Abstract:
Disclosed herein is a system for releasing a ligament. In one embodiment, the system includes a proximal handle, a tubular body, and a flexible body. The tubular body includes a proximal end and a distal end. The handle is coupled to the proximal end. The flexible body extends through the tubular body and includes a tissue cutting portion. The flexible body or tubular body is longitudinally displaceable to move the tissue cutting portion between a non-deployed state and a deployed state.
Abstract:
A system and method for volumetric metering on a sample processing device. The system can include a metering reservoir, and a waste reservoir positioned in fluid communication with a first end of the metering reservoir to catch excess liquid from the metering reservoir that exceeds a selected volume. The system can further include a capillary valve in fluid communication with the second end of the metering reservoir to inhibit liquid from exiting the metering reservoir until desired. The method can include metering the liquid by rotating the sample processing device to exert a first force on the liquid that is insufficient to move the liquid into the capillary valve, and rotating the sample processing device to exert a second force on the liquid that is greater than the first force to move the metered volume of the liquid to the process chamber via the capillary valve.
Abstract:
A biological sterilization indicator (BI) and method of using same. The BI can include a housing, and a container positioned in the housing. The container can contain a liquid and at least a portion of the container can be frangible. The BI can further include a first chamber and a second chamber. The second chamber can include at least one source of biological activity. The BI can further include a first fluid path positioned to fluidly couple the first chamber and the second chamber, and a second fluid path positioned to allow displaced gas to move out of the second chamber. The method can include moving displaced gas out of the second chamber via the second fluid path as a sterilant is moved into the second chamber via the first fluid path and/or as the liquid is moved into the second chamber via the first fluid path.
Abstract:
The invention relates to systems and methods for preparing and analyzing samples (e.g., mucosal samples) for a microorganism of interest. In particular, the systems and methods are useful for detecting one or more analytes characteristic of a microorganism (i.e., microbe) of interest, such as components of cell walls that are characteristic of a microbe, particularly Staphylococcus aureus.
Abstract:
Detection cartridges and associated components, as well as methods of using the same that provide sample materials to a sensor for detection are disclosed. Among the components that may be used in connection with the detection cartridges of the present invention are, e.g., input modules, fluid flow front control features, and volumetric flow rate control features. The modules may include one or more chambers containing different constituents for mixing and/or delivery into a detection cartridge.
Abstract:
The various embodiments described herein provide lateral mass and facet fixation implants, which may be inserted and applied via a posterior approach, using minimally invasive or less invasive techniques. The embodiments described below generally include an intrafacet implant (or "facet implant") and a lateral mass fixation member attached to or attachable to the facet implant. The lateral mass fixation member can include one or more tabs extending from a middle portion and configured to secure the lateral mass fixation member to lateral masses of adjacent vertebrae. The tabs may be flexible, semi-rigid, or rigid, and may be collapsible to facilitate insertion of the device. Methods for delivering the lateral mass and facet fixation implants are also described.
Abstract:
Disclosed herein is a system for releasing a ligament. In one embodiment, the system includes a proximal handle, a tubular body, and a flexible body. The tubular body includes a proximal end and a distal end. The handle is coupled to the proximal end. The flexible body extends through the tubular body and includes a tissue cutting portion. The flexible body or tubular body is longitudinally displaceable to move the tissue cutting portion between a non-deployed state and a deployed state.
Abstract:
A biological sterilization indicator (BI). The BI can include a housing, and a container positioned in the housing. The container can contain a liquid and at least a portion of the container can be frangible. The BI can further include a first chamber and a second chamber. The second chamber can include at least one source of biological activity. The BI can further include a substrate positioned in the housing between the first chamber and the second chamber. The substrate can be positioned in fluid communication with the first chamber and the second chamber, and the substrate can be further positioned such that the substrate is not in direct contact with the source of biological activity.
Abstract:
Disclosed herein is a system for releasing a ligament. In one embodiment, the system includes a proximal handle, a tubular body, and a flexible body. The tubular body includes a proximal end and a distal end. The handle is coupled to the proximal end. The flexible body extends through the tubular body and includes a tissue cutting portion. The flexible body or tubular body is longitudinally displaceable to move the tissue cutting portion between a non-deployed state and a deployed state.
Abstract:
Disclosed herein is a system for releasing a ligament. In one embodiment, the system includes a proximal handle, a tubular body, and a flexible body. The tubular body includes a proximal end and a distal end. The handle is coupled to the proximal end. The flexible body extends through the tubular body and includes a tissue cutting portion. The flexible body is longitudinally displaceable relative to the tubular body to move the tissue cutting portion between a non-deployed state and a deployed state.