Abstract: A pressure monitoring system for use with an electrofluidic device for sensing pressure includes a pump for supplying fluid to the electrofluidic sensing device. An electrical switching circuit controls the supply of fluid to the sensing device and is responsive to the external pressure level applied to the sensing device; this circuit also cyclically causes the supplied pressure to vent when the pressure of supplied fluid inside the sensing device is substantially equal to the applied external pressure, and then start the fluid supply to the device over again. This system further includes a measuring element for detecting the pressure level of the supplied fluid, and a digital meter for displaying the analogous detected pressure level during supply of the fluid.

Abstract: A pressure-responsive surgical tool assembly includes an inflatable enclosure and a pair of electrodes positioned therein. The electrodes are adapted to contact each other and operatively move away from each other under an increase of fluid pressure inside the enclosure until electrical contact is broken. An electrical lead is connected to each electrode for electrically monitoring the condition of electrode contact. A flexible tubing is connected to the enclosure to provide fluid flow therein to increase the pressure inside. A surgical tool overlies at least one of the electrodes and is adapted to transmit force applied from it to that associated electrode. Application of force by the tool initially causes the electrodes to contact each other and to remain in contact until the pressure inside the enclosure substantially balances the applied pressure from the tool whereupon electrode contact is broken.

Abstract: A vein holder assembly for use in the preparation of a vein segment during surgery comprises a base and a first vein support connected to the base and adapted to close off one end of the vein segment. A second vein support is connected to the base spaced from the first vein support. This second vein support is adapted to allow fluid to pass into the vein segment while the same is being supported. To accommodate different length vein segments, the spacing between the first and second vein supports is adjustable.