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Abstract

An improved x-ray laser aiming system providing coaxial laser aiming in a configuration opposed to the x-ray emitter is disclosed. The present invention comprises two basic components: 1) a laser sight coupled to an x-ray emitter, and 2) a laser housing coupled to an x-ray collector. The laser sight provides a means for aligning the x-ray emitter with a laser beam during surgical or diagnostic procedures. The laser housing is removably coupled to the image intensifier or x-ray collector. The laser housing contains a point laser source and a fixed reflective surface or mirror for directing a laser beam coaxially with the center ray of the x-rays emitted by the x-ray emitter, but in the opposite direction. The laser source is, therefore, in a configuration opposed or opposite to the x-ray emitter. The laser aiming system of the present invention may be used to provide a reference point during orthopedic alignment procedures such as pinning and for vascular procedures such as balloon angioplasty, and correction of conditions involving embolisms, aneurysms, or arterial venous malformations (AVM's).

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First Claim