Abstract: A tendon approximator employs two connected, normally closed clamps, which are each formed from two extruded elements. The two extruded elements are connected together in their mid-region by means of non-circular cam on a base element and a corresponding non-circular cam surface on a clamping element. In the normally closed position of the individual clamps, the cam and cam surface urge the device into a jaw-closed position with the handles being spaced apart. In a preferred embodiment two of the clamps are connected by means of rods extending through corresponding handle portions of the two clamps.

Abstract: An improved needle guard for a syringe is provided having a tubular body. The needle guard includes a longitudinal bore and one or more slots or slits formed therein. The longitudinal bore of the guard is sized for telescopic reception of and contraction about the tubular body of the syringe. Slots or slits are arranged so as to allow deformation of the longitudinal bore of the needle guard thereby increasing the inside diameter of the longitudinal bore so as to allow axial movement of the needle guard along the tubular body of the syringe.

Abstract: A normally closed clamp is provided which is formed from two extruded elements which are connected together in their midregion by means of a non-circular cam on a base element and a corresponding non-circular cam surface on a clamping element. In the normally closed position, the cam and cam surface urge the device into a jaw-closed position with the handles being spaced-apart. When the handles are brought together, the jaw members separate and the relative position of the cam surface and the cam member is altered. The device may be used as a tissue separator. Two of the devices may be assembled together as a tendon approximator.