Abstract:
A method for augmenting a tissue including introducing into the tissue a first thermoplastic material at a first condition; treating the first thermoplastic material to achieve a second condition that includes an at least partially crystalline skin; and introducing a second material into the tissue whereby the first thermoplastic material and the second material are contained by the at least partially crystalline skin. Also a method of fracture reduction in a tissue including exposing to gamma radiation a mass of polycaprolactone characterized by a first shape; heating the mass of irradiated polycaprolactone above its melting temperature; introducing the heated mass of polycaprolactone into the tissue annulus to deform it from the first shape; allowing the material to return to the first shape.
Abstract:
The present invention provides an improved handle which may be used to releaseably hold various types of surgical instruments employed in medical or dental procedures. The handle is comprised of a grasping portion and a lock assembly that contains a retractable slider pin designed to engage one or more indentations provided with instruments intended for use with the handle. The lock assembly may be provided with at least one biasing member which holds the pin in an extended position thereby locking the surgical instrument to the handle. The instrument may be removed from the handle or rotated by the user retracting the pin to release the instrument from the handle. A system and a method of interchangeably using surgical instruments in the handle is also disclosed.
Abstract:
Apparatus and method is provided for shaping bone, in which, individually or together, a gaseous fluid such as air is delivered along the shaping member to impinge upon aerosols created by the shaping of the bone and to deliver the aerosols back toward the bone away from an operator, and a cooling liquid is delivered along the shaping member, in order to cool the shaping member where it contacts the bone. Preferably, the gaseous fluid is air and it is delivered through a manifold carried by the shaping member, forming an air curtain. Preferably, the cooling liquid is at least partially water, with or without a curative substance carried therein, with the liquid preferably being delivered through the shaping member and opening in a direction toward the shaped bone. Where the shaping member is a saw, the liquid may be delivered through the interior of the saw, for discharge through at least one narrow side thereof. Alternatively, the cooling liquid may be delivered externally of the saw. Various refinements are also provided in the form of valves, deflectors and means for exhausting heat and/or cut-away material from the site of operation.
Abstract:
A bone marrow harvesting device includes a flexible bone marrow harvesting needle that can bend during operation to prevent the needle tip from piercing the inner cortical wall of the target bone. The needle defines an aspiration channel that defines an intake end that is recessed to reduce the instances that the aspiration channel will be fouled by bone particles or other debris within the cancellous portion.
Abstract:
Methods and devices are shown for forming polymer fasteners into bone by expelling the polymer from a cannula. Devices and methods shown allow a user to form multiple fasteners of various sizes without re-loading a device. Devices and methods shown further provide temperature profiles during fastener formation that reduce or eliminate thermal necrosis. Devices and methods shown further provide fasteners with increased strength.
Abstract:
A device for bone fixation includes (a) a delivery gun having a handle and (b) an elongated cartridge coupled to the handle. The cartridge has a distal portion configured and dimensioned for insertion to a target area within a bone. The cartridge has a channel extending therethrough between a proximal end and an opening at the distal end and housing an injectable material therein. A first portion of the cartridge has a first heating element maintaining the injectable material within a first target temperature range. A second portion of the cartridge has a second heating element maintaining the injectable material within a second target temperature range.
Abstract:
The present invention relates in general to implantable flexible bone composites, and method for preparing the same. The flexible bone composite includes at least one polymeric layer and at least one calcium-containing layer. The polymeric layer can be a polymeric layer including a synthetic polymer. The calcium-containing layer can include a calcium compound such as β-Ca3(PO4)2. The flexible bone composites of the invention are useful as bone void fillers and have improved handling characteristics.
Abstract:
The present invention relates in general to implantable flexible bone composites, and method for preparing the same. The flexible bone composite includes at least one polymeric layer and at least one calcium-containing layer. The polymeric layer can be a polymeric layer including a synthetic polymer. The calcium-containing layer can include a calcium compound such as β-Ca3(PO4)2. The flexible bone composites of the invention are useful as bone void fillers and have improved handling characteristics.
Abstract:
A system for bone fixation is provided including a biodegradable polymer screw and corresponding driver element. The screw is provided with a head having at least two regularly spaced notches. The driver element is provided with a distal end having at least two regularly spaced notches. The outer surface of the driver can correspond to the outer perimeter of the screw head and the notches and prongs are adapted to securably couple in a displacement fit to allow the drive to apply the screw into bone.
Abstract:
Methods and devices are shown for forming polymer fasteners into bone by expelling the polymer from a cannula. Devices and methods shown allow a user to form multiple fasteners of various sizes without re-loading a device. Devices and methods shown further provide temperature profiles during fastener formation that reduce or eliminate thermal necrosis. Devices and methods shown further provide fasteners with increased strength.