Abstract: An apparatus and method to treat head injury. The apparatus includes a cephalic expansion reservoir to allow a swollen brain to expand without increasing intracranial pressure. The apparatus has a port for fluid exchange and for the attachment of monitors of physical, chemical and electrical activity. The method includes attaching the apparatus to the skin with biological adhesives, removing the bone for replacement after treatment, treating the injured patent with appropriate therapy including filling the expansion reservoir with an appropriate fluid.

Abstract: A spinal needle which has the capability of sealing its opening after withdrawal. A first conventional spinal needle or cannula is used for standard diagnostic or therapeudic use. A second cannula is inserted concentrically into the first needle and includes a dural seal having an absorbable suture extending from the second cannula. A stylet is inserted into the second cannula dislodging the seal into the subarachnoid space. The cannulae are removed and the suture is pulled to set the dural seal in the spinal puncture.

Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus and method for exchanging cerebrospinal fluid. The apparatus withdraws cerebrospinal fluid from the lumbar subarachnoid space, filters, cools, pH adjusts and performs diagnostic/monitoring functions on the fluid. It then returns purified and/or artificial spinal fluid to the subarachnoid space. The apparatus monitors fluid temperature and core body temperature. Furthermore, it detects increased subarachnoid hemorrhage or repeat subarachnoid hemorrhage. The apparatus is attached to an indwelling spinal cannula, and can continually exchange cerebrospinal fluid and monitor the patient. The apparatus can be completely controlled by computer with technician supervision for the treatment of patients needing purification of their spinal fluid.

Abstract: A para-spinal retractor for use during surgery which includes a planar ellipsoidal ring and a plurality of retractor blades which mount in the ring. The ring has a series of generally rectangular openings on either side of the major axis, and the blades have upturned rectangular cross-sections to slidably fit the openings. The blades are set in the tissue and rotated to a vertical position so that the ring openings engage the blades to maintain the retraction. The blades have angled facets and sharp tips, and are constructed so that when blades are engaged with the ring the facets project downwardly and towards the center of the ring.

Abstract: The present invention provides a biopsy device for obtaining tissue samples while preserving the relational aspects of the tissue substructure and architecture. The biopsy device comprises a cannula housing and a spring activated sharpened blade which is slideable engageable with the cannula housing.