Abstract: A vessel sealer has a stepped jaw that allows the jaw to have an overall shape and a width that provides desired strength, shape, and functionality while permitting a smaller raised portion to apply the sealing pressure. The smaller area applying the sealing pressure allows an actuating mechanism to apply a clinically desired sealing pressure without exceeding the force or torque limitations of the actuating mechanism and can limit thermal spread during a sealing procedure.

Abstract: An electrocardiograph electrode assembly is disclosed which includes a stretchable elastic strip having apertures in which electrodes are detachably mounted. The electrodes may be six in number and have a proportional spacing with respect to each other corresponding to the average proportional spacing of desired positions on the chest for electrocardiograph monitoring. A holder or retainer is provided for releasably engaging ends of the elastic strip to position and maintain the electrodes in contact with the chest of the patient. The holder may include a system of belts buckled to the strip and threaded through a base member positioned beneath the chest of the patient. Alternatively, weights may be attached to the ends of the strip to maintain the electrodes in contact with the patient's chest without placing a holder or retainer behind the patient.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for accurately and rapidly securing electrodes for electrocardiographic monitoring at correct anatomic precordial portions on patients having chests of significantly differing sizes and configurations. A piece of stretchable non-conductive material having apertures for the usual V.sub.1 - V.sub.6 positions is provided with removable electrodes and a device for retaining the material in a stretched position across the chest of a patient, the electrodes also being apertured to permit the introduction of an electrolyte.