Abstract: A system for generating a high pressure fluid jet includes a variable pressure pump and a burst resistant delivery tube which safely conducts the pressurized stream to an instrument. The pump may include a disposable diaphragm pump cartridge which is driven by a reusable pump. The delivery tube may be a coiled hypo tube which enhances flexibility.

Abstract: A system for generating a high pressure fluid jet includes a variable pressure pump and a burst resistant delivery tube which safely conducts the pressurized stream to an instrument. The pump may include a disposable diaphragm pump cartridge which is driven by a reusable pump. The delivery tube may be a coiled hypo tube which enhances flexibility.

Abstract: A system for generating a high pressure fluid jet includes a variable pressure pump and a burst resistant delivery tube which safely conducts the pressurized stream to an instrument. The pump includes a disposable diaphragm pump cartridge which is driven by a reusable pump. The delivery tube may be a coiled hypo tube which enhances flexibility.

Abstract: A guidewire for use in endoscopic retrograde cholangio pancreatography (ERCP) includes a proximal section defined by a fiber rod, a tube, and a connection mechanism for attaching the tube and fiber rod together in a collinear relationship. The guidewire also includes a flexible distal section which is attached to the distal end of the tube. The distal section is comprised of a superelastic core having a radiopaque marker disposed about its distal end, and at least a portion of the distal section is enveloped by an insulative sleeve. The superelastic core may be tapered, and the fiber rod may comprise a multiplicity of fibers encapsulated in a resin.

Abstract: A hydraulically multiple ligating band dispenser comprising a body whose distal portion is adapted to support the elastic ligating bands. A tissue contacting surface is disposed surrounding and spaced from the distal portion so as to define a chamber. A seal slidably mounted on the distal potion is shaped to seal the chamber, to which a proximally situated fluid inlet is coupled. By these means pressurized fluid applied to the fluid inlet causes the seal to slide in a distal direction along the distal portion in order to urge the ligating bands distally and to dispense them serially.

Abstract: An instrument for delivering a variable pressure stream of fluid as a coherent jet. The instrument may be configured for holding in the hand of a user or for manipulation by machine control. The orifices may be oriented axially, transversely or obliquely. A deflector may be provided opposite the orifice to transform the jet stream into a harmless spray. The deflector may be slidable (in the axial mode) or pivotable (in the transverse mode) to ensure a small instrument profile. The instrument may be moldable allowing the user to reshape the jet tip into a desired configuration. The instrument may be remotely steerable and enable a user to selectively alter the direction of the jet without having to remove the instrument from the surgical site.

Abstract: A method of pin-pointing a fluid jet onto a target involves pumping fluid at a low pressure through a jet creating instrument, directing the low pressure jet onto a target and pumping the fluid at a higher pressure while maintaining the jet on the target.