Abstract: An endoscopic tool utilizes a fiber optic system for illuminating and imaging ligaments or other tissue which are to be cut. Illumination and imaging is performed above a lateral opening at the distal end of a probe that is inserted into an incision point. Preferably, a two edged blade which can be moved in both the distal to proximal direction and the proximal to distal direction is selectively deployable from of the lateral opening at the distal end of the probe. The endoscopic tool is small in size, and preferably includes a pencil grip with a button actuator for deploying the two edged cutting blade. A wire actuator that fits into a slot in the bottom of the deployable blade, can be nested with the fiber optic cable such that the cross sectional area of the probe is reduced. Alternatively, a tube concentric with the fiber optic cable can be used as the mechanism for actuating the blade or other device.

Abstract: The present invention is a surgical drape 10 specifically designed for surgery on extremities (e.g. arm, hand, leg, foot). The drape 10 comprises a base sheet 11, a work surface 14, a dam 21 having an adjustable opening 22 and cord stays 25-32. The patient 18 lies under the drape while a subject extremity 23 is placed through the adjustable opening. The dam is made of an elastomeric material which forms a tight engagement around the subject extremity. The work area completely surrounds the dam and is substantially stronger than the base sheet to reduce accidental tearing and prevent instruments from slipping off from the drape. The work area extends a substantial distance around the dam to provide adequate protection from accidentally tearing the drape when surgery is conducted near the dam. The cord stays prevent cords from interfering with surgery or becoming contaminated as a result of falling to the operating room floor.

Abstract: The present invention is a surgical drape 10 specifically designed for surgery on extremities (e.g. arm, hand, leg, foot). The drape 10 comprises a base sheet 11, a work surface 14, a dam 21 having an adjustable opening 22 and cord stays 25-32. The patient 18 lies under the drape while a subject extremity 23 is placed through the adjustable opening. The dam is made of an elastomeric material which forms a tight engagement around the subject extremity. The work area completely surrounds the dam and is substantially stronger than the base sheet to reduce accidental tearing and prevent instruments from slipping off from the drape. The work area extends a substantial distance around the dam to provide adequate protection from accidentally tearing the drape when surgery is conducted near the dam. The cord stays prevent cords from interfering with surgery or becoming contaminated as a result of falling to the operating room floor.