Abstract: A micromanipulator comprising a tubular structure and a structural compliance mechanism that are formed from a tube made of an elastic and/or superelastic material. Fabricated with laser machining and has no mechanical joints, the micromanipulator can be manipulated in various motions and degree-of-freedoms without permanent deformation. Shape Memory Alloys (SMAs) in one embodiment are implemented as main actuators of the micromanipulator. The micromanipulator can be implemented with multiple SMAs to manipulate the mechanism with multiple degree-of-freedom. In another implementation, multiple segments of the mechanisms are formed and arranged in various configurations, including a “double-helix”-like configuration, for enabling intricate motions of the micromanipulator. The micromanipulator is useful for intravascular interventional applications and particularly ultrasonic imaging when coupled with an ultrasound transducer.

Abstract: A micromanipulator comprising a tubular structure and a structural compliance mechanism that are formed from a tube made of an elastic and/or superelastic material. Fabricated with laser machining and has no mechanical joints, the micromanipulator can be manipulated in various motions and degree-of-freedoms without permanent deformation. Shape Memory Alloys (SMAs) in one embodiment are implemented as main actuators of the micromanipulator. The micromanipulator can be implemented with multiple SMAs to manipulate the mechanism with multiple degree-of-freedom. In another implementation, multiple segments of the mechanisms are formed and arranged in various configurations, including a “double-helix”-like configuration, for enabling intricate motions of the micromanipulator. The micromanipulator is useful for intravascular interventional applications and particularly ultrasonic imaging when coupled with an ultrasound transducer.

Abstract: A simple forward viewing ultrasound catheter includes one or more transducers and an ultrasound mirror supported by a bearing in a sealed end of a catheter with a drive cable imparting relative motion to the transducer and mirror. The mirror directs ultrasound waves forward of the catheter. An optical fiber can be provided to direct a laser beam for ablation of atheroma while under guidance of simultaneous intravascular ultrasound. A portion of a cavity can be simultaneously imaged while an interventional device operates on the imaged portion of the cavity.

Abstract: A protective device that provides protection against infection by accidental skin puncturing. The device includes a flexible expanse, at least a portion of which has a multi-layer construction that includes (i) inner and outer, flexible, electrically conductive layers, and (ii) a flexible insulative sheet separating said conductive layers. A voltage applied across the two layers is effective to heat the tip of a needle, scalpel, or the like, when such pierces the cover, to a temperature effective to destroy at least a portion of the infectious agent.

Abstract: A simple forward viewing ultrasound catheter includes one or more transducers and an ultrasound mirror supported by a bearing in a sealed end of a catheter with a drive cable imparting relative motion to the transducer and mirror. The mirror directs ultrasound waves forward of the catheter. An optical fiber can be provided to direct a laser beam for ablation of atheroma while under guidance of simultaneous intravascular ultrasound.