Abstract:
A spinal distraction system, according to one embodiment, includes an adjustable spinal distraction rod comprising first and second members, the adjustable spinal distraction rod configured for non-invasive elongation of the first and second members. The system includes an anchor rod configured for mounting to a bone of a subject, and a housing coupled to the anchor rod, the housing comprising a cavity and a plate having first and second surface. A strain gauge is mounted on a first surface of the plate. A coupling element is configured to mount on a second surface of the plate, the coupling element comprising a portion configured to receive an end of the first member. In the system, the second member is configured for mounting to a second bone of a subject.
Abstract:
A spinal distraction system, according to one embodiment, includes an adjustable spinal distraction rod comprising first and second members, the adjustable spinal distraction rod configured for non-invasive elongation of the first and second members. The system includes an anchor rod configured for mounting to a bone of a subject, the anchor rod comprising a threaded portion and a ball disposed at one end thereof and a nut disposed on the threaded portion of the anchor rod the nut having a first contact surface. The system further includes a locking joint having a cup portion configured to receive an end of the first member, the cup portion comprising a second contact surface, wherein tightening of the nut binds the first and second contact surfaces to thereby lock the joint and prevent articulation and wherein the second member is configured for mounting to a second bone of a subject.
Abstract:
A method of treating scoliosis in a subject includes securing a scoliosis treatment device to first and second locations on the subject's skeletal system, the scoliosis treatment device including a first portion, a second portion moveably mounted relative to the first portion, and an adjustment device disposed on the device and configured to change a distraction force between the first location and the second location, the adjustment device including a rotationally mounted magnetic element configured to move the second portion relative to the first portion in response to rotation of the magnetic element. An external adjustment device is provided external to the subject and is able to adjust the distraction force between the first location and second location.
Abstract:
A gastrointestinal implant system includes an adjustable restriction device having a contact surface configured for at least partially engaging a surface of a gastrointestinal tract of a mammal. The implant system further includes an implantable interface including a first driving element, the first driving element being moveable and operatively coupled to the adjustable restriction device by an actuator configured to change the dimension or configuration of the contact surface in response to movement of the first driving element. The system also includes an external adjustment device having a second driving element configured to non-invasively engage the first driving element of the implantable interface from a location external to the mammal. In the system, actuation of the second driving element of the external adjustment device produces movement in the first driving element of the implantable interface and results in a change in the dimension or configuration of the contact surface.
Abstract:
Methods and apparatus useful for monitoring fluid flow past a gastric restriction device using noninvasive means are described. Some methods involve the use of acoustic energy, e.g., Doppler ultrasound, to monitor the passage of fluid past the restriction device, and apparatus to detect the acoustic energy. In some embodiments the method detects a sound-producing fluid using a microphone, stethoscope, or ultrasound probe and detector combination. In some embodiments, there are described methods of using Doppler ultrasound to monitor the flow of a fluid through a stomal opening, allowing a flow condition, e.g., a flow rate, to be determined, so that a physician can accurately adjust the gastric restriction device.