Abstract: A method and apparatus for trimming a pellicle film using a laser are disclosed. A laser trimming assembly includes a modified laser-cutting head coupled to a laser. The laser includes a laser beam for trimming a pellicle film that extends beyond a perimeter of a pellicle frame. The modified laser-cutting head includes a nozzle and at least one hose port located on the nozzle. The hose port may receive a vacuum hose for removing particulate matter created during a trimming process.

Abstract: A laparoscopic suturing device includes a suturing needle and a driver for manipulating the needle. The suturing needle features a helically-wound front-end portion with a needle point at its proximal end for penetrating tissue and a rear-end portion connected to the driver. The slender design of the suturing device is ideally suited for minimally-invasive surgery.

Abstract: A surgical suturing needle is formed to have a needle shaft with a rectangular cross-section and a needle head with a triangular needle point. A transitional portion between the needle shaft and the needle head is formed to have a maximum width greater than the width of the needle shaft. A plurality of cutting edges extend from the needle point to at least the maximum width section of the transitional portion. After forming and grinding the suturing needle, it is immersed in an acid bath and exposed to an electrical field. Finally, the surgical needle is heat-treated to increase its strength and resistance to bending or breaking.