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Abstract

A method and apparatus for imparting a reproducible curve formation to a wire stylet. The stylet former comprises a substantially cylindrical forming body having a conically tapered end. A semi-rigid forming arm is coupled to an axle extending axially outward from the tapered end of the forming body. The tapered end has a plurality of circumferential grooves of different radii disposed therein, for receiving a stylet to be formed. The forming arm is depressed over a stylet engaged in one of the forming grooves, compressing the stylet against a portion of the circumference of the forming body. At the same time, the stylet is withdrawn while pressure is maintained to keep the stylet in the forming groove. The angle with which the stylet is withdrawn from the stylet former can be varied to produce various right- and left-hand spiral curves in the stylet. The radius of curvature of the resulting stylet formation is determined by the radius of the groove in which the stylet is engaged. The length of the stylet to be formed is determined by placement of the stylet in the stylet former. A codification of the various parameters associated with the stylet formation procedures allows a given stylet formation to be uniquely described with a simple alphanumeric code. Using the parameters defined in the code will allow a given stylet formation to be recorded and consistently reproduced when desired.

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