Abstract: A retractor which includes a body portion and a side arm portion extending transversely of the body portion. A first hook member is mounted on the body portion and a second hook member is mounted for movement on the body portion between a contracted position adjacent the first hook member and an extended position. The hook members have oppositely directed pivot point portions which engage opposed faces of adjacent vertebrae. The retractor pivots about the pivot point portions.

Abstract: An aneurysm clip that includes a pair of elongated blades which are urged into gripping relation with an aneurysm on a blood vessel. The blades have smooth edges for positioning adjacent to the blood vessel when the blades grip the aneurysm. Teeth on edges of the blades spaced from the smooth edges thereof engage and grip the aneurysm spaced from the blood vessel.

Abstract: The method of creating and enlarging an opening in the brain with minimal damage to nerve tissue. A catheter consisting of a stylette surrounded by an inflatable sac having a rounded tip is very gently inserted into the brain. When inserted a distance up to about 21/2 inches, the sac is inflated by gradually injecting fluid into the sac to gently expand it, thereby pushing aside nerve bundles with a minimum of damage to the nerve bundles. After a hole, usually oblong and having a maximum dimension of about 21/2 inches, is created, the catheter is withdrawn and retractors are employed to maintain the opening until surgery is performed within the brain.