Abstract: The present invention concerns a device for temporarily closing a canal in a body, in particular for assisting the function of the heart by application of counter-pressure. The device is characterised in that it comprises a first inflatable structure (1) which, in the inflated state, defines a sleeve shaped to match the internal surface of the canal, providing a central conduit (4). The device further comprises a second inflatable structure which expands radially, preferably from the exterior to the interior, is held by the first structure (1) and shaped such that, in the inflated state, it permits substantially complete closure of the central conduit (4) formed after inflation of the first structure. The device finally comprises means allowing each of these first and second inflatable structures to be in fluid communication with a fluid delivery source.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a rapid-exchange dilatation catheter of the type comprising a flexible tubular body having a distal part, an intermediate part and a proximal part.According to the invention, the body comprises a core having a high modulus of elasticity, which core is permanently joined at one end to the proximal part and embedded at its other end in a wall defining an inner duct for a guide-wire to pass through.The invention finds a particular application in the treatment of stenoses of blood vessels.

Abstract: A system for obturating an orifice in a perforated organ or vessel such as a vessel having undergone an operation. In the system a deformable obturator element capable of being introduced in a deformed state inside a member through the orifice is used. In a position of use the obturator element has a substantially flat face that is applied in a tight manner on an inner face of the organ or vessel. The obturator element has a first portion of wire unwindable by pulling from its center. The system also uses an extractor element that consists of a second portion of wire extending from substantially the center of the obturator element. The extractor element is used to bring the flat face into contact with the inner face of the organ. After the orifice has been obturated the extractor element is used to remove the obturator element from the orifice.

Abstract: A ferroalloy for the treatment by inoculation of cast iron with spheroidal graphite comprises from 0.005 to 3% by weight of at least one metal of the rare earth group and from 0.05 to 3% by weight of at least one element taken from the group comprising bismuth, lead and antimony, the remainder being essentially the silicon and iron normally present in the ferroalloys used for inoculating the cast metals.This ferroalloy may be used for the treatment by inoculation of cast metals with spheroidal graphite having to be used rough cast.

Abstract: A horizontal electrolyzer comprises a mercury cathode, an anode located above the cathode and an inclined diaphragm separating the cathode from the anode, the cathode, diaphragm and anode being substantially parallel. The cathode consists of mercury flowing longitudinally in a plurality of channels which are vertically offset with respect to each other.