Abstract: An apparatus and method for operating a catheter guiding assembly, with one lumen providing access for an ultrasound imaging catheter and a second lumen providing a working port for a tool. Optionally, the ultrasound imaging catheter in the catheter guiding assembly is exposed to blood, and the ultrasound imaging catheter port has a gasket. Alternatively, the catheter guiding assembly is sealed to prevent blood contact by the ultrasound imaging catheter, and the ultrasound imaging catheter may be re-used several times. In either case, the working tool is in the field of view of the ultrasound imaging catheter and normally exposed to blood. Because the working tool is exposed to blood, the working port has a gasket to keep blood from leaking out. Optionally, the working port is used for fluid delivery for injecting contrast agent, chemicals or drugs, which can be activated by sonification from the ultrasound imaging catheter.

Abstract: A needle guide having a semi-compliant shell design and locating means for attachment to an ultrasound transducer. The needle guide improves over the prior art in its reduced complexity, its low-profile formed fit to the transducer, a positive guide locking feature when the needle holding pin is in the closed position, and its ease of attachment over a sterile cover. The improved design is conducive to low-cost manufacturing methods which employ materials that can be autoclaved, gas-sterilized, or liquid disinfected.