Abstract: A method and system for monitoring phrenic nerve function and preventing phrenic nerve injury during cardiac ablation. The system includes a pacing device operable to transmit stimulation energy to the phrenic nerve through target tissue proximate the phrenic nerve, a plurality of assessment electrodes operable to make comparisons between baseline, real-time, and predetermined threshold values for CMAP signal amplitude and amplitude over time. The processing device may be connected to an ablation console, and the processing device may interrupt or adjust an ablation procedure controlled by the ablation console and/or generate a system alert in response to one of these comparisons, if the comparison indicates phrenic nerve injury.

Abstract: A multielectrode array with a fluidic channel and its method of fabrication are presented here. In accordance with various embodiments, the present invention allows for scalability, reproducibility, and precision dimension control by utilizing a lithography dependent process. In one embodiment, the present invention provides for a microelectrode that is a neural implant, with the microelectrode configured for connection to a fluidic channel. In another embodiment, the fluidic channel may deliver growth factors and/or drugs.

Abstract: Systems and methods for electrocardiography monitoring use multiple capacitive sensors in order to determine reliable measurements of electrophysiological information of a patient. Relative coupling strength and/or reliability is used to select dynamically which sensors to use in order to determine, in particular, an electrocardiogram of the patient.

Abstract: Systems, methods, and graphical user interfaces are described herein for identification of optimal electrical vectors for use in assisting a user in implantation of implantable electrodes to be used in cardiac therapy. Cardiac improvement information may be generated for each pacing configuration, and one or more pacing configuration may be selected based on the cardiac improvement information. Optimal electrical vectors using the selected pacing configurations may be identified using longevity information generated for each electrical vector. Electrodes may then be implanted for use in cardiac therapy to form the optimal electrical vector.

Abstract: A device for determining the regional distribution of a parameter for lung perfusion includes an electrical impedance tomography unit with electrodes (E1, . . . EN), which can be placed on the thorax, that are connected to a control and analysis unit (2) and an administering device (4) for the intravenous administration of a conductivity contrast medium. The control and analysis unit (2) is configured to display changes in impedance distribution occurring as a consequence of the administration of conductivity contrast medium as a parameter for lung perfusion in the section plane as a function of time. The administering device (4) has a controllable dispensing device. The control and analysis unit and the dispensing device are connected with one another via a data link (3). A start time and an end time and a quantity of an administered bolus of the conductivity contrast medium are available to the control and analysis unit (2).

Abstract: A device, system and method for accessing internal tissue include a probe (108) disposed on a distal end portion of a medical device and configured to be inserted into a body along a trajectory path. A sensor (102) is mounted on a displacement tracker portion (104) of the medical device which is disposed on a proximal end portion of the device. The sensor is configured to measure a distance parallel to the probe between the displacement tracker portion and a tissue surface such that a position of the probe is determinable relative to the tissue surface upon advance or retraction of the probe along the trajectory path.

Abstract: A wearable respiration monitoring system and associated method that is configured to (i) determine three dimensional displacement of the spine of a subject with respect to the axial displacement of the subject's chest wall, (ii) process the three dimensional anatomical data, (iii) determine at least one respiration parameter associated with the monitored subject as a function of the three dimensional anatomical data, and (iv) generate at least one respiration parameter signal representing the respiration parameter.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for the detection of the onset of hypoglycaemia is described. A portable sensor worn by a subject is used to detect a physiological tremor signal. The tremor signal is analysed over a period of time, and an alarm is generated when a change in the physiological tremor signal indicative of the onset of hypoglycaemia in the subject is detected. A patient or carer can then perform appropriate action, such as performing a finger prick test to determine blood sugar test and treating as required. The portable sensor can be used to detect a tremor signal indicative of the, the onset of hypoglycaemia such as a signal corresponding to a decrease in blood glucose level (BGL) below 5 mmol/l. The portable sensor can use an accelerometer and may be worn on a limb, such as an arm or leg. The sensor can be used to measure the power of the tremor signal and detect a change, such as an increase in power over time and/or an increase in the rate of change of power over time.

Abstract: A posture and breathing improvement device, system, and method. The system for improving posture and deep breathing may comprise: a sensor device; posture/breathing improvement software program, comprising one, both, or a combination of a posture improvement system interface and a breathing improvement system interface; and one or more user devices. The sensor device may be physically associated with a user and may communicate with the posture improvement software program. The sensor device may comprise: one or more sensors for monitoring positions and movements of the user. The system may calculate one or more optimum postural positions and breathing exercises for the user, based on data communicated by the sensor device and collected information about the user. The system may monitor a conformance of the user with the optimum postural positions and may display the conformance on the posture improvement system interface.

Abstract: A sensor that may be used to detect the presence, amount, and/or concentration of an analyte in a medium within an animal. The sensor may include a sensor housing, an indicator element embedded within and/or covering at least a portion of the sensor housing, and a membrane over the indicator element. The membrane may reduce indicator element deterioration by preventing immune cells, such as white blood cells, from contacting the indicator element, substantially prevent transmission of light of at least a specified wavelength or range of wavelengths through the membrane, and/or permit the analyte to pass through to the indicator element. The membrane may be an opaque diffusion membrane. The sensor may include a foil. The foil may block light and/or reduce indicator element deterioration. The membrane may reduce oxidation of the indicator element.

Abstract: A flow regulator for a blood collection assembly includes a housing having an inlet and an outlet, which defines an interior space between the inlet and the outlet. A membrane having a first surface and a second surface is disposed at least partially within the interior space. The membrane has a first position where a flow path between the inlet and the outlet is substantially open, and a second position where the flow path between the inlet and the outlet is at least partially restricted. The membrane is configured to move between the first and second positions in response to a pressure differential acting on the membrane.

Abstract: A multi lumen catheter comprising a proximal end and distal end said catheter further comprising; a first lumen for a first fluid said first lumen having a first proximal opening and a first distal opening for receiving a fluid, second lumen for a second fluid said second lumen having a second proximal opening and a second distal opening for delivering a second fluid, a third lumen having a third proximal opening and a third distal opening, wherein the first distal opening is arranged with respect to the second distal opening so that when in use at least part of the first fluid which enters the first lumen through the first distal opening has passed across the second distal opening such that the first fluid which enters the first lumen comprise at least a part of the second fluid.

Abstract: An apparatus for performing phlebotomy through a peripheral intravenous line. The apparatus includes an introducer and a catheter configured to advance the catheter through a peripheral intravenous line. A y-adapter with a port of larger diameter is configured to receive the catheter and place in fluid communication with the peripheral intravenous line. When advanced the catheter is configured to transport a bodily fluid (i.e. blood) to a volume outside of the body.

Abstract: A multi-level pinch dynamometer or gauge which measures pinch strength. A 5-position mechanism provides quick insert and removal of a bottom pinch plate from a multi-position rack. The digital model gauge head displays strength readings, calculated results, and user demographics.

Abstract: Systems and methods to detect sleep stages of a subject analyze physiological parameters of the subject in combination with a subject's reactions to stimuli of increasing intensity and/or stimuli having different modalities. Stimuli are provided until a predetermined level of probability is reached for the accuracy of an estimation of the sleep stage of the subject.

Abstract: A system and method of managing therapy provided to patients in an institution. The system monitors all aspects of the medication delivery to a patient, as well as other information related to the patient, such as values of vital signs, laboratory results and patient factors such as history, diagnosis, allergies and the like. The system includes one or more databases of information, including institutionally developed rules, guidelines and protocol representing the best medical practices of the institution. The system provides alerts and/or recommendations based on the application of the rules to the information being monitored, and alerts care givers accordingly, providing for dynamic adjustment of the patient's therapy. The system also monitors the status of the alerts, and if no action is taken in a selected period of time, may escalate the priority of the alert and/or halt the delivery of medication to the patient until the alert is resolved.

Abstract: A system and method are provided for diagnosis of animal respiratory diseases using auscultation techniques. Animal lung sounds are recorded and stored as digitized data. Algorithms are applied to the data producing an output indicative of the health of the animal. Another method determines effectiveness of antibiotics administered to animals based upon observed relationships between lung score categories obtained from auscultation. A comparison is made between sample populations of animals that receive different classifications of antibiotics, and this data is compared to lung score categories observed for each of the animals that received the antibiotics. A statistical analysis is conducted to confirm statistical differences in case fatality rates between lung score categories.

Abstract: An electrode belt includes at least one electrode to measure biometric signals related to heart activity of a user, a non-conductive strip having at least one opening, and a flexible strip to enable placement of the electrode belt against the skin of the user. The non-conductive strip is coupled with the flexible strip such that, when in use, the at least one electrode is in physical contact with the skin of the user.

Abstract: This document describes assessment of human physiological systems. Various noninvasive sensors can be used to detect vitals and other parameters and combined with mathematical models to assess the functional state of physiological systems. Conventional techniques can use invasive sensors to monitor cardiac pressures and volumes, along with pressure transit to quantify cardiovascular health. While known to be effective these invasive techniques often require surgery and are resource intensive limiting their use to cases where the risks and costs are of clear immediate benefit. In contrast, noninvasive health monitors present little if any risk and are easy to use. Further, the techniques described herein can determine trends in a person's cardiovascular health. With these trends, a person can know if the effort they expend to improve heart health actually makes a difference. Further, negative trends can be found that can spur people to improve their health or get medical attention.

Abstract: This disclosure describes systems and methods for monitoring and evaluating data associated with ventilatory parameters to detect expiratory airflow limitation in a ventilated patient. For example, a ventilator may monitor flow and/or pressure during ventilation of the patient. Based on the flow and/or pressure measurements, or ventilatory data derived therefrom, the ventilator may calculate expiratory resistance. Moreover, the ventilator may trend expiratory resistance over time to produce an expiratory resistance waveform. In embodiments, the ventilator may calculate the slope of the expiratory resistance waveform during an initial part of exhalation. If the slope of the expiratory resistance waveform during the initial part of exhalation breaches a defined slope threshold, the ventilator may determine that the patient exhibits expiratory airflow limitation.

Abstract: The invention relates to a combined x-ray and optical (light-based) tomographic imaging system that provides functional information at greater resolution than can be achieved by optical tomography alone. The system is configured with one or more x-ray sources, x-ray detectors, light sources, and light detectors arranged on a gantry which rotates about an imaging chamber containing the object to be imaged. The system thereby allows both x-ray radiation and light to be directed into the object at multiple locations. Processing methods of the invention go beyond simple co-registration of images obtained from two or more imaging techniques. Both x-ray data and light data are used together in optical tomographic reconstruction to create the tomographic image, thereby allowing a more accurate and/or higher resolution final image.

Abstract: According to an embodiment, a photon detecting element includes one or more avalanche photodiodes and a circuit. The circuit is connected between cathodes of the one or more avalanche photodiodes and an external power source. The circuit is configured in which a first temperature coefficient representing variation of a setting potential with respect to temperature variation when constant-current driving is performed so that electrical potential of the cathodes becomes equal to the setting potential is substantially the same as a second temperature coefficient representing variation of breakdown voltage of the one or more avalanche photodiodes with respect to temperature variation.

Abstract: The invention relates to a projection data acquisition apparatus (14) for acquiring projection data for being used for reconstructing a computed tomography image. In acquisition intervals projection data are acquired only at certain acquisition rotational positions of a radiation source (2) relative to an object, wherein an acquisition rotational position of a current acquisition interval divides a largest non-acquisition angular region covering rotational positions, at which projection data have not already been acquired, into two smaller non-acquisition angular regions. Because of this acquisition of the projection data, after each acquisition interval the acquisition rotational positions, at which projection data have been acquired already, are relatively homogeneously distributed. This allows for an improved image quality of a computed tomography image which is reconstructed based on the acquired projection data.

Abstract: Methods, systems, and machine-readable storage mediums for determining response lines for reconstructing images are provided. An example imaging method includes: receiving single event signals in a detector module and associated with a single event, determining a crystal in the detector module and corresponding to a maximum single event signal of the single event signals, determining an actual energy weighting factor of the crystal, determining an actual depth position corresponding to the actual energy weighting factor of the crystal according to associations between depth positions of the crystal and respective reference energy weighting factors for the crystal, as an acting position in the detector module for the single event, determining a response line of a coincidence event according to respective acting positions in the detector module for two single events constituting the coincidence event, the two single events including the single event, and reconstructing an image according to the response line.

Abstract: A mobile X-ray-diagnostic apparatus of an embodiment includes an X-ray generator, an arm, a main body, a support column, and at least two input equipment. The X-ray generator generates X-rays. The arm holds the X-ray generator at one end. The main body includes wheels. The support column is turnably supported about a vertical direction as an axis, and supports another end of the arm. The at least two input equipment are arranged on the support column such that heights in the vertical direction differ from each other, and controls driving of the main body.

Abstract: A method for attenuation correcting a PET image of a target includes locating a radiopaque structure by MRI scan of the target; fitting a model of the radiopaque structure to the MRI scan image; and correcting attenuation of the PET image based on the fitted model.

Abstract: A computed tomography (CT) system having a cooling system includes: a gantry unit, including a rotor and an assembly component; an intake provided on a first surface of the rotor; and an outtake provided on a second surface opposite to the first surface of the rotor; wherein the gantry unit is cooled by air moving through the intake and the outtake due to a rotation force or a centrifugal force generated by a rotation movement of the rotor.

Abstract: A novel method for simulating radiation dose reduction that enables previews of low-dose x-ray projection images, low-dose computed tomography images and/or cone-beam CT images. Given an existing projection or set of projections of the patient acquired at a nominal dose, the method provides a means to produce highly accurate preview images that accurately reflect the image quality associated with reduced radiation dose. The low-dose preview image accounts for characteristics of the imaging system, including blur, variations in detector gain and electronic noise, and does so in a manner that yields accurate depiction of the magnitude and correlation of image noise in the preview images. A calibration step may be included to establish the system-specific relationship between the mean and variance in detector signal, and incorporate an accurate model for system blur such that correlations in the resulting LDP images are accurate.

Abstract: A mammographic CT apparatus includes: a gantry, including a front face plate having an insertion opening for inserting a breast into an accommodation portion; a radiation tube disposed within the gantry; a sensing device disposed within the gantry so as to face the radiation tube, to detect radiation which has been emitted from the radiation tube and been transmitted through the accommodation portion; a driving unit to rotate the radiation tube and the sensing device around a rotation axis set in the normal direction of the insertion opening, at the same angular speed and same direction; and a collimator configured to rotate around the rotation axis synchronously with the radiation tube and sensing device. The collimator is disposed near the accommodation portion, and an irradiation region of radiation emitted from the radiation tube is restricted such that a breast inserted to the accommodation portion is irradiated to the tip.

Abstract: Multiple sets of projection data are provided for respective ones of a first set of volumes. An initial image is generated for a second volume larger than each volume in the first set of volumes. Based on at least the initial image and the sets of projection data, an image of the second volume is reconstructed using multiple iterations of a single iterative reconstruction process.

Abstract: Methods, apparatus, and other embodiments associated with classifying a region of tissue using quantified vessel tortuosity are described. One example apparatus includes an image acquisition logic that acquires an image of a region of tissue demonstrating cancerous pathology, a delineation logic that distinguishes nodule tissue within the image from the background of the image, a perinodular zone logic that defines a perinodular zone based on the nodule, a feature extraction logic that extracts a set of features from the image including a set of tortuosity features, a probability logic that computes a probability that the nodule is benign, and a classification logic that classifies the nodule tissue based, at least in part, on the set of features or the probability. A prognosis or treatment plan may be provided based on the classification of the image.

Abstract: A system comprises a catheter including a lens, for acquiring optical coherence tomography images within the vessel of interest as the catheter is being retracted from the vessel in the presence of contrast agent. An X-ray imaging system interface receives a first set of X-ray images of an anatomical region including the vessel of interest containing the catheter. The first set of X-ray images are acquired at points corresponding to the particular points within a heart cycle, while the catheter is stationary in the vessel, in response to a heart electrical activity representative signal and in the absence of contrast agent. An image data processor associates the received X-ray images and corresponding optical coherence tomography image data derived at corresponding time points within respective acquisition heart cycles.

Abstract: A method for controlling an X-ray dose of a CT scan includes: setting an initial X-ray dose; performing a first CT scan with the initial X-ray dose to obtain an initial scan image; setting a region of interest (ROI) in the initial scan image; calculating a subsequent X-Ray dose with image values of the ROI in the initial scan image; perform an additional CT scan with the calculated subsequent X-Ray dose to obtain an average image; before receiving an end instruction, repeating the following operations: recalculating a subsequent X-Ray dose with image values of the ROI in the average image and performing an additional CT scan with the calculated subsequent X-Ray dose to obtain a new average image; and saving the average image when receiving the end instruction.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a head and neck simulation phantom device for simulating the head and neck of a body, the phantom device including: a flat type first plate having a first insertion groove formed on one surface thereof; a flat type second plate disposed to come into contact with the other surface of the first plate and having a second insertion groove formed on the contacted surface with the other surface of the first plate in such a manner as to correspond to the first insertion groove; and a plurality of teeth simulants inserted into the first insertion groove and the second insertion groove and for simulating the teeth of the body.

Abstract: A method for acoustic tomography within a patient may include generating a focused ultrasonic signal using a transducer is provided; the ultrasonic signal forming a path within the patient. The method includes directing the ultrasonic signal on a spot within the patient; scanning the spot in a predetermined pattern about a volume within the patient; receiving an ultrasonic echo in the transducer; converting the ultrasonic echo into a voltage; selecting a frequency band from the voltage; amplifying the voltage in the selected frequency band with a processing circuit; and generating an image of the volume within the patient structure utilizing the amplified voltage. A method for recanalization of a blood vessel including the above acoustic tomography steps is also provided.

Abstract: Devices and method are provided for ultrasound transmission without the need for external couplants, such as gels, which are typically used in conventional ultrasound procedures. In particular, ultrashields are provided for use with ultrasound probes, wherein the ultrashields have specialized layers to provide an uninterrupted pathway of acoustic conductance from the probe to the surface of the body throughout the procedure while introducing minimal to no attenuation of ultrasound wave transmission. In addition, combinations of ultrashields and probe covers are provided to provide additional features such as a microbial barrier.

Abstract: Color values of a Doppler image or Doppler data is considered together with a guideline displayed in the Doppler image, and thus a moving direction of a target body may be easily determined. Furthermore, by displaying a marker indicating a moving direction of the target body in the Doppler image, movement of the target body may be easily and efficiently recognized by using the guideline and the marker.

Abstract: An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus according to an embodiment include a transmitter/receiver, a signal processor, and an image generator. The transmitter/receiver causes an ultrasonic probe to transmit on each scanning line at least three ultrasonic pulses, the three ultrasonic pulses being: a first ultrasonic pulse including at least one frequency component and being transmitted with a first phase; a second ultrasonic pulse including the frequency component and being transmitted with a second phase different from the first phase by 180 degrees; and a third ultrasonic pulse including the frequency component and being transmitted with a third phase different from the first phase and the second phase by 90 degrees and generates a plurality of reception signals corresponding to the respective ultrasonic pulses. The signal processor combines the plurality of the reception signals and generates a composite signal. The image generator generates ultrasonic image data.

Abstract: Acoustic reciprocity between transmit and receive is used for coherence ultrasound imaging. Rather than finding coherence across the receive channels, coherence is found across transmit channels. Broad transmit beams are used for different transmit elements or apertures to create beamformed frames of data. The coherence between these transmit channel frames of beamformed data is calculated and used for imaging.

Abstract: An ultrasound diagnosis apparatus is provided, including a touch display which displays a graphical user interface (GUI) including a plurality of input buttons and receives an input of a user; and a controller which detects an input posture of the user and sets a display mode of the GUI based on the detected input posture. The GUI has a first display mode and a second display mode, and the first display mode and the second display mode are modes in which locations of at least one of the plurality of input buttons included in the GUI are differently displayed.

Abstract: A fixture for securing a sonography transducer in place against a test surface of a phantom has a cap having a cap surface, wherein the cap is formed to seat against an edge of the phantom and to maintain spacing between the cap surface and the test surface. One or more cutouts in the cap surface are dimensioned to accept the sonography transducer. One or more flexible supports within or adjacent the one or more cutouts are configured to stabilize at least one side of the transducer within the cutout.

Abstract: The quality of ping-based ultrasound imaging is dependent on the accuracy of information describing the precise acoustic position of transmitting and receiving transducer elements. Improving the quality of transducer element position data can substantially improve the quality of ping-based ultrasound images, particularly those obtained using a multiple aperture ultrasound imaging probe, i.e., a probe with a total aperture greater than any anticipated maximum coherent aperture width. Various systems and methods for calibrating element position data for a probe are described.

Abstract: A collection apparatus having an open central retaining member retaining a frustum-shaped cap at one end with a collection vial removably affixed to the frustum-shaped cap. The open central retaining member also retains within it a capsule retaining member into which a frangible capsule retaining a sample preservative if retained. The seal is broken and specimen preservative flows over a collection swab, with the frustum-shaped cap serving as a closing member and an interior wall of the collection vial serving as a closing member at an opposite end of the open central retaining member.

Abstract: A biopsy device comprises a probe body, a needle portion, a hollow cutter, and a tissue sample holder. The needle portion extends distally from the probe body and comprises a transverse tissue receiving aperture. The hollow cutter is translatable relative to the needle portion to sever a tissue sample from tissue protruding though the aperture. The hollow cutter defines a cutter lumen. The tissue sample holder comprises a body and a tissue sample tray. The tissue sample tray is removably engaged with the body and comprises a downwardly extending lumen. The downwardly extending lumen includes a pair of lower openings which are in communication with a chamber defined by the tissue sample tray.

Abstract: A biopsy needle for collecting a tissue specimen includes an outer cannula that is at least partially received within a handle housing and an inner tube received within the outer cannula and configured to receive a stylet. A snare coil is attached between the inner tube and the outer cannula and a movable base is disposed within the handle housing. The outer cannula is fixedly coupled to the base and the movable base is axially movable within the handle housing. An inner driven structure that is coupled to the inner tube is configured to travel axially across an upper surface of the movable base. The coupling between the inner driven structure and the inner tube is such that the axial driving of the inner driven structure imparts rotation to the inner tube relative to the outer cannula.

Abstract: A method of collecting one or more tissue specimens in a tissue biopsy system includes: providing a housing with a releasable proximal housing portion having an input port, a vacuum port, an interior, and a tissue specimen retaining member within the interior interposed between the input port and the vacuum port, the interior being in fluid communication with the inner lumen of an elongated tissue cutter, the tissue specimen retaining member having a plurality of openings configured to retain the one or more tissue specimens and to pass fluid and debris; inserting the proximal end of the elongated cutting member through the input port of the releasable proximal housing portion to position the proximal end in the interior above the plurality of openings of the tissue specimen retaining member; applying a vacuum to the vacuum port; and cutting a tissue specimen from a tissue site with the elongated tissue cutter.

Abstract: A device comprises a syringe comprising a syringe body portion and a plunger portion configured to engage with and slide axially within the body portion; a tube set fitted to the syringe. The tube set may comprise a proximal tube attached to the plunger portion at a proximal end thereof and terminated, at a distal end thereof, by a beak assembly configured to assume a first configuration suitable for coring through tissue and a second configuration suitable for tissue penetration and parting off tissue; and a distal tube disposed over and coupled to the proximal tube to enable travel-limited axial displacement relative to the proximal tube. Axially moving the plunger portion of the plunger portion within the body portion of the syringe causes differential movement of the proximal tube relative to the distal tube to selectively cause the beak assembly to assume the first or the second configuration.

Abstract: A vein harvesting device. The vein harvesting device includes a retractor and a drive shaft. The retractor includes an elongated portion defining a longitudinal axis, and supports a first engagement structure including a plurality of first tines. The drive shaft includes an elongated portion, and is movable along the longitudinal axis with respect to the retractor such that the elongated portion of the drive shaft contacts the first engagement structure causing the plurality of first tines to move about the longitudinal axis from a first position to a second position.

Abstract: An asymmetric occlusion device for occluding an opening in a body tissue where part of the opening is defined by a partial inadequate rim. The asymmetric occlusion device includes a waist portion having a distal end extending to a proximal end. The waist portion is of non-woven material extending around a longitudinal axis opening. The occlusion device further includes a pair of asymmetric occluder disks attached to the waist. The asymmetric distal and proximal occluder disks are formed of shape memory material. The asymmetric occluder disks include a short arm extending from the waist and an extended arm extending from the waist. The extended arm exceeds the length of the first short arm. The density of the first short arm exceeds the density of the second extended arm.

Abstract: An illuminated surgical retractor system includes an elongate handle having a central channel for receiving a fiberoptic cable therethrough. A trailing end of the fiberoptic cable is operatively attached to a fiberoptic illuminator. The opposite leading end of the fiberoptic cable is releasably secured to an optical coupler positioned within the channel of the handle. A retractor blade assembly releasably supports a light carrier such that an inlet of the light carrier is releasably engageable with the optical coupler and the light carrier communicates with the fiberoptic cable. The light carrier includes a light projecting portion, which conformably engages a blade of the retractor blade assembly and which projects light conducted through the light carrier to illuminate the surgical site.