Abstract: A new and useful predictor for maraging stainless steel alloys is created, called the martensite finish temperature, M.sub.f (.degree. F.). This formula enables one to predict the temperature at which a steel is entirely converted to martensite, and is described as M.sub.f =1027--78% Ni--27% Ti--34% Mo. A desirable needle alloy for this amount is nickel at 10%, molybdenum at about 2.7%, and titanium at about 2%.

Abstract: Disclosed are sterile surgical needles formed of alloys of tungsten and a second metal selected from the group consisting of rhenium, rhodium and iridium. The needles exhibit a tensile yield strength in excess of 250,000 psi and a tensile modulus of elasticity in excess of 45.times.10.sup.6 psi, and have advantageously high ductility. The needles have a body portion, a distal point, and a proximal suture mounting portion. Preferably the needles comprise about 3 to about 84 6 weight percent of rhenium, rhodium and/or iridium. The needles exhibit improved yield point and elastic modulus in tension.

Abstract: A novel cardiac pacing lead. The pacing lead has a conductive wire comprising a single filament of a low modulus metal. A surgical needle is mounted to a distal end of the wire and an electrode needle is mounted to the proximal end of the wire. An integral anchor is formed in a distal, uninsulated section of the wire for anchoring the pacing lead in heart muscle. The wire has a "hand" similar to multifilament wires.

Abstract: A medical device for enclosing an internal body organ or tissue during surgery, especially endoscopic surgery. The device has a strand with loop and free end portions, the free end portion enclosed within a cannula. The loop has a cinch. The device has a surgical pouch with an opening or mouth. The pouch is mounted to the loop portion at the open end of the pouch. An optional frangible end of the cannula allows for pulling the free end portion proximally to reduce the diameter of the noose portion so as to close the open end of the surgical pouch. The surgical pouch has a shape memory effect metal insert so that the pouch automatically unfurls or unwinds in a patient's body cavity. The device may also have a shape memory effect metal loop which also automatically opens the mouth of the pouch in the patient's body.

Abstract: A suture needle holder is described with a ratcheting mechanism and a optimized set of jaws. These jaws have nitinol inserts for deformability around a suture needle. The shaft of the endoscopic suture needle holder is rotatable to allow placement of the jaws. Also, operation may take place along only one axis, by making the handles parallel to the shaft axis and the jaws which grip the suture needle.

Abstract: Surgical needles are fabricated from a shape memory alloy. The alloy has a low temperature state, in which the needle is formable into an elongated shape to pass through an elongated tube, and a high temperature state, in which the needle forms an arc. The needle is particularly adapted for use in endoscopic surgery. A needle that has a remembered curved shape is straightened and passed to a surgical site through a cannula. It is then returned to its curved shape by heating it at the surgical site. After use, it is withdrawn through the cannula.

Abstract: A needle alloy wherein the nickel content is between 6.3% and 9.5%, the chromium content is between 11.5% and 12.5% and the molydenum content is between 3% and 4%. In addition, tantalum and titanium should be present at a combined level of no more than 2.1%. Favorable results from this alloy cause needles to have a greater than 400,000 psi ultimate tensile strength.

Abstract: Metallic, hemostatic clips providing a reduced gap when closed about a tubular vessel.