Abstract: A surgical instrument for laparoscopic surgery 21 including a handle having a body with a ratchet formed thereon. The handle including a trigger arm pivotally mounted on the body and adapted to operate a tool. The handle further includes a locking mechanism having a pawl moveably mounted on the trigger arm. The pawl is selectively movable relative to the trigger arm between an engaged position and a disengaged position. In the engaged position, the pawl is moved into engagement with the ratchet to prevent relative movement between the trigger arm and the body. In the disengaged position the pawl is disengaged from the ratchet. The handle also includes a bellcrank lever having first and second arms which are formed at an angle to one another. The bellcrank lever is pivotally mounted on the trigger arm at a pivot point positioned at the intersection of the first and second arms. Pivotal movement of the bellcrank lever operatively moves the pawl between the engaged and disengaged positions.

Abstract: A method analyzing event-related potentials (ERP), and their respective P300 brain wave responses of a subject to a repeatedly presented stimulus interspersed with non-significant stimuli. The method comprises providing a source of stimulation to the subject including personal knowledge and non-significant stimuli, detecting event related potentials of the subject, translating these potentials to P300 brain waves, and analyzing the P300 brain wave activity for personal knowledge detection. A computer is is utilized to interpret and analyze the responses for personal knowledge.

Abstract: A resectoscope includes an electrode which is effective to resect an affected part by cauterization upon energization with high frequency current. A slider element is slidable lengthwise of the resectoscope and includes an electrode receiving hole in which an electrical terminal is mounted. The proximal end of the electrode is inserted into the hole and secured to the terminal. Thus the electrode is fixed to the slider and can be moved back and forth with respect to the resectoscope's body. An elastic seal member having an internal diameter less than the external diameter of an insulation coat on the electrode is located in the opening into the hole to prevent water droplets or blood from entering into the hole.