Abstract: This invention is for an inexpensive flexible heater material (heat pad) for food heating, medical compresses and the like. The heat pad is a composite material consisting of a supercorroding metallic alloy powder dispersed throughout a porous polyethylene matrix. The supercorroding alloy material consists of a powdered alloy of magnesium and iron which is produced by high energy powder metallurgical milling techniques. Pressureless sintering of a mixture of the supercorroding alloy powders with UHMW polyethylene powder results in the formation of a flexible porous matrix material with active ingredients therein that are readily activated with a suitable electrolyte fluid.

Abstract: A method and means for the repair of severed peripheral nerves utilizing a porous, thin walled, bridge conduit or tube and an applicator instrument therefor. The instrument is connected to a vacuum source and has means for supporting the tube in the region of the transverse hole therein. When supported by the instrument the interior of the tube is operatively connected to the vacuum source through the transverse hole and a pressure differential is created between the interior of the tube and the ambient atmosphere by means of the vacuum source. This pressure differential is used to draw one end of the severed nerve into one end of the tube and then the other end of the severed nerve into the other end of the tube, the nerve ends being in abutment within the tube. Additional means may be provided to maintain the nerve ends in abutment within the tube when required and means may also be provided facilitating removal of the tube upon repair of the nerve if desired.