Abstract: A medical device introduction system and method can include a medical introducer, a separate imaging device, and/or a separate working channel device, each of which may be movable independent of the other. The medical introducer can include a handle and an elongate introducer tube extending from the handle and having a plurality of lumens, and may be inserted into an interior body region of a patient. The separate imaging device may be inserted through the handle and positioned in one of lumens. The separate working channel device can include an elongate working channel tube and a position controller. The working channel tube can include at least one lumen defining a working channel. The position controller can be configured to control positioning of the working channel tube. The working channel device may be removably connected to the handle and positioned in another lumen.

Abstract: A method of inserting a multi-lumen catheter assembly. First, an incision is made near the area to be catheterized. The proximal portion of the multi-lumen catheter tube is then inserted into the area to be catheterized. A subcutaneous tunnel is created, and the first end of the tunnel is near the incision. The catheter tube is then routed through the subcutaneous tunnel and pulled tube through a second end of the subcutaneous tunnel. The hub body is then securely attached to the catheter tube by connecting the connection cover to the hub body by threaded engagement. In a preferred embodiment the hub body is attached to the catheter tube by backfitting the connection cover over the catheter tube. A compression sleeve is also backfit over the catheter tube. The cannulae of the hub body are inserted into the lumens of the catheter tube to create fluid communication therebetween.

Abstract: The present invention is a multi-lumen catheter assembly having a selectively attachable hub including a multi-lumen catheter tube that has a proximal portion and a distal portion and a hub assembly that has a proximal portion and a distal portion, whereby the distal portion of the catheter tube is selectively attachable to the proximal portion of the hub assembly after subcutaneous insertion of the proximal portion of the catheter tube into a patient.

Abstract: A guidewire for use in guiding the insertion of catheters bears a plurality of unique identifiers. These unique identifiers are used to choose the appropriate length of catheter to be inserted into the patient. Many of the steps of marking and measuring a guidewire and calculations utilizing the measurements are eliminated through use of this catheter bearing unique identifiers. In place of the detailed and error prone set of marking, measuring and calculating steps, a set of unique identifiers are printed or otherwise directly and immovable associated with the guidewire. A practitioner determines the stock length of catheter needed in a procedure merely by noting the placement of one unique identifier relative to a standard landmark.

Abstract: A primer layer that includes a surface-tension modifier dispersed within a polymer binder is disposed between the imaging layer and the substrate of a lithographic printing member to inhibit the production of thermal degradation products that disrupt the oleophilicity of the exposed imaged areas, thereby improving print-making performance and efficiency. In addition, embodiments of the primer layer inhibit static charge buildup during production and during the print-making process.

Abstract: Solubility transitions rather than ablation mechanisms facilitate selective removal of the imaging layer of a lithographic plate, which allows for imaging with low-power lasers that need not impart ablation-inducing energy levels.

Abstract: A multi-lumen catheter and method for inserting same into a patient is disclosed. The catheter includes a multi-lumen catheter tube having a distal end, a proximal end, and a plurality of lumens therethrough. The catheter may include a single-lumen flush tube portion, the flush tube portion having a proximal end and a distal end, the proximal end of the flush tube portion being connected to the distal end of the catheter tube such that the single lumen of the flush tube portion is in fluid communication with each of the lumens in the catheter tube. A connector is provided having a proximal end, a distal end, and a longitudinal cavity extending therethrough.