Abstract: A simple and reliable system for anchoring a lead to the sacrum. The system provides a pliant slid-on anchoring sleeve featuring a suturing groove for lead fixation and a base having screw tabs for anchoring the sleeve and thus the lead to the sacrum. The base is reinforced, preferably through a mesh, to prevent tearing caused by screw forces. In addition an elongate washer may be further used in conjunction with screws to anchor the system to bone.

Abstract: The present invention provides a device for performing suction lipectomy or liposuction in which the reciprocal motion required during the liposuction procedure is automated. This automation greatly reduces the physical exertion required of the operating surgeon. The present invention also allows the use of smaller cannulae to achieve an improved aesthetic result. Use of such smaller cannulae with the manual liposuction procedures currently in use would be extremely taxing if not impossible.

Abstract: In one method for performing a laparoscopic lumbar discectomy an incision is created in the abdominal wall of a patient. The peritoneal lining is dissected from the abdominal wall while relocating the peritoneal lining toward the midline of the abdomen to create an expanded retroperitoneal space. A surgical apparatus is inserted into the incision comprising an endoscope and surgical means suitable for performing a lumbar discectomy. The surgical apparatus is directed through the expanded retroperitoneal space until the surgical apparatus approaches the anterior aspect of a vertebral body and a discectomy is performed on the vertebral body.

Abstract: An endoscopic or laparoscopic surgical instrument having an internally disposed locking mechanism located within a barrel portion of a handle assembly. The instrument includes a handle assembly having a pivoting handle and a stationary handle, a barrel portion to which an elongated body assembly is secured, and a locking mechanism for releasably positioning a tool mechanism located at the distal end of the body assembly. In one embodiment the locking mechanism comprises a trigger, a brake and a latch spring. In another embodiment the locking mechanism comprises a latch spring and a locking block. A rotational knob and locking member may also be provided to position the body assembly at various orientations to the longitudinal axis.