Abstract: A novel angulator device is provided for precise aiming, holding and percutaneous insertion of an object such as a needle into the tissues of a subject. The device is erectable, self-supporting, and collapsable at will. The preferred embodiments are composed of flexible materials which are presterilized, disposable, and directly attachable to the skin of the subject using adhesives. The angulator device provides security, accuracy, and convenience to surgeons, radiologists and other physicians performing a variety of operative procedures including tissue biopsy and aspiration of fluid collections.

Abstract: A unique adjustable biopsy localization device is provided which allows for insertion at a selected anatomic site, visualized radiologically, and which can be secured in an engaged position, disengaged into a moveable position and repositioned at will. The localization device comprises cannula and rod elements as a preassembled unit which can be sterilized, packaged and conveniently stored until required for use by the radiologist or surgeon.

Abstract: A blood clot filter is inwardly radially collapsible into a collapsed configuration for insertion into a vein, and upon insertion automatically radially expands into a predetermined functional form which is in contact with the inner wall of the vein. In the expanded configuration, the filter comprises a plurality of wires in the form of overlapping loops, with portions of the loops contacting the inner wall of the vein, providing a filter basket at the leading end of the filter; at the trailing end the wires have circumferentially spaced leg portions whose free ends contact the inner wall of the vein. The filter wires are composed of a material having a first, relatively pliable low-temperature condition and a second, relatively rigid high-temperature condition. A guide wire feeder device introduces the filter in its collapsed configuration into the blood vessel of a patient through a standard angiographic catheter.

Abstract: An improved circular sliderule for use in many applications wherein it is desired to provide a sliderule having superimposed disc elements which may be freely rotated without disturbing the previous setting of the adjacent discs. The novel improved calculator comprises providing a separating spacer element to be positioned between each disc of the calculator and with each spacer element having formed thereon means for retaining the rotation of the spacer element whenever superimposed discs are rotated. The retaining means may comprise a series of protruding arms, one extending outward from each of the separating spacer elements, joined at their outer ends and locked to the base plate of the calculator which is not rotatable. Alternately the retaining means may comprise the spacer element having formed on an internal hole at least one protuberance which is designed for mating engagement with an engaging means in the form of an elongated slot formed in the central hub which is locked to the baseplate.