Abstract: The present invention is directed to a device for producing a shock wave to impact an object that includes a transfer member. The device has a voice coil assembly including a permanent magnet and a bobbin member, wherein the permanent magnet provides a first magnetic field. A hammer is attached with the bobbin member; and a coil is operatively attached to the bobbin member, wherein when a voltage is applied to the coil a second magnetic field is generated that opposes the first magnetic field and thereby propels the hammer to contact the transfer member to cause a shock wave to travel along the transfer member.

Abstract: An irrigation apparatus and a method of use for delivering fluid flow to a surgical site. The irrigation apparatus includes a refillable fluid reservoir with an inlet for receiving fluid via first tubing from a fluid source, and an outlet for second tubing leading to a surgical site. A sensor monitors the fluid contained within the reservoir. The sensor sends a signal to a controller, which operates a pump. The pump transports fluid from the fluid source to the refillable reservoir via the first tubing.

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 improved electrode assembly for a resectoscope includes at least one electrical lead that connects at a proximal end via a handle of the resectoscope to an electrosurgical generator to receive electrical power. The electrode assembly further includes an electrode tip at a distal end. The electrode tip has a surface that includes at least one aperture and preferably multiple apertures that extend through the tip. The aperture serves to increase the area of the electrode tip relative to its mass thereby increasing the performance of the electrode for cutting, ablating, vaporizing, or coagulating tissue. The electrode tip performs these functions with relatively lower power requirements compared to conventional resectoscope electrodes.

Abstract: A tubing set for connecting a source of irrigating fluid to an intraoperative surgical instrument having a fluid delivery passage therein. The tubing set includes a first section having an inlet for connection to the source of irrigating fluid, a second section having an outlet for connection to the intraoperative medical instrument, and a pump connected between the first section and the second section. A valve is located between the inlet and the outlet and restricts flow so that flow is in a direction from the inlet toward the outlet. The tubing set can deliver a continuous flow or trickle of fluid from the source of irrigating fluid to the medical instrument and can deliver a bolus of fluid to the surgical instrument upon operation of the pump.

Abstract: An irrigation system and method for providing fluid from a source of irrigating fluid to a surgical site, in particular a surgical site access to which is provided by a small incision or a natural orifice of the body. The irrigation system includes a control unit that is used with a cassette. The control unit includes a motor under the control of a controller, a sensor for sensing the flow of fluid in the cassette, a sensor for sensing pressure in the cassette, and a user control panel. The cassette includes a fluid flow passageway having an inlet connected to the source of irrigating fluid and an outlet for providing fluid to the surgical site. A pump located in the cassette is driven by the motor. The pump has limited efficiency when presented with back pressure to thereby limit to a safe level an amount of pressure that can be delivered to the surgical site. The system may be used to irrigate or distend a surgical site.

Abstract: A pressure controlling system for an insufflator includes a plurality of parallel connected, solenoid controlled valves. Each valve has in series therewith a gas flow limiter with the limiters arranged in digital succession. The valves are in parallel with one another and in series with the gas flow line so that solenoid opening of one or more of the valves controls gas flow in an on-off fashion with gas flow continuing through the respective flow limiting means to determine total flow rate in a digital manner.

Abstract: An invasive lithotripter includes a pair of electrodes having rectangular cross sections, and having flat faces of rectangular configuration confronting one another. An insulating member is interposed between the electrodes and spaces them apart a predetermined distance. The insulating member at its forward edge is relieved to provide portions of the electrode flat faces exposed and confronting one another to permit an electrical spark to jump between the exposed portions of the electrode faces. The relieved portion comprises a reflector having a focus point. The portions of the electrodes facing one another across the relieved area are provided with protuberances aligned with the focus point. A spark across the exposed portions of the faces of the electrodes in an aqueous medium generates a shockwave that is focused by the reflector. A shield surrounds and extends beyond the electrode and the insulating member to inhibit radial propagation of shockwave energy while enhancing axial propagation thereof.