The lixiscope. Use in examination and surgery.

Abstract

The lixiscope is a portable, low-intensity fluoroscopic device, which provides convenience and safety for doctor and patient in examination and surgery. It gives a real time image which allows motion of the object to be observed and manipulation or surgical procedures to be performed under continuous visual monitoring. By changing lines of perspective, an appreciation of the object can be gained in three dimensions. This is especially important in visualizing geometry-dependent flaws, such as fractures, or in bringing out low-contrast objects from the background by relative motion. lixiscopic foot surgery is a new kind of foot surgery, opening up previous "closed" or minimal incision surgery. It has the benefits of the previous minimal incision surgery, with direct visualization of sophisticated procedures for consistent results. Future directions in this technology may include a lixiscope which will not require isotope replacement, true stereoscopic vision, and specialized devices for various branches of medicine.