Abstract: Remote controlled afterloader apparatus and method positions high activity radioactive sources through a catheter within a human body for treatment of cancerous tissue. The afterloader includes an operating console and a remotely located computer controlled wire driver. The wire driver includes active and dummy source wires and channels for the storage of such wires. Stepper motors precisely position the wires in response to computer control and data from wire position encoders. An emergency DC motor retraction system provides a high degree of safety against system malfunction. Timing arrangements are included for timing patient treatment duration and emergency wire retraction time. A turret is provided with safety locking and cross-checking systems to permit use of multiple catheters. Treatment profiles are conducted from the maximum treatment position whereby only tension or retraction forces are used to position the active wire.

Abstract: Remote controlled afterloader apparatus and method positions high activity radioactive sources through a catheter within a human body for treatment of cancerous tissue. The afterloader includes an operating console and a remotely located computer controlled wire driver. The wire driver includes active and dummy source wires and channels for the storage of such wires. Stepper motors precisely position the wires in response to computer control and data from wire position encoders. An emergency DC motor retraction system provides a high degree of safety against system malfunction. Timing arrangements are included for timing patient treatment duration and emergency wire retraction time. A turret is provided with safety locking and cross-checking systems to permit use of multiple catheters. Treatment profiles are conducted from the maximum treatment position whereby only tension or retraction forces are used to position the active wire.

Abstract: A steerable intramedullary fracture reduction device has an elongated shaft with a steerable tip pivotally mounted to the distal end of the shaft. Tip actuating apparatus near the proximal end of the shaft enable the operator to steer the tip and the shaft into successive segments of the fractured bone, even when the segments are transversely or rotationally displaced so that the segments can be aligned by the shaft.

Abstract: An intramedullary device for fixing and extending separated portions of a long bone within the body of a patient has a nail member within and affixed to one portion of the bone and an adjustment assembly within and affixed to a separate portion of the bone. The adjustment assembly has a moveable member which bears against an end of the nail and can be moved from outside the patient to adjust the separation between the portions of the bone.