Importance

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Abstract

A hand-held surgical instrument is well-suited to fluoroscopic x-ray imaging. In needle-positioning forceps, an instrument according to the invention preferably exhibits a length of 8 inches or greater, and is constructed substantially from a radiolucent material, thereby enabling a user to navigate the article without being exposed to the beam. The radiolucent material may include a plastic such as a thermoplastic polymer or carbon fiber, and may be presterilized and disposable for one-time use. In the preferred embodiment, the length of the instrument is on the order of 12 inches or thereabouts, and is lordotically shaped for better conformance to patient curvature. The distal tip of the instrument, which is sufficiently strong to reliably grip a needle, may include a needle-dimensioned indent and/or a pair of opposing resilient pads. A radiopaque pointer may be provided to indicate the distal tip, and the pointer may be provided in the form of a removable adhesive strip. A central finger stop or pad may be located between the proximal and distal ends of the instrument, and one or more needle-bending holes may be provided.

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First Claim