Abstract: A surgical stent is provided for use in supporting the walls of a tubular organ during anastomosis. The stent includes a tubular body having a diameter adapted to be about equal to the diameter of the organ and having opposed axial ends a circumferential ridge intermediate the ends. The ridge has a diameter adapted to be greater than the diameter of the tubular organ so that when the tubular organ is supported on the body, the ends of the tubular organ may be joined together along the ridge, and are everted to facilitate suturing.

Abstract: A single-use tape applicator includes a pair of sidewalls spaced laterally from one another to define a tape storage enclosure, and two posts extending between the sidewalls and spaced from one another to define a generally oval-shaped run. A closed loop of backing material is supported by the posts and is movable relative to the posts along the run. The length of the loop is substantially equal to the length of the run. A piece of tape coated on one side with an adhesive material is supported and carried on the backing material. The enclosure defines an opening through which the tape is pulled from the backing material and dispensed.

Abstract: A skin closure system includes an elongated bandage provided with a fabric layer formed of relatively thick, pliable material and a support layer formed of relatively thin, stiff material. An intermediate adhesive layer is provided between the support layer and the fabric layer for securing them together, and an exposed adhesive layer is provided on the fabric layer opposite the support layer. An elongated strip of backing material is retained on the exposed adhesive layer of the bandage and is removable from the exposed adhesive layer to allow application of the bandage to the skin.

Abstract: A tampon which is expansible in the vagina, once inserted, for improved absorbence of menstrual fluid, particularly in post-partum women. The tampon includes an absorbent member and a core embedded within the absorbent member and constructed to expand the absorbent member so that it closely conforms to the shape of the vaginal wall. Initially, the absorbent member and core are compressed and snugly positioned within a tubular applicator which is used to guide the insertion of the tampon into the vagina. In the compressed position, the lateral extent of the leading end of the absorbent member, the end thereof to be positioned adjacent the cervix, is approximately the same as the lateral extent of the opposite end of the absorbent member. Once the tampon is discharged from the applicator, the core expands the absorbent member from the compressed position to a relaxed position where the end of the absorbent member nearest the cervix is wider than the end of the absorbent member facing the exterior of the vagina.