Abstract: A method and apparatus of percutaneous cochlear implantation (PCI).

Abstract: A tracheostomy tube for use with a neck plate having an aperture. The tracheostomy tube comprises an elongate outer cannula having a lumen and configured to extend through the aperture; an elongate inner cannula having a lumen and an inflatable cuff, and configured to extend through the lumen of the outer cannula such that the cuff extends beyond a distal end of the outer cannula; and an interlocking mechanism configured to releasably secure a proximal end of the inner cannula to a proximal end of the outer cannula.

Abstract: Disclosed is a system for percutaneously steering a surgical needle. Needle steering is accomplished by taking advantage of a deflection force imparted on the bevel tip of the needle by the tissue medium as the needle is pushed through the tissue. By controlling the translation speed and rotation angle of the bevel, a flexible needle may be steered substantially without deflecting or distorting the tissue. The control inputs (translation speed and rotation angle) are computed based on a “bicycle” non-holonomic kinematic model that is a function of mechanical properties of the tissue medium. The system may be used with image-based feedback, which may provide for feedback-based refinement of the model as the needle propagates through the tissue.

Abstract: Teleoperated endoscopic capsule for diagnostic and/or therapeutic purposes inside a cavity in a human body, comprising a body (11) having a front part (12) and a rear part (13), locomotion legs (18) able to project from the body (11) and, moving means (19) for said legs (18) housed in the same body (11), a source of energy (16), means for image acquisition (15), means for reception/transmission of signals (17) from and to an operator, for permitting capsule the control and transfer of acquired images. The legs (18) are hinged to the body (11) and are subdivided into two separate groups (20, 21). The moving means (19) comprise two driving devices (22) each one comprising a motor (23) connected to a corresponding worm screw (24) on which a translatable nut screw cursor (25) is engaged. The nut screw cursor (25) is kinematically connected to the legs (18) of a respective rou (20, 21).