Abstract: A tubing set for connecting a source of irrigating fluid to an intraoperative surgical instrument having a fluid delivery passage therein. The tubing set includes a first section having an inlet for connection to the source of irrigating fluid, a second section having an outlet for connection to the intraoperative medical instrument, and a pump connected between the first section and the second section. A valve is located between the inlet and the outlet and restricts flow so that flow is in a direction from the inlet toward the outlet. The tubing set can deliver a continuous flow or trickle of fluid from the source of irrigating fluid to the medical instrument and can deliver a bolus of fluid to the surgical instrument upon operation of the pump.

Abstract: An irrigation system and method for providing fluid from a source of irrigating fluid to a surgical site, in particular a surgical site access to which is provided by a small incision or a natural orifice of the body. The irrigation system includes a control unit that is used with a cassette. The control unit includes a motor under the control of a controller, a sensor for sensing the flow of fluid in the cassette, a sensor for sensing pressure in the cassette, and a user control panel. The cassette includes a fluid flow passageway having an inlet connected to the source of irrigating fluid and an outlet for providing fluid to the surgical site. A pump located in the cassette is driven by the motor. The pump has limited efficiency when presented with back pressure to thereby limit to a safe level an amount of pressure that can be delivered to the surgical site. The system may be used to irrigate or distend a surgical site.

Abstract: A pressure controlling system for an insufflator includes a plurality of parallel connected, solenoid controlled valves. Each valve has in series therewith a gas flow limiter with the limiters arranged in digital succession. The valves are in parallel with one another and in series with the gas flow line so that solenoid opening of one or more of the valves controls gas flow in an on-off fashion with gas flow continuing through the respective flow limiting means to determine total flow rate in a digital manner.

Abstract: An invasive lithotripter includes a pair of electrodes having rectangular cross sections, and having flat faces of rectangular configuration confronting one another. An insulating member is interposed between the electrodes and spaces them apart a predetermined distance. The insulating member at its forward edge is relieved to provide portions of the electrode flat faces exposed and confronting one another to permit an electrical spark to jump between the exposed portions of the electrode faces. The relieved portion comprises a reflector having a focus point. The portions of the electrodes facing one another across the relieved area are provided with protuberances aligned with the focus point. A spark across the exposed portions of the faces of the electrodes in an aqueous medium generates a shockwave that is focused by the reflector. A shield surrounds and extends beyond the electrode and the insulating member to inhibit radial propagation of shockwave energy while enhancing axial propagation thereof.