Abstract: Connecting elements are disclosed for a laparoscopic surgical instrument. Each connecting element engages a reciprocally movable push rod having a first through-hole and a pivotally rotatable end effector having a second through-hole. The connecting element is preferably a resilient staple-like element having a first terminal portion configured to pivotally engage the first through-hole in the push rod, an oppositely extending second terminal portion configured to pivotally engage the second through-hole in the end effector, and a substantially U-shaped middle portion coupling the first and second terminal portions. Where a double acting surgical instrument is used, two connecting elements are required. For improved stability, the connecting elements of the double acting surgical instrument can be crossed.

Abstract: The system and method for detecting abnormalities in infusion of parenteral fluid involves producing perturbation of fluid flow by varying the flow rate of the fluid with respect to an equilibrium flow rate, measuring the pressure level, and measuring the pressure of the fluid over a period of time, to determine equilibrium pressure and a pressure response of the fluid to the perturbation, determining an integral of the difference between the equilibrium pressure and the pressure response, determining resistance to fluid flow, determining a second integral of the difference between the pressure response and equilibrium pressure multiplied by time, and determining compliance by dividing the second integral by the first integral. Resistance and compliance values are displayed, and an alarm is generated when the resistance or compliance parameters fall outside of reference ranges.