Prototypal Electro‐microsurgical Instruments

A group of electronically automated instruments has been developed fop use in microsurgery. Interchangeable heads provide great versatility in a system of hand held, comfortably balanced devices weighing less than 80 gm. The equipment operates at such low electrical energy that the necessary power cable is virtually free of hindrance to the surgeon. Present models are all controlled by footswitch. The hollow-tube principle increases miniaturization possibilities for cutting and holding instruments and allows for them to be combined with suction and injection techniques. Normal body cavities or chambers can thus be maintained during cutting or grasping procedures without loss of pressure or shape. Further development and experimental surgical and clinical evaluation are proceeding.