Abstract: An apparatus for achieving hemostasis and pneumostasis along a staple line by utilizing a compliant bioabsorbable foam buttress which may be attached to one jaw of a surgical stapling apparatus by a biocompatible releasable adhesive.

Abstract: A calcium-modified oxidized cellulose hemostat provides faster hemostasis than does either unmodified or sodium- or potassium-modified oxidized cellulose. The percentage by weight of calcium in the modified oxidized cellulose must be in a range between about 0.5 and about 4, in order to enhance hemostasis, while not interfering excessively with bioabsorbability. In a second embodiment, an oxidized cellulose hemostat is modified with both calcium and either sodium or potassium. The second embodiment may be used to deliver acid-sensitive materials.

Abstract: An improved process is provided for the formation of metal ion containing carbon fibers which particularly are suited for utilization in electron shielding applications. An acrylic fibrous material is formed having substantially uniformly dispersed therein a halide of a transition metal. The metal halide (e.g. a chloride) present within the fibrous material is (1) converted to an oxide, (2) the fibrous material containing the metal oxide is heated in an oxygen-containing atmosphere until thermally stabilized, and (3) the thermally stabilized fibrous material is carbonized or carbonized and graphitized at a more highly elevated temperature in an appropriate atmosphere. The resulting product comprises ions of a transition metal substantially uniformly dispersed in an amorphous carbon or graphitic carbon matrix. The halide of a transition metal may be incorporated into the acrylic precursor by co-spinning and/or padding prior to thermal stabilization.