Abstract: A collection chamber for fluids and a vacuum control device for drainage of the thorax is described. The collection chamber is provided with ports for the attachment of tubing extending from the chest cavity and for connection to a vacuum pump. Instead of using a water level control vacuum regulator this collection chamber uses a system of calibrated holes in the chamber. The vacuum is controlled by calibrating the size of the holes and selectively opening the holes in the chamber to control the force of the vacuum.

Abstract: A collection chamber for fluids and a wide diameter pathway for the removal of air due to leaks from the lung after operation or injury to the contents of the thorax is described. The collection chamber is provided with ports for the attachment of tubing extending from the chest cavity and for connection to a vacuum pump. A water level control vacuum regulator is integral with the chamber which allows a parallel pathway for the removal of large volumes of air from the pleural space without the necessity of a high vacuum. A one-way valve is provided which is open during the drainage mode but which closes during the respiratory inhilation mode to prevent the back flow of air or fluid into the pleural space. In the event of vacuum pump failure, a pressure relief valve is provided to relieve excess positive pressure within the collection chamber.

Abstract: A collection chamber for fluids and a wide diameter pathway for the removal of air due to leaks from the lung after operation or injury to the contents of the thorax is described. The collection chamber is provided with ports for the attachment of tubing extending from the chest cavity and for connection to a vacuum pump. A water level control vacuum regulator is integral with the chamber which allows a parallel pathway for the removal of large volumes of air from the pleural space without the necessity of a high vacuum. A one-way valve is provided which is open during the drainage mode but which closes during the respiratory inhalation mode to prevent the back flow of air or fluid into the pleural space. In the event of vacuum pump failure, a pressure relief valve is provided to relieve excess positive pressure within the collection chamber.

Abstract: A method for cultivating myocytes in suspension using water soluble chitosan is taught. The method results in the three-dimensional growth of the cultured myocytes as well as the inhibition of certain undesired cells.

Abstract: The method of achieving hemostasis, inhibiting fibroplasia, and promoting tissue regeneration is described wherein a chitosan solution, or water-soluble chitosan in various solid forms is placed in contact with the tissue wound. The chitosan forms a coagulum which prevents bleeding and negates the formation of a blood clot thereby preventing the formation of fibrin strands. The prevention of the formation of fibrin strands prevents the proliferation of fibroblasts and the synthesis of collagen thereby allowing the promotion of normal tissue regeneration. The process described hereinabove results in wound healing with minimal scar formation. The use of chitosan in grafts is contemplated as well as the use of polyglucosamine in wound healing.

Abstract: A method of occluding blood vessels therapeutically is described wherein chitosan is injected directly into the vessel. The chitosan employed in this invention is partially to fully de-acetylated chitin. The chitin is dissolved in solution with distilled water and acetic acid and has a pH of approximately 4.

Abstract: The method of achieving hemostasis in wounds, vascular grafts, vascular patches, cardiac valves and the like is described. Hemostasis is achieved in open wounds by topically administering chitosan, in liquid or powder form, to the wound. Hemostasis is achieved in vascular grafts, vascular patches, cardiac valves and areas to be sutured by either topically administering chitosan to the grafts, patches, valves and sutures or incorporating chitosan in the material of the grafts, patches, valves and sutures.