Abstract: An automated informed consent system uses a computer to inform a patient about a proposed medical procedure and to verify that the patient understands the material presented. The system provides an audiovisual presentation using animation and/or voice-over to aid in the patient's understanding of the procedure and associated risks. The system comprises a patient interface connected to a network wherein the patient interface includes at least one input device for use by the patient to provide input to the interface and a screen for displaying information to the patient. A server connected to the network in operative communication with the patient interface is also included. The server comprises a program stored in memory and accessible by the patient interface. Once a connection between the patient interface and server has been established, the interface is operable under control of the program to present information concerning a medical procedure to the patient via the screen.

Abstract: A compensating valve and a drainage system for draining a body fluid from one body region to another body region. The system enables routine drainage at predetermined differential pressures, provides for pumping action, for flushing action to clear the system of obstructive material, and for resisting over-drainage which can occur when the patient makes an abrupt and relatively large change in his position. A compensating valve purpose has a valving action which is proportional to various parameters so as to enable continuous and proportional control for drainage rather than an on/off control.

Abstract: A physiological shunt system for draining fluid from one region of the human body and discharging it into another in which means is included to resist overdrainage or siphoning of the region as a consequence of low downstream pressures, and a valve to provide such means. The system includes a collector catheter and a discharge catheter, and the valve interconnects these catheters to open the system to flow, or to close it to flow, as a consequence of the position of its closure means which is responsive to the pressure differential between the pressure in the valve as transmitted by the catheters, and a reference pressure such as the atmosphere.