Abstract: An exemplary connection system includes a connector assembly and a receiver assembly. The connector assembly includes a hermetically-sealed housing, a first RF communication device within the housing and communicatively coupled to a surgical instrument and a first induction coil within the housing and electrically coupled to the surgical instrument. The receiver assembly includes a second RF communication device communicatively coupled to a controller of the surgical instrument, a second induction coil electrically coupled to a power source and a receptacle configured to receive the connector assembly such that the first RF communication device is aligned with the second RF communication device, the first induction coil is aligned with the second induction coil, the first RF communication device may wirelessly communicate with the second RF communication device, and the second induction coil may inductively couple to the first induction coil to wirelessly transmit power to the first induction coil.

Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for the non-traumatic removal of a variety of devices placed over, or on, endoscopic instruments or endoscopes. A device removal system includes a removal element for gripping the device having a body with a central portion and adjacent gripping arms movably coupled to the central portion. The system further includes an insertion device coupled to the removal element and an expanding instrument. The insertion device has an elongate shaft configured for advancement into an opening or channel within the device to be removed. The expanding instrument is configured for insertion into the insertion device to expand the shaft of the insertion device and obtain a firmer grip on the device, thereby reducing the local pressure applied to any one portion of the device, which reduces the wear and tear on the instrument and minimizes damage to epoxy joints and other sealed areas.

Abstract: A biomedical device, an endoscope attachment accessory with telemetric function that allows to make measurements in internal surfaces of the body; the endoscope attachment accessory with telemetric function for measuring distances and sizes on internal surfaces of the human body comprising three modules, an image signal processing module for calculating distances, areas and volumes, a laser control module and an alignment module, all contained in a single housing.

Abstract: This invention relates to an endoscopic-release surgical retractor (1) comprising a blade (2) having an arch-shaped cross section and a handle (3) extending upwardly from the proximal end of the blade. The handle (3) is adapted to removably receive an L-shaped endoscope-retainer (5). The vertical arm (52) of the endoscope-retainer is adapted to receive an endoscope such that in use the endoscope is retained at the apex of the arch of the blade.

Abstract: A multifiber assembly and methods of using the same in an endoscopic procedure for transmitting illumination light to, and a response signal reflected from, a target is disclosed. An exemplary device comprises a proximal end, and distal end, and a transition section between the proximal and distal ends. The proximal end includes a first connector to be connected to a light source and a second connector configured to be connected to a spectrometer. The distal end includes a shaft including at least two first optical fibers to transmit light and at least one second optical fiber to transmit a spectroscopic signal. The transition section can couple the first connector to the at least two first optical fibers, and to couple the second connector to the at least one second optical fiber.

Abstract: An image processing apparatus includes an inference part which is capable of inference by using a first inference model for finding of a specific target object and by using a second inference model for discrimination about the specific target object and a control unit to which a first picked-up image obtained under a first image pickup condition and a second picked-up image obtained under a second image pickup condition different from the first image pickup condition can be inputted and which performs control such that in a case where the first picked-up image is inputted, the inference part is caused to execute inference by using the first inference model, and in a case where the second picked-up image is inputted, the inference part is caused to execute inference by using the second inference model.

Abstract: In accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, a system includes an imaging instrument with a shaft including a proximal end, a distal end, and a lens at a distal end portion of the shaft. The system also includes a collar at a proximal end portion of the shaft. A cleaning device coupled to the imaging instrument includes a tubular member sized to receive the shaft of the imaging instrument. The cleaning device also includes a latching element coupled to the tubular member and configured to couple to the collar to retain the tubular member on the shaft of the imaging instrument and maintain a relative rotational relationship between the tubular member and the shaft of the imaging instrument. Devices and methods relate to cleaning devices for imaging instruments.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to visualizing an operative field in the context of a dental operating theater, and more specifically, to a portable, modular, multifunctional intraoral imaging system to assist a practitioner in performing a medical or dental procedure in a confined space (e.g., intraoral cavity or mouth of a patient). The system may include an intraoral camera apparatus having a camera unit equipped with a wireless transmitter, and a viewscreen mounted to an articulated stand or dental delivery unit, wherein the camera wirelessly may transmit an image to a viewscreen located directly in front of a dental practitioner. The practitioner may look directly ahead at a high-definition screen to view the operative field. A dental practitioner may use the apparatus to perform micro-surgical procedures in a confined operative area with less-than-ideal visibility and access, without the present, though generally accepted, physical difficulties and limitations.

Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for treating cervical and/or uterine cancers in brachytherapy with an intracavitary brachytherapy applicator. The system comprises a tandem adapted for insertion into a cervix of a patient. An ovoid assembly comprises first and second inflatable ovoids and an ovoid support mechanism. The first and second inflatable ovoids are adapted for insertion within fornices of a patient. First and second retractors are adapted to be coupled to the ovoid assembly. The first retractor is adapted to be positioned to retract the bladder of a patient during treatment. The second retractor is adapted to be positioned to retract the rectum of a patient during treatment. The tandem and the first and second inflatable ovoids are adapted to be coupled to a radioactive source to deliver an implant radiation dose suitable for cancer treatment at a cancerous cervical treatment site in a patient.

Abstract: A system for displaying an intraoperative user interface for a surgical procedure is disclosed. The system comprises an arthroscopic imaging device, a display device, an input device, a processor, and a non-transitory, computer-readable medium. The arthroscopic imaging device is configured to capture one or more images of a patient anatomy within a joint of a patient. The input device is configured to receive input from a user. The processor is configured to receive the images from the arthroscopic imaging device and display a user interface on the display device that includes the images from the arthroscopic imaging device. The processor is also configured to receive the input from the input device, display one or more visual overlays over the one or more images based on the input, and apply one or more digital markers in a fixed location on the one or more images based on the input.

Abstract: A sample collection device that includes a body having a proximal end and a distal end, the body defining a channel extending from the distal end to the proximal end. The sample collection device includes an opening at the proximal end of the body that extends into the channel of the body. The body includes an adhering portion having a depressed surface relative to an adjacent exterior surface of the body, the adhering portion configured to receive a sample in response to the sample contacting the depressed surface of the adhering portion. The body is manually maneuverable in response to the channel receiving a finger of a user through the opening of the body.

Abstract: A bodily fluid collection device includes a needle part having a needle tube with a needle tip, and a capillary removably connected to a base end part of the needle tube in a longitudinal direction thereof on a side opposite to the needle tip. A method for collecting a bodily fluid using the bodily fluid collection device, and a method for collecting an aqueous humor using the bodily fluid collection device are also disclosed.

Abstract: According to embodiments, a substantially coaxial arrangement of a camera, a light source, and an ultrasonic sensor can be positioned in an housing of a system that can be deployed from the tool port of a standard bronchoscope. Illumination from the light source facilitates positioning of the system by an operator using information from the camera. The ultrasonic system can determine when an object to be biopsied is adjacent to a biopsy needle.

Abstract: A biopsy apparatus includes a biopsy needle, a sample manifold, and a sample container. The sample manifold is coupled to the biopsy needle. The sample manifold has a receptacle and an insertion axis. The sample receptacle has an interior side wall and a mounting pin that projects inwardly from the interior side wall toward the insertion axis. The sample container is configured for insertion into the receptacle. The sample container includes a cap portion, a basket portion, and a hinge, wherein the cap portion is joined to the basket portion by the hinge.

Abstract: A fastening mechanism that comprises an actuator, a fastening device attached to a distal end of the actuator, and a device coupler, wherein the fastening device is pivotally attached to the device coupler.

Abstract: A tissue expander/retractor tool works within a narrow cavity/tunnel to access a deeper structure (e.g., the mitral valve) without consuming a significant amount of space either within the small through-hole or in the vicinity of the entrance to the port. The tool provides the user with direct control of the expansion and separation of a target area. The moving parts of the tool have a closed configuration with a narrow profile for insertion/removal and an open configuration obtained using a remotely-controlled, compact pivot mechanism that provides a broad enlargement capability for the retraction jaws. A pantograph mechanism with input pivots and output pivots is coupled between the retraction jaws and a compound cable (e.g., Bowden cable). A handle is coupled to the other end of the compound cable for displacing the inner wire along the outer tube.

Abstract: In an example, a surgical retractor includes an elongated shaft extending from a first end to a second end, and a retractor blade extending from the second end of the elongated shaft. The elongated shaft defines an internal chamber. The elongated shaft includes a handle portion at the first end of the elongated shaft, a suction conduit in a first lateral portion of the internal chamber, and a light conduit in a second lateral portion of the internal chamber. The suction conduit extends from a suction port at the first end to a suction aperture at the second end. The light conduit extends from a light-input port at the first end to a light aperture at the second end. The suction conduit and the light conduit are substantially coplanar. The surgical retractor also includes an optical waveguide in the light conduit of the elongated shaft.

Abstract: A pre-assembled, telescoping elongate system comprising an outer elongate member surrounding a finer gauge inner elongate member which, after percutaneous penetration by the outer elongate element, extends to penetrate an intervertebral disc into which a sensing element and/or an injectable may be delivered.

Abstract: The insertion instrument (10) for inserting a modular intervertebral fusion device or components thereof into an inter-vertebral space comprises at least one superior (arm 16), (18) mounted on a superior support (12) such that the at least one superior arm extends from the superior support. The insertion instrument further comprises at least one inferior arm (20), (22) mounted on an inferior support (14) such that the at least one inferior arm extends from the inferior support.

Abstract: A perforator-integral suture anchor device is proposed. More specifically, it simultaneously inserts and fixes the suture anchor into the bone while the pilot hole in the bone is forming when an anchor driver is pressed and rotated. The perforator-integral suture anchor device includes the suture anchor having threads formed on an outer circumferential surface thereof, and the anchor driver capable of pressing and rotating the suture anchor, wherein the anchor driver includes a plurality of guide arms protruding forward by being spaced apart from each other relative to a central axis of the anchor driver, and a perforating tip formed at a front end of each of the guide arms, and the suture anchor includes a plurality of female coupling grooves recessed on an outer surface of the suture anchor in a longitudinal direction thereof and allowing the suture anchor to be coupled to the plurality of guide arms.

Abstract: Various exemplary devices, systems, and methods for knotless anchor inserter tool extraction are provided. In general, an inserter tool is configured for knotless anchor insertion in a soft tissue repair surgical procedure. The inserter tool is configured to insert an anchor into a bone of a patient to secure a soft tissue relative to the bone. The inserter tool includes a retraction mechanism configured to cause the inserter tool to be removed from within the anchor.

Abstract: A method for securing suture to bone comprises drilling a hole in a desired portion of bone at a desired procedural site, passing a strand of suture through a portion of soft tissue to be approximated to the portion of bone, and extending the free suture ends proximally from the soft tissue. The suture is loaded into an anchor implant. Using an inserter, on a distal end of which is attached the anchor implant, the anchor implant is manipulated into the bone hole. The suture is then tensioned to a desired level by pulling on the free suture ends, after the anchor implant is positioned in the bone hole. The free suture ends are wrapped about a suture cleat on an inserter handle once the desired tension level is achieved. A proximal anchor component is moved distally to engage with a distal anchor component to lock the anchor in place within the bone hole, and to lock the suture in place within the anchor. Then, the inserter is removed from the procedural site.

Abstract: A suturing system and a method thereof are provided. The suturing system includes a tube that has a first rod moveable therein and a second rod that is coupled to an outer surface of the tube. A needle is coupled to an end of the tube and includes an insertion portion. In addition, a suture lock is inserted onto the second rod and a first end of a suture engages with a tip of the needle or the tube. A second end of the suture is fixed within the suture lock. The insertion portion is engaged with the first end of the suture prior to insertion through the material. The suturing system allows for single handed operation, thus simplifying a suturing process while improving accuracy.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are minimally invasive systems and methods for intravascularly accessing the heart and performing a transcatheter repair of a heart valve by inserting a suture as an artificial chordae into a heart valve leaflet. In various embodiments, such systems and methods can be employed in other heart valve repair procedures such an edge to edge repair to coapt leaflets by inserting one or more sutures that retain the leaflets in a coapted positioned or inserting a suture to repair a tear in a leaflet, for example.

Abstract: A tissue fixation system is provided for dynamic and rigid fixation of tissue. A fastener connected with an elongate fastening member, such as a cable, wire, suture, rod, or tube, is moved through a passage between opposite sides of tissue. A medical device is used to secure the fastener to the elongate fastening member. The medical device includes a tensioning mechanism for tensioning the elongate fastening member. As crimping mechanism is used to secure the fastener to the elongated member, where a cutting mechanism cut the excess portion of the elongated member.

Abstract: A suturing system including apparatus and methods for disposing sutures in a substrate.

Abstract: Generally, a suturing system including apparatus and methods for reinforcing a substrate through which a thread passes. Specifically, embodiments of a thread carrier which passes through a substrate reinforcement element adjoining a substrate to reinforce the substrate at a first location and at a second location through which the thread passes.

Abstract: A staple having a crown, a deformable leg extending from the crown, and a spring extending from the crown configured to compress tissue between the spring and the deformable member. Owing to the flexibility of the spring, the staple can accommodate a wide range of tissue thicknesses while still compressing the tissue captured therein. As a result, a single staple design can be used in a wide variety of surgical procedures thereby reducing the amount of staple designs that must be provided to the surgeon. In at least one embodiment, the staple includes a crushable member. This crushable member can include a plastically deformable first portion and an elastically deformable second portion. The present invention can also include, in various embodiments, a crown, a first deformable member extending from the crown, and means for compressing the tissue against the first deformable member.

Abstract: A surgical device includes a handle assembly having a controller; a first motor; and a second motor. The surgical device also includes an adapter assembly having: a tubular housing defining a longitudinal axis having a proximal end portion configured to couple to the handle assembly, and a distal end portion; a first actuation assembly disposed within the tubular housing and coupled to the first motor; and a second actuation assembly disposed within the tubular housing and coupled to the second motor. The surgical device further includes an end effector configured to couple to the distal end portion of the adapter assembly. The end effector is coupled to the first actuation assembly that articulates the end effector about an articulation axis that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The end effector also includes a flexible drive beam coupled to the second actuation assembly and movable axially by the second actuation assembly.

Abstract: Locking assemblies for surgical clamping and cutting instruments include a locking member and a switch. A drive member may be configured to releasably engage a knife and/or a shuttle of the surgical instrument for translating the knife and/or shuttle in a distal direction through a firing stroke. The locking member is movable from a first position permitting distal translation of the drive member through the firing stroke, and a second position inhibiting distal translation of the drive member through the firing stroke. A switch, when proximally positioned, releasably engages the locking member to maintain the locking member in the first position. The switch disengages from the locking member when the switch is moved to a distal position.

Abstract: A surgical system is disclosed including an end effector and a drive system configured to effect at least one function of the end effector. The end effector includes a first jaw, a second jaw rotatable relative to said first jaw between an open configuration and a closed configuration, and a staple cartridge comprising staples removably stored therein. The drive system includes a motor and an impact mechanism including a rotary input drivable by the motor and a rotary output drivable by the rotary input. Rotation of the rotary output is configured to effect the at least one function of the end effector. The impact mechanism is configurable between a coupled state, wherein rotation of the rotary input causes corresponding rotation of the rotary output, and a slipped state, wherein the rotary input rotates relative to the rotary output.

Abstract: A stapling device includes a handle assembly, an elongate body, and an end effector. The elongate body includes a proximal portion and a distal portion. The proximal portion extends distally from the handle assembly. The end effector is operably disposed on the distal portion of the elongate body. The end effector includes a first jaw member and a second jaw member pivotally secured relative to the first jaw member. The second jaw member is movable between an open position and a closed position. The first jaw member includes at least one pusher bag. The at least one pusher bag is transformable between a deflated condition and an expanded condition. The stapling device further includes at least one staple member releasably supported within the first jaw member. Transformation of the at least one pusher bag from the deflated condition to the expanded condition ejects the at least one staple from the first jaw member.

Abstract: A surgical system comprising an end effector, a clamp driver, a motor, and a control circuit is disclosed. The end effector comprises a first jaw and a second jaw moveable relative to the first jaw toward a closed configuration. The clamp driver is movable toward a closure end position. The motor is operably coupled to the clamp driver. The control circuit comprises a processor and a memory, and the control circuit is to: advance, by the motor, the clamp driver to the closure end position; determine a distance between the first jaw and the second jaw in the closed configuration, wherein the closure end position corresponds to the closed configuration; receive a signal indicative of at least one of a staple cartridge identity, type, or characteristic from a corresponding staple cartridge; and detect that the distance is acceptable for staple firing by the end effector based on the received signal.

Abstract: A handle assembly for a surgical stapler can comprise a rotatable actuation shaft. The actuation shaft can have a first rotational orientation in which it can actuate a jaw assembly in a repeatable open and close mode, a second rotational orientation in which it can actuate a jaw assembly in a staple firing mode, and a third rotational orientation in which it can actuate a jaw assembly in a reversing mode. The handle assembly can include a rotational mechanism arranged to discretely position the rotatable actuation shaft in one of the rotational orientations. The rotational mechanism can be arranged for single handed operation such as by including a slidable switch or selector to rotate the actuation shaft.

Abstract: A surgical buttress loading system includes an anvil having a spring assembly biased against a tissue facing surface of an anvil body and a loading tool including a cavity configured to receive the anvil therein, a buttress cartridge including a surgical buttress releasably disposed thereon, an actuator, and a handle operably coupled to the buttress cartridge. When the anvil is positioned within the cavity of the loading tool and the handle is moved to from an unactuated position to an actuated position, the handle moves the actuator to from a retracted position to an extended position and into engagement with the spring assembly of the anvil to lift the spring assembly off of the tissue facing surface and then slides the buttress cartridge towards the spring assembly to move a proximal end portion of the surgical buttress between the spring assembly and the tissue facing surface.

Abstract: The invention provides improved devices, systems, and methods for tissue approximation and repair at treatment sites. The invention provides devices, systems, and methods that may more successfully approximate and repair tissue by improving the capture of tissue into the devices. The invention may be a one-way mechanism that allows tissue to enter the mechanism but not easily exit, such as a leaf-spring, a protrusion, a pivoting arm and one or more frictional elements.

Abstract: A tissue gripping device is formed from a shape-memory material, and has a base section, a first arm, and a second arm disposed opposite the first arm, each arm having a first end coupled to the base section and a free end extending from the base section. The arms of the tissue gripping device are configured to resiliently flex toward a relaxed configuration in a distal direction as the tissue gripping device is moved from a pre-deployed configuration toward a deployed configuration. The tissue gripping device is usable in a method for gripping tissue. The method includes positioning the tissue gripping device near target tissue and moving the tissue gripping device from a pre-deployed configuration toward a deployed configuration in order to grip the target tissue.

Abstract: A surgical anchor device for being anchored on the mucous membrane of the inner wall of the intestine, the device having a temporary anchor element presenting anchoring that can be modified in a controlled manner and having a first substantially cylindrical multiply-perforated wall presenting properties of radial elasticity whereby the first wall presents an outer diameter that can be varied in controlled manner, wherein a portion of the inner surface of the first wall is lined with an independent leakproof inner sheath having only its longitudinal ends fastened to the anchor element to define a suction chamber between the inner sheath and the first wall, the temporary anchor element being coupled to a flexible or semi-rigid tube extending outside the anchor element, an open end of the injection-suction tube opening out into the suction chamber enabling air to be injected into or sucked out from the suction chamber.

Abstract: A staple cartridge assembly for use with a surgical stapling instrument is disclosed. The staple cartridge assembly comprises a compressible adjunct and a staple cartridge. The compressible adjunct comprises attachment regions. The staple cartridge comprises a proximal end, a distal end, a deck, a longitudinal row of staple cavities, staples, bonding zones, and barbs. The attachment regions of the compressible adjunct are configured to be secured to bonding areas defined by the bonding zones. The barbs protrude from the deck, and the barbs are configured to maintain an initial alignment between the attachment regions and the bonding zones prior to attachment of the compressible adjunct to the deck.

Abstract: An end effector including an anvil and a staple cartridge assembly is disclosed. The staple cartridge assembly comprises a deck having steps defined thereon for compressing tissue positioned between the anvil and the staple cartridge assembly to different pressures. The staple cartridge assembly further comprises staples having different unformed heights removably stored therein. The staples are deformed against the anvil to different formed heights.

Abstract: An anastomosis set for anastomosing a first end to be anastomosed with a second end to be anastomosed, such anastomosis set comprising: a first manipulator, with a first telescoping part at a distal end thereof, the first telescoping part is used for telescoping toward the first end to be anastomosed; a second manipulator, with a second telescoping part at a distal end thereof, the second telescoping part is used for telescoping toward the second end to be anastomosed; and an anastomosis mechanism for anastomosing the first end to be anastomosed with the second end to be anastomosed; the first manipulator including a first exit part through which the first manipulator will be removed from the first end to be anastomosed after anastomosing; the second manipulator has a second exit part, through which the second manipulator will be removed from the second end to be anastomosed after anastomosing.

Abstract: Various systems and methods of deploying an implant to a target location of a body vessel are disclosed. A delivery system can include a tubular body having a lumen extending therethrough. A pull wire can extend through the lumen with the pull wire including a distal portion. An elastic loop wire can include a loop opening which is positioned approximate a distal end of the tubular body and can include a proximal attachment point that is affixed to the pull wire. The elastic loop wire and the pull wire can be positioned to secure the implantable medical device to the delivery system. The elastic loop wire can be effective to inhibit premature detachment of the implantable medical device from the delivery system by inhibiting proximal translation of the pull wire with respect to the loop opening of the elastic loop wire.

Abstract: A device for occlusion of blood vessels and hemorrhage control, whose design it allows to control the force of application of the blood vessel that is intended to be occluded and during its placement, applies always the same force, regardless of the diameter of the blood vessel to be occluded and/or the dimensions of the tissue that surrounds it.

Abstract: A system includes a first device, a second device, and garment. The garment has an elastic region that is configured to receive the first and second devices so that, when the garment is worn by a subject, the first and second devices are positioned at a respective one of a pair of neck veins of the subject. The first and second devices and/or the elastic region apply a compressive pressure to the pair of neck veins while the garment is worn.

Abstract: Aspects of the disclosure relate to surgical cutting systems having a surgical tool and a powered hand piece. The surgical tool can include a cutting tool having a coupling portion for selective connection to a drive pin of the hand piece. The coupling portion defines a tang that is configured to promote self-alignment of the cutting tool and the drive pin during connection of the cutting tool and the hand piece, thus promoting ease of use.

Abstract: A bone, cartilage, and disk removal tool assembly is provided with a motor mounted in a housing. A spindle is mounted for rotation to the housing. A rack-and-pinion mechanism is operably driven by the motor and connected to the spindle to oscillate the spindle for providing a rotary oscillating cutting operation. According to at least another embodiment, a plurality of cams is supported in the housing and driven for rotation by the motor. A plurality of followers is mounted for rotation to the housing, in engagement with the plurality of cams so that one rotation of the plurality of cams oscillates the plurality of followers more than once while preventing over-rotation of the plurality of followers. A peak angular acceleration of the spindle is less than nine million radians per second squared.

Abstract: A medical device for delivering an action to an area of a hip joint or its surroundings, inside a human body, is provided. The hip joint of a patient comprises a collum femur and a ball shaped caput femur, being the proximal parts of the femoral bone, and an acetabulum, being a bowl shaped part of the pelvic bone. The medical device comprising; an elongated member, having a length axis along its elongated distribution, comprising a first portion, adapted to enter the body of the patient, and a mechanical element, adapted to be used during an operation in the hip joint or its surroundings, inside the body. The first portion of the elongated member comprises a holding member adapted to hold the mechanical element inside the body of the patient, wherein the first portion of the elongated member have a first portion cross-section area substantially perpendicular to the length axis of the elongated member.

Abstract: This surgical bone preparation instrument (1) comprises a main body (5) terminated by a contacting surface (50) adapted to abut on a bone (B), and a sliding body (7) equipped with a cutting element (3) and which is movable in translation with respect to the main body (5). The bone preparation instrument (1) includes a cutting depth control ring (11) that is adjustable by a single hand, which forms an abutment surface (110) against the movement of one of the main body (5) and the sliding body (7) when the sliding body (7) reaches an adjusted cutting depth (D) corresponding to an adjustment position of the control ring (11).

Abstract: Patient-specific guides for the Latarjet procedure, as well as surgical systems and methods of performing the Latarjet procedure to treat glenohumeral instability using such patient-specific guides are disclosed. A patient-specific coracoid guide and a patient-specific glenoid guide may be configured based on preoperatively generated three-dimensional models of the patient's shoulder anatomy. Guides may be configured for coracoid graft preparation and glenoid decortication. The coracoid graft may be placed in the desired position based on three-dimensional (3D) preoperative planning.

Abstract: A guidewire for use in penetrating through complex and stenosed lesions. The distal tip of the guidewire has a roughened surface to increase frictional engagement with calcified and fibrous tissue to increase the penetration of the distal tip and the guidewire into and through the lesion and reduce the likelihood of deflection of the guidewire tip. The average surface roughness of the distal tip is in the range from 1 micron to 200 microns.