Abstract: This invention is an occlusive device for inserting into body cavities or vesicles. More particularly, it is a vasoocclusive device which, as used, is in the approximate shape of an anatomical cavity. It may be ultimately deployed as a substantially spherical shape in the operable configuration. The device is a self-forming shape made from a pre-formed occlusive strand of flexible material. The occlusive strand may be helically coiled or braided and may be adapted with various polymeric fibers. The device is typically introduced through a catheter in the substantially linear inoperable configuration. The invention provides a plurality of such substantially spherical strand portions which nest concentrically with each other in the operable configuration. The invention also includes methods of producing and using the substantially spherical occlusive devices.

Abstract: A variable focus contact lens, has a body with a first half and an opposite second half. The body also has a first peripheral surface, an opposite second peripheral surface and an associated focal length. The lens includes a first material having a resilience so that as compressive force is applied to the first surface and the second surface, the focal length of the lens changes in proportion to the compressive force. A force-distributing structure is disposed within the lens for distributing force within the lens so as to inhibit astigmatism in the lens as compressive force is applied to the first surface and the second surface.

Abstract: This invention is an occlusive device for inserting into body cavities or vesicles. More particularly, it is a vasoocclusive device which, as used, is in the approximate shape of an anatomical cavity. It may be ultimately deployed as a substantially spherical shape in the operable configuration. The device is a self-forming shape made from a pre-formed occlusive strand of flexible material. The occlusive strand may be helically coiled or braided and may be adapted with various polymeric fibers. The device is typically introduced through a catheter in the substantially linear inoperable configuration. The invention provides a plurality of such substantially spherical strand portions which nest concentrically with each other in the operable configuration. The invention also includes methods of producing and using the substantially spherical vasoocclusive devices.

Abstract: Film changers used in biplane radiography are provided with shields having radiolucent and radiopaque sections which are alternately disposed in front of the x-ray film presented by the film changers for exposure. Operation of the two shields is synchronized to dispose the radiopaque portion of one shield in front of one changer when the radiolucent portion of the other shield is disposed in front of the other changer such that scattered radiation cannot reach film in the one changer and fog it when an image is being recorded by the other changer. In one disclosed embodiment of the invention, the shield is a flexible endless belt with alternating radiopaque and radiolucent sections mounted for rotation in a loop around the film changer. In a second disclosed embodiment of the invention, planar discs having alternating radiopaque and radiolucent sectors are rotated in front of the film changers.