Abstract: A pneumatic stapler which contains a mechanism for manual or automatic retaining pin placement. The automatic retaining pin is connected to a set of linkage plates actuable by a series of inflation of bladders in order to create instrument closure on tissue compression and simultaneously create pin placement. An optional manual, curved retaining pin is used in place of the automatic pin system. Further, because this instrument has a ramped anvil mechanism, adjustable staple height is derived. Controlled closure of the mechanism is provided with a detent spring and constant force springs. Upon stapling, the staple encounters an anvil with reduced size, which is kept closed by a latched retaining pin system to allow for reduced width of the anvil so that the stapling head becomes more versatile. Finally, after firing the staples, the mechanism is capable of rapid depressurization and simultaneous instrument opening by a spring return mechanism.

Abstract: A disposable mandrel and bladder is shown in which the mandrel is injected molded or machine fabricated in some other way that allows it to be permanently incorporated within the driver bladder of a surgical stapling mechanism. Supply line tubing is an integral part of the mandrel and would thus be permanently bonded to the bladder sub-assembly. Such configuration prevents tube clogging, bladder folding over infusion lines, and produces reliable firing of the stapler while using pneumatic driving mechanism.

Abstract: A scrub sponge comprising, a packet having a rupturable wall and a closed chamber containing a liquid scrub agent, and a cover of foam material having a cavity to receive the packet and enclosing the packet. The sponge has a puncture member intermediate the cover and the packet and having a pair of generally aligned and spaced arms on opposed sides of the packet beneath the cover, and hinge means connecting the arms adjacent one end of the packet. The puncture member has at least one sharp projection on each of the arms directed toward the packet to pierce the wall when the arms are pressed toward each other to release the scrub agent into the cover, and an opening extending through the arms adjacent each of the projections.

Abstract: A device for patient therapy in the use of wet dressings comprising, a device for generating heated moist air, and a sheet of substantially air impervious material to cover the wet dressing. Spaced portions of the sheet are secured to the patient. The generating device is coupled to the inside of the sheet intermediate the sheet and the patient to permit passage of the heated moist air onto the wet dressing.

Abstract: A scrub sponge comprising, a packet having a rupturable wall and a closed chamber containing a liquid scrub agent, and a cover of foam material having a cavity to receive the packet and enclosing the packet. The sponge has a puncture member intermediate the cover and the packet and having a pair of generally aligned and spaced arms on opposed sides of the packet beneath the cover, and hinge means connecting the arms adjacent one end of the packet. The puncture member has at least one sharp projection on one of the arms directed toward the packet to pierce the wall when the arms are pressed toward each other to release the scrub agent into the cover, and an opening extending through the one arm adjacent the projection.

Abstract: A scrub sponge comprising, a packet having a rupturable wall and a closed chamber containing a liquid scrub agent. The sponge has a cover of foam material having a cavity to receive the packet and enclosing the packet. The sponge also has a puncture member intermediate the cover and the packet and having a pair of generally aligned and spaced arms on opposed sides of the packet beneath the cover, and hinge means connecting the arms adjacent one end of the packet. The puncture member has a sharp projection on each of the arms directed toward the packet to pierce the wall when the arms are pressed toward each other to release the scrub agent into the cover, with the projection on one of the arms being spaced slightly from the projection on the other arm. The puncture member has an opening extending through the arms adjacent each of the projections, and an alignment boss on each of the arms intermediate the projections and the hinge means.

Abstract: A scrub sponge comprising, a packet having a rupturable wall and a closed chamber containing a liquid scrub agent. The sponge has a cover of foam material having a cavity to receive the packet and enclosing the packet. The sponge also has a puncture member intermediate the cover and the packet and having a pair of generally aligned and spaced arms on opposed sides of the packet beneath the cover, and hinge means connecting the arms adjacent one end of the packet. The puncture member has a sharp projection on one of the arms directed toward the packet to pierce the wall when the arms are pressed toward each other to release the scrub agent into the cover. The puncture member has an opening extending through the one arm adjacent the projection. The other arm has a well defining a recess facing toward the packet, with the recess being aligned with the projection.

Abstract: A heater for wet dressings comprising, a case having a base with sidewalls defining a cavity, and an insert connected to the base and defining at least one recess in the cavity to receive the wet dressings. The heater has an electrical heating element in close proximity to the insert recess for heating the wet dressings, and the temperature of the heating element is controlled in the desired range of temperature of the wet dressings.