Abstract: A target nerve or nerve plexus registration point is located utilizing a nerve stimulator needle positioned in a bore of a carrier. The carrier is configured with an electrically nonconductive smooth curved surface at a distal end of the bore. The needle tip is fixed in an operative cutaneous electrode position and the smooth curved surface of the carrier is forced against and compresses the epidermis, corium and subcutaneous tissue and traverses cutaneous surfaces to locate a target nerve or nerve plexus without physical penetration by the needle tip. The needle is then inserted at the located point, with or without the needle path being guided by the bore. In another embodiment, a subcutaneous portion of carrier is introduced and is pivoted about its introduction point to locate the target nerve.

Abstract: A processor implemented nerve stimulation system for regional anesthesia administration varies pulse width as a programmed function of applied current or varies applied current as a function of adjusted pulse width. The system also provides a waveform of repeating cycles of different pulse width components separated within the waveform frequency and which may be simultaneously attenuated as a function of applied current within an attenuation range. Among possible functional relationships between pulse width and applied current within an attenuation range is the exponential reduction of pulse width as a function of applied current.

Abstract: A support cushion for a person in a lateral decubitus position, comprising a base, two lateral structural supports, and a central concavity, said lateral supports being sufficiently stiff to resist rolling of the person, said central concavity distributing a weight of the person. The support may be adapted for supporting the human flank above a surface, relieving pressure on an upper arm, and having comprising a structural bladder and a support cushion. The support cushion may be employed to limit a pressure on an upper arm and to maintain a patient in the lateral decubitus position during a surgical procedure.