Abstract: A spiral cervical retraction apparatus is provided to straighten out the canal to the uterus during a medical procedure which allows for placement of instruments into the cavity of the uterus such as artificial insemination devices, curettes, biopsy instruments, and radiologic devices to instill dye. The apparatus includes a rigid tube for traction assisted insertion and removal of instruments by a screw-like action. A spiral wire is secured to the tip of the device for insertion into the cervix of a patient. Preferably, the apparatus has a substantially rigid handle tor twisting the spiral tip.

Abstract: A mechanical device for applying a constant pressure/force to the cricoid cartilage during endotracheal intubation or other medical airway operations/procedures. The device has a contact surface that is disposed directly against the neck, above the cricoid cartilage of the patient, and held in place by an adjustable strap that passes behind the patient's neck and is secured to the protruding or cantilevered ends of the device. The device and strap are used to create pressure/force only on the back and front of patient's neck. The contact surface is held in place and transfers the force to a compressible bladder contained in the device. The strap can be adjusted until proper cricoid pressure is achieved for the intubation and then held in place to maintain the pressure until the procedure is concluded. The safety valve prevents excessive force application.