Abstract: A handheld device for sensing and indicating the location of a blood vessel, and marking the skin adjacent to the blood vessel. The operation of the device is based on determining the difference in signal transfer amplitude between two partially overlapping infrared light paths, and moving the device until this difference is zeroed. The sensitivity of the device is enhanced by having an angle in each infrared light path such that the infrared light is primarily reflected, rather than absorbed, by the blood vessel.

Abstract: A dental instrument (2) for use on a work area within a patient's mouth including controls for a tool element (16) illuminated by a fiber optic lens (46, 48) and displayed on a video imaging device (24). An elongated body (4) of the dental instrument houses connections (50) for communication between a control cable (18) and the distal end (15) of the instrument. Additionally, an objective element (20) and a camera (22) are sized to fit within the elongated body. The video imaging device monitors and/or records the work area via a light source (40), a video monitor system (42) and a video receiver (44). The elongated body includes an angled section (12) at the distal end of the body adjacent the tool element such that the fiber optic lens and video imaging device are oriented to illuminate the work area (26) within the patient's mouth. A quick-disconnect is provided for disconnecting the cable, connections and camera from the tool element.