Abstract: An endoscope, consisting of an image sensor which is configured to generate an image signal and a control circuit which is mounted on the endoscope. The control circuit is configured to drive the image sensor based on a control signal from a processor. The endoscope includes a connector which is connected to the image sensor and which is configured to detachably connect to the control circuit. In addition, the connector includes a memory storing calibration data with respect to the image sensor. The control circuit adjusts the image signal, based on the calibration data stored in the memory, to form a calibrated image signal, and transmits the calibrated image signal to the processor.

Abstract: A pressure equalization tube assembly for insertion through a membrane of an ear is provided. The pressure equalization tube assembly includes a tube having an interior wall surface extending between a first end and a second end. The interior wall surface defines a lumen extending between the first and second ends. A first part extends from the first end of the tube and a second part extends from the second end of the tube. The first and second parts may be wire portions, coil portions, and/or superelastic flanges that are moveable between a collapsed state and an expanded state.

Abstract: A mechanical cutting device that makes use of mechanical (rotary) motion and suction to engage tissue also applies a cutting energy sufficient to vaporize the tissue. The rotation and suction are used to engage the tissue (sucking tissue into cutting windows when the cutting windows of inner and outer blades are aligned), and then the cutting member(s) function as an electrode(s) by having an electrical cutting signal applied thereto so that the cutting member(s) electrically cut the tissue as the cutting members relatively rotate. The electrical cutting signal is only applied as the windows become aligned up until the cutting of the tissue is completed. The cutting signal preferably is stopped after the cutting windows become misaligned. While the cutting windows are misaligned, a coagulation signal can be supplied to the cutting member so that the device functions as an electrocautery device.

Abstract: A method, including receiving signals, from a rectangular array of sensor elements arranged in rows and columns, corresponding to an image captured by the array. The method also includes analyzing the signals along a row or a column to identify one or more local turning points, and processing the signals at the identified local turning points to recognize fixed pattern noise in the captured image. The method further includes correcting values of the signals from the sensor elements at the identified local turning points so as to reduce the fixed pattern noise in the image.

Abstract: Surgical apparatus, including a trocar having a tubular member with a tubular member distal end and a tubular member proximal end. The apparatus further includes a tool having a tool proximal end and a tool distal end. The tool is insertably disposed within the tubular member with the tool distal end projecting beyond the tubular member distal end. The apparatus further includes an indicator indicating the tool distal end while the tool distal end projects beyond the tubular member distal end.

Abstract: An endoscope is provided for insertion into a small body cavity like a nostril and a sinus. The endoscope includes a control section, an insertion tube, a working channel tube, and a grip portion. The control section has portions defining a working channel port. The insertion tube extends from the control section and has first and second sections. The proximal end of the second section is connected to a distal end of the first section. The second section is bendable with respect to the first section. The working channel tube is disposed within first and second lumens of the first and second sections, which defines a working lumen extending therethrough. The working lumen is in communication with the working channel port. The grip portion is connected to the control section, and the insertion tube and the control section are rotatable with respect to the grip portion.

Abstract: An anti-retropulsion device comprising: an expandable segment; a distal collar positioned distally of the expandable segment; and a proximal collar positioned proximally of the expandable segment; wherein the expandable segment has a corresponding plurality of expandable members, and wherein each of the expandable members is configured to expand or contract radially and circumferentially in correspondence with a change in spacing between the distal collar and the proximal collar.