Abstract: A morcellation system and method for reducing and removing tissue or other matter contained within a mammalian body. A portal apparatus, having a central opening, is inserted into a small incision. Thereafter, a hollow-bore morcellator device is nestable within the central opening of the portal device. The hollow-bore morcellator device includes a rotatable shaft which extends downwardly into the body cavity, and upon which an annular cutting ring is mounted. An elongate suction probe is passable downwardly through the hollow-bore morcellator device, and is usable to engage (by suction force) a mass of tissue or other matter, and to repeatedly lift such mass into contact with the rotating annular cutting ring of the morcellator shaft. A tissue containment chamber may be positioned on the proximal end of the suction probe such that segments of tissue or matter separated by the annular cutting ring may be aspirated through the suction probe and collected within the collection chamber.

Abstract: A bi-directional endoscope comprising a catheter body having a tubular spring frame attached to and extending axially from the distal end thereof. The spring frame comprises a spring body which includes a tip member positioned on the distal end thereof, and a plurality of relief slots disposed therein for allowing the deflection of the spring frame within a first deflection plane. The relief slots are formed in the spring body in a manner defining first and second longitudinally extending stiffening portions which are oriented substantially diametrically opposite each other therewithin. Extending longitudinally through the catheter body and spring frame is a pair of activation wires which are encased by a pair of support sleeves. The spring frame is deflected by stressing the activation wires by subjecting either of the wires to a tensile force.

Abstract: An electromagnetic energy interference seal arrangement is provided for use in light beam touch panel systems. The electromagnetic energy interference seal includes the use of waveguides associated with the light beam sources and detectors to improve light beam touch panel performance. The waveguide size is selected so that it operates as a waveguide above cutoff frequency for the light beams but operates as a waveguide below cutoff frequency for blocking electromagnetic energy interference. The waveguides improve the light beam signal to noise ratio since they shade the detectors from reflections and from extraneous light such as from overhead room lighting. Bonding of part of the electromagnetic energy interference seal is effected by an electrically conductive compound which enables nondestructive disassembly when required. Environmental sealing strips are provided to cover the waveguide apertures to protect against dust, liquids and other environmental contaminants.