Abstract: Tissue anchors comprise a head and a fastening structure attached to the head. In one example, the fastening structure can include a helical structure disposed about an axis with a first end portion attached to the head and a second end portion including a distal end of the helical structure.

Abstract: Detection apparatus can include a positioning device with a wall including a substantially conical inner surface and a detection device configured to send and receive signals and move along the conical inner surface. Detection apparatus are also provided that comprise a positioning device and an end portion with an image port, a light device, and a detection device configured to send and receive signals. Ultrasonic transducer devices are also provided with a transducer material layer, a contact plating layer including a convex portion with an array of transducer elements, an acoustic matching layer, and a top plating layer.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for detecting an ear disorder. The apparatus includes structure for transmitting and receiving a plurality of signals to interact with an ear, and includes structure for directing the plurality of signals along different directions. In one example, the apparatus includes a plurality of transducers, each for interacting with a different ear portion. The transducers may be in a curved array. A determination as to which of the transducers is operable to provide an accurate indication of the detected ear disorder can be made. The transducers can be operated sequentially. In general, the method includes transmitting and receiving a plurality of signals to interact with an ear for ear disorder detection, and directing the plurality of signals along different directions. In one example the method includes providing a probe that has a plurality of transducers for use in detecting the ear disorder.

Abstract: Methods and devices of treating an area of tissue of a patient are provided wherein the area of tissue includes a first tissue layer and a second tissue layer. The methods comprise the step of providing a liquid distribution source including a quantity of liquid and a nozzle in liquid communication with the liquid distribution source. The method further comprises the step of positioning the nozzle with respect to the area of tissue and disbursing the quantity of liquid through the nozzle with a velocity sufficient to substantially remove the first tissue layer without significant injury to the second tissue layer.

Abstract: A surgical retractor assembly for providing a generally constant retracting force at a fixation site on a patient despite possible movements of the fixation site during application of the retracting force. The retractor assembly comprises a support structure engaging element for providing communication between the surgical retractor assembly and a support structure; a retractor guide for receiving a first end of a retracting member, the retractor guide being coupled to the support structure engaging element, wherein the retractor guide is displaceable relative to the support structure engaging element; and a biasing structure that provides the retracting force.

Abstract: An adjustable support apparatus for, e.g., supporting an instrument. The adjustable support apparatus may include a supporting member, an adjustable member engaging with the supporting member, a fastening member engaged with the adjustable member and an elongated member engaged with the adjustable member and adapted to interact with an instrument.

Abstract: A device for stabilizing tissue includes a stabilization member with portions at least partially defining an observation area therebetween. The portions are adapted to contact tissue to stabilize tissue with respect to the stabilization member. The device further includes an apparatus attached with respect to the stabilization member. The apparatus includes at least one port adapted to emit light into the observation area and towards stabilized tissue.

Abstract: The Remote Medical Image Analysis System implements a process for providing computerized medical image analysis for medical service providers using an Application Service Provider [ASP] model. To analyze a medical image, the system accepts a medical image file from a remotely located user. The medical image file is transferred over a computer network, such as the Internet, wherein the system analyzes the medical image file. The analysis results (which may include transformed images, reports, and diagnoses) are then transferred by the system to the user over the computer network. To accomplish this task, the system implements web servers, application servers, and processing servers, with data servers utilizing a database for data storage and retrieval, coordinating data flows among the various servers and system users and archiving data for longer-term storage.

Abstract: A fillable phantom for use with nuclear imaging system. The phantom includes a container having a connector for filling the container with radioactive solution. A porous medium within the container holds and distributes the radioactive solution. One or more contrasting region(s) formed in the porous medium is/are in fluid communication with the porous medium in order to absorb the radioactive solution.

Abstract: An articulated arm for holding surgical instruments, having elongated arm members; rotational joints connecting the arm members end to end, such that members are pivotable about the joints and at least one of the joints is selectively lockable by fluid pressure; and a plurality of tubes communicating fluid pressure between two adjacent joints. When two adjacent members are pivoted relative to one another, the tubes connecting a particular pair of joints remains substantially stationary with respect to the arm member connecting that pair of joints.