Abstract: A suture assembly includes an elongated flexible body which may be either a single filament for a multiple strand braided or woven body, supporting a plurality of shaped tissue-engaging elements in a generally spaced arrangement thereon. A curved body having a sharp point is joined to one end of the flexible body while a straight pointed body is joined to the remaining end of the flexible body. In alternate embodiments, the tissue-engaging elements define a variety of cross-section shapes. In a further alternate embodiment, the tissue-engaging elements are divided into first and second oppositely facing sets to provide a bidirectional suture. In a still further alternate embodiment, the elongated flexible body supports an elongated tissue-bonding sleeve.

Abstract: Multiple embodiments of a suture assembly for use with tissue are provided. One suture assembly includes a tubular body having a plurality of tissue engaging elements formed from the tubular body. An outer surface is disposed on each tissue engaging element, and the outer surface contacts the tissue. An interior surface is disposed on each tissue engaging element, and the interior surface accepts tissue growth. A supporting member joins and separates two tissue engaging elements. Another embodiment offers a suture assembly comprising a tubular body and a plurality of tissue engaging elements are formed from the tubular body. Each tissue engaging element has an outer surface that contacts the tissue. A supporting member joins and separates two tissue engaging elements.

Abstract: A medical instrument for treating, in particular for removing tissue, bone cement or the like in the human or animal body, comprising a hand piece having a distal end; an application part arranged at said distal end said hand piece, said application part being axially movable to-and-fro relative to said hand piece; a drive mechanism for said application part, said drive mechanism being provided in said hand piece, said drive mechanism transferring a pressure being continuously present in said hand piece into said to-and-fro movement of said application part, wherein said application part has at least in a region of a distal end of said application part a conduit, which has, in a distal region of said conduit, at least a suction and/or irrigation aperture.

Abstract: An apparatus for treating body tissue, in particular superficial soft tissue, with ultrasound, comprises an ultrasonic generation unit and an applicator, by means of which the ultrasound can be irradiated from an applicator surface facing the body surface from outside through the body surface into the body tissue. A suction apparatus for sucking in the body surface against the applicator surface is provided.

Abstract: A medical instrument for treating, in particular for removing tissue, bone cement or the like in the human or animal body, comprising a hand piece having a distal end; an application part arranged at said distal end said hand piece, said application part being axially movable to-and-fro relative to said hand piece; a drive mechanism for said application part, said drive mechanism being provided in said hand piece, said drive mechanism transferring a pressure being continuously present in said hand piece into said to-and-fro movement of said application part, wherein said application part has at least in a region of a distal end of said application part a conduit, which has, in a distal region of said conduit, at least a suction and/or irrigation aperture.

Abstract: An endoscope and tool therefore which provides a shroud for the protection of the viewing end of an endoscope. The shroud is curved and extends forward of and around the viewing end of an endoscope. This configuration vastly reducing tissue traumatization as tissue is "guided" about the smooth curved outer edges of the shroud. Therefore, the surgeon may use the shroud to separate tissue to improve the view through the endoscope without fear of injuring the patient. Further, even though the shroud extends around the viewing end of the endoscope, viewing remains unobscured as there is a cut-away section in the shroud through which the endoscope receives its image. Additionally, the shroud is capable of being equipped with surgical tools to assist in slicing, cauterizing, and biopsy removal, thereby permitting the surgeon to perform more activities and reducing the need for an assisting surgeon.