Abstract: A device is provided for unclogging an enteral tube including a first length of tubing, the distal end of which is fitted with a connector for connecting to an enteral feeding tube and the proximal end of which is fitted with a connector that is not compatible with an enteral feeding tube. An anti-reflux valve is situated in the first length of tubing and allows fluid flow only towards the distal end thereof. A second length of tubing has a proximal end connected to the first length of tubing at a position between the proximal end of the first length of tubing and the directional valve. A pressure relief valve is situated in the second length of tubing. A method is provided for utilizing the device to clear a clogged enteral tube.

Abstract: A light transmitting medical instrument provides for the enhanced performance of medical procedures. The light transmitting medical instrument comprises a light pipe having a first end operatively coupled to a light source and a second end having a functional tip having at least two arms. A sliding closure sleeve is mounted about the light pipe. The sliding closure sleeve has a first end portion at which the sliding closure sleeve is fixed to the light pipe in a manner such that relative movement therebetween is prevented and a second end proximate the functional tip of the light pipe. The sliding closure sleeve further comprises a spring-like actuator finger grip that, when forced radially inward, causes the second end of the sliding closure sleeve to move toward the functional tip, thereby forcing the arms of the functional tip towards one another.

Abstract: A method of removing cerumen or a foreign body from an ear canal utilizes an articulating ear curette.

Abstract: A method of removing cerumen or a foreign body from an ear canal utilizes an articulating ear curette.

Abstract: An articulating ear curette comprises a curette tip connected to a first actuator arm through a first molded-in living hinge and to a second actuator arm through a second molded-in living hinge. The actuator arms are slidably connected to one another such that relative movement of the first and second actuator arms in opposite directions causes movement of the tip about the first and second living hinges. The articulating ear curette may be utilized to remove cerumen or a foreign body from an ear canal.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an irrigation device for use in an orifice. The device has a tubular member having a distal end and a proximal end and at least one bore axially extending from the proximal end to the distal end. The bore terminates at a plurality of orifices which extend at an angle from the bore. As an additional feature, the tubular member can define an internal baffle which extends in a direction from the distal end to the proximal end of the tubular member. The internal baffle aids in deflecting a stream of pressurized fluid out the orifices of the tubular member. A flared member is coaxially positioned with respect to the tubular member. The flared member defines a tip in close proximity to the distal end of the tubular member and a base which is in a spaced apart relationship from the tip. The flared member defines a plurality of flared sides extending from the tip to the base. As the flared sides extend from the tip to the base, the flared sides increase in circumference.