Abstract: Apparatus and method for the percutaneous insertion of intra-aortic balloons into the human body wherein a sheath is provided which can be inserted into an artery through a puncture, and an intra-aortic balloon of a size sufficiently small and having sufficient flexibility is used which can be moved through the sheath into the artery. The apparatus and method includes, puncturing the skin into the artery until a needle means having a bore, introducing a guide wire into the artery through the needle means, advancing a dilator-sheath set over the wire to enlarge the puncture and to place an end of the sheath within the artery, withdrawing the dilator and guide wire and then inserting the balloon through the sheath.

Abstract: An apparatus and a process for encapsulating additives in resealed erythrocytes from the blood of certain mammals. The invention provides a means of preparing material in substantial quantities, to be employed as vaccine which, when reinjected into these mammals, provides a systemic protection against blood-sucking insects or other parasites.

Abstract: In a flexible tube for an endoscope including a metallic braided texture and a sheath tube covering the braided texture, both of which form a bendable portion and/or a flexible portion of an endoscope through which bundles of optical fibres, a flexure controlling wire or the like are passed, the internal peripheral surface of the sheath tube which covers the metallic braided texture is formed with grooves which retain an antifriction agent therein.

Abstract: Apparatus is provided to facilitate viewing of one's facial image under controlled illumination patterns for purpose of either psychotherapy or merchandise selection.

Abstract: A multi therapeutic device for use in dynamic therapy comprises a reversible motor having an output shaft capable of being changed in two opposite revolving directions thereof; first and second one-way clutch means operable to the opposite revolving directions respectively so as to be alternatively connected with the output shaft; first and second eccentric rotor means driven by the motor power given via their one-way clutch means respectively; means for vibration driven by the first eccentric rotor means; means for taking out an orbital motion from the motion of the second eccentric rotor means; means for vertical dynamic motion including one or more reciprocating members with one or more dynamic therapy members; and means for changing the orbital motion to a suitable motion for use of and transmitting the motion to the vertical dynamic motion means.

Abstract: An abduction pillow is illustrated wherein a wedge shaped body is constructed of synthetic foam material for positioning the legs of a patient in cushioned but fixed divergent position in which various parts of the abduction pillow are made to be disposable and wherein the wedge shaped body may be truncated to provide a space adjacent the patient's pelvic area which facilitates the placement and removal of catheter and drainage tubing and other related items which need be inserted in the body of the patient during and after surgery.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for forming costal prostheses, composed of elements of four types: (a) thin, narrow, straight elements, (b) bent elements having an angle of 15.degree. to 45.degree. comprising a pair of crimping jaws, (c) individual clips constituted by a pair of clamps opposite a pair of crimping jaws, (d) straight connecting members constituted by a pair of crimping jaws. The combination of these elements enables any necessary thoracic prosthesis to be composed.

Abstract: An emergency means to stabilize an impaled object unintentionally entering the human body with portions of the projectile extending outside of the body so as to prevent further damage internally in the body. Also, such means may be used to wrap around the body of a person having fractured ribs.

Abstract: The humidity exchanger for a breathing apparatus and a conduit for the passage of inspiration and expiration air comprises a housing having an opening at each end and with a bundle of fiber tubules extending longitudinally through the housing and embedded at respective ends in packing so as to define a space within the housing around the tubes. Inspiration air is directed upwardly through the tubes past a non-return valve and out through a fitting which also forms a passage for the expiration air. The fitting also extends in communication with an inlet for the tube chamber, the space in the housing around the tubes and between the packing. An outlet is also provided for the chamber around the tubes which extends out to atmosphere.

Abstract: A drain device for the continuous removal of condensate from an operational patient breathing circuit comprises a body having a first opening adapted for connection to a patient breathing apparatus. A second opening in the body is adapted for connection to a patient breathing device. There is a passageway in the body which provides fluid communication between these openings, with a third opening through the body communicating with the passageway. A liquid-pervious, gas-impervious material covers the third opening so that condensate can continuously drain through the third opening while the breathing circuit is in operation.

Abstract: A nose filter for filtering air breathed through the nostrils is provided. The nose filter includes a first nostril unit and a second nostril unit which anatomically engage the nostrils of the user such that one unit extends into each of the user's nostrils. Each nostril unit includes a holder which carries a filter member through which air is inhaled. The filter member is held in position by a filter plug member fabricated from a resilient material which extends into the nostril passageway and anatomically engages the septum and nostril wall. The nostril units are secured together at a spaced location by a securing device which biases each of the units against opposite walls of the nose septum such that the nose filter position is fixed.

Abstract: The improved esophageal-endotracheal airway comprises an elongated flexible assembly having a shorter outer tube and a longer inner tube. The assembly is adapted to be inserted into the trachea or the esophagus. An expandable member is carried on the outer wall and near the distal end of each tube. The outer wall of the inner tube and the inner wall of the outer tube form an annular channel therebetween.

Abstract: A medical device for insertion into a body passage, such as endotracheal tube, including a system for the delivery of a topically active agent, such as an anesthetic or antibiotic. In a preferred embodiment, a conventional cuffed endotracheal tube is provided with an annular chamber circumferentially extending around the insertion tube in association with the wall thereof between the cuff and the rearward or external end of the insertion tube. Spaced openings are provided in the outer walls of the annular chamber. A lumen for the introduction of the topical agent is provided in association with the insertion wall tube having a forward end in fluid communication with the interior of the annular chamber and a rearward end externally opening and located proximate to the rearward end of the insertion tube. The openings in the wall of the annular chamber may include atomizing means for delivering the topical agent as a spray. A method for using the device is also disclosed.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for short term and long term intravenous therapy including hyperalimentation are disclosed. The proximal end of a flexible catheter having a one way valve adjacent its proximal end is inserted through the skin of a patient and into a vein having a suitably large flow of blood therethrough. The distal end of the catheter has a threaded male coupler for connecting it to a flow reducing adaptor and then to a source of intravenous solution. The solution flows by gravity through the catheter and into the vein. A passer which can be connected to the male coupler is provided for subcutaneously threading the catheter during long term catheter placement.

Abstract: Disclosed is a shield assembly for a catheter particularly useful for the protection of flow directed catheters used in the measurement of central venous pressure and pulmonary wedge pressure. The shield assembly includes front and rear hubs sized to permit movement of the catheter therethrough and a feed tube for interconnecting the front and rear hubs. A flexible sheath interconnects the two hubs. The sheath is substantially longer than the feed tube and is collapsible to permit interconnection of the hubs by the feed tube and is extendible to shield a substantial length of catheter.

Abstract: A pneumatically operable injection device has a first pressure cylinder with a piston which is adapted to be rigidly but detachably connected to a piston of an injection syringe, and a second pressure cylinder with a piston having an extension adapted to co-operate with a three-way cock in such a manner as to cause the three-way cock to be operated by movement of its piston. Flow connections are provided between the outlet of the injection syringe and the three-way cock, between the three-way cock and a connecting piece, and between the three-way cock and an inlet of a reservoir for the substance to be injected. The device is adapted to effect either a connection between the outlet of the injection syringe and the connecting piece or between the syringe outlet and the reservoir. Compressed-air lines are provided for the purpose of pneumatically operating the pistons in the two pressure cylinders.

Abstract: An osmotic device is disclosed comprising a semipermeable wall surrounding a compartment housing an agent that is insoluble to very soluble in aqueous and biological fluids, and a layer of a fluid swellable, hydrogel. A passageway in the wall connects the agent with the exterior of the device.

Abstract: A plastic composition which may be molded into a connector which is capable of simultaneously sealing to both polyvinyl chloride plastics and polyolefin plastics. The plastic composition comprises from 50 to 75 percent by weight of an essentially polyolefin material which is sealingly compatible with the polyolefin plastic to which the composition is intended to be sealed, and from 25 to 50 percent by weight of a flexible block copolymer of covalently bonded polybutylene terephthalate units and poly(1,4-butylene) oxide units.

Abstract: The invention relates to a collecting bag for artificial intestinal outlets. It ensures an optimum stoma provision and has an adhesive surface integrated into the collecting bag surface. Thus, a high adhesive strength is obtained when the collecting bag is in use and as a result absolute security is given to the wearer or carrier of the bag, even when vigorous movements are performed.

Abstract: A catamenial device such as a tampon, a sanitary napkin or the like, is disclosed which includes an absorbent layer having at least one pocket containing a uniform admixture of discrete superabsorbent particles and discrete introfying particles.

Abstract: A low-density disposable diaper is provided with an absorbent pad comprised of an airlaid mat of relatively stiff, high yield wood pulp fibers having relatively little cohesive strength in airlaid form or a similar low-strength absorbent material preferably encapsulated by an envelope of wet strength tissue paper. The absorbent pad is preferably enclosed between a liquid-retaining backsheet and a liquid-pervious topsheet secured in superposed relation to the liquid-retaining backsheet. A wet strength tissue ply having a maximum stretch characteristic of about thirty percent, as measured at the point of rupture, is preferably located in a plane approximately midway between the outermost tissue plies which encapsulate the low strength absorbent media.

Abstract: A disposable diaper is disclosed having a textured topsheet of thermoplastic material. The topsheet is manufactured from a thermoplastic sheet surface of which is imparted with a multiplicity of nubbles. The nubbles do not substantially alter the macroscopic profile of the film, but do impart a more clothlike tactile impression and reduced gloss to the film.

Abstract: A moisture indicator employs an enzymatic reaction, a substrate and a chromogen for use in disposable diapers, sanitary napkins, surgical dressings, absorbent pads, garments, and like articles, or for use in any instance where moisture is to be detected. The moisture indicator, which is mounted, applied to, or built into the garment, diaper, pad or other article, is comprised of a chromogenic material, enzymes, such as those commonly used to test for carbohydrates in urine or other fluids, and a substrate material which will react with the selected enzyme or enzymes in the presence of moisture. The enzyme system or systems and the indicator agent or agents can be applied together to filter paper, wood strips, plastic fibrous materials, non-woven fabrics, or any absorbent materials for the purpose of subsequently verifying visually the presence of moisture.

Abstract: An incontinent pad is disclosed that is of paddle-like shape and includes a main body section terminating in a front section having a curved outer periphery foldably attached thereto and a pair of overhanging members secured to opposite sides of the main body section. The pad includes a plurality of layers of moisture absorbing material. In use, the outer sections are folded relative to the wearer to fit against the inward portions of the upper thighs of the wearer of the pad. A backing sheet of moisture repelling material is provided to overlie the absorbent layers.

Abstract: A cryoenucleating device is provided for freezing a melanoma tumor in an eyeball and for removing the eyeball. The device comprises a spoon, the bowl of which is formed of thermally insulating material to conform with the contours of an average eyeball. A refrigerating loop is provided, supported in the concavity of the spoon bowl to freeze the tumor while the thickness of the bowl insulates adjacent tissue from freezing.

Abstract: A therapeutic medical procedure utilizing a miniature balloon catheter of the type including a resilient cannula adapted for attachment to a source of fluid in having a small outer diameter for insertion into small vessels containing fluid and an inflatable balloon having a mouth at the proximal end thereof. The balloon is attachably mounted on the end of the cannula in fluid communication therewith and the balloon is designed to seal when the cannula is attached therefrom. The medical technique includes inserting the balloon catheter into a small vessel and permitting the catheter to advance to a desired location in the vessel. The balloon catheter is attached to a source of fluid having an osmolarity substantially the same as the fluid in the vessel and the balloon is inflated to the volume limits of the balloon with fluid from the fluid source through the cannula until the balloon is fixed in position in the vessel. The cannula is then detached from the balloon and removed from the vessel.

Abstract: A catheter assembly is disclosed in which there is provided a transparent collapsible sleeve connected and sealed at one end to a hollow tube provided with a socket for the reception of a catheter introducer, the collapsible sleeve terminating at its other end in an O-ring sealingly and slidably engaged with a substantially rigid hollow tube through which a catheter slides, the tube serving to guide the catheter through the sleeve and into the introducer. After the catheter has been positioned in a patient the rigid tube may be removed from the collapsible sleeve, the O-ring then automatically moving into sealing engagement with the exterior of the catheter.

Abstract: Disclosed is an improved balloon catheter having a three-layer balloon tube fixed to and enclosing an apertured end of an elongated flexible fine tube. The three-layer composite balloon tube is composed of inner and outer rubber tubes and an intervenient cloth bag, which is effective to hold the shape and size of the expanding balloon appropriately for the purpose and to raise and keep the inner-pressure of the expanding balloon at an elevated value without any fear for rupturing a hollow organ of a human body. A pair of rubber bands are dispersed about portions of the balloon to initially restrict expansion of said portions at a stenosis of the hollow organ.

Abstract: A flexible carrier sheet has an adhesive releasing outer surface and a heat-sealable inner surface, and one or more retaining pads are die-cut from a sheet or strip of breathable foam material attached to the outer surface by pressure-sensitive adhesive. Each retaining pad covers a hole cut within the carrier sheet and supports an electrical contact assembly which projects through the hole to confine an electrical conducting gel. A flexible bottom cover sheet has an air-impervious outer surface and a heat-sealable inner surface, and the edge or border portions of the carrier sheet and bottom cover sheet are heat-sealed together to form an air-tight chamber for the gel. The carrier sheet and bottom cover sheet may also be heat-sealed together in an area extending between adjacent electrodes, and the heat-sealed area may be provided with a line of weakening to provide for convenient separation of single electrode assemblies.

Abstract: Endoscopic method and apparatus are provided for the simultaneous visual and ultrasonic imaging of internal body parts through use of a probe insertable into a body cavity. The probe includes a rectilinear transducer array acoustically coupled to the body through a cylindrical focusing lens having an outer face which conforms to the probe contour. The transducer array is included in a pulsed ultrasonic imaging system of the B-scan type. A tube, which includes a flexible portion adjacent the probe, connects the probe to a control housing containing manually operated control mechanism for bending the flexible tube portion. A control handle extends from the side of the housing for control of bending by the operator. The pulsed ultrasonic imaging system includes pulse generator and pulse receiver means connected to individual elements of the transducer array by coaxial cables extending through the tube.

Abstract: In order to perform a non-invasive measurement of the blood flow rate in the smallest vessels, i.e. the capillaries, of a blood vessel bed, and to detect the presence of erythrocyte aggregations therein, acoustic pulses containing oscillations at a frequency above 20 MHz are directed through the skin of a subject from a crystal transducer and the resulting echo pulses are processed to produce information based on the Doppler frequency signals relating to blood flow in a predetermined direction and occurring within a time window corresponding to the distance from the crystal of the blood vessels to be examined. Interspersed between the above-mentioned pulses, spike pulses having a duration of the order of 20 ns are similarly transmitted, and echoes thereof are detected for the purpose of detecting the presence of erythrocyte aggregations.

Abstract: A volume-type incentive spirometer for respiration therapy is disclosed. The spirometer includes a central tubular support on which is mounted a collapsible bellows-like chamber. Fluid communication is provided between the support and the interior of the chamber and, further, between the support and a patient. The collapsible chamber includes a top plate by which the chamber is mounted on the support, a bottom plate for biasing the collapsible chamber to an open position, and an intervening flexible, readily collapsible side wall joining the top and bottom plates. The collapsible chamber or the collapsible chamber and support member may be disposable. The spirometer provides respiratory exercise so that alveolar inflation is assured.

Abstract: A device for measuring a predetermined respiratory volume comprises an elongate, air-tight flexible bag of the predetermined volume, the bag being closed at one end and open at the other; and an elongate substantially rigid tubular member extending into the bag through its open end and occupying a major portion of the length of the bag, the bag being secured at its open end to the tubular member for forming an air-tight seal between the bag and the tubular member, the portion of the tubular member extending into the bag having a plurality of distributed apertures along its length and the portion of the tubular member outside the bag having at least one opening defining a mouthpiece.

Abstract: An apparatus for detecting temperature variations over selected regions of living tissue is in the form of a low pressure supported pillow structure including a first wall portion of temperature responsive material and a second wall portion of transparent material to permit viewing of the temperature responsive material. The wall portions comprise a fluid chamber including an inflation valve to permit inflating the pillow structure when gaseous fluids are used.The method of using the pillow structure comprises pressing the temperature responsive film into conformity with the tissue, or portion of other object to be scanned, and viewing the temperature response through the clear wall portion.The flexible film is preferably also elastic and carries liquid crystals on its inner surface to give it a temperature responsive characteristic.

Abstract: A first elastic film containing cholesteric liquid crystals and a second elastic protective film having different elasticities are attached to each other solely along the periphery of the two sheets. Differential air pressure applied across the dual film structure causes it to stretch and conform to the body tissues whose temperature variations are being studied. The liquid crystal containing film and the protective film stretch and adjust independently of one another, in response to differential pressure, to squeeze out any air in the space between the two sheets and to avoid puckering or other distortions. The protective film is in contact with the tissue being investigated and provides a barrier to protect the liquid crystals from contamination yet conveys the underlying temperature accurately to the liquid crystals.

Abstract: The apparatus disclosed is for the self-collection of cervical cell specimens for subsequent examination and testing by a medical laboratory, and the apparatus disclosed comprises an elongated tubular finger member formed of a thin elastically resilient material closed at one end and adapted to fit over and resiliently grip the user's finger. Adjacent its closed end the finger member carries a raised resiliently flexible wiping blade. A thin tubular sleeve member, shorter than the finger member and flared at one end, is adapted to accommodate the wiping blade of the finger member, so that the finger member with the sleeve member surrounding the wiping blade thereof may be inserted into the vagina and the wiping blade may then be extended to wipe and thus collect cells from the cervical os. The wiping blade of the finger member then may again be retracted into the sleeve member and the two removed together.

Abstract: An arterial blood sampling syringe consisting of a barrel and a plunger assembly in which the plunger is hollow and provided at its distal end with two annular rings which cooperate with the hollow plunger and each other to maintain a sealing ring and gas-pervious but liquid impervious membrane in position at the end of the plunger. The plunger position in the barrel may be preset to receive any desired blood sample volume. Further blood flow is halted when the barrel of the syringe fills to the volume desired.

Abstract: A blood extraction device includes a hollow, cylindrical receptacle which is open at one end with a double-ended hollow needle at its other end, into which an evacuated blood sample tube is inserted. The blood sample tube is closed by means of a screw-attachment cap, whereby the cap retains a sealing membrane against the blood sample tube in order to close it tightly. A device for evacuation of blood sample tubes is provided. A second needle may be provided at the closed end of the receptacle, via which needle the inserted blood sample tube may be connected with a suction line, which is formed, in one embodiment, by a compressible elastic balloon and a valve.

Abstract: A termination for a carbon fiber implantable lead. A terminal assembly includes a hollow terminal member having lateral ports through which carbon fiber bundles pass. Exposed tips of the carbon fiber bundles are folded back and held against the exterior surface of the terminal member by a housing member. The housing member frictionally engages the exposed fiber tips. A stylet entry guide member is frictionally engaged with the interior of the end of the terminal member. One end of the guide member is coupled to a stylet tube which passes through the terminal member and the lead. This configuration provides a good electrical coupling between the terminal member and the carbon fiber bundles, as well as provides an axial passage through which a stylet may be inserted.

Abstract: A smoking device holder includes a device receiver secured to a smoking mouthpiece with a hand-operated valve located within the smoking device receiver for the purpose of controlling smoking by adjusting, reducing, or eliminating the smoke consumed by the smoker.

Abstract: Described is a process for preparing several substituted or unsubstituted cycloalkyl acyl alkanoates defined according to the generic structure: ##STR1## wherein R.sub.1 and R.sub.2 taken together complete a cycloalkyl moiety or methyl, dimethyl or trimethyl substituted cycloalkyl moiety containing five or six carbon atoms in the ring and wherein R.sub.3 is C.sub.1 -C.sub.3 lower alkyl and R.sub.4 is methyl or hydrogen by reacting a compound having the generic structure: ##STR2## in an aqueous silver-ion containing solution having a weakly acidic pH at elevated temperatures.

Abstract: The invention disclosed is an apparatus for increasing the filling capacity of cured tobacco by evaporatively freeze-drying water expanded tobacco and effecting heating of the tobacco by infrared radiation. The treated tobacco has increased filling capacity without suffering disadvantageous results.

Abstract: A composition for lightening hair comprising an alkaline bleaching system and an effective amount of a finely divided solid polyolefin polymer is disclosed.

Abstract: An ignition device for a gas-powered catalytic curling iron. A manually rotatable member with its axis of rotation substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of a tubular body making up the hair winding portion of the curling iron is provided in combination with a friction wheel having its axis of rotation substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the tubular body. An indexing means is disposed parallel or coextensive with the longitudinal axis of the tubular body for indexing the friction wheel in response to rotary motion of the rotatable member.

Abstract: A hairdressing implement, especially a hair curler which can be electrically heated, comprises a handle from which a curling mandrel extends, this mandrel being provided with a plurality of combs each having a pivotal bar parallel to the mandrel axis and disposed in angularly equispaced relationship therearound so that a free space is provided to accommodate a heater. A sleeve through which the tines of the combs pass, is rotatable relative to the mandrel body to swing the tines beneath the surface of the sleeve to release the hair. Fingers adjacent the opening of the sleeve serve to cam the tines outwardly upon rotation in the opposite sense.

Abstract: A permanent wave accessory including a base implement for pre-sectioning of hair, the base implement being conformable to the scalp contour and positionable in a spaced apart relation from the scalp; roller means for receiving hair as pre-sectioned by the base implement, such roller means being axially deformable in accordance with the scalp contour as assumed by the base implement; and means for mounting the roller means side-by-side along the base implement and which may cooperatively interact with the roller means for maintaining the roller means at a given position of rotation as interconnected therewith.

Abstract: A dental floss dispenser in a credit card format permitting the dispenser to be conveniently carried in a wallet. The dispenser comprises a base panel having a peripheral ridge to define a shallow well within which is nested a supply of dental floss in flattened coil form. The leading end of the coil passes out of the well through an aperture and is caught by a lug adjacent an edge notch cut in the base panel. Anchored in the well is a blade whose cutting edge is exposed by the notch, whereby when floss is pulled out of the well to provide a usable length, the trailing end thereof may be cut by the blade. The dispenser is completed by a face panel bonded to the ridge to encapsulate the floss supply, the face panel having a corresponding notch.

Abstract: A can cleaning machine having a lower conveyor belt and an extended coacting upper hold down belt is provided with a blow off unit at each successive stage of the cleaning operation. By extending the hold down belt and providing multiple blow off stations, the corrosive effects of the washing compositions are minimized and the hold down belt life is lengthened; and the washing compositions are maintained in their proper respective zones. This also prevents contamination of the rinse zones by carry over of the washing chemicals from the wash zones.

Abstract: A fluid control valve is equipped with a plurality of sleeves nested one within the other to form a cage for pressure reduction between the inlet and outlet ports of the valve housing. Each sleeve is provided with blind bores, through-bores and interconnecting grooves which cooperate to repeatedly divide the flow into more and more partial flows which keep colliding with one another. Volume control is achieved by a slidable piston cooperating with the cage.

Abstract: A pair of hard material plaques for a hot and cold water mixer valve, comprising a fixed and a movable plaques, each having two windows for passage of hot and cold water respectively, wherein the inner and outer edges of the windows are defined by circular arcs, and the edges of the windows, which cooperate with one another in the closure position, are of equal radius and are concentric in the closure position of the plaques. Due to this provision the control of admitted water quantity, by diametrical displacement of the movable plaque, and the control of mixing ratio, by rotational displacement of the movable plaque, do not interfere with one another. Preferably the remaining edges of the windows are circular arcs too, and the radial width of all windows, measured along a specific diameter, is also equal.