Abstract: A radiation detection apparatus having a hand-held radiation detection probe with a switch assembly removably mounted thereon is hereinafter disclosed. The switch assembly having first and second switches, one to initiate transmission of electrical signals representing scintillations detected over a set time period to a remotely located control unit for counting and averaging, and the other to direct the control unit to download and preferably record the counted and averaged scintillation values for further use. The switch assembly has an insulating member for electrically insulating the switches from the probe, and spaced gripping members that releasably grip the probe. A movable stand is provided preferably with a holder for holding the probe. The probe can have a protective cover thereon with a switch assembly mounted onto the probe over the cover.

Abstract: A surgical stapling device for applying an array of surgical staples to tissue is provided. The stapling device includes an approximation mechanism for moving a cartridge assembly and an anvil assembly between spaced and approximated positions and a firing mechanism for ejecting the array of staples from the cartridge assembly. A single trigger is operable to effect approximation and firing of the device. The device also includes an alignment pin assembly which can be selectively manually or automatically advanced. The anvil assembly includes a stiffener plate which allows the device to have a reduced head portion profile.

Abstract: A surgical stapling device for applying an array of surgical staples to tissue is provided. The stapling device includes an approximation mechanism for moving a cartridge assembly and an anvil assembly between spaced and approximated positions and a firing mechanism for ejecting the array of staples from the cartridge assembly. A single trigger is operable to effect approximation and firing of the device. The device also includes an alignment pin assembly which can be selectively manually or automatically advanced. The anvil assembly includes a stiffener plate which allows the device to have a reduced head portion profile.

Abstract: A surgical instrument is provided which includes a cushioned portion attached to at least one of the pressure contact regions of the handle assembly. The cushioned portion is preferably formed from a material which is slip-resistant even in the presence of body fluids. The cushioned portion may be over-molded onto the pressure contact regions of the handle. Alternately, the cushioned portion can be fastened to the pressure contact regions of the handle assembly using other fastening techniques including adhesives, screws, welding, etc. In one preferred embodiment, the cushioned portion is formed from a thermoplastic elastomer. However, other slip-resistant pliant materials may also be used including elastomers, synthetics, etc.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a ligating instrument and end effector assemblies for use in laparoscopic tubal ligation procedures. The ligating instrument includes an integral grasping assembly and an integral end effector actuator and is configured to perform a ligating procedure by operation of a single hand of a user. The ligating instrument includes an integral grasper assembly for grasping a tubular tissue section and removable end effector or suture deployment mechanism for holding open a suture to be positioned about the tubular section. The grasper is configured to draw the tubular section into the open loop of suture material and cinch the suture material about the tubular tissue section. A rotator knob may be provided to orient grasper members associated with the grasper assembly relative to the tissue section.

Abstract: There is provided a radiation detection apparatus having a hand-held radiation detection probe with a switch assembly removably mounted thereon. The switch assembly having first and second switches, one to initiate transmission of electrical signals representing scintillations detected over a set time period to a remotely located control unit for counting and averaging, and the other to direct the control unit to download and preferably record the counted and averaged scintillation values for further use. The switch assembly has an insulating member for electrically insulating the switches from the probe, and spaced gripping members that releasably grip the probe. A movable stand is provided preferably with a holder for holding the probe. The probe can have a protective cover thereon with a switch assembly mounted onto the probe over the cover.

Abstract: A radiation detection apparatus includes a scintillation counter, a download control device for outputting a scintillation count to a utilization device, and a hand-held probe including a scintillation detector. The apparatus also includes a connector for connecting the probe to the counter, and a switch assembly removably mounted to the probe. The switch assembly has a first trigger for causing the counter to accumulate a first scintillation count over a first period, the counter to accumulate a second scintillation count over a second period, and the detection apparatus to display the second scintillation count. The switch assembly has a second trigger for causing, upon activation, the download control device to manifest an accumulated scintillation count from the counter. A lack of activation of the second trigger during the display of the second scintillation count causes the counter to resume accumulating scintillation counts over the first period.

Abstract: A surgical instrument is provided which includes a cushioned portion attached to at least one of the pressure contact regions of the handle assembly. The cushioned portion is preferably formed from a material which is slip-resistant even in the presence of body fluids. The cushioned portion may be over-molded onto the pressure contact regions of the handle. Alternately, the cushioned portion can be fastened to the pressure contact regions of the handle assembly using other fastening techniques including adhesives, screws, welding, etc. In one preferred embodiment, the cushioned portion is formed from a thermoplastic elastomer. However, other slip-resistant pliant materials may also be used including elastomers, synthetics, etc.

Abstract: There is provided a radiation detection apparatus having a hand-held radiation detection probe with a switch assembly removably mounted thereon. The switch assembly having first and second switches, one to initiate transmission of electrical signals representing scintillations detected over a set time period to a remotely located control unit for counting and averaging, and the other to direct the control unit to download and preferably record the counted and averaged scintillation values for further use. The switch assembly has an insulating member for electrically insulating the switches from the probe, and spaced gripping members that releasably grip the probe. A movable stand is provided preferably with a holder for holding the probe. The probe can have a protective cover thereon with a switch assembly mounted onto the probe over the cover.

Abstract: A radiation detection apparatus includes a hand-held probe with a switch assembly removably mounted thereon. The switch assembly having first and second switches, one to initiate transmission of electrical signals representing scintillations detected over a set time period to a remotely located control unit for counting and averaging, and the other to direct the control unit to download and preferably record the counted and averaged scintillation values for further use. The switch assembly has an insulating member for electrically insulating the switches from the probe, and spaced gripping members that releasably grip the probe. A movable stand is provided preferably with a holder for holding the probe. The probe can have a protective cover thereon with a switch assembly mounted onto the probe over the cover.