Abstract: A device and method are described for navigating and positioning a central venous catheter into the venous system using two different modes of location. For example, a peripherally inserted central catheter (“PICC”) may be navigated and positioned within the superior vena cava. A light emitting element is used in the first mode to navigate the PICC to the superior vena cava. To improve visibility during navigation, the light emitted from the light emitting element may include a narrow range of wavelengths that generally matches the wavelengths of light that are transmissable through a light absorbing material defining the wall of the catheter. A conductive medium is used in the second mode to monitor an ECG signal in order to position the PICC in the superior vena cava. One advantage of this procedure is that X-ray visualization can be eliminated to reduce the danger associated with X-rays.

Abstract: A retrieval device is provided for retrieving stones, calculi, and other objects from a body. The device allows for a retrieval basket to be articulated and extended simultaneously. The device also allows for the basket to be articulated and retracted simultaneously.

Abstract: A retrieval device is provided for retrieving stones, calculi, and other objects from a body. The device allows for a retrieval basket to be articulated and extended simultaneously. The device also allows for the basket to be articulated and retracted simultaneously. The device comprises a body, an articulator movably connected to the body, a first wire and a second wire having distal ends, and a tool formed by the distal ends of the first wire and the second wire.

Abstract: A device and method are described for navigating and positioning a central venous catheter into the venous system using two different modes of location. For example, a peripherally inserted central catheter (“PICC”) may be navigated and positioned within the superior vena cava. A light emitting element is used in the first mode to navigate the PICC to the superior vena cava. To improve visibility during navigation, the light emitted from the light emitting element may include a narrow range of wavelengths that generally matches the wavelengths of light that are transmissable through a light absorbing material defining the wall of the catheter. A conductive medium is used in the second mode to monitor an ECG signal in order to position the PICC in the superior vena cava. One advantage of this procedure is that X-ray visualization can be eliminated to reduce the danger associated with X-rays.

Abstract: A retrieval device is provided for retrieving stones, calculi, and other objects from a body. The device allows for a retrieval basket to be articulated and extended simultaneously. The device also allows for the basket to be articulated and retracted simultaneously.

Abstract: A retrieval device is provided for retrieving stones, calculi, and other objects from a body. The device allows for a retrieval basket to be articulated and extended simultaneously. The device also allows for the basket to be articulated and retracted simultaneously. The device comprises a body, an articulator movably connected to the body, a first and a second wire having distal ends, and a tool disposed at the distal end of the first and second wire.

Abstract: A retention device for use in a human or mammalian body includes superelastic wires that expand when they are released from a confined state. The retention device may have the outer form of a Foley catheter. One or more superelastic wires within the balloon of a Foley catheter help to insure retention within the body, such as within a urinary bladder.

Abstract: A retrieval device is provided for capturing and retrieving stones, calculi, and other objects from a body. The retrieval device includes an irrigation orifice to irrigate a passageway. Irrigating the passageway helps to keep the viewing area free from debris and particulate matter.

Abstract: A positioner is provided that is able to precisely position a stent, such as a ureteral stent, by using an anatomical landmark, such as a ureteral orifice. The positioner is placed over a wire guide and advanced until the proximal portion of the stent abuts a stent-stop. The positioner and stent are together pushed until the positioner reaches the ureteral orifice. The stent can be deployed and the positioner can be removed leaving the stent correctly positioned within the kidney and bladder.