Abstract: A method and solution for enhancing coagulation. The solution comprises a pharmacologically active mixture of calcium chloride, epsilon-aminocaproic acid, protamine, thrombin and norepinephrine dissolved in a saline solution. The solution is applied topically.

Abstract: An improved electrical lead and the associated surgical procedure for using the same to connect the heart of a post-operative patient temporarily to an external cardiac pacemaker. An elongated non-conductive carrier housing a pair of insulated signal wires is provided with a pair of contact plates at separate locations along the surface of the carrier. Each of the plates is connected to one of the signal wires. The contact plates are configured and spaced apart to provide intimate electrical contact with the external walls of the atrium and ventricle when the carrier is placed in proper position dorsal to the heart.

Abstract: A cardiovascular tourniquet and surgical method of applying the same is disclosed for use in support of a cannula operatively inserted into a blood vessel with a purse string suture. Ends of the suture are drawn to close the blood vessel around the cannula and then passed through a tubular member having integrally formed rib-like sections spaced apart along its length. The tubular member is firmly secured alongside the cannula by at least a pair of spring clips fastened about the cannula and adapted to grasp the tubular member between its rib-like sections. An integral cap is further provided at one end of the tubular member for releasably clamping the suture ends drawn therethrough thereby preventing the suture from loosening during subsequent procedures and maintaining proper disposition of the cannula.

Abstract: An improved sternal closure device and method for using the device is disclosed wherein a pair of thin rods of appropriate length are positioned longitudinally along respective opposite sides of a severed sternum on the posterior surface thereof. Individual wires secured at one end thereof to corresponding points along each rod are passed through matching holes on either side of the severed sternum to extend beyond its anterior surface. Opposing pairs of wires transversely oriented are tensioned to draw the sternum together and knotted thereby holding the sternum closed with forces applied by the wires and distributed along the length of the sternum via the rods. Alternatively, the wires may have looped inner ends that engage the rods on the posterior surface of the sternum for distribution of the closing forces.