The Cleveland Clinic Foundation

Discogen, LLC

Z&r Medical, L.l.c.

Peter A Zahos

James D Ralph

Richard A Gross

Thomas N Troxell

Anthony Calabro

Mark Michels

Aniq B Darr

The present invention provides a method for treating a vertebrate subject suffering from a degenerative disc disease by administering an inhibitor of a matrix metalloprotease (MMP) to the subject in an amount effective to treat the subject.

Method of treating a subject suffering from degenerative disc disease using a matrix metalloprotease inhibitor

Craniotomy closure systems comprising surgical fasteners and a protective covering over the dura are described for use in reattaching a skull flap removed from the skull of a patient during brain surgery. Methods of using the same are also described. Surgical strips optionally used in combination with the craniotomy closure systems are shaped to follow the perimeter contour of the skull flap. The craniotomy closure systems are designed to encourage bone growth and healing of the skull flap and they can be used to deliver medication and bone growth enhancement materials to the surgical site.

Craniotomy closure systems

A synthetic nucleus pulposus is provided that is useful in treatment of degenerative disc disease, augmentation of a degenerate disc, and alleviation of back pain. In an embodiment the synthetic nucleus pulposus comprises hyaluronan macromolecules that have been cross-linked via dihydroxyphenyl linkages. The synthetic nucleus pulposus restores or improves the water-retention capability of the disc. A method of treating an intervertebral disc with the cross-linked hyaluronan macromolecules is also provided. A method of regenerative therapy to address loss of cells of nucleus pulposus of an intervertebral disc based on treatment with the cross-linked hyaluronan macromolecules and mesenchymal stem cells is also provided.

Hydroxyphenyl cross-linked macromolecular network and applications thereof

A method of repairing an intervertebral disc of a patient's body includes identifying a target area of the intervertebral disc. An ultrasound generator is placed proximate the target area and outside the patient's body. An area temperature at the target area is monitored. Ultrasonic energy is generated with the ultrasound generator within a predetermined energy range. The ultrasonic energy is adjusted in response to the area temperature exceeding a predetermined temperature range. An apparatus for repairing an intervertebral disc of a patient's body is also provided.

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Weston, FL, United States of America

Peter A Zahos