Abstract: Optical fiber illuminators are embodied in light-diffusing particles affixed to an optical fiber's terminal end. Most preferably, the light-diffusing particles are optically transparent solid particles dispersed symmetrically or asymmetrically in an optically transparent bonding material to thereby form a light diffusion medium (LDM). The solid particles may thus be dispersed in the bonding material while the bonding material is in a liquid state to form the LDM. A mass of the LDM may thus be applied onto the terminal optical fiber end while the bonding material is in such a liquid state. Allowing the bonding material to solidify will therefore affix the light-diffusing particles to the terminal end of the optical fiber. In such a manner, optical fiber illuminators having high light throughput and diffusion may be made.

Abstract: Surgical instrument include a longitudinally sectioned needle member establishing respective needle segments, and an outer sleeve member which exerts a circumferentially radial compression onto the needle segments yet allows for relative longitudinal movements between at least one and another of the needle segments. The needle member may be longitudinally bifurcated so as to establish said one and another needle segments. Alternatively, the needle member may be longitudinally trifurcated so as to establish a pair of stationary outer needle segments, and an intermediate needle segment sandwiched between but longitudinally moveable relative to said outer needle segments. Thus, collectively the needle segments define respective opposed longitudinal bearing edges which contact one another and thereby allow for one of the needle segments to be moveable longitudinally relative to another of the needle segments.