Abstract: Apparatus for adjusting blood flow through a graft is provided comprising a balloon disposed against the exterior surface of the graft by a substantially rigid sheath, so that when the balloon is inflated with an inflation medium it causes constriction of blood flow through the graft without creating potentially thrombogenic crimps or infolds in the graft material. The balloon is adjusted by connecting an infusion device to a subcutaneously implanted balloon access port. A pair of ultrasonic elements may be optionally provided to measure blood flow through the graft and to optimize the extent of constriction of the graft. Electrical connection between the ultrasonic elements and external ultrasound processing circuitry is established via a subcutaneously implanted electrical access port that enables multiple electrical connections to be made using a single needle stick.

Abstract: Apparatus for adjusting blood flow through a graft is provided comprising a balloon disposed against the exterior surface of the graft by a substantially rigid sheath, so that when the balloon is inflated with an inflation medium it causes constriction of blood flow through the graft without creating potentially thrombogenic crimps or infolds in the graft material. The balloon is adjusted by connecting an infusion device to a subcutaneously implanted balloon access port. A pair of ultrasonic elements may be optionally provided to measure blood flow through the graft and to optimize the extent of constriction of the graft. Electrical connection between the ultrasonic elements and external ultrasound processing circuitry is established via a subcutaneously implanted electrical access port that enables multiple electrical connections to be made using a single needle stick.

Abstract: A scalpel handle is provided having the physical and ergonomic characteristics of a conventional surgical scalpel handle, but which houses a retractable blade support adapted for engaging scalpel blades having standard mounting posts. The scalpel blade is extended and retracted by the surgeon's index finger as a natural part of the motion of receiving and handing off the scalpel handle, which features few moving parts to thereby provide ease of disassembly and sterilization. Methods are also provided for replacing scalpel blades that are essentially the same as used for conventional non-retractable scalpel handles.