Abstract: The present technology relates to depots for the treatment of postoperative pain via sustained, controlled release of a therapeutic agent. In some embodiments, the depot may comprise a therapeutic region comprising an analgesic, and a control region comprising a bioresorbable polymer and a releasing agent mixed with the polymer. The releasing agent may be configured to dissolve when the depot is placed in vivo to form diffusion openings in the control region. The depot may be configured to be implanted at a treatment site in vivo and, while implanted, release the therapeutic agent at the treatment site for no less than 3 days.

Abstract: A mould adapted to be introduced into a joint of a human patient for resurfacing at least one carrying contacting surface of said joint is provided. The mould is adapted to receive material for resurfacing at least one carrying contacting surface of said joint. The mould is further adapted to be resorbed by the human body or melt after having served its purpose.

Abstract: An internal bone fixation device that includes a support frame that is strong but able to absorb compressive forces and that surrounds a porous architecture that helps facilitate bone fusion.

Abstract: Embodiments of an artificial meniscus are disclosed herein. An artificial meniscus includes at least one circumferential fiber bundle and the at least one non-circumferential fiber bundle embedded in a polymer material. The non-circumferential fiber bundles are fully encapsulated within the polymer material, and the circumferential fiber bundles extend out of anterior and posterior horns of the artificial meniscus to terminate in ends that are configured for fixation to bone. Methods of making and implanting artificial menisci are also disclosed herein. The methods of making include, but are not limited to, stepwise molding, layering, and curing of polymer material around the circumferential and non-circumferential fiber bundles. The methods of implanting include threading ends of the circumferential fiber bundles through first and second bone tunnels, then immobilizing the ends of the circumferential fiber bundles with respect to the bone of the subject.

Abstract: In one aspect, an implant for replacing subject tissue includes a nonbiologic portion and a biologic portion grown on the nonbiologic portion. The biologic portion may be grown on the nonbiologic portion before being implanted in the subject. The nonbiologic portion may comprise a porous metal substrate (e.g., scaffolding). The nonbiologic portion may be formed by 3D printing (i.e., additive manufacturing). The nonbiologic portion may be patient-specific. A robot may be used to shape the implant before implantation and/or to shape bone being replaced/resurfaced.

Abstract: A system for modifying a talocalcaneal spatial relationship in a foot in a body, including a subtalar spacer having an articulating surface and implanted in the sinus tarsi of the foot and a fastener that fastens the subtalar spacer to a bone surface in the foot, in which the articulating surface of the subtalar spacer directs relative movement between the calcaneus and the talus of the foot.

Abstract: In some embodiments, the present disclosure relates to a method of securing an implant into a body of a patient. Initially, the implant is placed into the body of the patient. Then, an impactor tool is used to apply a force to the implant. Subsequent to the application of force to the implant, a portion of an impaction pad on an end of the impactor tool is monitored. When the portion is observed to be deformed, the application of force onto the implant is discontinued.

Abstract: A composite joint implant device replaces or repairs damaged meniscus tissue in an animal or human. In one embodiment, a composite joint implant comprises a polymeric body which is reinforced with a pre-formed engineered ligature mechanism. The ligature reinforces the polymeric body around the circumference and is used for attaching the device within an animal or human body. The ligature mechanism internally supports the transmission of vertical loads into tensile stresses. The ligature mechanism can be coated with a compatible material to promote integration with the polymeric body and coated with an encapsulation material.

Abstract: A prosthetic device for use as an artificial meniscus is disclosed. The prosthetic device restores stress distribution, stability, and function to the knee joint after removal of the damaged natural meniscus. In some embodiments, the prosthetic device includes an anti-migration feature that inhibits extreme movement within the joint while permitting free floating over a significant range. In one aspect, the anti-migration feature is an enlarged anterior structure or a posterior meniscus remnant engaging channel while in another aspect, the anti-migration feature includes a tethering member. Still further, removable radiopaque features are provided to enhance trialing of the implant prior to final implantation within the joint.

Abstract: There is described a multiphasic osteochondral scaffold for osteochondral defect repair, the scaffold comprising a bone phase and a cartilage phase, wherein the bone phase comprises a support matrix and the cartilage phase comprises a polymeric matrix, and the scaffold comprises a non-porous layer between the bone phase and the cartilage phase. Also described is a multiphasic osteochondral scaffold for osteochondral defect repair, the scaffold comprising a bone phase and a cartilage phase, wherein the bone phase comprises a support matrix and the cartilage phase comprises a polymeric matrix, and wherein the support matrix is tapered so that the dimensions of the support matrix are less at the lower end of the support matrix than at the upper end of the support matrix.

Abstract: Provided are methods for preparing sterilized, gelled, solubilized extracellular matrix (ECM) compositions useful as cell growth substrates. Also provided are compositions prepared according to the methods as well as uses for the compositions. In one embodiment a device, such as a prosthesis, is provided which comprises an inorganic matrix into which the gelled, solubilized ECM is dispersed to facilitate in-growth of cells into the ECM and thus adaptation and/or attachment of the device to a patient.

Abstract: Provided are methods for preparing sterilized, gelled, solubilized extracellular matrix (ECM) compositions useful as cell growth substrates. Also provided are compositions prepared according to the methods as well as uses for the compositions. In one embodiment a device, such as a prosthesis, is provided which comprises an inorganic matrix into which the gelled, solubilized ECM is dispersed to facilitate in-growth of cells into the ECM and thus adaptation and/or attachment of the device to a patient.

Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to a medical implant (20) comprising: —a coil-shaped component (21) and —a first mesh component (22) and a second mesh component (23); wherein each mesh component has a largest surface extending in two directions in the x-y plane of the mesh component, and wherein each mesh component has a projected area, which is said largest surface as projected in the x-y plane of the medical implant; wherein the coil-shaped component is arranged between the two mesh components; wherein the coil-shaped component has a center core which is hollow; and wherein the coil-shaped component has a helix rotation axis, which extends in parallel with said projected area of the first mesh component and said projected area of the second mesh component.

Abstract: Systems (500, 1000) and methods (1700) for fabricating a soft tissue implant (100, 400). The methods generally involve: receiving implant data representative of the target implant; determining a planned weaving path for forming the soft tissue implant; and communicating the planned weaving path to an output device.

Abstract: A structure of aligned (e.g., radially and/or polygonally aligned) fibers, and systems and methods for producing and using the same. One or more structures provided may be created using an apparatus that includes one or more first electrodes that define an area and/or partially circumscribe an area. For example, a single first electrode may enclose the area, or a plurality of first electrode(s) may be positioned on at least a portion of the perimeter of the area. A second electrode is positioned within the area. Electrodes with rounded (e.g., convex) surfaces may be arranged in an array, and a fibrous structure created using such electrodes may include an array of wells at positions corresponding to the positions of the electrodes.

Abstract: Soft tissue grafts, packaged soft tissue grafts, and methods of making and using soft tissue grafts are disclosed. One soft tissue graft includes processed tissue material having first and second opposed surfaces. The first and second opposed surfaces are bounded by first and second edges. The first edge has a concave shape that curves toward the second edge. The second edge has a convex shape that curves away from the first edge. The first surface comprises a plurality of apertures. At least one of the apertures is formed from a multi-directional separation in the first surface. One method of making a soft tissue graft includes positioning a cutting die on a surface of tissue material, pressing the cutting die into the tissue material to cut the tissue material, and processing the cut tissue material to create processed tissue material.

Abstract: An implant system includes a first portion, a second portion, and a third portion. The first portion includes a hydrogel. The second portion includes a porous material and the hydrogel in pores of the porous material. The third portion includes the porous material. The first portion is free of the porous material. The third portion is free of the hydrogel. Methods of making and using the implant system.

Abstract: Method and system for displaying a medical image. For example, a computer-implemented method for displaying a medical image includes acquiring an original image of a target; obtaining a lesion region in the original image; selecting a region of interest in the original image based on at least the lesion region, the region of interest including the lesion region; obtaining a plurality of planar images of the region of interest from the original image of the target based on at least a predetermined setting; generating an animated display by grouping the plurality of planar images based on at least a predetermined order; and displaying the animated display related to the region of interest including the lesion region.

Abstract: An implant system for implantation at a joint, the implant system including an implant device, the implant device comprising a body portion having first and second ends, and a first elongate member, extending from the first or second end of the body portion, the first elongate member being insertable in a bone tunnel in a subject's tibia.

Abstract: A supramolecular polymer blend includes a thermoplastic elastomer functionalized with at least one bis-urea moiety and a functional component which is functionalized with at least one bis-urea moiety which is present in an amount of 0.5-40 wt % based on the total mass of the polymer blend. The functional component is selected from polyalkylene glycol, betaine, polysaccharide, zwitterion, polyol or taurine and derivatives thereof. Implants including the polymer blend and a process to manufacture the implants are also provided.

Abstract: The invention provides treatment methods of using meniscus to repair injured and/or arthritic joints, for example, small hand joints including but not limited to radiocarpal, metacarpophalangeal, and interphalangeal joints. The invention also provides various implants made of meniscus for injured and/or arthritic joints.

Abstract: A joint spacer, in particular a knee spacer and a hip spacer is provided which is long-lasting and is sufficiently cushioned and abrasion-resistant and which can also support locally very high loads.

Abstract: Methods of selecting and implanting prosthetic devices for use as a replacement meniscus are disclosed. The selection methods include a pre-implantation selection method and a during-implantation selection method. The pre-implantation selection method includes a direct geometrical matching process, a correlation parameters-based matching process, and a finite element-based matching process. The implant identified by the pre-implantation selection method is then confirmed to be a suitable implant in the during-implantation selection method. In some instances, the during-implantation selection method includes monitoring loads and/or pressures applied to the prosthetic device and/or the adjacent anatomy. In some instances, the loads and/or pressures are monitored by a trial prosthetic device comprising one or more sensors. Methods of implanting meniscus prosthetic devices are also disclosed.

Abstract: A prosthetic system for use as a partial unicompartmental artificial knee replacement system. In one form, an artificial femoral bearing component is implanted along with a floating meniscus component that is configured to cooperate with the femoral bearing component to move through a plurality of translational and rotational positions as the knee rotates through a variety of angles. In another form, an artificial tibial bearing component is implanted along with a floating meniscus component that is configured to cooperate with the tibial bearing component to move through a plurality of translational and rotational positions as the knee rotates through a variety of angles.

Abstract: A prosthetic device for use as an artificial meniscus is disclosed. The prosthetic device restores stress distribution, stability, and function to the knee joint after removal of the damaged natural meniscus. In some embodiments, the prosthetic device includes an anti-migration feature that inhibits extreme movement within the joint while permitting free floating over a significant range. In one aspect, the anti-migration feature is an enlarged anterior structure or a posterior meniscus remnant engaging channel while in another aspect, the anti-migration feature includes a tethering member. Still further, removable radiopaque features are provided to enhance trialing of the implant prior to final implantation within the joint.

Abstract: A hydrogel liquid precursor includes an inorganic mineral and a monomer, wherein the inorganic mineral accounts for 15 percent by mass or more of the hydrogel liquid precursor, wherein the hydrogel liquid precursor has an initial viscosity of 20 mPa·s or less at 25 degrees C., and wherein the hydrogel liquid precursor has a ratio of a two-week viscosity to the initial viscosity of from 0.90 to 1.10, the two-week viscosity representing a viscosity of the hydrogel liquid precursor at 25 degrees C. after being left at 50 degrees C. for two weeks.

Abstract: The present invention refers to an osteochondral local prosthetic insert for partial humeral joint reconstitution by reconstitution of the bone anatomical sphericity to treat bone lesions, in particular Hill-Sachs lesions. The local osteochondral prosthetic insert is a rigid monolithic body having a truncated-cone shape, the proximal diameter greater than the distal diameter, the proximal end of convex shape and rounded at the corners, and a tapered distal end. The lateral surface of the insert shows in the middle-distal part a non-return shaping that allows the maintenance of the position defined in the surgical operation. The proximal end is convex in order to better adapt to the local bone sphericity and has recesses for the manipulation and positioning through dedicated tools.

Abstract: A method includes mapping a contoured surface of at least one bone onto a digital model of a resection guide locator using a processor to create a digital model of a customized resection guide locator and manufacturing the customized resection guide locator. The customized resection guide locator includes a complementary surface of the at least one bone and a wall having a shape that is complementary to an outer profile of a resection guide and defining a pocket. A first elongate slot and at least one first hole are positioned within the pocket such that the first elongate slot aligns with a second elongate slot defined by the resection guide and the at least one first hole aligns with at least one second hole defined by the resection guide when the resection guide is received within the pocket of the customized resection guide locator.

Abstract: The invention provides a reticular fixation system and method for an articular cartilage. The system comprises an articular cartilage repair surface locator, a temporary fixation kirschner wire, a depth-control guide wire, a percussion device and a cartilage fixing piece. The method comprises: repositing an injured articular cartilage; placing a locator on a surface of the injured articular cartilage; fixing the locator to the articular cartilage and the bone temporarily; punching the fixing piece wire tunnels on the articular cartilage and the bone in a fixing piece guide channel of the locator; placing the fixing piece into a fixing piece wire guide channel; percussing a fixing piece nail into the tunnels of the articular cartilage and the bone; removing the temporary fixation kirschner wire; implanting a second fixing piece nail, and completing the articular cartilage repair. The invention can improve convenience and reliability of fixation of the injured cartilage.

Abstract: A composite material including a substrate, a porous body provided on the substrate, and insulating polymers starting from a surface of the substrate and extending inside the porous body, and a method of producing the composite material.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to articles and components thereof, including outsoles, which can be used in conditions normally conducive to the accumulation of soil. In particular, the articles have a substrate body, a material including a hydrogel secured to the substrate body, and a mesh component present on and/or adjacent to a second side of the hydrogel-containing material opposing the first side. The articles can prevent or reduce the accumulation of soil during use.

Abstract: Methods and devices are disclosed relating improved articular models, implant components, and related guide tools and procedures. In addition, methods and devices are disclosed relating articular models, implant components, and/or related guide tools and procedures that include one or more features derived from patient-data, for example, images of the patient's joint. The data can be used to create a model for analyzing a patient's joint and to devise and evaluate a course of corrective action. The data also can be used to create patient-adapted implant components and related tools and procedures.

Abstract: An implant couples a first bone of a hand to a second bone of the hand. The implant includes a body that defines a median plane. The body also defines a first joint surface having a first central region that articulates with the first bone. The body further defines a second joint surface having a second central region that articulates with the second bone, and the second central region is disposed on an opposite side of the median plane of the body relative to the first central region. The first and second central regions correspond to profiles of first and second axial segments, respectively, the first and second axial segments are each one of a cylinder, a cone and a torus and are centered on first and second axes, respectively, and the first and second axes, as projected on the median plane, are substantially perpendicular to each other.

Abstract: A method of determining disc space geometry with the use of an expandable trial having endplate-mapping capabilities. An expandable trial is inserted into the disc space and its height is adjusted to obtain the desired decompression and spinal alignment (which is typically confirmed with the use of CT or Fluoroscopic imaging). The endplate dome/geometry dome is then determined by one of the following three methods: a) direct imaging through the trial, b) balloon moldings filled with flowable in-situ fluid (for example, silicon, polyurethane, or PMMA) from superior/inferior endplates or c) light-based imaging through superior & inferior balloons.

Abstract: This disclosure is directed to a resilient interpositional arthroplasty implant for application into a joint to pad cartilage defects, cushion, and replace or restore the articular surface, which may preserve joint integrity, reduce pain and improve function. The implant may endure variable joint compressive and shear forces and cyclic loads. The implant may repair, reconstruct, and regenerate joint anatomy, and thereby improve upon joint replacement alternatives. The walls of this invention may capture, distribute and hold living cells until aggregation and hyaline cartilage regrowth occurs. The implant may be deployed into debrided joint spaces, molding and conforming to surrounding structures with sufficient stability so as to enable immediate limb use after outpatient surgery. Appendages of the implant may repair or reconstruct tendons or ligaments, and menisci by interpositional compliant polymer arthroplasties that promote anatomic joint motion.

Abstract: A prosthetic system for use as a partial unicompartmental artificial knee replacement system. In one form, an artificial femoral bearing component is implanted along with a floating meniscus component that is configured to cooperate with the femoral bearing component to move through a plurality of translational and rotational positions as the knee rotates through a variety of angles. In another form, an artificial tibial bearing component is implanted along with a floating meniscus component that is configured to cooperate with the tibial bearing component to move through a plurality of translational and rotational positions as the knee rotates through a variety of angles.

Abstract: A bearing for a total or partial joint replacement prosthesis: the bearing having a body and a reinforcing element which strengthens the bearing and which forms an attachment member, and/or the bearing being formed at least partially from polymeric or composite material the bearing comprising a lower modulus portion and a higher modulus portion, one portion of the bearing being at least partially encased by the other portion of the bearing. Also provided is a method for of forming the bearing, and a total or partial joint replacement prosthesis comprising the hearing.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for replacing damaged meniscal tissue includes a meniscus implant including a porous body having a plurality of interconnected open micro-pores and one or more open cavities for receiving meniscal tissue. The interconnected micro-pores are arranged to allow fluid to flow into the porous body and are in fluid communication with the one or more open cavities.

Abstract: A mold adapted to be introduced into a joint of a human patient for resurfacing at least one carrying contacting surface of said joint is provided. The mold is adapted to receive material for resurfacing at least one carrying contacting surface of said joint. The mold is further adapted to be resorbed by the human body or melt after having served its purpose. Further, a method of treating hip joint osteoarthritis in a human patient by providing an artificial hip joint surface using a mold is provided. The method comprises the steps of: said mold being placed inside of said hip joint, said mold being injected with a fluid adapted to harden, said fluid hardening inside of said hip joint, said mold being resorbed by the human body, and said hardened fluid serving as artificial hip joint surface.

Abstract: A prosthetic device for use as an artificial meniscus is disclosed. The prosthetic device restores stress distribution, stability, and function to the knee joint after removal of the damaged natural meniscus. In some embodiments, the prosthetic device includes an anti-migration feature that inhibits extreme movement within the joint while permitting free floating over a significant range. In one aspect, the anti-migration feature is an enlarged anterior structure or a posterior meniscus remnant engaging channel while in another aspect, the anti-migration feature includes a tethering member. Still further, removable radiopaque features are provided to enhance trialing of the implant prior to final implantation within the joint.

Abstract: A dynamic intervertebral spacer includes a ring which is split on an anterior portion. A posterior portion of the ring acts as a torsion spring. After implantation, the ring is able to act as a spring between superior and inferior vertebral bodies, thus allowing dynamic bone growth in fusion procedures.

Abstract: Described are methods of performing a surgical tonsillectomy, medical devices for treating a void created by removing tonsil tissue from a patient, surgical kits, and use of an extracellular matrix material in the manufacture of a medicament for treating a surgical wound resulting from removal of tonsil tissue from a patient. Also described is a device for wound closure, and methods of making and using thereof.

Abstract: Methods of selecting and implanting prosthetic devices for use as a replacement meniscus are disclosed. The selection methods include a pre-implantation selection method and a during-implantation selection method. The pre-implantation selection method includes a direct geometrical matching process, a correlation parameters-based matching process, and a finite element-based matching process. The implant identified by the pre-implantation selection method is then confirmed to be a suitable implant in the during-implantation selection method. In some instances, the during-implantation selection method includes monitoring loads and/or pressures applied to the prosthetic device and/or the adjacent anatomy. In some instances, the loads and/or pressures are monitored by a trial prosthetic device comprising one or more sensors. Methods of implanting meniscus prosthetic devices are also disclosed.

Abstract: This disclosure is directed to restoring joints by deploying a resilient interpositional arthroplasty implant. Such implants function to pad cartilage defects, cushion, and replace or restore the articular surface, which may preserve joint integrity, reduce pain and improve function. The implant may endure variable joint compressive and shear forces and cyclic loads. The implant may repair, reconstruct, and regenerate joint anatomy, and thereby improve upon joint replacement alternatives. The walls of this invention may capture, distribute and hold living cells until aggregation and hyaline cartilage regrowth occurs. The implant may be deployed into debrided joint spaces, molding and conforming to surrounding structures with sufficient stability so as to enable immediate limb use after outpatient surgery. Appendages of the implant may repair or reconstruct tendons or ligaments, and menisci by interpositional inflatable or compliant polymer arthroplasties that promote anatomic joint motion.

Abstract: An implant device used to replace and restore the function of the knee meniscus in a human. The compliant, yet resilient device is comprised of a biocompatible, non-degradable three-dimensional body comprised of at least a central body, a second structure, a third structure, and a coating. The device is concentrically aligned wherein the second structure is adjoined to the central body wherein the third structure is adjoined on the central body opposite of the second structure. The third structure further features a first and a second pulling element which is coupled to the central body and forms the outer periphery and major circumference of the device. The device is comprised of multiple components which provide tensile strength, compressive resilience, and attachment mechanisms for replacing the meniscus. Each structure is comprised of multiple surfaces which are further reinforced, separated, and connected by an individual plurality of vertical elements.

Abstract: A workstation having a pair of posts on either side of a clamping plate where a donor bone may be placed on sequentially cut in three separate cutting paths. Cutting gates are attached to the posts and used to provide cutting paths that can be precisely oriented with respect to the meniscus of the donor bone part using visual alignment without any manual measurements. The graft is affixed to a machining clamp and shaved to appropriately shape the sides and form a radius on the bottom of the graft. A tibia is then prepared by using a drill guide to form a pilot hole and then to drill out a large hole for the graft. The drilled hole is expanded and shaped using a rod guide and chisel and then a rasp. The shaped graft may then be implanted into the shaped hole and sutured in place.

Abstract: The present invention provides biomatrix scaffolds for industrial scale dispersal.

Abstract: Cardiovascular prostheses for treating, reconstructing and replacing damaged or diseased cardiovascular tissue that are formed from acellular extracellular matrix (ECM). The cardiovascular prostheses comprise various compositions, such as ECM based compositions, and structures, such as particulate structures, mesh constructs, encasement structures, coated structures and multi-sheet laminate structures.

Abstract: Methods of selecting and implanting prosthetic devices for use as a replacement meniscus are disclosed. The selection methods include a pre-implantation selection method and a during-implantation selection method. The pre-implantation selection method includes a direct geometrical matching process, a correlation parameters-based matching process, and a finite element-based matching process. The implant identified by the pre-implantation selection method is then confirmed to be a suitable implant in the during-implantation selection method. Methods of implanting meniscus prosthetic devices are also disclosed.

Abstract: The invention provides natural multi-composite bone implants such as bone-connective tissue-bone and osteochondral implants for the replacement and/or repair of, for example and in particular a damaged or defective bone-meniscus-bone joint or a bone-patella tendon-bone joint or osteochondral lesions, methods of preparing the composites and uses thereof. The invention also provides natural or native composite bone-connective tissue-bone and osteochondral matrices or scaffolds that are substantially decellularized for subsequent transplantation/implantation.