vertical (or generally vertical) adjustment screw which is accessible after implantation. In one embodiment, the adjustment screw is accessible by way of using a tool and rotating an adjustment rod. The adjustment rod is accessed via a sub-periosteal intra-oral incision, through points in the oral cavity post-surgical placement. The adjustment rod allows the length of the device, both a horizontal portion and vertical portion, to be adjusted post-placement.

Abstract: A bone augmentation device includes at least one axial member defining a longitudinal axis and a plurality of transverse members. Each transverse member extends from a first end, removably connected to the at least one axial member to a second end configured for fixation with bone. The transverse members are spaced apart and disposed along the longitudinal axis. The at least one axial member and the transverse members are disposed in a configuration to define a bone graft cavity. Methods of use are also disclosed.

Abstract: A biocompatible prosthetic device comprising a thin low friction spacer for location to overlie a bone member in an interpositional location between opposed bone joint articular surfaces. The prosthesis is preferably a thin spacer with at least one low friction surface, the spacer being adapted for location about a bone member in an interpositional location between opposed bone joint articular surfaces preferably about a margin of articular cartilage of a bone member's condyle, preferably without any modification of the articular surface of the condyle. One preferred use of a prosthesis is in a human temporomandibular joint as a thin cap-like member fitted closely over the mandibular condyle to be disposed intermediate of the mandibular condyle and the mandibular fossa of the temporomandibular joint.

Abstract: A dental bone implant that comprises a first fitted bone graft sized and shaped to fit tightly to a buccal surface of a periodontal alveolar bone around at least one tooth and to reconstruct at least a portion of one or more periodontal bone defect and a second fitted bone graft sized and shaped to fit tightly to a lingual/palatal surface of a periodontal alveolar bone around at least one tooth and to reconstruct at least an additional portion of at least one periodontal bone defect. The portion and the other portion complementary cover the one or more periodontal bone defects.

Abstract: A dental implant for coupling an artificial tooth to a jawbone of a patient is provided. The dental implant includes an elongated body having a first end threaded bone-engaging portion for engaging the dental implant with the jawbone and a second end, and wherein the dental implant is adapted to operate as a conduit for bone grafting material by enabling introduction of the bone grafting material into a grafting space extending between said elongated body and the patient's jawbone surrounding it. Preferably, the dental implant includes a plurality of longitudinal grooves located at the external surface of the threaded bone-engaging portion of the dental implant, or includes circumferentially located openings, to allow delivery of bone grafting material into the grafting space.

Abstract: A biocompatible, self-supporting, curved, collagen membrane adapted to be secured by bone tacks or bone screws over exposed bone at a desired bone graft site in the alveolar ridge of a patient such that the membrane defines a space having a predetermined height and width over the exposed bone, in which the membrane maintains its structural integrity for at least 4 months after implantation at the bone graft site and then naturally breaks down and is resorbed by the patient's body, a method of making such a membrane, and a method of using such a membrane for vertical augmentation of the alveolar ridge of the patient.

Abstract: The present disclosure uses different kinds of surface treatment processes on titanium-made dental implants. The growth and attachment conditions of bone cells (MC3T3-E), fibroblasts (NIH 3T3) and epidermal cells (XB-2) on the metal surface of titanium slices with different surface treatments are observed. Tetra-calcium phosphate is used to perform secondary sand-blasting process to clean up the metal surface and provide calcium ions for osteoblastoma physiology. Thus, by adjusting the cells adhesive and proliferative abilities, the success rate of the clinical applications in dental implant is improved.

Abstract: The present invention provides a porous block for implantation in the maxillofacial area of a human or animal, wherein the porous block:—comprises titanium metal and/or a titanium alloy;—has a porosity of at least 40%;—is a geometrical structure shaped to fit at least a part of a degraded alveolar process of the human or animal; and—as an intended bone contacting surface intended to be in contact with the bone surface of an implantation site in the maxillofacial area of the human or animal, wherein said bone contacting surface has pores extending through the porous block and wherein at least some of these pores have a pore diameter size of at least 50 ?m to ensure bone ingrowth; and wherein—the porous block is a geometrical structure having a width, a height and a length, said intended bone contacting surface being defined by the width and the length, wherein the average value of the width is in the range of 5-10 mm, the average value of the height is in the range of 3-10 mm and the average value of the lengt

Abstract: This invention relates to an osteogenic device for the de novo induction of bone formation in a mammal. The device contains a at least one transforming growth factor-&bgr;3 isoform and a retention matrix. The device is introduced by direct injection or surgical implantation into an area where de novo bone formation is desired and, once implanted, the retention matrix acts to retain the TGF-&bgr;3 isoform at its place of introduction and forms a scaffold for generated bone, the induction of which is promoted by the TGF-&bgr;3 isoform. The device may be used to induce bone growth where bone has been debrided in a surgical procedure and it may also be used to transform neoplastic primary and/or metastatic secondary masses into bone thus facilitating surgical debridement thereof.

Abstract: Provided are biocompatible and implantable scaffolds for treating a tissue defect, such as a bone gap. The scaffolds can have a modular design comprising a tissue scaffold rack designed to accommodate one or more modules. Also provided are methods for fabrication and use of such scaffolds.

Abstract: The invention relates to an implant (1), particularly a jaw implant, which comprises several structural zones (5, 6, 12) made of a material which is non-resorbable, particularly from bones, for the implantation on bones or at least in the vicinity of bones. In an advantageous further embodiment of the implant, two or more of said structural zones (5, 6, 12) have respectively different material properties, in particular different physical properties such as different deformation and/or strength properties. The invention also relates to a method for determining load-dependent deformations in different bone regions, according to which X-ray images of the bone regions are taken with and without mechanical load for comparison. By comparing the X-ray images taken of the individual bone regions under or without load, the resulting deformation can be determined due to the applied load.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a surgical guide and accompanying depth bur with a method for its use during sinus elevation surgery utilizing the Caldwell-Luc Osteotomy procedure. The surgical guide of the present invention provides accurate transfer of the parameters of the surgical osteotomy to be performed during sinus elevation surgery. It bridges the gap between the precise information obtained from the CT scan and the surgical field on which this surgical plan must be placed. This is accomplished by the use of the surgical guide which is constructed based on the information in the CT scan and the treatment plan prepared utilizing 3-D imaging software.

Abstract: An intervertebral device for spacing apart vertebral members comprises a plurality of stackable shims including at least a first shim and a second shim. The first shim includes a first body with a first portion of a male-female connector, and a removable guide that is affixed to the first body and extends along at least a portion of the first body. The second shim includes a second body with a second portion of the male-female connector. A longitudinal passage extends through the second body and is sized to receive the guide on the first body. The second shim is moveable relative to the first shim with the guide disposed in the passage between a disengaged position and an engaged position. In the engaged position, the first shim is stacked on the second shim.

Abstract: An airway implant device for maintaining and/or creating an opening in air passageways is disclosed. Methods and devices for removing, the device are also disclosed. Methods of treating airway disorders such as sleep apnea and snoring with the airway implant device are disclosed herein.