Abstract: An apparatus for simultaneously applying to body tissue at least one surgical suture in conjunction with a plurality of surgical fasteners arranged end to end in rows. The apparatus preferably includes a knife for making an incision in the body tissue sealed in each side by at least one row of fasteners. The fasteners are two-part fasteners fabricated from bioabsorbable material. The incision is closed by pulling the ends of the suture(s).

Abstract: A temperature and respiration sensing probe which eliminates any problems associated with orientation in relation to either a hygenic cover or insertion into the patient's mouth. A means for sensing air movements caused by exhaled respiration is located and entirely housed inside the probe body and is caused to be in communication with the respiration by means of a large inlet aperture, which extends in a transverse direction through the entire probe body. One of the two inlet openings so formed is covered by the sheath. Exhaust ports are provided along the narrow edges of the rear of the probe body such that in using the probe, the operator's fingers will not occlude or obstruct the exhaust.