Abstract: The single system ligature carrier and tissue clamp for sacrospinous colpopexy has an elongated body with a fixed handle on its proximal end. An additional movable handle is connected to a movable clamp jaw and a needle jaw on its distal end so that, at a distance, tissue can be engaged and pierced with a needle facilitated by clamp fingers passing a suture therethrough, as well as clamping and securing the embraced tissue. The positioning, clamping and suture penetration are accomplished by a single instrument.

Abstract: The adjustable variable length vaginal dilator is assembled from selected parts of parts of various length so as to achieve a selected desired length, and at least two of the parts are threaded. The distal threaded joint secures a selected length tip and the proximal adjustable threaded base provides infinite length adjustments between the main body coupler and the base. An intermediate extender may also be used for added length. The dilator permits self-treatment sessions over a long period of time that permits slow small interval stretching with maximum patient comfort. Another embodiment provides a tapered transition section and a tip of smaller diameter which is also of selectable length for more comfort during therapy and the like.

Abstract: An open loop system for delivering fluid during hysteroscopic surgery. The system includes first and second fluid conduits in fluid communication with the uterine cavity of a patient. First and second measuring devices are provided for measuring the amount of fluid flowing into and out of the uterus. The measuring devices produce electronic signals which are communicated to a controller which uses them to calculate a value reflecting the difference in in-flow and out-flow. This difference is then compared with a preset value; if the preset value is exceeded, the surgeon knows the patient is absorbing too much fluid, and the procedure may be terminated.

Abstract: Apparatus for and method of recirculating fluid used in performing hysteroscopic endometrial ablation. The fluid preferably circulates through a closed loop, fluid delivery system, including a heater for heating the fluid, and passes through a chamber of known volume having graduated markings disposed thereon so that the amount of fluid circulating within the closed loop system can be continuously monitored. The apparatus is connected to the inlet and outlet ports of a hysteroscopic sheath positioned within the uterine cavity of a patient. Any drop of fluid level within the marked chamber will indicate to the surgeon that the patient is undesirably absorbing fluid so that the procedure may be swiftly terminated before adverse consequences occur.

Abstract: An electro-surgical instrument and method is described for exposing gingival areas in preparation for a dental implant. The instrument includes an elongated handle, a leg extending perpendicular to the handle adjoined therewith, and a circular cutting loop. The loop is defined by a plane perpendicular to the leg and tangentially attached thereto along a circumference of the loop. The loop is formed of a unitary electrically conductive wire such as tungsten, and extends into the leg and at least partially into the handle. A high frequency current is passed through the wire into the loop to best activate the latter for cutting the gingival areas.