Abstract: A method of surveillance wherein a scanning device such as a digital camera located at a monitoring location is directed towards a target region to be subject to surveillance; and the target region is scanned by way of the scanning device to generate output information representing information associated with the target region; characterized by the steps of: transmitting output information from the scanning device to a receiving method at a receiving location by way of a communication network which can include the Internet; reviewing at the receiving location, or at a location in communication therewith, the output information such as by comparison with information contained in a database; and sending from the receiving location or a location in communication with the receiving location by way of the communicating network to at least one decision making location (which can included the monitoring location) a signal representing information relating to or arising from the output information.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for the fixation of bone fractures, limb lengthening, and the correction of deformities uses an improved composite plastic carbon fiber ring that is formed in a mold, or machined with a stepped end portion that allows half rings to be assembled in a common plane. The method can use a mold wherein multiple rings can be formed by stacking the rings with a Teflon layer therebetween and wherein circumferential braid reinforcement of carbon fiber adds strength at the circumferential inner and outer curved surfaces of the rings and half rings.

Abstract: A compression hip screw for repairing a bone fracture includes a non-absorbable plate and a non-absorbable barrel section connected to the plate adapted to be inserted into a hole formed in the hip bone. A non-absorbable lag screw with a longitudinal opening therein and with internal and external threads is adapted to be inserted through the longitudinal opening in the barrel and into the portion of the bone on one side of a fracture. A compressing screw with threads adapted to cooperate with the internal threads of the lag screw and a head adapted to abut the outer portion of the barrel adjacent to the longitudinal opening can be inserted into the opening in the barrel for compressing the portions of the bone on both sides of the fracture. The compressing screw has at least a head portion formed of a material that absorbs on contact with body fluids.

Abstract: A method for repairing a bone fracture with a compression screw assembly is provided. First and second non-resorbable compression members are positioned so that the head portion of the compression screw can protrude from the surface of the second non-resorbable compression member after further compression is effected by the normal healing process. At least the head portion of the screw is formed of a material that resorbs upon contact with body fluids.