Abstract: A curved surgical needle which may be helical or planar and in which the curvature may be constant or varied with the pointed end offset from the principal longitudinal axis.

Abstract: An improved surgical needle. The needle comprises a plurality of curves which provide for improved control while suturing.

Abstract: A cylindrical sleeve has a conically tapered end from which three spring members extend. Additionally, within the sleeve is a shaft that has a portion which extends from the tapered end. The extending portion includes an end of the shaft in the shape of a right truncated cone. The spring members, the extending portion and the tapered end are all inserted within a hollow cylindrical blade that has a cutting edge at its distal end. An edge of the proximal end of the blade is maintained in contact with the tapered end by adjusting the length of the extending portion to cause the extending portion to push the spring members against the interior surface of the blade.

Abstract: A circular array of twelve light sources transmit light to an eye. A spherical shape of the cornea of the eye is indicated when light reflected therefrom appears to be transmitted from twelve virtual light sources disposed along a circular path within the eye. Correspondingly, an aspherical shape of the cornea is indicated when the virtual sources appear to be disposed along an acircular path within the eye. The array may be disposed within a light reflecting groove which collects ambient light which is transmitted to the eye. A reflection of the collected light appears to be a ring of light which connects the virtual sources.