Abstract: A tubular prosthesis comprises a tubular member having raised portions, which can be formed from and be part of the tubular member. The raised portions form a chamber or discrete space in a body passageway or lumen between the prosthesis and a portion of the passageway or lumen wall in which it is placed. A substance is delivered to the chamber to assist the prosthesis placement. The substance can comprise one or more substances that can enhance the seal and/or fixation characteristics between the prosthesis the passageway wall and/or provide therapeutic benefit. In another embodiment, the raised portions can be collars secured to the tubular member and in yet a further embodiment the raised portions can comprise inflatable collars.

Abstract: A tissue connector assembly having a flexible member and a surgical clip releasably coupled to the flexible member. A needle may be secured to one end portion of the flexible member with the surgical clip coupled to the other end portion of the flexible member. A locking device may be used to couple the flexible member to the surgical clip. A method for connecting tissues is also disclosed. The method includes drawing tissue portions together with a clip assembly and securing the tissue portions together with the clip assembly.

Abstract: The invention relates to a corneal pocketing tool for separating the lamella of the cornea. The corneal pocketing tool has a dissector portion for insertion into a corneal incision and a reference surface or region adapted to contact the cornea. As the dissector is advanced into the corneal incision the reference region comes into contact with the surface of the cornea and resists further advancement of the dissector. As the reference region is moved in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction, the dissector portion follows in the same direction forming a pocket in the cornea.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for performing a surgical procedure on a patient is described. An incision is made into tissue of the patient to create a tissue pocket. The tissue has an anterior surface. Preferably, the tissue is corneal tissue of an eye. A reflective element is inserted into the pocket. An energy source generates a radiant energy signal, which is directed toward the reflective element. Reflected energy is received from the reflective element. A detector determines the depth of the reflective element below the anterior surface based upon the energy reflected by the reflective element. The speed of transmission of the radiant energy in the reflective element is different (preferably slower) than the speed of transmission of the radiant energy in the tissue. The reflective element may be in the form of a tool on which is disposed a biocompatible polymer layer, the layer comprising trapped air spaces, or a tool having an open space for containing trapped air.