Abstract: A device is disclosed comprising a stretchable cylindrical net-like structure and at least one guide ring for partial placement over a fetus. The cylindrical net-like structure is formed such that as force is applied along its longitudinal axis, the length of the cylindrical structure is increased while the diameter of such cylindrical structure is decreased. The guide ring is expandable for passage therethrough of the fetal head and has an at rest diameter between that of the fetal neck and the fetal head.

Abstract: A bipolar microsurgical instrument enabling a surgeon user thereof to effect successive operative steps incident to microsurgical procedures while retaining the surgeon's position at a microscopic viewing port defining a field of vision wherein the instrument is being used to effect the procedures. The instrument comprises an elongated body the distal ends of which comprise first and second oppositely extending surgical tools which define alternate poles of the instrument. The first and second microsurgical tools are functionally distinct from one another, but are functionally related as to be sequentially utilizable by the surgeon in the microsurgical procedure in which the instrument is being employed.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for drilling an orifice in a human cranium at an angle of substantially 90.degree. to a plane defined by a tangent to the surface of the cranium at the orifice. The apparatus comprises a first tubular guide for directing a drill at the proper angle, the first guide being supported upon the cranium by a plurality of leg members. The invention further comprises a hand-operated twist drill device, configured for insertion into the tubular guide. A second guide, of reduced diameter relative to the first tubular guide is insertable into the first guide upon completion of the burr hole to facilitate entry of a catheter into the ventricular portion of the patient's brain. The method of the invention comprises positioning the first drill guide upon the patient's cranium, inserting the twist drill therein so as to prepare a burr hole extending at an angle of substantially 90.degree.

Abstract: A catheter for placement into the ventricular system of the brain of a subject comprising a flexible elongated body having a wall thickness sufficient to contain and transport fluid therein and having a forward end and tip for insertion into the ventricular system of the brain of a subject; and a plurality of spaced apertures located in the forward end of the body spaced from the tip, each of the apertures extending through the wall thickness at an angle such that a portion of the wall thickness is visible when viewing the aperture perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the body, thereby to minimize abrasion of brain tissue upon insertion of the catheter and to prevent choroid plexus and ependymal tissue from growing into the catheter apertures, thereby providing improved flow of fluid into or from said ventricular system. Also, methods of using and apparatus for making such catheters are disclosed herein.