Abstract: A portable laparoscope is disclosed. In implementations, the portable laparoscope includes a housing and an elongated tube coupled to the housing. A lighting source and a camera are disposed proximate to an end of the elongated tube opposite the housing. The camera is configured to capture an image in a viewing area that is illuminated by light provided by the lighting source. The portable laparoscope includes an image display apparatus configured to display the images acquired by the camera and/or to transmit the images to a remote display device. The housing may be configured to hold and position an insufflator.

Abstract: Methods, systems and devices for evaluating the integrity of a uterine cavity. A method comprises introducing transcervically a probe into a patient's uterine cavity, providing a flow of a fluid (e.g., CO2) through the probe into the uterine cavity and monitoring the rate of the flow to characterize the uterine cavity as perforated or non-perforated based on a change in the flow rate.

Abstract: One aspect of the invention is a method to vent gas from a body cavity during an endoscopic procedure. A body cavity is in fluid communication with an exhaust gas inlet of a vacuum break device. The vacuum break device has a chamber in fluid communication with both the inlet and an outlet. The chamber may comprise one or more openings in fluid communication with the atmosphere. A conduit in fluid communication with the exhaust gas outlet may be connected directly or indirectly to a suction source. The suction source may be activated.

Abstract: Methods, systems and devices for evaluating the integrity of a uterine cavity. A method comprises introducing transcervically a probe into a patient's uterine cavity, providing a flow of a fluid (e.g., CO2) through the probe into the uterine cavity and monitoring the rate of the flow to characterize the uterine cavity as perforated or non-perforated based on a change in the flow rate. If the flow rate drops to zero or close to zero, this indicates that the uterine cavity is intact and not perforated. If the flow rate does not drop to zero or close to zero, this indicates that a fluid flow is leaking through a perforation in the uterine cavity into the uterine cavity or escaping around an occlusion balloon that occludes the cervical canal.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for treating subcutaneous tissues using acoustic waves in the range of low acoustic pressure ultrasound waves is disclosed. The method includes injections of enhancing agents, wherein disruption of subcutaneous tissues and subcutaneous cavitational bioeffects are produced by ultrasound waves having a power that will not produce tissue cavitation in the absence of the enhancing agents. The apparatus and method of use is useful for treatment of subcutaneous abnormalities including cellulite, lipomas, and tumors.

Abstract: Methods, systems and devices for evaluating the integrity of a uterine cavity. A method comprises introducing transcervically a probe into a patient's uterine cavity, providing a flow of a fluid (e.g., CO2) through the probe into the uterine cavity and monitoring the rate of the flow to characterize the uterine cavity as perforated or non-perforated based on a change in the flow rate. If the flow rate drops to zero or close to zero, this indicates that the uterine cavity is intact and not perforated. If the flow rate does not drop to zero or close to zero, this indicates that a fluid flow is leaking through a perforation in the uterine cavity into the uterine cavity or escaping around an occlusion balloon that occludes the cervical canal.

Abstract: Methods, systems and devices for evaluating the integrity of a uterine cavity. A method comprises introducing transcervically a probe into a patient's uterine cavity, providing a flow of a fluid (e.g., CO2) through the probe into the uterine cavity and monitoring the rate of the flow to characterize the uterine cavity as perforated or non-perforated based on a change in the flow rate.

Abstract: Anastomosis leak testers for testing for leaks in gastrointestinal anastomoses in patients include an inflation pump and a conduit part. The inflation pump has a compressible portion and a mechanism for providing a uni-directional flow of air through the inflation pump upon intermittent compressing thereof. Conduit parts have an interior space, a portion to be inserted into an anus of a patient or arm to be mated to a gastric tube, rectal tube or endoscope, a pressure relief valve and an indicator pin, and a rearward arm connected to the inflation pump. Upon actuation of the inflation pump, air flows through the inflation pump and through the conduit part into the patient's bowel. When the air pressure in the bowel exceeds a specified pressure, air is released through the pressure relief valve and ejects the indicator pin, which alerts the surgeon that the desired rectal pressure has been reached.

Abstract: Devices and methods are disclosed to detect or verify fallopian tube occlusion. Devices include an elongated body a continuous open space extending between proximal and distal openings, a first pressure sensor or flow meter configured to measure a pressure or fluid flow within the continuous open space, at least one seal member protruding from the outer wall of the elongated body, and a second pressure sensor or flow meter configured to measure a pressure or flow meter within a space created by the at least one seal member.

Abstract: A gas supply apparatus measures a first pressure inside a first body cavity of a patient and a second pressure inside a second body cavity of the patient. The gas supply apparatus regulates a pressure of a predetermined gas based on the measured first and second pressures inside the first and second body cavities.

Abstract: An illuminated acoustical stimulation ear probe with outer ear illumination and a probe-fit status indicator.

Abstract: Methods, systems and devices for evaluating the integrity of a uterine cavity. A method comprises introducing transcervically a probe into a patient's uterine cavity, providing a flow of a fluid (e.g., CO2) through the probe into the uterine cavity and monitoring the rate of the flow to characterize the uterine cavity as perforated or non-perforated based on a change in the flow rate. If the flow rate drops to zero or close to zero, this indicates that the uterine cavity is intact and not perforated. If the flow rate does not drop to zero or close to zero, this indicates that a fluid flow is leaking through a perforation in the uterine cavity into the uterine cavity or escaping around an occlusion balloon that occludes the cervical canal.

Abstract: Methods, systems and devices for evaluating the integrity of a uterine cavity. A method comprises introducing transcervically a probe into a patient's uterine cavity, providing a flow of a fluid (e.g., CO2) through the probe into the uterine cavity and monitoring the rate of the flow to characterize the uterine cavity as perforated or non-perforated based on a change in the flow rate. If the flow rate drops to zero or close to zero, this indicates that the uterine cavity is intact and not perforated. If the flow rate does not drop to zero or close to zero, this indicates that a fluid flow is leaking through a perforation in the uterine cavity into the uterine cavity or escaping around an occlusion balloon that occludes the cervical canal.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for measuring smooth muscles responses (relaxation and contraction), transepithelial potential difference, and/or transepithelial impedance of an intact trachea in vitro. In particular embodiments, the apparatus includes a perfusion device on which an extracted, intact trachea is mounted. The perfusion device and the trachea are immersed in an extraluminal bath, which is isolated from the perfusion liquid flowing through the trachea. A set of voltage-sensing electrodes is provided for measuring the transepithelial potential difference across the trachea wall. A set of current electrodes is provided for inducing an electrical current to flow across the trachea wall in order to determine transepithelial impedance.

Abstract: Structure and methodology involving mountable and head-wearable frame structure which is positionally stabilized, during use, relative a human subject's head, and which carries a selection of positionally anchored data sensors, and stimuli deliverers, that are relevant to the diagnosis and treatment of vestibular disorders. Special configurations are provided for two types of stimulators, one for sound application and air-pressure modification, and the other for the introduction of fluids to the ear. Stabilization enables tight and accurate correlation of data which is quickly analyzable by a connected, properly algorithmed computer, which can also be used for feedback control in a designed “expert” system. The invention enables, among other things, practical and significant differentiation between physiological and pathological nystagmus.

Abstract: A gas supply apparatus measures a first pressure inside a first body cavity of a specimen and a second pressure inside a second body cavity of the specimen. The gas supply apparatus regulates a pressure of a predetermined gas based on the measured first and second pressures inside the first and second body cavities so that the first and second pressures reach predetermined first and second pressure settings, respectively.

Abstract: A system for examining a colon includes a catheter, such as a rectal catheter, having a proximal end, a distal end, and a central lumen extending from the proximal end to the distal end of the catheter, and a flexible tube coupled with the catheter. The system includes a first balloon located adjacent a distal end of the flexible tube, and a second balloon extending around the catheter and being located between the distal and proximal ends of the catheter, whereby the distance between the first and second balloons is adjustable by sliding the flexible tube through the central lumen of the catheter. The first and second balloons are inflatable for isolating a section of a colon, and a gas or contrast may be introduced into the isolated colon section for conducting the examination.

Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus comprising: a hose extending, in use, from an automated syringe to a free end; an angiographic catheter; a syringe; and valve having a first port coupled to the catheter, a second port coupled with the syringe and a third port coupled hose free end, the valve being manipulable to connect any two of its ports to one another for communication such that, in use, when the syringe is evacuated, the automated syringe and the apparatus up to the catheter are charged with CO2 and the catheter is inserted into the vascular system of a patient, the valve (i) can be manipulated to connect the syringe to the catheter such that withdrawal of the plunger of the syringe purges the catheter and (ii) thereafter can be manipulated to connect the catheter to the hose such that evacuation of the automated syringe injects CO2 into said vascular system.

Abstract: A tissue perforation device and method. The device preferably includes a housing having a housing pass-through, a penetrator device securely and sealably positioned so that the penetrator device passes through the housing pass-through, and a vacuum system comprising a vacuum source securely and sealably attached through the housing for advancing a patient's tissue onto the penetrator device.

Abstract: An insufflation apparatus includes an elongated sleeve defining a longitudinal axis and having a proximal end and a distal end with a sharpened tip, an insufflation housing connected to the proximal end of the elongated sleeve and defining a port for receipt of insufflation gases, and a stylet disposed within the elongated sleeve and defining a passageway to direct the insufflation gases from the port into a body cavity. The stylet is movable between an extended position wherein the distal end of the stylet extends beyond the sharpened tip of the elongated sleeve and a retracted position wherein the distal end of the stylet is proximal of the sharpened tip of the elongated sleeve. A biasing member may be engagable with the stylet so as to bias the stylet toward the extended position. Preferably, the housing has a translucent wall and the stylet is dimensioned so that the proximal end of the stylet is visible through the translucent wall when the stylet is in the retracted position.

Abstract: A system and method for detecting perforations in a body cavity. In accordance with the method of the invention, a fluid (liquid or gas) is delivered into a body cavity to slightly pressurize the cavity. A pressure sensing system monitors the pressure within the cavity for a predetermined test period. If cavity pressure is not substantially sustained during the test period, the physician is alerted to further assess the cavity for perforations before initiating treatment within the cavity. In a preferred form of the system, a medical treatment system such as an RF ablation system is provided with perforation detection functionality. The system preferably includes a pre-test and post-test lockout system.

Abstract: The invention relates to a diagnostic apparatus with which diseased hard tissue, in particular carious dental tissue, can be examined through a small working channel, to see whether it can be made healthy again by remineralization. This diagnosis apparatus tightly (54) seals the working channel, produced in the tissue, from its environment, and places the cavity in the tissue under pressure, after which the pressurization is ended and a pressure drop is measured by means of a pressure measuring instrument (60). The speed of the drop in pressure is a measure of the extent of the changes to the diseased tissue. The invention also relates to a treatment device for supporting the remineralization or reinfiltration of diseased hard tissue and for preparing this, as well as to diagnosis and treatment agents and treatment substances.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for treating a disease or condition of the ear, such as Meniere's disease or endolymphatic hydrops, includes a manual device operable by hand to pressurize air and pressure transmitting arrangement for delivering the pressurized air to the middle ear, preferably in pulses, to displace the partition between the middle ear and the inner ear to influence fluid in the inner ear.

Abstract: A system and method for detecting perforations in a body cavity. In accordance with the method of the invention, a fluid (liquid or gas) is delivered into a body cavity to slightly pressurize the cavity. A pressure sensing system monitors the pressure within the cavity for a predetermined test period. If cavity pressure is not substantially sustained during the test period, the physician is alerted to further assess the cavity for perforations before initiating treatment within the cavity. In a preferred form of the system, a medical treatment system such as an RF ablation system is provided with perforation detection functionality. The system preferably includes a pre-test and post-test lockout system.

Abstract: A system and method for detecting perforations in a body cavity. In accordance with the method of the invention, a fluid (liquid or gas) is delivered into a body cavity to slightly pressurize the cavity. A pressure sensing system monitors the pressure within the cavity for a predetermined test period. If cavity pressure is not substantially sustained during the test period, the physician is alerted to further assess the cavity for perforations before initiating treatment within the cavity. In a preferred form of the system, a medical treatment system such as an RF ablation system is provided with perforation detection functionality. The system preferably includes a pre-test and post-test lockout system.

Abstract: A method and device are provided for determination of the location of an anatomical or functional constriction of a hollow body organ, such as the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) in the gastroesophageal junctional segment, or constrictions in other tubular organs of the body such as other parts of the gastrointestinal tract, the pancreatico-biliary tract, the genito-urinary tract, and blood vessels.

Abstract: An apparatus includes a catheter for insertion into a stomach to introduce air into the stomach through the catheter and a pressure measurement device associated with the catheter to sense a pressure in the stomach. The pressure measurement device is used to determine a gastric yield pressure of the stomach when enough air has been introduced to the stomach to overcome the esophageal-gastric junction.

Abstract: To assess the sensitivity of a subject's pharynx, an open mouthpiece (1) fitted with a thin guide tube (2), having an articulated end (4), is inserted into the subject's mouth. A pipe (9) is inserted into the guide tube, under visual observation through the mouthpiece, until it touches the subject's palate. The position on a measurement scale (11) provided on the pipe facing a second end of the guide tube is noted, and the pipe is withdrawn over a preset distance, for example 1 cm, and fixed in this position onto the guide tube. A variable gas flow is injected into the pipe and reaches the pharyngeal mucous situated facing the pipe. The sensitivity of the subject's pharynx, measured by the threshold of sense perception, is determined by the lowest flow value perceived by the subject.

Abstract: A urinary apparatus includes a catheter system for pressurizing either a bladder cavity or a urethral canal within a female urinary system and an endoscope device for observing a urethral sphincter muscle within the female urinary system for assessing the sling tension of an implant support adapted to restore female urinary continence. The catheter system includes a obturator occlusion member for plugging the urethral canal during the performance of a sling tensioning procedure.

Abstract: A system and method for detecting perforations in a body cavity. In accordance with the method of the invention, a fluid (liquid or gas) is delivered into a body cavity to slightly pressurize the cavity. A pressure sensing system monitors the pressure within the cavity for a predetermined test period. If cavity pressure is not substantially sustained during the test period, the physician is alerted to further assess the cavity for perforations before initiating treatment within the cavity. In a preferred form of the system, a medical treatment system such as an RF ablation system is provided with perforation detection functionality. The system preferably includes a pre-test lockout that prevents RF power delivery unless a perforation detection procedure previously has been performed.

Abstract: An air feeding device for an endoscope, is provided with a pressure control system that controls a pressure of air within a sealed space so as to fall within a predetermined set range. The air feeding device is further provided with an abnormal condition detecting system that detects an abnormal condition of at least one of the pressure within the sealed space and control of the pressure control system. Further, the air feeding device includes a resolving system that resolves the abnormal condition when the abnormal condition detecting system detects an abnormal condition.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for treating a disease or condition of the ear, such as Meniere's disease or endolymphatic hydrops, includes a manual device operable by hand to pressurize air and pressure transmitting arrangement for delivering the pressurized air to the middle ear, preferably in pulses, to displace the partition between the middle ear and the inner ear to influence fluid in the inner ear.

Abstract: An apparatus for minimizing the risk of air embolism includes an instrument delivery member 2 having a gas outlet 38 for delivering gas into a patient's thoracic cavity. The gas is directed across an opening 48 in the instrument delivery member 2 to help retain the gas in the patient's thoracic cavity. The gas is preferably carbon dioxide which is more soluble in blood than air which will thereby decrease the likelihood of the patient receiving an embolism due to trapped air in the patient's heart and great vessels after surgery.

Abstract: A system and method for detecting perforations in a body cavity. A fluid (liquid or gas) is delivered into a body cavity to slightly pressurize the cavity. A pressure sensing system monitors the pressure within the cavity for a predetermined test period. If cavity pressure is not substantially sustained during the test period, the physician is alerted to further assess the cavity for perforations before initiating treatment within the cavity. In a preferred form of the system, a medical treatment system such as an RF ablation system is provided with perforation detection functionality. The system preferably includes a pre-test and post-test lockout system. The lockout system prevents RF power delivery unless, during a predetermined test period, the pressure sensing system determines that no perforation exists, or unless a previously performed perforation detection procedure determined a perforation was present but the lockout system was subsequently overridden by the physician.

Abstract: A pulsed insulation system for administering an insufflation procedure includes a controller programmed to have a multi-mode operation. The controller switches the insufflation system to adjust an insufflation pressure to a nominal value in a first mode of operation of the controller. Upon encountering an obstruction by a Veress needle, the controller switches the insufflation system in a second mode, so as to adjust the insufflation pressure to a maximum target value and to have an interruption phase of pulse controllably increased. The interruption phase of pulse in the second mode is extended so as to enable a pressurized fluid accumulated at an upstream end of the Veress needle to dissipate therethrough before a measurement of the intracavity pressure is made.

Abstract: An air delivery unit, in which a closed-space is formed, comprises a discharge-mode switch, a pressure switch and a discharge switch. The discharge-mode switch, the pressure switch, and the discharge switch are arranged on an operation panel. The discharge-mode switch is provided for setting a discharge-mode. The pressure switch is provided for setting the pressure in the closed space. The discharge switch is provided for carrying out a discharge of the air in the closed-space. Accordingly, the discharge-mode switch, the pressure switch and the discharge switch are aligned in operation order.

Abstract: The devices and methods disclosed herein are directed to altering gaseous flow within a lung to improve the expiration cycle of, for instance, an individual having Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. More particularly, these devices and methods produce and to maintain collateral openings or channels through the airway wall so that expired air is able to pass directly out of the lung tissue to facilitate both the exchange of oxygen ultimately into the blood and/or to decompress hyper-inflated lungs. The devices and methods also disclose locating and selecting a site for creation of a collateral opening.

Abstract: The devices and methods disclosed herein are directed to altering gaseous flow within a lung to improve the expiration cycle of, for instance, an individual having Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. More particularly, these devices and methods produce and to maintain collateral openings or channels through the airway wall so that expired air is able to pass directly out of the lung tissue to facilitate both the exchange of oxygen ultimately into the blood and/or to decompress hyper-inflated lungs. The devices and methods also disclose locating and selecting a site for creation of a collateral opening.

Abstract: An apparatus and method to objectively measure sensory discrimination thresholds at a test site in the upper aero digestive tract of a patient. A time and pressure controlled puff of air is delivered to the input of a Y-shaped tube; one output branch of the Y-shaped tube delivers the puff of air to the patient and the other output branch delivers the puff of air to a pressure transducer, for measurement and display of the pressure.

Abstract: An endoscope air sending device (15) has a compressor (13), an air tank (34), an air filter (35), a pressure control valve (38), a pressure sensor (14), and a discharge valve (12) are provided. The compressor and the air tank are communicated with each other through an air tube (AT5), and the air tank and the air filter are communicated with each other through an air tube (AT4). The air filter and the discharge valve are communicated with each other through an air tube (AT3), and the pressure control valve, the air sensor and the discharge valve are also communicated with one another through the air tube (AT3). By communicating those components with one another in the above-described manner, a closed space is formed.

Abstract: A system, apparatus, and method for supplying continuous and intermittent insufflating gas flow are disclosed. The system, apparatus, and method is capable of providing a continuous flow (100% duty cycle) of insufflation gas, while assuring the continuity of the delivery lines, and the pressure sense lines. The disclosure describes a delivery assembly, an internal sensing assembly, an internal sense line, a pressure assembly, and a controller.

Abstract: An air feeding device for an endoscope system in which air is compressed in a sealed space and discharged from an outlet of a tube connected to the sealed space which is provided with a pressure sensor that detects a pressure of the air in the sealed space, and a pressure adjusting system that adjusts the pressure of air in the sealed space and a pressure setting device through which an operator is capable of setting a discharge pressure. A memory storing a relationship between a discharge pressure and a pressure in the sealed space is further provided. A pressure controller is also provided, which controls the pressure adjusting system in accordance with the air pressure detected by the pressure sensor and the pressure value set by the pressure setting device.

Abstract: Inside an endoscope air sending device (15), an air compressor (13), an air tank (34), an air filter (35), a pressure control valve (38), a pressure sensor (14), and a discharge valve (12) are provided so that those elements form a closed space therein. An air sending fan (47) is provided on the wall of a housing (10), and a circuit board (K) is provided above the air sending fan (47) and those elements forming the closed space. A discharge outlet (60) is provided on the housing (10) in such a manner that the discharge outlet (60) is located above the circuit board (K).

Abstract: A non-invasive device for evaluating circulatory state parameters, and specifically, a pulsewave analysis device capable of evaluation by separating blood vessel compliance and blood vessel resistance into central and peripheral components of the arterial system is provided. Microcomputer 4 detects the waveform at a test subject's radius artery via pulsewave detector 1, and uptakes the stroke volume in the test subject which is measured by a stroke-volume measurer. Next, based on the measured stroke volume, microcomputer 4 adjusts the values of each element in a lumped five parameter model made up of an electrical circuit which models the arterial system from the center to the periphery of the body, so that the response waveform obtained when an electric signal corresponding to the pressure waveform at the proximal portion of the aorta in a test subject is provided to the electric circuit coincides with the waveform at the radius artery.

Abstract: Improved systems and methods are used for controlled infusion of fluid into a body cavity. In particular, the improved system allows a user to accurately control pressure created in a body cavity over a broad range of fluid flow rates required in various medical procedures. In one embodiment, the system comprises a pump having a conduit which defines a fluid flow path from the pump. Typically, a surgical instrument such as a resectoscope is coupled to the conduit to direct the fluid into the body cavity. The system controls pressure in the body cavity by using a first sensor to measure pump output and a second sensor to measure body cavity pressure. Preferably, the second sensor measures the actual pressure in the body cavity to correct for any pressure losses that may occur during fluid delivery from the pump.

Abstract: A method for use in laparoscopic hernia repair comprises the steps of inserting a distal end of a laparoscope through a patient's abdominal muscles to a point outside of the parietal peritoneum, and inserting through the abdominal muscles a distal end of an elongate instrument provided at that distal end with a balloon in a collapsed configuration, the balloon being transparent to optical radiation. Upon disposition of the balloon between the abdominal muscles and the peritoneum, the balloon is inflated and the instrument is subsequently manipulated from outside the patient to push the inflated balloon against connective tissues between the abdominal muscles and the peritoneum to shift the tissues to form a pre-peritoneal space. During the manipulation of the instrument with the balloon, the laparoscope is to view, through and around the inflated balloon, the connective tissues and other organic structures.

Abstract: A method and apparatus detect occlusion in a tube to a passage into a body cavity. An argon gas supply output received by plural selectable flow orifices so one or more of the orifices delivers predetermined metered gas. A duct with a volume of gas selectively provides metered gas to the passage. The tube connects the passage and the duct periodically so a duct pressure transducer can signal. A circuit tests signals of tube equalization with a back pressure. A three way valve controlled by the circuit connects the duct transducer to gas metered to the cavity. Plural orifices provide specific gas flows to the handset and the valve for equalizing them with metered gas as a function of the flow.

Abstract: An apparatus and method to objectively measure sensory discrimination thresholds at a test site in the upper aero digestive tract of a patient. A time and pressure controlled puff of air is delivered to the input of a Y-shaped tube; one output branch of the Y-shaped tube delivers the puff of air to the patient and the other output branch delivers the puff of air to a pressure transducer, for measurement and display of the pressure.

Abstract: Process for maintaining the cleanliness of the inner cavity of a medical operating instrument (I), particularly a surgical instrument used in minimally invasive medicine, having an outer casing (M) and operating or actuating elements (SS, SH) arranged therein, said instrument being used to enter the body of a living person or animal, wherein during its use the instrument is acted upon essentially from its proximal end through a fluid connection (A) with a medically clean fluid (G) in such a way that essentially all the crevices and cavities in the inner space, in fluid contact with the inside of the body, between the operating or actuating elements (SS, SH) or between the latter and the casing (M) are filled with the fluid.

Abstract: In the non-contact intraocular pressure measuring apparatus for measuring the intraocular pressure of the eye to be examined for a suitable measurement time, after alignment of the apparatus main body with the eye to be examined is performed, the time required for charging the condenser is calculated based on current supply time for the rotary solenoid at the time of the previous intraocular pressure measurement. When the calculated charging time elapses, the desired quantity of current is supplied from the condenser to the rotary solenoid, allowing the air supply unit to spray air to the cornea of the eye to be examined. The cornea is transfigured and flattened by the sprayed air. At the same time, intraocular pressure measuring light is illuminated from the intraocular pressure measuring optical system to the flattened cornea. The reflected light therefrom is detected to calculate intraocular pressure value of the eye to be examined.