Abstract: The invention described is a pressure device for applying pressure to the whole of the chest area of a patient and for reducing the movement and dehesion of the sternum and chest incision after open heart and chest surgeries. The pressure device has a casing substantially in the form of a pillow, the casing having opposing lateral sides, a back side for application against the chest of the patient, the back side having top corners, a frontal side substantially on the opposite side of the back side of the casing, the frontal side having a top attachment portion and a bottom attachment portion. A membrane layer attached to the top attachment portion and the bottom attachment portion of the frontal side of the casing, the outer wall of the frontal side and the inner wall of the membrane layer forming a sleeve for receiving the hands and forearms of a patient.

Abstract: A nasal dilator is disclosed which is provided in various sizes to fit and be retained within a person's nostril. The device functions to dilate the nasal passage and allow easier breathing during strenuous exercise, the administration of anesthetics to keep nasal airways open before, during and after general anesthesia which requires ventilation by bag or mouth, or in the presence of some breathing disorders in nasal airways. The dilator in its several embodiments is an open framework of non-toxic, non-abrasive, compliant elongate members which is inserted into the nostril and is retained in place by gentle pressure between the nasal walls and the dilator. Prevention of deep nasal insertion is provided by a larger external end of the dilator which contacts the narrowing nasal passage toward the inner end thereof and also serves as a contact for insertion and removal.

Abstract: A nerve retractor and guide for laminectomy procedures has a cylindrical body with a single member extending from one end of the wall of the cylindrical body. The single member is formed to enter the intradiscal space to seat upon and maintain spacing of adjacent vertebral bodies during the procedures. The cylindrical body is positioned adjacent to and protects the cauda equina and the nerve roots that extend therefrom. The wall of the cylinder has a portion cut away on the side thereof opposite the extending single member so that the facet, lamina and pedicle bone areas are visibly accessible for removal as required by the procedures.