Abstract: A fastening device has a support layer, an adhesive layer on one side of the support layer, and a removable liner on the adhesive layer opposite to the support layer, the support layer having an opening therethrough. The device facilitates securing of a catheter or like assembly to a patient. A preferred catheter assembly includes the fastening device, a needle, a cannula and a hub attached to the cannula.

Abstract: A securing system includes a simply-structured device which permits medical tubing or other elongated medical devices to be easily secured to a patient, desirably without the use of tape or needles and suturing. The securing system includes a fitting having one or more flexible arms which secure the medical tubing to the fitting. The securing system may also include a retainer having a flexible anchor pad with an adhesive bottom surface, which can be attached to the patient's skin. The fitting can be mounted to the retainer, for example, by inserting posts of the retainer through holes of the fitting. Advantageously, the securing system can be attached anywhere along the length of the tubing and can be applied to tubing of any size. Further, the system is simply to instal and easy to apply.

Abstract: This invention relates to a continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis catheter support undergarment which allows for easy use and comfortable wearing by the patient. Additionally, the undergarment is versatile in that it may be worn virtually undetectable under clothing and is also designed to be sufficiently durable to withstand many washing and drying cycles. The belt also is capable of conforming to the ever changing waistline of a continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis patient.

Abstract: The invention relates to a subcutaneous infusion device comprising: a housing, a flow channel within the housing, a cannula extending from the housing and being in flow communication with the flow channel, a self-sealing septum covering the flow channel, a connector for delivery of fluid into the flow channel, a needle on the connector for penetrating the self-sealing septum covering the flow channel in the housing, a guide means for guiding the connector with the needle into a correct position in relation to the housing, where the guide means has incorporated means for interlocking the connector and the housing. Hereby a simpler and easier operable product is obtained.

Abstract: A surgical apparatus including an energy transmission probe, having a flexible support member and at least one energy transmission device, and a coupling device including a base member adapted to be removably secured to a first portion of the flexible support member and an engagement device connected to the base member and adapted to be removably secured to a second portion of the flexible support member.

Abstract: An apparatus for maintaining an intravascular access device in position at an access point on a limb of a patient includes a needle immobilizing unit engaging the needle member and preventing it from dislodgement from the blood vessel, a tube locking member locking the connecting tube in place and preventing it from being separated from the needle member, and a strap which supports the needle immobilizing unit and the locking member immovably on the limb of a patient. For further support of the apparatus in place, a splint assembly is provided which includes two splint members, forearm splint member which is secured to the forearm part of the limb and arm/hand splint member which is securable to either the arm or hand of the limb. The splint members can be used separately or coupled to each other; joint between the splint members has a latching mechanism allowing to adjust the angle between the forearm and arm/hand splint members.

Abstract: A method of connecting flexible first band structure to a tracheostomy neck plate, the neck plate having a first wing projecting laterally, the method including providing first anchoring structure including a clip on the wing, the band structure connectible to the anchoring structure; and providing first adjustable hook and pile connections for retaining the band structure adjustably connected relative to the anchoring structure.

Abstract: An infusion catheter with a cannula embedded in a body of synthetic material, wherein one end of the cannula is connected to a supply line and the other end of the cannula forms the insertion end. The body of synthetic material has a relieving groove in the area where the insertion end of the cannula emerges from the body of synthetic material. The relieving groove may be an annular space whose axis coincides approximately with the cannula in such a way that the annular space extends around the insertion end of the cannula.

Abstract: A transcutaneous access device includes a subcutaneous skirt, a transcutaneous neck and an extracutaneous extensible sleeve all of which may be made of an inexpensive plastic material. Preferably, the skirt and neck are covered with a porous bed material which encourages the growth of tissue and collagen. The device functions as a conduit for an access catheter and is sized to minimize contact with the catheter and to allow vertical and horizontal motion of the catheter relative to the implanted portions of the access device so that twisting and stretching of the tissue adjacent to the implanted access device caused by normal body motions do not upset the biological seal that forms around the access device.

Abstract: A mounting structure for a nasal oxygen catheter elevates and somewhat shortens the tip of the nose of a user to increase the area of the nasal air passages whereby a large quantity of air may enter the nostrils and sweep oxygen into the nostrils with each inhalation of the user. In a preferred embodiment a cup-shaped member snubs the end of the nose and has preferably a plurality of downwardly extending fingers in contact with said catheter.

Abstract: A patient infusion assembly (10) is provided having a synthetic resin infusion body (12) supported on a flexible adhesive mount (14) allowing the assembly (10) to be secured on a patient's body at a desired infusion site. The body (12) includes a plurality of elongated, tubular, substantially rigid infusion elements (16-20) each having an input end (40-44) and connected to a common outlet head (32). The elements (16-20) have individual fluid-conveying lumens (34-38) which communicate with corresponding outlet head passageways (62-66) in order to maintain the separation of respective infusion fluids prior to administration thereof. The outlet head (32) is equipped with a luer connector (60) allowing the ready attachment of a conventional infusion needle (67). Preferably, the elements (16-20) diverge from the connection head (32) with the longitudinal axis of the central element (18) disposed above the axes of the other elements (16, 20).

Abstract: An apparatus and method for percutaneously placing gastrostomy tubes. The method enables percutaneous placement through an existing penetration, as well as placement where no penetration exists. The apparatus comprises a gastrostomy tube having an internal bolster which can be manipulated such that it has a reduced lateral extent; an axially-extending hollow sleeve which can surround the bolster to hold it in a position of reduced lateral extent; and a rip-cord capable of tearing the sheath. In a preferred embodiment, the internal bolster is folded to have a smaller diameter, the sleeve is placed over the bolster and shrunk down to a smaller diameter. The rip-cord runs distally along the outside of the tube, between the sleeve and the internal bolster, wraps over the distal end of the sleeve and runs proximally along the length of the tube. The replacement tube can then be pushed through a stoma.

Abstract: An improvement in an internal bolster for a corporeal access tube assembly wherein a retention balloon is preformed of relatively thick silicone rubber film. The balloon includes parallel front and rear sidewalls connected by a semi-circular treadwall, the front sidewall having a front retention surface thereon with a radial width equal to the radius of the treadwall. Annular sleeves at the inner periphery of each sidewall are sealed to the outer surface of a tube segment. Each sleeve extends forwardly of its corresponding sidewall.

Abstract: This invention pertains to blood vessel cannulation devices and methods for sensing the location of a blood vessel. The blood vessel cannulation device preferably comprises a mounting assembly for securing the device to a patient in the vicinity of a blood vessel, a rotating assembly mounted to the mounting assembly, and a guide housing mounted to the rotating assembly. Sensing guides in the guide housing receive one or more sensors which sense the blood vessel. Rotating the rotating assembly, and traversing the guide housing, enable bringing the bottom ends of the sensing guides into alignment with the blood vessel, correspondingly also bringing a cannula guide, in the guide housing, into alignment with the blood vessel. Cannulation, is improved by the alignment of the bottom end of the cannula guide with respective bottom ends of the sensing guides.

Abstract: The present invention discloses catheter tube retaining devices having a disk rotatably coupled to the base, and a strap (or equivalent) for attaching such a device to the human body. The disk is capable of rotation relative to the base through at least a 90 degree arc. Further, the disk has formed upon a top surface at least one U-shaped retaining channel or groove of sufficient diameter as to retain a catheter tube in interference fit, without restricting the passage of fluid through such tube. Preferably, at least one pair of opposing tabs (or equivalent) protrude over the retaining channel to assist in the retention of the catheter tube. The disk can accommodate four channels, for different sizes of catheter tubes.

Abstract: An endotracheal tube-holder assembly that includes an arcuate track member and a pair of face plates mounted at the free ends thereof for engaging the opposite sides or cheeks of a patient's face, and wherein an adjustable holding block assembly is slidably mounted on the track member which defines a support housing that includes a tube holding block and a bite block support in which a removable bite block is mounted.

Abstract: An intravenous site protection device is formed with a rigid, elongated top member and a rigid, elongated bottom member which are oppositely secured on a patient's extremities. The top member is configured to accommodate a catheter and supply tubing to prevent accidental dislodgement during transportation or movement of the patient. Securing straps maintain the top and bottom members against the extremity of the wearer and a resilient sponge is positioned beneath the top member, against the wearer's skin, to assure proper circulation to the intravenous site. The rigid plastic ensures protection of the intravenous site should the site be struck or contacted with clothing or other articles during intravenous fluid transfer. The preferred form of the invention is made from a transparent plastic to allow ease in monitoring by medical personnel.

Abstract: An endotracheal tube holder, comprising, in combination an elongated arching support having opposite end portions adapted to be attached to a patient's left and right facial cheek zones which are preauricular areas of the cheeks, the support also having a mid portion adapted to be positioned in outwardly spaced relation to a patient's mouth; and a platform connected to the support to project outwardly away from the support mid portion, for attachment to and for supporting the endotracheal tube projecting from the patient's mouth.

Abstract: A ventilator and trach holder device includes a main attachment body and at least one and, preferably, a pair of spaced apart attachment tab members. The main attachment body includes a central panel, a pair of spaced apart first connection members, a pair of spaced apart second connection members and a plurality of patches of complementary mateable hook and loop fastener material. The first and second connection members and central panel provide the main attachment body with a H-shaped configuration and the patches are complementary to and mateable with one another such that the main attachment body may be wrapped around a ventilator circuit component and held in place by fastening the patches to one another. Each attachment tab member includes opposite first and second ends and a pair of patches of complementary and mateable hook and loop fastener material. The first end of the attachment tab member is mounted to the central panel of the main attachment body.

Abstract: A low profile gastrointestinal tube feeding system having a securing device for securing a feeding set to a low profile gastrostomy tube thereof disposed inside the viscera of a patient's body so that inadvertent removal of the feeding set from the gastrostomy tube is prevented. The feeding set includes hollow tubing connected to a source of fluid at one end and a connection member at the other end for connection to the gastrostomy tube and establishing fluid flow communication with the patient. The low profile gastrostomy tube includes an external retention member having legs that seat and retain the external retention member against the patient's outer body and a tubular member that is disposed inside the stomach or other viscera of a patient. The connection member attaches to the external retention member and is secured thereto using a securing device.

Abstract: The invention is a method for use and a protective cover apparatus for ear-mounted nasal air supply hoses which prevents skin discomfort, irritation, blisters, abrasions, pressure sores and other injuries and which promotes healing of such irritation, injuries and sores. The invention incorporates a generally rectangular, elongated strip of flexible fabric which is wrapped around a segment of the air supply hoses and fastened along confronting margins on opposing edges of the strip. The flexible fabric strip incorporates an outer cover of lambs wool or similar material for protecting the skin and an inner padding of slightly adhesive or high-friction material, such as a thin layer of latex rubber or releasable adhesive to inhibit longitudinal movement of the protective cover along the air hose. The strip of material is supplied in either pre-cut lengths of a predetermined size or a roll for easy dispensing and convenient storage.

Abstract: An accessory for temporary, contamination-free holding of closing stoppers used for syringes and other medical care devices, where the accessory comprises a stopper designed for coupling to a recess in another existing stopper or a carrier that can be combined with a stopper. The carrier has a lower part, which may be designed as a substitute for an existing stopper; a mid-piece, which is inserted in or over an existing stopper; a rider for placing over a curved surface such as a syringe body; or a carrier-foot for fastening onto suitable surfaces.

Abstract: Hemodialysis access and lock device (10) and system, the device comprising an improved lock (32) formed of a resilient plug (34) surrounding an inserted needle cannula (NC) and having radial blades (40) with a tapered outer edge (42) locking to a corresponding tapered surface (44) of a surrounding shell (12) and an internal passage sealed by a duck-bill valve and a strain relief at a catheter and the system comprising one or more of such devices and corresponding hub structures (100) connectable to external fluid conduits and providing control of the needle cannula and an internal obturator (OB) associated with it.

Abstract: An apparatus for holding an orally routed apparatus and for holding a flanged end of a body, the apparatus comprising a base including a channel, a bite block detachably engagable with the base and having a channel substantially alignable with the channel of the base, with the bite block engaged with the base defining a first configuration of the apparatus, the channel of the base and the channel of the bite block to substantially align and receive the orally routed apparatus, with the bite block detached from the base defining a second configuration of the apparatus, the channel of the base to receive a body having a flanged end with portions of the flanged end to overly and engage portions of the base, and an engagement assembly for securing the orally routed apparatus and the body with the base in the first and second configurations, respectively.

Abstract: A method of connecting flexible first band structure to a tracheostomy neck plate, the neck plate having a first wing projecting laterally, the method includes: providing first anchoring structure including a first clip connectable to the wing, the band structure connectible to the first anchor; the first anchor configured to be anchored to the neck plate via the clip and a first opening through the wing, and the first anchor having a first section offset relative to the clip; and providing a first lock in association with the section, for holding the anchor in anchored relation to the wing, and releasable to free the first anchor from the wing.

Abstract: A gastrointestinal-type tube insertion or removal device includes a body portion, a finger grip portion secured to an end of the body portion, and arm lifts secured to an end of the body portion opposite the finger grip portion. One or more optional stabilizing lifts may likewise be secured to the insertion or removal device in close proximity to the arm lifts. Also methods of using the gastrointestinal-type tube insertion or removal device are described for inserting or removing a skin level gastrointestinal-type tube.

Abstract: A portable automatic syringe device having a configuration including a separable rotating shaft adapted to provide a drive force to a piston included in the automatic syringe device so that the rotating shaft can be separated, along with the piston, from a housing of the syringe device upon re-filling a syringe of the syringe device with a liquid medicine. A coupling member is coupled between the rotating shaft and power transmission means. The coupling member has a reduction gear engaging with an output gear of the power transmission means, and a cross groove. A horizontal engaging pin is fixed to a lower end of the rotating shaft in such a fashion that it is engaged in the cross groove when the rotating shaft is positioned in position in the syringe device, thereby causing the rotating shaft to be coupled to the coupling member.

Abstract: A tube fitting anchoring device is provided to securely anchor a catheter and fluid supply tube interconnection to a patient's skin. The anchoring device comprises a retainer which is configured to receive a tube fitting in a variety of positions. The tube fitting interconnects the catheter and the fluid supply tube. The anchoring system additionally includes a flexible, adhesive anchor pad which supports the retainer. In one embodiment, the tube fitting includes two parallel generally tubular segments interconnected by a transverse member. The retainer also includes at least two parallel channels interconnected by a transverse channel. The channels are sized to receive the generally tubular segments of the tube fitting in a snap-fit manner, with the transverse channel also receiving the transverse member of the tube fitting in a snap-fit fashion.

Abstract: A holder for securely, but removably, attaching a medical tube to the body of a patient. The holder comprises a clip releasably connectable to the medical tube, a base for supporting the clip and a connecting component for connecting the clip to the base. An adhesive pad can be associated with the base to secure the holder to the patient.

Abstract: A medical conduit holder for releasably securing and reattaching a medical conduit, for example, a Foley catheter, to the limb of a patient. The holder includes a non-stretchable stabilizing member having a looped fabric surface, and attached to a stretchable primary strap to form an enclosed nonstretchable area of the primary strap. The primary strap is configured for attachment to the limb of the patient. The holder further includes a secondary strap attached to both the platform and the primary strap, preferably at the center of the secondary strap. The secondary strap has a first portion with a window, and an engagement portion dimensioned to loop around the conduit and fit through the window. In use, the engagement portion is looped over the medical conduit and through the window, such that the hooked surface of the engagement portion contacts the looped surface of the stabilizing member in order to secure the medical conduit.

Abstract: A laryngeal mask of the type used to facilitate lung ventilation and the insertion of endo-tracheal tubes or related medical instruments through a patient's laryngeal opening as used during general anesthesia, intensive care, or critical patient care. The mask includes an inflatable positioning shield formed to fit within a patient's oropharynx and seal around the circumference of the laryngeal opening, the shield having an inflatable annular toroid peripheral portion, a contoured rear portion, and a recessed front. The mask also includes a flexible respiratory tube having an proximal end lumen, a gently curved tubular body of sufficient size to permit passage of endo-tracheal tubes, and related medical instruments, and a distal end passing through and secured to the proximal edge of the annular toroid peripheral portion.

Abstract: An apparatus for preventing a nasal passage of a nose from constricting during breathing, the nose including a summit and a spaced-apart base presenting an orifice and an outer wall bounding a nasal passage, the outer wall having a substantially concave outer surface extending substantially from the summit to the base, the apparatus comprising a resilient body having a normal state, the resilient body engagable when flexed with the substantially concave surface of the nose extending longitudinally substantially from the summit to the base, the inherent tendency of the resilient body to assume the normal state to stabilize the outer wall substantially from the summit to the base and prevent the outer wall from drawing inwardly during breathing.

Abstract: The present invention provides devices and methods for positioning and securing medical tubes in a patient's mouth or nose. These devices have frame portions which include an inverted U-shaped portion having an upper jaw portion, two cheek portions and a lower jaw portion. Fasteners are provided to fasten the devices of the current invention on a patient's head. Medical tubes can be inserted in these devices and intubated in a patient's mouth or nose. The medical tubes can be affixed to the frame portions of the devices of the present invention.

Abstract: A tracheostomy tube dressing and support device unit used for holding a tracheostomy tube in place and holding a primary wound dressing, such as a sterile gauze pad, next to a tube insertion site in the front of a patient's neck. The unit includes an elastic bi-directional wrap stretchable in opposite directions along a length of the wrap. One end of the wrap includes hook fasteners for engaging an opposite end of the wrap and holding it in place around the neck. The wrap includes a window opening with a pair of hook fastener strips attached to opposite sides of the window opening and on an outside of the wrap. The hook fastener strips are used for releasable receipt through flange openings in opposite sides of a tracheostomy tube flange. When the hook fastener strips are threaded through the flange openings, the strips are secured to loop fastener landing pads thus holding the tracheostomy tube firmly in place.

Abstract: The cuff on the patient end of a tracheal tube is attached at one end to the inside of the tube and at the opposite end to the outside of the tube. The cuff encloses an axial sleeve that is slidably mounted within the patient end of the tube and is urged forwardly by a resilient collar. The sleeve can be retracted by applying vacuum to the cuff and, when released, extends forwards to prevent the cuff occluding the patient end of the tube.

Abstract: A needle guide ensures that an angiographic needle is inserted into a patient's femoral artery at a prescribed location, angle and direction. The needle guide includes an elongated base having a recess on one end defined by a pair of projecting fingers, and a support member on the upper surface of the base adjacent to the recess. The support member has a support surface which is inclined at a prescribed angle with respect to a locating plane defined by the base. The length of the projecting fingers help position the support surface at a spaced distance from the patient's inguinal crease, while a channel in the support surface cradles and guides the angiographic needle at the prescribed angle as it is inserted into the femoral artery. The needle guide may include a second recess defined by a pair of projecting fingers at the opposite end of the base and another support member adjacent thereto.

Abstract: A retention balloon for a corporeal access tube assembly which includes a tube segment. The balloon is secured to the tube segment around a portion of the segment. The balloon is preformed in its expanded shape. When in normal retention operation it contains air trapped but under ambient pressure whereby its walls are not stretched to any noticeable extent.

Abstract: Apparatus for securing a relatively small diameter wire or tube, and in particular, a small diameter guide wire and an angioplasty catheter that are inserted into a patient during an angioplasty or similar operation. The apparatus has a flexible member comprising a base portion, first and second abutting flexible portions attached to the base portion, and an opening having a diameter suitable for loosely securing the wire and catheter formed at an interface between the abutting flexible portions. An adhesive layer, typically having a backing layer, is disposed on the bottom of the flexible member. A preferred embodiment of the apparatus may be formed such that the first and second flexible portions extend outward in lateral directions away from the top of the opening. First and second base portions are connected to an external wall of the opening by flanges. The respective flexible portions and base portions have transverse ribs to provide added strength.

Abstract: This invention is a surgical retainer device for temporarily, but movably, affixing in place, a tube or catheter as it passes through the skin or enters a body cavity. The retainer is adhesively attached to the skin and is constructed in such a way to hold firmly the tube or catheter that penetrates the skin and enters a space within the body. The device may be used to place a medication or ointment at the site of the skin entry. The retainer utilizes a compression or friction fitting which allows the tube or catheter to be moved in or out of the opening through the skin. The device is especially suitable for retaining a chest tube during treatment of pneumothorax although its use is not so limited.

Abstract: An endotracheal tube holder with integrated bite-block includes a holding element for holding the endotracheal tube holder in patient's mouth position, a tube securing element protruded on one side of the holding element for securing an endotracheal tube thereto, and an intra-oral means which is a bite block for inserting into the mouth of the patient to prevent the endotracheal tube being bitten by the patient. The endotracheal tube holder is designed for dual function of fast and firm securing the endotracheal tube as well as protecting the endotracheal tube from movement, dislodgment and being bitten, in order to ensure the patient's airway during surgery as well as in postoperative or other intensive care units, or in any situation where patient's airway needs to be secured or protected.

Abstract: A transcutaneous access device includes a subcutaneous skirt, a transcutaneous neck and an extracutaneous extensible sleeve all of which may be made of an inexpensive plastic material. Preferably, the skirt and neck are covered with a porous bed material which encourages the growth of tissue and collagen. The device functions as a conduit for an access catheter and is sized to minimize contact with the catheter and to allow vertical and horizontal motion of the catheter relative to the implanted portions of the access device so that twisting and stretching of the tissue adjacent to the implanted access device caused by normal body motions do not upset the biological seal that forms around the access device.

Abstract: An intravenous tube holder for use in a trauma unit or similar environment is disclosed. The present invention includes at least one element, each element preferably containing a plurality of tracks, each track being design to secure a separate intravenous tube, said element further having a writing surface on the same side of the element as the tracks, with a writing surface next to each track for identifying the content and/or other dosage information identifying the contents of the intravenous tube therein. Each element further has a projection on the side opposite the tracks and writing surfaces for attaching the element to a support means. Each element has a male extension and female indent for interconnecting to additional element so as to accommodate a greater number of intravenous tubes.

Abstract: An endotracheal tube holding device for holding a tube inserted into a patient's mouth and into the trachea. The tube is held in position by the device which has been adhesively secured to the patient's face by a foam strip with an adhesive backing to comfortably, yet securely attach the holding device. The strip is arcuate-shaped and positioned along the upper lip and attached on each end to the patient's cheeks. A support fixture with a lipped support tab extends therefrom and is attached to the foam strip. An adhesive tape strip extends from each side of the support tab and wraps around the positioned ETT. The lip prevents the tape strip from slipping off the support tab thereby providing a secure attachment of the ETT to the support fixture. An accessory port may be included in the support holder to allow for insertion of items above or below the ETT tube without removal of the device from the patient's face.

Abstract: An apparatus for securing a cannula of a trocar assembly, which is inserted through an incision defined in the body of a patient, includes a base. The apparatus also includes an enclosed structure which is secured to the base. The enclosed structure includes a fluid port defined therein. The enclosed structure further defines an access opening through which the cannula extends. The apparatus also includes a plurality of beads contained within the enclosed structure. Moreover, the apparatus includes a slider and a locator. The locator is securable to the body. In addition, the slider is securable to the locator at any one of a first plurality of positions, whereas the base is securable to the slider at any one of a second plurality of positions. A method for securing a cannula of a trocar assembly to a body of a patient is also disclosed.

Abstract: A corporeal access tube assembly including a tube segment in which a coil spring is embedded along a portion of the segment. A retention balloon is secured to the tube segment around a portion which does not contain the coil spring. The balloon is inflated when in operation but its walls are not stretched to any noticeable extent. The tube segment extends through a split external bolster which opens to permit positioning of the tube segment and closes to clamp the tube segment in place. A gauging system on the tube segment permits precise positioning of the bolster.

Abstract: A subcutaneous infusion set for the subdermal infusion of fluids which includes a housing having an internal chamber within which a uniquely configured infusion cannula is dynamically mounted. The cannula, which is generally spiral shaped, has a body portion that is disposed within the internal chamber and a pierceable portion which extends angularly outwardly from the base of the apparatus. With this construction, when the device is interconnected with a patient, normal movement by the patient will permit the cannula to move dynamically within the internal chamber while the base of the device which is removably affixed to the patient 's skin remains completely stationary.

Abstract: A stylette or end cap connector for supporting a guide or stylette for medical tubing wherein the end cap is of integral tubular construction, and has a plurality of apertures through an enlarged head, and wherein an interior projection aids in friction fit retention with medical tubing, which is inserted therein.

Abstract: The improved endotracheal anti-disconnect device includes a flexible, resilent elongated patient neck band having a main body, the front surface of which bears a number of hook-receiving loops. The band has narrow opposite ends which form tabs, the front surfaces of which bear a number of hooks. With this arrangement the tabs can be passed through slots in the sides of an endotracheal tube bracket and then can be reflected rearwardly and connected by the hooks to the loops to releasably hold the bracket against the throat of a patient. The device also includes a ring assembly having a ring with a central space and to which ring are connected 4 connectors, which radiate therefrom. Two of the connectors are in the form of wings which are disposed horizontally and are elongated. The wings bear a number of hooks on their inner surfaces so that the ring can be pulled against the bracket and connected by the wings to the front surface of the neck band.

Abstract: An adhesive device retains a medical tube, and particularly a naso-gastric tube, in relation to a patient with improved flexibility, strength and adhesion. The device includes a nose pad portion for attaching to a patient's nose and a tube attachment section for attaching to the naso-gastric tube. A substantially inelastic spine extends across a narrow or otherwise vulnerable neck portion, which connects the nose pad to the tube attachment section. The spine strengthens the retaining device against tensile and shear forces while allowing flexibility. At the same time, deflection of the spine does not cause internal elastic stresses sufficient to counter adhesion of the retainer to either the patient or the medical tube.

Abstract: An assembly for externally securing a catheter at or adjacent to an exit site on a body tissue which includes a resilient member and a detachably removable and adjustable clamp which allow for a gentle bend in the catheter so that kinking is prevented.