Abstract: A system and method for individually varying the orientation of scan lines in at least two dimensions in an ultrasound scan are disclosed. In one embodiment, the invention includes a system for generating a three-dimensional ultrasound volume scan, comprising a transducer probe having elements arranged in a plurality of dimensions and a system controller capable of generating a scan line apparently emanating from a location other than the geographic center of the transducer probe.

Abstract: An improved ophthalmic instrument for in-vivo examination of a human eye including a wavefront sensor that estimates aberrations in reflections of the light formed as an image on the retina of the human eye and a phase compensator that spatially modulates the phase of incident light to compensate for the aberrations estimated by the wavefront sensor Optical elements create an image of a fixation target at the phase compensator, which produces a compensated image of the fixation target that compensates for aberrations estimated by the wavefront sensor. The compensated image of the fixation target produced by the phase compensator is recreated at the human eye to thereby provide the human eye with a view of compensation of the aberrations the human eye as estimated by the wavefront sensor. The phase compensator preferably comprises a variable focus lens that compensates for focusing errors and a deformable mirror that compensates for higher order aberrations.

Abstract: In a phase information restoring method using a phase contrast method, the estimated accuracy of phase is enhanced. The phase information restoring method of restoring phase information of radiation transmitted through an object on the basis of a plurality of image signals respectively obtained by detecting intensity of radiation transmitted through the object on a plurality of planes different in distance from the object, comprises the steps of: obtaining a differential signal representing difference between a first image signal and a second image signal; subjecting any one of the plurality of image signals to a suppressing process or a removing process for high spatial frequency components thereof so as to generate a third image signal; obtaining Laplacian of phase with respect to the differential signal and the third image signal; and restoring phase information by applying an inverse Laplacian operation to the Laplacian of phase.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method and a device for taking an image 2 of an object surface 1 by means of a focusable radiation 3. An array of object elements 4 that covers the object surface is defined; then, for each object element 1, a first signal of the radiation that is focused onto an associated transmitter line 5, including said object element, in the object surface is emitted, and a second signal of the radiation that is generated by means of said first signal and is focused onto an associated receiver line 6, including the object element and crossing said transmitter line, in the object surface is received and an associated image information item is picked up therefrom; finally, the image is composed from the image information items of all the object elements.

Abstract: An instrument guide is described for mounting an invasive instrument such as a biopsy needle to an imaging probe, controlling its position, monitoring its position, and/or predictively displaying its position on a user display of the medical imaging system. A plurality of substantially rigid segments are hingeably connected to the probe, to an instrument handle, and to each other such that movement of the biopsy needle is restricted to within the imaged plane. However, substantial freedom of movement within the imaged plane is provided such that the instrument may be inserted into the patient over a wide range of angles. In one preferred embodiment, angle detectors are provided at each segment intersection and measurements provided for computing and displaying the instrument position and orientation on the user display. The instrument guide/position monitor is preferably made with low-cost components such that it is disposable after a single use.

Abstract: A method and system to facilitate image guided surgery by projecting onto the patient an image corresponding to markings made on pre-acquired images of the patient is disclosed. The image is projected by an imaging projecting device such as a laser which emits coherent visible light. The position of the patient and the image are determined in the same frame of reference. The markings made on the pre-acquired images are then mapped onto the corresponding locations of the patient. The image projecting device then projects images onto the patient corresponding to the markings made on the pre-acquired images. The image is projected substantially normal to a surface of the corresponding locations on the anatomical body to decrease errors arising from the image being optically distorted by the surface features of the patient. The images projected by the image projecting device can be marked onto the patient so that they are visible after the image projecting device stops emitting radiation.

Abstract: An embodiment of the targeting system includes a penetrating beam emitter, a penetrating beam receiver, and a targeting assembly. The targeting assembly is adjustable. The targeting assembly has a targeting marker in a path of a penetrating beam provided by the emitter. The targeting marker is at least partially opaque to a penetrating beam emitted by the emitter, and the targeting marker indicates a targeting point on a target axis. The targeting assembly further includes a targeting beam device capable of providing a targeting beam along the target axis.

Abstract: A video-based surgical targeting system for targeting anatomical structures within a patient.

Abstract: Systems and methods verify and/or correct optical errors of an eye. A plan is generated for a corrective procedure of the eye from a measured optical error, and a verification lens is formed based on the measured optical error to verify the procedure plan. Alignment of an aperture (with a size selected to correspond to the size of the pupil) with the eye while measuring optical properties of the eye through the verification lens improves verification accuracy, as does mounting of the verification lens and aperture to the patient with a trial frame.

Abstract: A disposable absorbent article sustaining low vapor phase moisture in the space as enclosed between and the wearer in use, such as can be evaluate by measuring relative humidity on a laboratory mannequin, such can be achieved by combining high performance, low rewet absorbent cores with breathable backsheet materials.

Abstract: In a method for acquiring an image of a plane in a magnetic resonance apparatus, the images are obtained in imaging planes which are defined directly with respect to the patient. The magnetic resonance apparatus includes an imaging volume, a patient support table which positioned in the imaging volume, a position measuring device to establish and maintain in real time the position of the patient, as well as a controller for controlling gradient coils in response to the signals provided by the position measuring device in such a manner that consecutive images are acquired from imaging planes which are defined directly with respect to the patient.

Abstract: An apparatus and method are provided for use in removing liquid from under a corneal flap generated during LASIK surgery. The apparatus comprises a handle, a sickle-shaped end coupled to the handle, the sickle-shaped end having a concave and a convex portion, and a sponge coupled with the concave portion of the sickle-shaped end, extending along the convex portion thereof, and being shaped substantially similarly to the sickle-shaped end. The sickle-shaped end extends from approximately 180° to 270°, or any other desired part of a circle and may have sponge on one or both sides thereof. The radius of the sickle-shaped end is the same or slightly larger than the diameter of a corneal flap generated during LASIK surgery so that when the apparatus is placed adjacent the cornea of a patient about the corneal flap, liquid is wicked from thereunder without requiring any contact with the corneal flap.

Abstract: A method of thermally inducing and monitoring changes to localized regions of tissue illuminating a volume of tissue with a first beam of X-rays, detecting portions of the first beam of X-rays, generating a first X-ray image signal from the detected X-rays of the first beam, applying heat to at least a localized region of tissue within the volume of tissue after the illuminating and after the detecting, illuminating the volume of tissue with a second beam of X-rays, detecting portions of the second beam of X-rays, generating a second X-ray image signal from the portions of X-rays of the second beam detected, and generating a difference image signal based upon a comparison of the first and second X-ray image signals. The difference image signal provides information of changes in X-ray attenuation by localized regions of tissue within the volume of tissue due to the application of heat.

Abstract: An optical sampling subsystem and method that reduces the effect of errors in an optical sampling subsystem when heterogeneously distributed samples are measured in the path of a spectrometer. The optical sampling subsystem is used to collect the non-uniformly distributed radiation exiting the heterogeneous sample and produce a uniform irradiance at its output. The output is then directed into the wavenumber (inverse of wavelength in centimeters) dispersive or modulating device of the spectrometer. The resulting spectra exhibit less spectral complexity arising from components of the sampling subsystem design and the heterogeneous sample, in particular, the effect of wavenumber shift is minimized. Improved quantitative predictions, qualitative analysis and calibration transfer are direct consequences of the reduced spectral complexity.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method for obtaining feedback to drive a servo system for aligning and maintaining alignment in optical systems that bring light to an in vivo skin sample, for adjusting the focus of the optical system, and for adjusting the net depth of focus of the optical system within the in vivo system under characterization. These methods comprise adjusting the angle of incidence of electromagnetic radiation and/or providing a shielding lens to block scattered incident light, or otherwise limiting the field of view of the Raman scattered radiation collection system to exclude optical surfaces of the excitation delivery portion of the optical system. In one embodiment, the method comprises discriminating between Raman signals originating on outer portions of skin from signals originating from substances deeper within the skin or other tissues. In another embodiment, the invention provides a method for detecting skin abnormalities and for assessing the aging of skin and related tissues.

Abstract: A protective inguinal perineal element for male and female patients includes a cushion that, when necessary, can have a topical substance applied to it which can be released to the patient.

Abstract: A designer tampon applicator, plunger and withdrawal string is disclosed. The disclosed invention decreases the embarrassment and removes the stigma of menstruation by converting a feminine hygiene product requiring maximum discretion into a high-fashion accessory suitable for public display and personal or intimate adornment. The disclosed invention also allows use of a larger tampon pledget providing greater absorption of and a more effective barrier to menstrual flow. Furthermore, the designer withdrawal string provides a highly visible reminder a tampon is in place and very effective means of removing the tampon.

Abstract: A snap-in insert is disclosed for use with the faceplate of an ostomy appliance. The faceplate includes a convex pressure ring and an adhesive barrier pad or wafer that extends over the convex surface of that ring. The insert has an apertured support wall that is flexible but sufficiently stiff to support and thereby brace the barrier pad about the faceplate's stoma-receiving opening.

Abstract: Attached to a proximal end portion of a flexible cord of an ultrasound probe of an ultrasound examination system, to be introduced into a body cavity through a narrow guide passage, is a flexible wiring film which can be coiled into a helical roll of a narrow cylindrical shape extending along an axial extension line of the flexible cord at the time of passing same through the narrow guide passage. Formed on a surface of the flexible wiring film are a plural number of wire connection points for connection of signal lines from transducer elements of an ultrasound transducer which is provided at a fore distal end of the flexible cord of the probe, and a corresponding number of electrodes which are electrically connected with the wire connection points through a wiring pattern. The electrodes on the flexible wiring film are disconnectibly connected to corresponding contact points on a contact assembly of a relay means.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a gripping member for use on a tubular insertion member of an applicator for inserting an object into a body cavity. The gripping member includes a plastic sleeve having a longitudinal axis, first and second ends, an outer surface, and a bore extending from the first end to the second end. It also includes a plurality of raised features disposed on the outer surface of the body, extending away from the longitudinal axis. At least one of the raised features is proximate the first end, and at least one of the raised features is proximate the second end. Finally, at least one notch defined by side edges is disposed at one of the first and second ends to impart flexibility to the associated end. The plastic sleeve is arranged and configured to be affixed to the associated tubular insertion member.