Abstract: A method and apparatus for a radially expandable stent for implantation within a body vessel, comprising a first and second wire having a series of alternating peaks and valleys. The valleys of the first wire are braided with the peaks of the second wire forming a braided region with the interwoven first and second wire being wound into a continuous helix having a hollow cylindrical shape. The peaks of the first wire of the continuous helix may be welded to the adjacent valleys of the second wire of the continuous helix. The peaks and valleys of the first wire may symmetrically intersect with the peaks and valleys of the second wire to form a uniform series of crossings thereby permitting even expansion of the first and second wires. The proximal end of the first wire may be attached to the proximal end of the second wire. The distal end of the first wire may be attached to the distal end of the second wire.

Abstract: Continuous, flexible demineralized bone is used as a support for growing cartilage tissue that may be used for implantation into a patient to replace defective of missing cartilage.

Abstract: An attachable two-chamber breast prosthesis includes two volumes of silicone materials that have different degrees of softness. The prosthesis includes three pieces of polyurethane film (a front film, a middle film, and a rear film) that form a front chamber and rear chamber. The periphery of the front chamber is smaller than the periphery of the rear chamber. The rear chamber, which contains the firmer silicone material, extends to the peripheral edge of the prosthesis. The front chamber, which contains the softer silicone material, does not extend all the way to the peripheral edge along the upper region of the prosthesis. By increasing the thickness of the rear chamber along a boomerang-shaped region defined by the peripheries of the front and rear chambers, the firmer silicone material in the rear chamber provides the prosthesis with proper support and reduces the tendency of the prosthesis to pull away from the skin along the top edge of the prosthesis.

Abstract: A method of preparing a breathable, custom-molded liner for an artificial limb socket includes the steps of providing a liner comprising an open-celled foam material impregnated with a curable resin, activating the curable resin, and deforming the foam material by positioning a residual limb on one of opposing surfaces of the liner, and positioning the artificial limb socket on a second opposing surface of the liner until curing is substantially complete to create and retain an impression of the residual limb in the foam material. A liner blank useful for preparing an artificial limb socket, comprising a foam material impregnated with a curable resin and sewn into the shape of a sock for an artificial limb, is also described.

Abstract: A tissue press for shaping or compressing a piece of tissue comprises first and second members movable relative to each other. A first forming element of a predetermined shape is selectively engageable on the first member. A second forming element of predetermined shape is selectively engageable on the second member. The first and second forming elements are positionable on opposite sides of the piece of tissue. The first and second members are relatively movable between a first spaced apart condition and a second condition in which the piece of tissue is held between the first and second forming elements. The means for shaping or compressing a piece of tissue may extrude the tissue. Means may also be provided for draining off fluid from compressed tissue, so that the tissue can be implanted in a compressed state and imbibe fluid from the host site. A retainer, which may be expandable, can be used to maintain the tissue graft in a compressed condition.

Abstract: A prosthesis socket casting device includes a base member on which an elongated annular molding bladder is mounted, the bladder peripherally enclosing a generally centrally located casting area and extendable when inflated from the forward side of the base. The bladder is formed of a pliable, air impermeable, relatively non-stretchable sheet material enclosing, in cooperation with the base, an air chamber peripherally surrounding the casting area. The casting area includes an open residual limb receiving end and extends from such end to the base, and an inflation system for the bladder is provided. The casting device may be used in conjunction with a prosthesis suction socket that includes a tension member at its distal end connectable to the base member during a casting procedure. Moldable and settable prosthesis socket or other moldable casting material is placed over the suction socket and is compression molded by the inflated bladder while the casting material cures.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for partially embedding a biocompatible material, such as a titanium coil, in the surface of a polymer bone implant to provide a porous coating for bone cells to grow through thereby promoting long term stabilization of the implant. In one embodiment, the coil is wrapped around the implant and placed in a manifold where rollers biased by springs press against the coil. The coil-implant is rotated and heated by a hot gas stream, the rollers-springs pushing the coil into the surface of the implant. In a second embodiment, the coil is compressed and placed onto a needle wire which is placed against the surface of the implant. The point of contact is heated and the implant is rotated with the needle wire creating a channel in the softened polymer and feeding the coil, which is simultaneously stretched, therein. The needle wire then pulls the polymer over a portion of the coil as it passes.

Abstract: A method is provided for reducing the amount of wear particulates generated by a total joint orthopaedic implant. The implant consists of two matched articulating components wherein at least one of the components is made of polymer or other material with similar physical properties. The method includes the steps of placing the total joint orthopaedic implant in a fluid bath and articulating the implant in the fluid bath for at least 1,000 cycles. The articulation may be performed in three stages. In the first, the implant is articulated under a load of substantially 0.1-500 Newtons with sliding speeds of substantially 0.01-0.5 meters per second. During a second stage the articulation takes place under a load of substantially 100-2,500 Newtons with sliding speeds of substantially 0.01-0.5 meters per second. In the third stage the articulation takes place under a load of substantially 2,500-10,000 Newtons at sliding speeds of 0.5-2.0 meters per second.

Abstract: A process for generating data for manufacturing a three-dimensional body utilizing a computer-aided design program. Mathematical models corresponding to reference three-dimensional bodies are provided. The mathematical models are stored in a memory of a computer. Input data representing an input three-dimensional body are provided to the computer. A representation the input data is generated on a display of the computer. The representation includes at least a portion of a contour of a vertical section extending through a central axis of the input three-dimensional body. A location of a preparation line is determined on the representation of the input three-dimensional body. A representation including at least a portion of a contour of a vertical section extending through a central axis of the one of the mathematical models is generated on the display of the computer superimposed on the representation of the input data.

Abstract: The surface of a device that is surgically implantable in living bone is prepared. The device is made of titanium with a native oxide layer on the surface. The method of preparation comprises the steps of removing the native oxide layer from the surface of the device and performing further treatment of the surface substantially in the absence of unreacted oxygen.

Abstract: This invention provides molded, biodegradable porous polymeric implant materials having a pore size distribution throughout the material which is substantially uniform. These materials can be molded into implants of any desired size and shape without loss of uniformity of pore size distribution. The implants are useful as biodegradable scaffolds for cell growth in healing of tissue defects. When manufactured to have an aspect ratio greater than about 3, the implants can be further hand-shaped to fit the defect into which they are placed and the desired shape for the regrown tissue.

Abstract: A vascular or endoluminal stent adapted for deployment in a vessel or tract of a patient to maintain an open lumen therein is formed from a metal open-ended tube which is the single component of the stent. The tube has a multiplicity of holes cut by laser through its wall. The through-holes are encompassed by serpentines that constitute the wall, the serpentines extending sinusoidally each in multiple 360.degree. wavelengths in a single turn about the axis of the tube and juxtaposed in plural substantially identical segments disposed with regularity along the axis. Each segment has a length equal to the distance between crests and troughs of the sinusoid. Adjacent serpentines are joined together at crest and trough, respectively, so that their interconnections are 180.degree. out of phase relative to their wavelength.

Abstract: Methods for forming implantable composite keratoprostheses are provided. The methods provide keratoprostheses designed to provide a suitable substrate for corneal epithelial cell growth while maintaining the desirable characteristics of hydrogels, i.e., clarity, flexibility and the ability to allow diffusive flow of nutrients. In a preferred embodiment the method includes placing corneal tissue in a mold having a corneal implant shape and crosslinking a polymeric solution to chemically bond a biocompatible hydrogel having a thickness between approximately 50 and 100 microns to the corneal tissue to form the keratoprosthesis. Upon implantation, the corneal tissue abuts epithelial cells surrounding the keratoprosthesis. In another preferred embodiment, a polymer solution is placed between the corneal tissue and a pre-formed hydrogel and then polymerized so that the polymer solution couples to both the hydrogel and the corneal tissue.

Abstract: Many medical implants have roughened surfaces that promote cell, bone or tissue adhesion as well as the adhesion of bone cement, for better affixing of the implants in the body. The roughened surfaces should be free of particulates, such as commonly arise from the blasting of implant surfaces with particulates to produce a desired surface finish. A method of producing implants with implant surfaces free of such particulates is to blast the implant surface with a biocompatible liquid, such as water, under high pressure. Under certain circumstances, a solvent may contain particulates that assist in producing the roughened surface, and the particulates are dissolved, sublimated or vaporized from the implant surface, leaving no particulate residue.

Abstract: This invention comprises a method of using tubular material to replace an atrioventricular (AV) heart valve (i.e., a mitral or tricuspid valve, positioned between an atrial chamber and a ventricular chamber) during cardiac surgery. Preferably, the tubular material should be inherently tubular; i.e., it should be created in tubular form from its inception, rather than by using a longitudinal suture line or other seam to convert a flat sheet of material into a tubular shape. Suitable tubular materials include (1) biocompatible synthetic materials which are manufactured in tubular form, by methods such as extrusion or coating a cylindrical molding device, using material which is sufficiently thin and flexible to serve as leaflets in AV heart valves; and (2) a segment of submucosal tissue harvested from a small intestine, either from the patient who is undergoing the cardiac surgery, or from an animal or human cadaver if the harvested tissue is properly treated to reduce antigenicity.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a femoral prosthesis component for cement-free anchoring and to a method of producing it. The prosthesis component, which can be produced by means of CAD and image-analysis methods, provides for the largest possible surface for the transmission of forces, and its mass and rigidity can be adapted to the individual properties of the bone.

Abstract: A system and method for fabricating a thermoplastic prosthetic limb socket from a thermoplastic preform cone involves the steps of: obtaining a digital or physical positive representation of a patient's residual limb; determining a desired thickness for the thermoplastic socket; selecting a thermoplastic preform cone; calculating the dimensions of a proximate extension to be added to the proximate end of the digital or physical representation of the patient's residual limb based upon the dimensions of the patient's residual limb, the dimensions of the preform cone, and the desired thickness of the thermoplastic socket; forming a positive socket mold based upon the combined dimensions of the patient's residual limb and the extension; heating the preform cone; and stretching the preform cone over the positive cast. Preferably the method is performed on a CAD tool.

Abstract: New and improved lubrifying coatings for reducing the coefficients of friction of surfaces on medical devices include hydrophilic copolymers derived monoethylenically-unsaturated monomers including some monomers having pendant primary amine functionality and some monomers having pendant tertiary amine functionality. The lubricious hydrogel coatings are covalently bondable to epoxy functionalized surfaces on the medical equipment to provide firmly adherent hydrogel coatings that are slippery when wet. Epoxy functionalized surfaces are provided by epoxy functional or epoxy group containing silane coupling agents. The pendant tertiary amine moieties are readily convertible at alkaline pH to quaternary ammonium cations to which anionic anti-thrombogenic agents may be bonded. Three dimensional copolymer matrices may also be provided as coatings on the surfaces by crosslinking the copolymers before or after attachment to the surface being treated.

Abstract: The invention relates to a process for the preparation of bone cements comprising active compounds and bone replacement materials or implantable drug depots produced therefrom. The bone cement is composed of a solid component and a liquid component. The active compound is dissolved in an organic solvent, the content of which does not exceed 50% by weight, based on the liquid component, and this solution is mixed with the liquid component or with the solid component.

Abstract: A reconstructive structure for a cartilaginous element having a plurality of superimposed layers of a small intestine submucosa compressed and secured together and shaped to provide the multi-layered reconstructive element of the anatomical shape of the cartilaginous element to be constructed. The method of forming the reconstructive structure includes superimposing the planar layers of the small intestine compressing, securing and cutting to the desired shape. The superimposing is performed so as to maintain the layers substantially planar prior to compressing and securing. The method of reconstructing a cartilaginous element includes removing at least a portion, if not substantially all of the cartilaginous element, but leaving a seed portion, sculpturing the reconstructive structure to the anatomical shape of the cartilaginous element to be reconstructed; positioning the receptive element adjacent to the seed portion and securing it thereto.

Abstract: A method for preparing heterogeneous graft material from animal tissue in which the harvested tissue is cleaned, chemically cross-linked and then vacuum-dried to remove substantially all moisture therefrom. The vacuum-dried animal tissue is then double-wrapped and subjected to radiation sterilization while in its packaged dry state. Electron beam sterilization is a preferred method. At the time of use, the outer wrap is opened and the inner sterile package is placed in the sterile field in the operating room. When the tissue specimen is removed from its inner wrap, it may be rehydrated in sterile saline to restore its soft, supple hand, or it may be implanted in its dry state at the implanting surgeon's discretion, in which case, the tissue would undergo rehydration with the patient's own body fluids.

Abstract: The invention provides an article of manufacture comprising a substantially non-immunogenic articular cartilage heterograft for implantation into humans. The invention further provides a method for preparing an articular cartilage heterograft by removing at least a portion of an articular cartilage from a non-human animal to provide a heterograft; washing the heterograft in saline and alcohol; subjecting the heterograft to at least one treatment selected from the group consisting of exposure to ultraviolet radiation, immersion in alcohol, ozonation, freeze/thaw cycling, and optionally to chemical crosslinking. In accordance with the invention the heterograft has substantially the same mechanical properties as the native xenogeneic articular cartilage.

Abstract: An improved three-dimensional, support socket digitizing system to be used primarily to manufacture a precisely configured clinical support device such as an orthotic brace and/or a prosthetic limb. The digitizing system includes at least one probe which is to be passed over a portion of the body to be supported, the probe including an exterior housing of known dimensions and being structured to have a position element disposed therein. The position element is structured to provide specific six-degree of freedom position and orientation information relative to a reference element which is also included in the digitizing system.

Abstract: Variably compliant natural tissue valve leaflets and vascular bioprosthetics incorporating variably compliant leaflets are provided along with methods for their manufacture. The variably compliant leaflets are fixed with the leaflet base section under greater pressure than the leaflet tip section rendering them relatively stiff along the leaflet base section and more flexible at the leaflet tip section. The radially variable flexing characteristics of the valve leaflets promote even distribution of mechanical stress on the valve assembly during the cardiac cycle leading to improved hemodynamic performance while retarding the calcification of the leaflet tissue.

Abstract: A method of preparing a delivery system for a biologically active growth and morphogenetic factor by using chromatographic techniques and which includes introducing such biologically active factor into a chromatography column of appropriate dimensions which contains an integral porous carrier comprising a solid adsorbent selected for its specific affinity for such biologically active factor. In one embodiment of the invention, porous hydroxyapatite is used as the carrier for bone morphogenetic proteins (i.e. BMPs). The invention extends to a delivery system prepared according to the above method; to an apparatus for preparing the delivery system according to this method; and to use of the delivery system in a method for inducing the information of new bone in primates.

Abstract: A device and method for preparing for and supporting surgical operations includes a numerically controlled positioning appliance which is arranged in a predetermined or measurable geometric relationship with respect to an operating site. A surgical instrument, such as a machining tool or a holder for a graft, can be releasably connected to this positioning appliance for movement in relation to the operation site. A measurement appliance is used for measuring coordinates of the operation site in relation to a stationary reference system. The holder can be releasably secured to the positioning appliance or, alternatively, can be secured on a securing device which is stationary in relation to the reference system. The securing device is arranged in a predetermined or measurable geometric relationship with respect to the operation site. A data processing unit with memory controls the positioning appliance. The memory stores a data record of a three-dimensional structural image of the operation site.

Abstract: A method is set fourth for making a perfected medical model on the basis of digital image information of a part of the body. According to which this image information of a part of the body is converted, by means of what is called the rapid prototyping technique and thus with a processing unit (4) and a rapid prototyping machine (5), into a basic model (9) of which at least a part perfectly shows the positive or negative form of at least a portion of the part of the body. At least an artificial functional element (10) with a useful function is added to the basic model (6) as a function of the digital information and possibly as a function of additional external information.

Abstract: The invention concerns a method for the electrochemical deposition of hydroxyapatite layers onto metal and ceramic surfaces, the actual electrochemical coating being combined with a pre-coating of the substrates by sol-gel processes, using a calcium and (hydrogen) phosphate-containing electrolyte by means of pulsed direct current. Materials coated in this way are used in the form of biocompatible implants in human and veterinary medicine and are distinguished by particularly high grow-in rates. In contrast to conventional methods of generating hydroxyapatite layers (conventional or microwave sintering of hydroxyapatite produced by the wet-chemical method, deposition by other electrochemical, plasma or laser-aided methods or by sol-gel techniques), this method is distinguished by the application of uniform hydroxyapatite coatings which adhere well and have a small amorphous portion and an optimum layer thickness (5-25 .mu.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a method of attaching spikes (34) to an orthopaedic implant such as an acetabular cup (22). The acetabular cup (22) is formed with at least one tapered hole (28) therein which extends from an outside diameter (30) to an inside diameter (32) of the cup. At least one spike (34) having a tapered end (38) is pressed into a corresponding tapered hole (28) of the cup (22), whereby an interference fit is created between the tapered end (38) and the tapered hole (28). The spike (34) is metallurgically bonded to the cup (22), such as by electron beam welding and heat treating. The inside diameter (32) of cup (22) is then finished.

Abstract: A method for polishing radially expandable surgical stents is disclosed where fluid abrasive media M flows over surfaces of the stent 10 causing the surfaces of the stent 10 to be polished and streamlined. The stent 10 is temporarily provided with cylindrical support ends 20, which are not radially expandable to support the stent 10 during the polishing process. An interior polishing fixture 100 is provided which has cylindrical chambers 135 therein adapted to receive a stent 10 therein. Fluid abrasive media M then flows into bores 108 in the fixture 100 leading to the cylindrical chambers 135 and adjacent the inner diameter surfaces of the stent 10. Surfaces of the stent 10 forming the outer diameter are polished by placing the stent 10 within an exterior polishing fixture 200 which has a cylindrical recess 220 therein.

Abstract: A method for stereolithographic construction of models including prostheses and anatomical pathology wherein CT scan data is computed to construct a plurality of two dimensional cross sectional images along one axis and the two dimensional image data is computed to create three dimensional coordinate data sets for the article to be modelled. The three dimensional data sets are then computed to obtain spaced parallel two dimensional image data sets in a second plane of the article and the reconstructed two dimensional image data sets are employed in a stereolithographic modelling apparatus to produce a three dimensional model of the article or part thereof. A prosthetic implant shaped to correct a defect in an anatomical part as well as a method for surgically implanting the implant using the stereolithographic method is also disclosed.

Abstract: The invention concerns a process for producing a gradient coating of calcium phosphat phases and metal oxide phases on metallic implants, in particular made of titanium or titanium alloys, for use as dental, jaw or joint implants. A solution containing calcium ions and phosphate ions is used as electrolyte of which the pH is slightly acidic to approximately neutral. The substrate electrodes are alternately polarized cathodically and anodically. The layer deposited in a gratuated manner is adherent, has a fine structure and is distinguished by a high degree of biocompatibility.

Abstract: A definitive socket for residual limb prosthetic use is formed in a single molding step by compressive pressure casting or molding a pre-formed, moldable, hardenable socket material over a residual limb and curing the socket material to a load-bearing hardened condition while it is maintained under peripheral compressive pressure against the residual limb and while the residual limb is tensioned in a distal direction during the casting process. The combination of pressure casting the socket material and applying tension to the residual limb in a distal direction while the socket material is curing results in forming a definitive socket that fits well to the residual limb after curing without substantial rectification. Pressure relief formations, socket coverings, and a prosthesis coupler may be compression molded simultaneously with the socket.

Abstract: This invention provides molded, biodegradable porous polymeric implant materials having a pore size distribution throughout the material which is substantially uniform. These materials can be molded into implants of any desired size and shape without loss of uniformity of pore size distribution. The implants are useful as biodegradable scaffolds for cell growth in healing of tissue defects. When manufactured to have an aspect ratio greater than about 3, the implants can be further hand-shaped to fit the defect into which they are placed and the desired shape for the regrown tissue.

Abstract: This invention comprises a method of using tubular material to replace a heart valve during cardiac surgery. To create a replacement atrioventricular (mitral or tricuspid) valve, the tube inlet is sutured to a valve annulus from which the native leaflets have been removed, and the tube outlet is sutured to papillary muscles in the ventricle. To create a semilunar (aortic or pulmonary) valve, the tube inlet is sutured to an annulus from which the native cusps have been removed, and the tube is either "tacked" at three points distally inside the artery, or sutured longitudinally along three lines; this allows the flaps of tissue between the three fixation points at the valve outlet to function as movable cusps. These approaches generate flow patterns that closely duplicate the flow patterns of native valves.

Abstract: The invention relates to a process for the production of porous shaped articles having a predetermined pore structure by shaping a composition which can undergo plastic deformation and then be solidified, which is characterized in that the shaped article is built up in the form of layers by repeated sequence of the stepsA. Production of a layer of the composition structured in an image-wise manner corresponding to the pore system, andB. Solidification of the layer the image structures of the individual layers being transferred from corresponding models. This process can preferably be used for the production of shaped articles having a three-dimensionally interconnecting pore system, and in particular for the production of shaped implants having the pore system of natural bone.

Abstract: A method for preparing implant surfaces using gas discharge plasma including conveying the implants to a vacuum chamber. The implants are treated with an inert gas plasma to remove existing surface contamination and oxide layers from the implant surfaces. The implants are treated with an oxidizing plasma or by means of thermal oxidation to reoxidizing the implant surfaces. The implant treatment steps are carried out in a closed space, including a controlled atmosphere and produce a highly accurate and reproducible microstructure, composition, purity, and sterility in the implants.

Abstract: Methods and compositions for use in bone repair are provided. The subject methods employ a two component calcium phosphate cement having a dry component and a lubricant, wherein the dry component of the cement comprises basic calcium phosphate particles at least partially coated with a partially neutralized acidic calcium phosphate. In the subject methods, the dry component and lubricant of the cement are combined to produce a moldable paste which is capable of hardening into a solid mass. The moldable paste may be introduced at a bone repair site and allowed to harden in situ. Alternatively the paste may be allowed to harden and then shaped to obtain a preformed object useful in bone repair.

Abstract: The specification describes an invention of calcification resistant bioprosthetic heart valves which can be used for a long term, and have good blood compatibility and in vivo stability, and have high calcification resistance. The bioprosthetic heart valves of the invention can be prepared by binding sulfonated polyethylene oxide (PEO) derivatives covalently to the tissue. The valves have an anionic effect equal to that of chondroitin sulfate, space filling effect, and blocking effect of the carboxyl group of collagen which has been known as one factor of the calcium deposition,. In particular, the present method has better advantages in view of calcification resistance than any other conventional methods, because it suppresses thrombosis and embolism and decreases incidence of infection.

Abstract: A method of assembling a heart valve is provided for use with an inner and a spreadable outer stent. The outer stent is mounted onto a spreading tool including a spreading ring, and expander, and a plunger. A protective cap is placed over the outer stent and plunger to prevent relative rotation of the outer stent to the expander prior to the complete spreading of the outer stent. The inner stent, with tissue wrapped thereon, is mounted onto an insertion tool including a mandrel having a plurality of guide rails for mating with slots of the spreading ring, wherein the guide rails in the slots provide axial and radial alignment of the inner and outer stents. The mandrel holding the inner stent is inserted through the spreading ring holding the outer stent, thereby releasing the mated stents from the spreading ring and mandrel and securely clamping the tissue between the stents.

Abstract: A method of forming an orthopaedic implant having a porous surface, the method including the steps of providing a porous surface including a porous layer attached to a substantially solid layer; positioning the porous layer on the orthopaedic implant; providing a high energy density welding device capable of producing a high energy density weld beam; and forming a weld bead substantially about the periphery of the porous layer by directing the high energy density weld beam about the periphery of the porous layer, wherein the weld bead bonds the porous layer to the implant. Two shaped porous pads may also be welded together about an implant body to avoid welding the body itself.

Abstract: A tissue press for shaping or compressing a piece of tissue comprises first and second members movable relative to each other. A first forming element of a predetermined shape is selectively engageable on the first member. A second forming element of predetermined shape is selectively engageable on the second member. The first and second forming elements are positionable on opposite sides of the piece of tissue. The first and second members are relatively movable between a first spaced apart condition and a second condition in which the piece of tissue is held between the first and second forming elements. Means are preferably provided for monitoring and controlling the amount of pressure applied to the piece of tissue, in order to maintain the tissue in a viable living condition. Means may also be provided for draining off fluid from compressed tissue, so that the tissue can be implanted in a compressed state and imbibe fluid from the host site.

Abstract: Improved Implant assemblies and methodologies provide immuno-protection for implanted allografts, xenografts, and isografts. The assemblies and methodologies establish an improved chamber for holding the implanted cells. The chambers include first and second wall elements and an intermediate sealing element. The first and second wall elements overlie an open area in the sealing member to form a chamber for holding cells for implantation. A sealed region is created between the wall elements and the sealing element body to close the chamber. In one arrangement, the sealed region is created by means of a sonic weld made while the implanted cells are present in the chamber. In another arrangement, the sealed region is created by means of applying an external force to compress the peripheral edges of the wall elements and the sealing element together while the implanted cells are present in the chamber.

Abstract: A minus power anterior chamber ocular implant for placement in the anterior chamber of a phakic eye having an anatomic lens in situ comprises a negative artificial refracting lens having at least one concave surface, a surface coating which comprises a compatible sulfated polysaccharide medicament coating, such as heparin, and and having a structure which positions having a structure which positions the artificial lens in the anterior chamber of the eye to prevent contact between the implant and the anatomic lens. The implant compensates for refractive errors or creates a specific refraction to assist in visual function and has increased biocompatibility in the anterior chamber of the eye, thereby preventing or mitigating detrimental effects typically associated with the implantation of an uncoated refractive anterior chamber implant in the eye.

Abstract: Provided are orthopedic fasteners and replacements such as nails, screws, pins, hip and knee replacements, etc., coated with hydrogels and other biocompatible/biodegradable materials which expand in the presence of liquids. Swelling of such coatings causes the fastener or replacement to be securely fixed into position once inserted into bone material. Useful coating materials include methacrylates, hyaluronic acid esters, and crosslinked esters of hyaluronic acid resulting from the esterification of hyaluronic acid with polyhydric alcohols. Also provided is a method for fixing a bone or bone replacement in position employing such coated orthopedic fasteners or replacements.

Abstract: A microporous polytetrafluoroethylene ("PTFE") endovascular graft which has a reinforcing structure integrally bound to the graft which permits radial expansion of the graft and stabilizes the graft against longitudinal compression upon application of an axial force thereto and against axial foreshortening upon radial expansion of the graft. The graft is particularly useful as a covering for an endovascular stent.

Abstract: The surface of a surgically-implantable prosthetic device is impacted with particles of the same material as the device to form the surface into a desired pattern of roughness.

Abstract: The surface of a device that is surgically implantable in living bone is prepared. The device is made of titanium with a native oxide layer on the surface. The method of preparation comprises the steps of removing the native oxide layer from the surface of the device and performing further treatment of the surface substantially in the absence of unreacted oxygen.

Abstract: A set of interlaminar clamps of specific and improved shapes provides a better fit to clamp together any two adjacent cervical laminae in the range from C1 to C7. These clamps are called Moskovich clamps, and their distinctive shapes are called Moskovich Curves. A method is also presented to manufacture similar cervical clamps for improved fit to clamp together any two adjacent cervical laminae throughout the entire back. This method is called the Moskovich Method. Morphometric data was taken for a large number of C1 through C7 laminae. Average shapes were then computed from this data for the C1 through C7 laminae. A small number of clamp shapes were then calculated that would fit these average cervical shapes. It was found that only a small number of clamp shapes were needed for clamps for the C1 through C7 range, and that these clamp shapes were different from what was available on the market in the prior art clamps.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing a three-dimensional body using a program with computer aided design, comprises the steps of generating input data for a computer, the data representing a three-dimensional body model, storing the input data in the computer, instructing the program via an input device to activate first signals for generating based on the input data, a plurality of surfaces representing a three-dimensional body model, each surface comprising a contour of a vertical section extending through a central axis of the three-dimensional body model, instructing the program via the input device to activate second signals for modifying contours of vertical sections in accordance with the desired three-dimensional body, and instructing the program via the input device to activate third signals for storing output data which denotes modifications of the contours in response to second signals, with the output data being transmittable from the computer for manufacturing the three-dimensional body.