Abstract: During ultrasound checking of the results of lithotrity performed on biliary calculi, it is difficult to distinguish a calculus from crush. This problem is mitigated in accordance with the invention in that the ultrasound transducer (6) used for performing the ultrasound observation first receives a comparatively high electric power for a comparatively long period of time. As a result, the biliary calculus (4) or the crush is stirred up in the gallbladder (3); the size of the particles can be determined from the differences in behavior during settling in the gallbladder.

Abstract: A cryomedical device, comprises a probe which is adapted to be positioned to rapidly cool a body portion of a patient, and which is connected to a coolant supply which supplies coolant thereto at a predetermined rate. Means are provided for sensing the temperature in the vicinity of the probe, for example, a thermocouple element in the probe itself or a needle which may be injected into the body, and one, or both of these are connected to a control for regulating the supply of coolant. In addition, a heater may be provided in the probe and the control may be connected to regulate the heater. In the preferred arrangement, the control includes a device for setting the temperature value of operation which is connected to a comparator to provide a control between the set value and the actual value of the temperature of the body in the vicinity of the probe.

Abstract: A surgical instrument for sterilizing women by the ligation of the fallopian tubes comprises a probe having tongs with gripper means for engaging the tubes and means for directing a coolant to the vicinity of the gripper means for freezing of the tubes including a heater for subsequently heating the tubes. The probe advantageously includes a hollow central tube with a flared outer end at the probe tip and has an interior portion defining an evaporation chamber in which a coolant is evaporated to reduce the temperature at this end. A so-called Semm tongs extends through the tube and includes gripper elements at the flared end of the tube which may be moved outwardly to grip the fallopian tube of a woman to withdraw it into the flared end of the hollow tube where it may be frozen. The tip also includes a heater for reheating the frozen tubes.