Abstract: Apparatus for implanting closable locking clips to effect the percutaneous occlusion of target vessels is disclosed, including a pair of pivotable jaws defining a clip retaining cavity, a clip moving slide for sliding a locking clip from a retracted position remote from the clip retaining cavity to an actuated position with the clip retaining cavity, and a camming surface operatively disposed within the clip retaining cavity so that upon slidable movement of the locking clip from the retracted position to the actuated position the camming surface causes at least partial closure of the locking clip therein.

Abstract: A percutaneous vasectomy method is disclosed which involves closing the vas deferens of a male patient without incising the patient's scrotum. The method comprises the steps of inserting a sharp-tipped needle having a first predetermined diameter into the scrotum of the male patient and through a wall of the vas deferens, the insertion forming a passageway from the surface of the scrotum to the interior of the vas deferens; removing the sharp-tipped needle from the vas deferens and the scrotum; inserting a blunt-tipped needle having a second predetermined diameter, less than the first predetermined diameter, through the passageway and into the interior of the vas deferens; activating a cauterizing element which includes the blunt-tipped needle for a selected period of time to cauterize and thereby close the vas deferens to sterilize the male patient; and removing the blunt-tipped needle from the vas deferens and scrotum.

Abstract: Apparatus for accomplishing the permanent placement of a lockable clip around a target vessel to interrupt the continuity of the same in a rapid, safe and minimally invasive manner. The apparatus includes a trocar obturator and a hollow member in which the open locking clip is enclosed for delivery to a position proximate to the vas whereupon the trocar obturator is retracted such that the clip is locked onto the vessel to effect occlusion.

Abstract: Temperature regulating surgical drapes are disclosed for use in conducting surgical procedures including a drape body with an opening adapted to expose only the specific body portion during surgery and including heat generating or cooling elements affixed to the drape at a localized position surrounding the opening to maintain that body portion at a specified temperature during surgery.