Abstract: Techniques and technologies for vascular access devices having curvature for improved introduction of catheters into vasculatures are disclosed. A representative vascular access device includes a curved introducer having a shaft that includes a tip configured to penetrate at least a proximal wall of a blood vessel of a patient. The shaft may have a straight section and a curved section disposed between the straight section and the tip. The curved section may be configured to provide a curvature between the straight section and the tip such that a tip longitudinal axis that extends from the tip forms an introducer angle with a straight longitudinal axis of the straight section. The introducer angle may be configured to at least partially reduce contact by the tip and catheter with a distal wall of the blood vessel after the tip has been inserted through the proximal wall of the blood vessel.

Abstract: Techniques and technologies for vascular access devices are disclosed. A representative vascular access device includes an introducer having a shaft that includes a tip, a first aperture disposed proximate to the tip, a second aperture spaced apart from the tip, and an optical fiber disposed within the shaft that conveys light for emission from the first and second apertures. A catheter is disposed about the introducer and has a catheter distal end positioned between the first and second apertures. As the tip is advanced into the blood vessel, light emitted through the first aperture is diminished, indicating that the tip has entered the blood vessel. When light emitted through the second aperture is diminished, the practitioner knows that the catheter distal end has entered the blood vessel.

Abstract: Techniques and technologies for vascular access devices are disclosed. A representative vascular access device includes an introducer having a shaft that includes a tip, a first aperture disposed proximate to the tip, a second aperture spaced apart from the tip, and an optical fiber disposed within the shaft that conveys light for emission from the first and second apertures. A catheter is disposed about the introducer and has a catheter distal end positioned between the first and second apertures. As the tip is advanced into the blood vessel, light emitted through the first aperture is diminished, indicating that the tip has entered the blood vessel. When light emitted through the second aperture is diminished, the practitioner knows that the catheter distal end has entered the blood vessel.

Abstract: A precision forward-looking image-guided diagnostic and therapeutic surgical probe and needle insert for microsurgery in support of imagery, neurology, neurosurgical procedures, and ophthalmic surgical applications comprising an introducer needle (stylet), a fiber carrier, a therapeutic conduit, and a spirographic method for scanning a target and associated algorithms to create and render a reconstructed image for display to a physician in real-time or near real-time. The probe implements Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) to provide high-resolution extended imagery of an intended therapeutic or target tissue. A separate therapeutic conduit provides surgical access for therapeutic devices such as a cutting or ablation laser, an RF electrode for locally heating tissue, a lumen for local injection of neurolytics/paralytics, placement of electrodes for neuromodulation, and deployment of a micro-endoscopic imaging tool. A third working channel supports the delivery of neurolytic and other fluids.

Abstract: A spinal nerve tissue ablation apparatus includes a stylet needle with a distal end having a rounded blunt tip sufficiently sharp to penetrate tissue but sufficiently blunt to avoid impinging on bony surfaces of spinal vertebra. The apparatus includes an energy delivery device having at least a first electrode and a second electrode. Each electrode has a tissue piercing distal end and is positionable in the stylet as the stylet is advanced through tissue. The first and second electrodes are deployable with curvature from the stylet. The stylet includes rotational means for orienting the first and second electrodes and directing the extension according to the curvature of the electrodes. The stylet further includes an optical imaging module to provide continual progressive feedback of ablation surface development. The apparatus further includes an ultra-wide band radio frequency scanning device capable of accurately determining the location of the electrodes within the spinal structure.

Abstract: A portable lifting apparatus for lifting and transferring of heavy objects. The lifting apparatus having a load-supporting platform which can be moved both vertically and rotated about the vertical axis of an upwardly extending lifting column. The lifting apparatus further includes an outrigger linkage coupled to the lifting column and is provided with a load support coupled to a retractable pulley. The lifting column is attached to a base and is normally prevented from rotating relative thereto.