Other

Enteroptyx

Envoy Medical Corporation

Eric M Kraus

Johann J Neisz

Aaron R Thornton

John F Kveton

Michael Glasscock

An ossicular prosthesis includes a proximal end provided with an open conically helical coil for engaging a first ossicular structure, and a distal bell head, piston, or shoe for engaging a second ossicular structure. A connecting element extends therebetween the two to hold the helical coil structure which engages the second ossicular engagement structure in a preferably fixed relationship. The helical coil defines a plurality of spaced apart adjacent windings, with open spaces between the windings. Each adjacent winding decreases in diameter from the proximal to distal end. The windings of the coil may be adjusted relative to each other in length or angle to fit the anatomy. In accord with a one method of use, the helical coil and optionally other portions of the prosthesis function as an armature or endoskeleton. A cement may be provided over the prosthesis to reconstruct the eroded or missing ossicles.

Ossicular prosthesis having helical coil

An ossicular prosthesis includes a proximal end provided with an open conically helical coil for engaging a first ossicular structure, and a distal bell head, piston, or shoe for engaging a second ossicular structure. A connecting element extends therebetween the two to hold the helical coil structure which engages the second ossicular engagement structure in a preferably fixed relationship. The helical coil defines a plurality of spaced apart adjacent windings, with open spaces between the windings. Each adjacent winding decreases in diameter from the proximal to distal end. The windings of the coil may be adjusted relative to each other in length or angle to fit the anatomy. Embodiments of the prosthesis are provided for use as a PORP and a TORP. In accord with a one method of use, the helical coil and optionally other portions of the prosthesis function as an armature or endoskeleton. A cement is provided over the prosthesis to reconstruct the eroded or missing ossicles.

Methods and structures for placing sensing and driver assemblies in a middle ear of a patient are disclosed. Methods and structures according to various embodiments of the invention provide minimally invasive techniques and devices that facilitate placement of sensing/driver assemblies in a middle ear using a trans-canal implantation technique. Certain embodiments include placement of a longitudinal body through the ear canal for mounting in the middle ear, and for supporting a sensing/driving assembly subsequently coupled thereto.

Method and apparatus for minimally invasive placement of sensing and driver assemblies to improve hearing loss

A system of identification for persons having special needs. The system includes an identification tag having a unique identifier for a wearer and a wearer resistant squeeze-and-turn buckle for associating the tag with the wearer having special needs. In the preferred embodiment, the system also includes a computerized system for identifying the persons having special needs.

Growing community of inventors

Greensboro, NC, United States of America

Eric M Kraus