Abstract: A process for tunneling in tissue to install catheters and the like includes insertion of a hollow needle through the skin and, exiting from the skin as limited by the length of the needle or the catheter to be installed. A suture is then fed through the needle after which pulling tip of diameter approximately the same as the catheter to be installed, is selected and the suture attached to the distal end of the pulling tip. The catheter is then fastened to the proximal end of the pulling tip and the free end of the suture pulled to pull the catheter through the tunnel defined by the suture. The needle and suture may be inserted successively a number of times if a longer catheter is to be installed and the pulling tip and catheter pulled through the tissue. A similar procedure may be implemented using a solid needle with a swaged-on suture.

Abstract: A guide wire/obturator catheter system for minimizing the possibility of cavity back wall penetration is disclosed. The device is provided with tactile and visual indications of obturator and catheter positioning within the cavity to aid in the precise placement. Another embodiment provides a functionally double-ended obturator which is a trocar when needed and tapered when needed.

Abstract: An improved catheter comprising a tubular body of flexible material designed for medical use and insertion into a body cavity. The catheter includes at least one opening towards the distal end for the drainage of fluids or their introduction or for monitoring pressures from the body cavity and at least one integral, flexible wing member attached to the outer wall of the catheter and flexible to extend outward and bear against the inner wall of the body cavity to be served by the catheter. In the preferred embodiment, two oppositely located wings are formed integrally into the catheter. An insertion and withdrawal tube is dimensioned to slide over the catheter and hold the wings close against the outer wall of the catheter to facilitate introduction and removal from a body cavity. The distal end of the tube is tapered to aid in deforming the wings into the catheter aligned retracted position.

Abstract: A method and assembly of components for effecting closed chest thoracostomy includes insertion of a large bore needle into the chest cavity following local anesthesia. A guide wire is inserted into the pleural cavity through the needle and the needle is removed. An incision of one to one and one-half centimeters is then made parallel to the ribs and a pleural access catheter is delivered over the guide wire into the cavity. The guide wire is removed and a chest tube is introduced through the pleural access catheter, which is then split off and removed from around the chest tube. The chest tube is then sewn in place, dressed and placed to drainage. A thoracostomy kit includes the necessary instruments to effect the procedure in a sealed sterile package.