Abstract: A high-speed biplane radiography system for in-vivo assessment of joint function is provided. The system can acquire stereo-pair radiographic images at rates from 30-4000 frames per second of nearly any motion or joint. The radiographic equipment can be mounted in a gantry system that provides sufficient positioning flexibility for imaging different joints of a subject's body, along with an imaging area large enough for a variety of dynamic activities (e.g., walking, running, jumping, throwing, etc.). Three-dimensional (3D) bone positions can be determined using software for matching the bones in each X-ray image with 3D models developed from subject-specific CT (computed tomography) scans. This system can provide accurate (e.g., ±0.1 mm) assessment and direct 3D visualization of dynamic joint function, and can overcome limitations of conventional gate or motion analysis.

Abstract: A high-speed biplane radiography system for in-vivo assessment of joint function is provided. The system can acquire stereo-pair radiographic images at rates from 30-4000 frames per second of nearly any motion or joint. The radiographic equipment can be mounted in a gantry system that provides sufficient positioning flexibility for imaging different joints of a subject's body, along with an imaging area large enough for a variety of dynamic activities (e.g., walking, running, jumping, throwing, etc.). Three-dimensional (3D) bone positions can be determined using software for matching the bones in each X-ray image with 3D models developed from subject-specific CT (computed tomography) scans. This system can provide accurate (e.g., ±0.1 mm) assessment and direct 3D visualization of dynamic joint function, and can overcome limitations of conventional gate or motion analysis.

Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed for endoscopic application of surgical staples adapted to attach surgical mesh to body tissue in laparoscopic hernia surgery. The apparatus includes a frame, and a generally elongated endoscopic section connected to the frame and extending distally therefrom. A staple storage cartridge is removably supported on a pivotal support system at the distal end portion of the endoscopic section with each staple being configured and adapted to attach the mesh to the body tissue. An elongated pusher system formed of several assembled components and extending from the frame to the endoscopic section is provided for individually advancing at least one staple at a time distally for positioning adjacent the surgical mesh and the body tissue. The pusher system also includes a trigger system to actuate the pusher.

Abstract: An analytical instrument sample vial positioning and sensor device. A radius or cone-shaped body portion extending below a surface contacts a loosely held sample vial having a flexible septum thereon. The shaped body portion is biased downward resulting in the relative movement between the sample vial and shaped body portion tending to center the flexible septum under the shaped body. A longitudinal bore extending through the shaped body permits the insertion of a syringe needle for the removal of a sample to be analyzed. The pre-positioning of the sample vial presents syringe needles from being bent or broken due to inappropriate alignment with respect to the septum. A sensor is incorporated with the shaped body to detect the presence or absence of a sample vial.