What is the name of the instrument that is used to crack open a chest during thoracic surgery? And what is the name of the device that keeps the chest the open during same? Are they the implement?

Isn't there something called a rib spreader? I think that's the second thing you're asking about. I don't know if it's the same implement they use for cracking open the chest or not.

cereal...

Kat, I didn't have the stomach or nerves to read this wiki article, but it might have what you want: [link]

Um... I know they use regular hardware store-variety bolt cutters during autopsies.

See? Watching Dr. G, Medical Examiner does pay off in unexpected ways!

I just ate breakfast and watched The Daily Show and was pleased to find out that Aasif Mandvi is now an official correspondent there.

retractor! Thanks Cindy! that's exactly what I wanted.... I'm perfectly happy to read. Less happy to see photos...

nifty!

I'm thinking maybe I read his other book, and the same thing comes up, so I go look on my shelf, and not only have I read Running With Scissors before, I OWN IT. I was never great at comprehension and retention, but that's ridiculous.

Heh, we mysteriously have 2 copies of Running With Scissors, and I suspect something similar happened.

I just bit my lip again. I may have to go on a liquid diet. A non-alcoholic liquid diet.

Either that or finally bite your lip off, which will also solve the problem.

I can't afford cosmetic surgery, man.

I hear they have injections for the fat lip look. You don't have to do it yourself.

A nice shot of a pretty rover arm on today's Astronomy Picture of the Day - [link]

Huh. We actually have a receptionist today. I don't know what I'll do with all this not having to choke a bitch.