Abstract: A surgical retractor includes a generally annular bladder which is fluidly expandable so as to apply an outwardly-directed radial force against soft tissues. The inner and outer annular bladder walls are formed of a flexible resilient material with elastic properties to permit a variable amount of expansion in predetermined directions. A tube extending from the bladder connects the bladder to a three-way valve which is used to selectively inflate, by means of an attached pump, or to exhaust the bladder. A plurality of baffles within the bladder provide the retractor with a generally cylindrical shape. A woven fabric matrix is mounted to the inner annular wall to control expansion thereof. Pockets formed in the woven material permits the introduction of puncture- and incision-resistant shields to prevent accidental puncture of the bladder.

Abstract: A syringe needle safety cover includes a pair of jaw members pivotally mounted on diametric sides of an adapter which is designed for placement between a conventional syringe barrell and its needle to move between a closed position, wherein the jaws are longitudinally abutting, and an open position. A groove in each jaw cooperates to form a tubular aperture between the jaws into which the needle is encased. The jaws are provided with locking clips which lock the jaws togetehr around the needle. A fluid-tight safety cover is provided by the insertion of a plit-gasket-type seal, one portion of the gasket being attached to each jaw. The gasket material is compressible, such that it will sound a portion of the needle and seal fluids into the tubular aperture. A mechanical actuator may be provided, which includes a pair of lever arms which are connected at one end of each jaw and at the other end to an actuator bar.

Abstract: A syringe needle safety cover includes a pair of jaw members pivotally mounted on diametric sides of a syringe barrel to move between a closed positon, wherein the jaws are longitudinally abutting, and an open position. A groove in each jaw cooperates to form a tubular aperture between the jaws into which the needle is encased. The jaws are provided with locking clips which lock the jaws together around the needle. A fluid-tight safety cover is provided by the insertion of a split gasket-type seal, one portion of the gasket being attached to each jaw. The gasket material is compressible, such that it will surround a portion of the needle and seal fluids into the tubular aperture. A mechanical actuator may be provided, which includes a pair of lever arms which are connected at one end to each jaw and at the other end to an actuator bar. The actuator bar is thumb-actuated, and moves along the syringe barrel, causing the jaws to open or close, depending upon the direction of movement of the actuator bar.

Abstract: A syringe needle safety cover includes a pair of jaw members pivotally mounted in diametric sides of a syringe barrel to move between a closed position, wherein the jaws are longitudinally abutting, and an open position. A groove in each jaw cooperates to form a tubular aperture between the jaws into which the needle is encased. In one embodiment, the jaws are attached to a barrel of a syringe. In a second embodiment, the jaws are attached to an adapter which fits between a conventional syringe and a conventional needle. In a third embodiment, the jaws are attached to the base of a needle, and may be connected to any conventional syringe. The jaws are provided with locking clips which lock the jaws together around the needle. Another embodiment of the invention provides a fluid-tight safety cover by the insertion of a split gasket-type seal, one portion of the gasket being attached to each jaw.