Abstract: The invention relates to an external fixator which has a retaining member (1) and connecting elements (2) which can be connected without screws to a bone or bone parts (5), in particular to both halves of an opened sternum, and provide possibilities for increasing or reducing the compressive stress between the two bone parts or sternum halves.

Abstract: A surgical assist device used to constrict blood perfusion during surgeries is provided. The device utilizes one or more compression members to apply a controlled pressure to an open artery to stop blood perfusion at the surgical site. The compression members can be deployed and retracted manually, automatically, or remotely. The applied pressure can also be remotely monitored and controlled. The device can be used in conjunction with existing suction based coronary stabilization devices or used as a stand-along unit. The device can be used to apply controlled pressure to the arteries to constrict blood perfusion with significantly less invasion into the surgical area.

Abstract: The artificial vessel has a membrane of at least semi-permeable bio-inert synthetic material with a monolayer of endothelial cells on the internal surface and a layer of smooth elastic fiber-generating muscle cells on the outer surface. The membrane may be made pore-less or may be made with a network of opened micropores filled with an aqueous gel to provide a smooth internal surface on which the endothelial cells may be coated.

Abstract: The arterial vessel is made of a microporous membrane having pores which are filled with a permeable gel or which are closed over by a thin porous layer. A monolayer of endothelial cells is provided on the internal surface for exposure to the blood flow and smooth muscle cells are layered on the outer surface for increasing the viability of the live cells on the membrane and to impart elasticity. A support structure formed of a braided construction of monofilaments of inert material can be provided to limit dilation of the vessel.