Abstract: A system and method are provided for producing a signal filter to block clutter. An embodiment includes the steps of acquiring samples of a clutter signal, calculating eigenvectors and eigenvalues representing the clutter signal, comparing said eigenvalues to a threshold to distinguish between eigenvectors representing clutter and those representing noise or signal, and determining filter parameters using the comparison results. Embodiments of the invention allow for optimization of wall filters for different anatomical applications, such as different body parts, in ultrasound imaging. The clutter signal may include Doppler data, and may be acquired using a pulsed wave (PW) mode, although the filter itself may be used in scanning Doppler color mode. The resulting wall filter is optimized for blocking clutter that is comparable to the clutter of the sampled clutter signal.

Abstract: An ultrasound catheter probe assembly capable of scanning a three-dimensional volume is provided. The ultrasound catheter probe assembly contains a plurality of ultrasonic transducers disposed along a central axis of the ultrasound catheter probe assembly. The plurality of ultrasonic transducers is disposed on a mechanism operable to reciprocally pivot the plurality of ultrasonic transducers enabling the plurality of ultrasonic transducers to scan a three-dimensional volume. A helically disposed electrical interconnection member may be disposed about a pivot axis of the plurality of ultrasonic transducers and may electrically interconnect the plurality of ultrasonic transducers to an ultrasound imaging system. The ultrasound transducer catheter probe assembly may be fluid-filled and contain bubble position control and fluid expansion compensation features.

Abstract: A blood pressure measuring method which can measure blood vessel elasticity, so that that the blood vessel elasticity can be commonly applied to all subjects, calculating pulse transit time at the time when no pressure is applied, calculating pulse transit time in an area where the pressure is changed by the cuff, and then calculating the elasticity of a blood vessel, using the pulse transit times.

Abstract: A cardiac rhythm management system provides for the trending of a third heart sound (S3) index. The S3 index is a ratio, or an estimate of the ratio, of the number of S3 beats to the number of all heart heats, where the S3 beats are each a heart beat during which an occurrence of S3 is detected. An implantable sensor such as an accelerometer or a microphone senses an acoustic signal indicative heart sounds including S3. An S3 detector detects occurrences of S3 from the acoustic signal. A heart sound processing system trends the S3 index on a periodic basis to allow continuous monitoring of the S3 activity level, which is indicative of conditions related to heart failure.

Abstract: A system and method for measuring volumes and areas using electromagnetic induction techniques. A current is generated and fed into one of two coil assemblies to induce voltage into another coil assembly to provide accurate values for volume or area.

Abstract: Improved assemblies, systems, and methods provide safeguarding against tissue injury during surgical procedures and/or identify nerve damage occurring prior to surgery and/or verify range of motion or attributes of muscle contraction during reconstructive surgery. A stimulation control device may incorporate a range of low and high intensity stimulation to provide a stimulation and evaluation of both nerves and muscles. A stimulation control device is removably coupled to a surgical device or is imbedded within the medical device to provide a stimulation and treatment medical device. A disposable hand held stimulation system includes an operative element extending from the housing, the housing includes a visual indication to provide feedback or status to the user.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to systems and algorithms aimed at neurophysiology monitoring, and more particularly to a system capable of quickly finding stimulation thresholds over multiple channels of a neurophysiology monitoring system. For example, the neurophysiology monitoring system may be configured to omit stimulation pulses when the neuromuscular response is predictable.

Abstract: A biopsy needle for collecting a tissue specimen includes a housing; an outer cannula that is at least partially received within the housing; and an inner tube received within the outer cannula and is configured to receive a stylet. The needle also includes a snare coil that is formed as part of the inner tube and is coupled to the outer cannula. The needle has a first actuation stage and a second actuation stage that is automatically activated as a result of activation of the first actuation stage. During the first actuation stage, a first mechanism contained at least partially within the housing is actuated to longitudinally and axially advance both the outer cannula and the inner tube as well as causing the outer cannula and the inner tube to simultaneously rotate in unison as the two are longitudinally advanced.

Abstract: A blood test apparatus having a simple constitution whereby stable measurement can be conducted by surely sampling the blood in an amount being small but sufficient for the test without placing too much burden on a patient. When a first skin contact sensor of this apparatus detects the skin, driving of a negative pressure unit is initiated. Thus, the skin rises and comes into contact with a second skin contact sensor. After piercing into the skin, the negative pressure supply is once ceased. Next, the negative pressure is applied again for a definite period of time. Thus, the opening in the skin is broadened, which facilitates the flow out of the blood.

Abstract: A guide wire (1) for use with a catheter comprises a core wire (3) terminating in a distal portion (18) of flat ribbon-like construction having respective opposite major surfaces (29,30). A spring (24) is brazed to a distal end (27) of the distal portion (18) and to the core wire (3) at a tapering portion (14). A reinforcing member (38) extends axially along the distal portion (18) from a proximal end (26) of the distal portion (18) to a location (40) for reinforcing the distal portion (18) for in turn increasing its torsional rigidity in order to minimize axial twisting of the distal portion (18).

Abstract: A medical guidewire having distal tip coil that includes a twisted ribbon wire construction. The distal tip coil is mounted to the distal end of the distal core section of the guidewire. The coil is made from a flat ribbon wire with a polygonal, preferably rectangular, cross-section that is twisted along the length of the wire. The twisted, flat ribbon wire creates a tip coil that has a roughened, undulating surface at the outer circumference that, whether coated or bare, is perceptible to the physician or cardiologist when pushing or torquing the guidewire in an interventional procedure.

Abstract: A guide wire for use in a medical procedure having a shapeable tip integral with and made from the distal end of a superelastic nitinol distal section of the guide wire, wherein the shapeable tip can be finger kinked. Such a guide wire includes an elongated core made from a superelastic nitinol alloy at the distal end, the distal end of the elongated core having a tapered section leading to a shapeable distal tip. The shapeable tip is an extension of the distal end of the nitinol distal section, and includes permanent strain hardening from at least two different radial directions imparting crystallographic texture in the radial directions that eliminate superelasticity so that permanent deformation can be achieved with finger pressure.

Abstract: A repeatable patient-specific measurement technique. The process employs common anatomical reference points to guide the individual performing the measurements. The measurements taken are logged into a database using a standard format. A volume corresponding to the area measured is then calculated. The series of measurements can be accurately repeated during subsequent evaluations of the individual. Subsequent volume calculations are also made so that the volume of the measured region can be tracked over time. The volumetric information is then used to evaluate certain individual-specific criteria such as efficacy of weight management plan. Computer software will also present the data in a variety of numerical and graphical formats that are useful to the individual.

Abstract: A system for measuring the size of a gastric lumen includes a gastric banding device, an antenna positioned outside of the patient's body, and a receiver in operative communication with the antenna. The banding device comprises two orthogonal ultrasonic transceiver modules, a microprocessor, and a transmitter in electrical communication with the microprocessor. The microprocessor is in operative communication with each of the two transceiver modules. The transmitter transmits signals to a receiver positioned outside of a patient's body. Another system for measuring the size of a gastric lumen includes a gastric banding device having a first coiled conductor. The system further comprises a circuit external to the banding device, the circuit comprising a second coiled conductor. The circuit further comprises a tunable frequency generator and a spectrum analyzer, the circuit being tunable to allow a resonant frequency.

Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus and method of body contouring and skin conditioning. The apparatus 10 treats cellulite and the like by producing vibrations in the subcutaneous layers of fat. A cup 18 of handpiece 16 is placed against the skin to create a chamber 60. A vacuum source 160 and compressor 162, which are in communication with chamber 60, are then controlled to produce an oscillating pressure within the chamber 60. This vibration of the skin surface is transferred through the dermal layers thereby influencing fluid retention and cellulite build up.

Abstract: A power device for visual care includes a circuit control fixed with a pneumatic cylinder. The circuit control panel includes a homing sensor, a positive air pressure micro switch and a negative air pressure micro switch respectively correspond to the homing position, the utmost positive air pressure position and the utmost negative air pressure position of a piston unit. The circuit control panel further includes a guide member with an inductive part. Accordingly, when the power unit is activated, a power screw drives the piston unit to bring the inductive part of the guide member to the homing sensor for return-to-zero setting, and to bring it to touch the positive air pressure micro switch and the negative air pressure micro switch so as to provide proper positive air pressure and negative air pressure for visual care.

Abstract: The present invention is a vibrational roller utilizing a motorized vibrational drive using a plurality of eccentric weights and associated supports. The weights are positioned along the axis of rotation in a manner to synchronize them and minimize vibrational dissipation throughout the roller. Each weight has at least one associated support. The supports then transmit vibrational forces to the surface of the roller in an evenly distributed manner. A second co-operational motor may be used to extend motor life and aid in initiating vibrations. A control panel and associated circuitry are utilized to alter vibrational characteristics. The roller may be battery powered or powered through a standard wall outlet. The roller itself is manufactured of a durable yet deformable material, such as foam rubber, and may be inserted into selectable sleeves of varying physical properties for desired effect.

Abstract: A massage chair with a foot massaging device, which includes a seat unit, a backrest unit, and the foot massaging device located at a front portion of the seat unit, can make the structure simpler, the weight lighter, and the cost lower all at once. The massage chair is provided under the seat unit 2 with a back-and-forth motion mechanism 15 joined to the foot massaging device 5, and when the back-and-forth motion mechanism 15 protrudes forward, the foot massaging device 5 advances to a using position U which is located in front of the seat unit 2 and at which a lower leg of a user can be massaged, while when the back-and-forth motion mechanism 15 retracts backward, the foot massaging device 5 is housed in a housing position P formed under the seat unit 2.

Abstract: An instrument for applying vibrations to the human body is disclosed, comprising a housing in which an axially movable ram is arranged at the distal end, and a drive device for the ram, for setting the ram in a reciprocating motion, wherein the drive device comprises an axially movable projectile arranged proximally of the ram and an accelerating device for the projectile for accelerating the projectile distally in the direction of the ram, the ram being able to execute a stroke of at least 1 mm.

Abstract: A therapeutic massage device, specifically a manual scalp massager that can both provide a soothing sensation to the user and also stimulate the sebaceous glands and hair follicles of a person's scalp, resulting in a healthier scalp and better looking hair. The device should efficiently, and without harm or discomfort to the user, be able to pinch the tightly drawn scalp of the user, thereby squeezing the sebaceous glands and improving oil production. The device should also be easy to use and should not require an inordinate amount of effort by the operator. In operation, the device can massage one's scalp by alternating between constricting and releasing the skin.

Abstract: A device for treatment of limbs affected with Lymphedema. The device is a crevice collar which fits into depressed areas and crevices created by over-hanging lobules and protrusions of tissue so that the tissue may be comfortably wrapped with a pressure wrap with exacerbating sores and crevice areas in the skin caused by the Lymphedema.

Abstract: A functional electrical stimulation brace responsive to various positions of an intended wearer's foot. The device includes a plurality of sensors positioned at different locations under the intended wearer's foot to detect the current position of the foot. Outputs from the sensors are fed to a controller that uses logic to activate an electrical stimulation unit that stimulates the peroneal muscles of a patient at the appropriate times during the patient's gait. The device may also employ mechanical stabilization of the ankle in addition to the functional electrical stimulation by means of an ankle foot orthosis with a variable resistance hinge. The electrodes are embedded in fixed locations in the brace upper portion so that optimal location of the electrodes relative to the peroneal muscles is maintained every time the device is applied. Also provided is a method for assistance and rehabilitation for a patient by electrical stimulation of the peroneal muscles.

Abstract: A protective cup comprises: a molded cup-shaped main body having a peripheral edge, upper and lower segments, and an intermediate transition segment interconnecting the upper and lower segments, the peripheral edge having top and bottom sides, the upper segment extending curvedly from the top side of the peripheral edge to the intermediate transition segment, the lower segment extending curvedly from the intermediate transition segment to the bottom side of the peripheral edge, the lower segment having a wall thickness less than that of the upper segment; and an elastic pad body having a loop-shaped lip connected to the peripheral edge of the cup-shaped main body.

Abstract: The invention relates to a variable tension chest support for use by patients having undergone thoracic surgery. The chest support may be worn directly on the skin of a patient and comprises a band of stretchable material and one or more grips which are wholly or partially concealed within pockets with which the patient may alter the tension of the chest encircling band. The device allows a patient to modify the level of tension applied to the chest, thus managing the recovery process, while providing a basic level of support at all times the support is in use.

Abstract: A device for the extracorporal blood treatment in a single-needle operating mode includes means for delivering blood into, and means for delivering blood out of means for collecting blood, and a controller for setting the respective delivery rates of the means for the delivery of blood. The operating mode of the means for delivering blood is continually switched between an arterial and a venous phase by the controller, wherein during the arterial phase the delivery rate Qb of the means for delivering blood is greater than the delivery rate Qsn of the means for delivering blood such that blood may be withdrawn from the patient during the arterial phase, and during the venous phase the delivery rate Qb is smaller than the delivery rate Qsn such that blood may be administered to the patient during the venous phase.

Abstract: An extracorporeal blood circuit, comprising an expansion chamber for air-blood separation, wherein a filter (38) retains the solid particles in the blood. The filter has a trunco-conical filtering wall with a vertical axis surmounted by a top head (43) provided with upper openings (44) conformed and arranged such as to define a fluid passage which is asymmetrical with respect to the vertical axis. The top head does not retain air bubbles internally thereof, thus preventing a situation in which the air bubbles are directed towards an outlet of the expansion chamber and thus towards the patient. The extracorporeal circuit is used in a dialysis apparatus.

Abstract: The disclosure pertains to a perfusion system that is easy to set-up, use and monitor during a bypass procedure. In some embodiments, the disclosure pertains to a perfusion system in which at least some of the disposable components used with the perfusion system are configured to be able to communicate set-up and/or operational parameters to the perfusion system. In some embodiments, the disclosure pertains to a blood level sensor that can be used to monitor a blood level or volume within a blood reservoir. The blood level sensor may be utilized in an integrated perfusion system in which the disposable components are configured, as noted above, to communicate with the perfusion system. In some embodiments, the blood level sensor may be utilized with a perfusion system lacking communication with disposables.

Abstract: A medical catheter comprising a first return lumen, a plurality of withdrawal lumens, a first clamping member and a plurality of intake extension tubes. Each intake extension tube communicates with an intake lumen of the catheter to provide fluid communication with the respective intake lumens. The intake extension tubes are positioned in a stacked arrangement, and the clamping member has a plurality of posts to receive the stacked tubes to limit lateral movement thereof.

Abstract: The assembly comprises two or more catheter tubes fused together to form a fused catheter bundle. Each tube has at least one lumen extending longitudinally through the catheter from its distal end to its proximal end and wherein at least one of said tubes comprises a pressure resistant lumen. The tubes are fused together by use of heat & pressure generated by heat shrinkable tube slides positioned over a segment of the catheter tubes while mandrels are positioned within each tube lumen. After cooling, the heat shrinkable tube may be removed and the mandrels removed such that and the fused catheter bundle is formed. One or more of the tubes may be of a different hardness, material and/or color. A distal end of the fused catheter bundle can be split free floating, stepped or tapered tipped. A non fused portion may form catheter extension legs.

Abstract: A device and a method for a peritoneal dialysis treatment having several cycles include a cycler controlled by a processor. The cycler fills the abdominal cavity with dialysis fluid, and drains the abdominal cavity. A sensor senses a variable related to the draining of the dialysis fluid. The draining is interrupted when the variable reaches a breakpoint at which the variable is radically changed, thereby leaving the residual volume of fluid.

Abstract: A flow rate assessment protocol (140) that may be utilized by a power injector (10) is disclosed. This flow rate assessment protocol (140) monitors a flow rate (156) during execution of a medical fluid delivery protocol (154). This monitored flow rate is compared with a target flow rate (158). A comparative output of this monitored flow rate and target flow rate is displayed (160), for instance on a graphical user interface (11).

Abstract: A method and an apparatus for applying an anesthetic include an elongated tubular housing having an upper end, a substantially hollow interior, and a lower end having an injection needle extending therefrom. A first chamber is formed within the housing interior for holding an anesthetic cartridge therein. A second chamber receives a cannister containing an endothermic gas that rapidly absorbs heat when released to the atmosphere. The cartridge is penetrated by a plunger that forces the anesthetic through the injection needle. A depressible trigger propels the gas through an outlet nozzle that is oriented to project a stream of gas along a delivery axis that intersects a delivery axis of the needle; therefore, the gas and anesthetic can be successively delivered to an injection site with minimal repositioning of the housing. Accordingly, a dental practitioner can initially disperse the endothermic gas onto the injection site to minimize any pain and discomfort associated with an injection.

Abstract: A soft carrier for a breastpump is disclosed. The carrier includes a cushion made of a soft, malleable outer material, for at least partially enclosing a breastpump and associated accessories. One or more breast shields extend outwardly from holes in the cushion. The soft carrier provides a more comfortable experience for the mother during pumping.

Abstract: A method including introducing a treatment agent at a treatment site within a mammalian host; and introducing a bioerodable gel material at the treatment site. An apparatus including a first annular member having a first lumen disposed about a length of the first annular member and a first entry port at a proximal end of the first annular member, and a second annular member coupled to the first annular member having a second lumen disposed about a length of the second annular member and a second entry port at a proximal end of the second annular member, wherein the first annular member and the second annular member are positioned to allow a combining of treatment agents introduced through each annular member at the treatment site.

Abstract: The invention in general relates to various injection systems and devices that can be used, for example, in needleless injection systems for human, and for domestic and farm animals. In certain embodiments, the invention provides an injection system comprising: an injector defining a first cavity in fluid communication with an orifice configured for needleless injection; a housing defining a second cavity, the housing different than the injector; a first movable member between the first cavity and the second cavity, wherein the first movable member is configured to transfer a fluid from the second cavity to the first cavity; and wherein the first movable member is configured to be substantially stationary until the first movable member is moved by a propellant.

Abstract: A medical injector is provided herein having a body; a reservoir containing first and second mixable component; a stopper; a plunger; a spring disposed to advance the plunger; a first releasable retainer for releasably retaining the plunger in a first state against force of the spring; a first trigger for causing the first releasable retainer to release the plunger; a second releasable retainer for releasably retaining the plunger in a second state against force of the spring; and, a second trigger for causing the second releasable retainer to release the plunger. The spring causes the plunger to advance so that the stopper traverses at least a predetermined extent of advancement thereby causing mixing of the first and second mixable components. Advantageously, with the subject invention, a medical injector is provided which allows for autoreconstitution with subsequent dose setting and autoplunger activation being activated by separate triggers.

Abstract: Catheter systems and methods for their use in enhancing fluid flow through a vascular site occupied by a vascular occlusion are provided. The subject catheter systems include at least an aspiration catheter and at least one of a total occlusion insert catheter and a partial occlusion insert catheter, where the insert catheters are capable of being slidably moved in the lumen of the aspiration catheter. In practicing the subject methods, a surface of the vascular occlusion is flushed with an acidic dissolution fluid using the subject catheter systems for a period of time sufficient for fluid flow through the vascular site to be enhanced, e.g. increased or established. The subject catheter systems and methods find use in the treatment of a variety of different vascular diseases characterized by the presence of calcified vascular occlusions, including peripheral and coronary vascular diseases.

Abstract: A balloon catheter having an elongated catheter shaft defining a fluid drainage lumen and a balloon inflation lumen. The balloon catheter includes a fluid drainage port disposed about the distal end of the catheter shaft in fluid communication with the fluid drainage lumen, and a balloon inflation port disposed about the distal end of the catheter shaft in fluid communication with the balloon inflation lumen. A balloon portion is disposed about the distal end of the catheter shaft in fluid communication with the balloon inflation port. A release device is disposed in fluid communication with the balloon portion and the fluid drainage lumen, and includes an activating member. A tether is attached to the activating member of the release device. Tension applied to the tether activates the release device, enabling fluid flow from the balloon portion into the fluid drainage lumen and out of the body.

Abstract: Some embodiments of a system or method for treating heart tissue can include a catheter device that provides a user with the ability to perform a number of heart treatment tasks (before, during, and after a cardiac surgery or a percutaneous coronary intervention). In particular embodiments, the catheter device can be used to (i) precondition heart muscle tissue before the heart is isolated from the circulatory system, (ii) deliver cardioplegia into the coronary sinus during the cardiac surgery when the heart is isolated from the circulatory system, and (iii) control the blood flow through the heart after the heart is reconnected with the circulatory system. In some embodiments, the catheter device can perform some or all of: (i) intermittently occluding the coronary sinus, (ii) delivering a treatment fluid into the coronary sinus, and (iii) monitoring a flow rate of blood passing from the coronary sinus to the right atrium.

Abstract: Some embodiments of a system or method for treating heart tissue can include a catheter device that provides a user with the ability to perform a number of heart treatment tasks (before, during, and after a cardiac surgery or a percutaneous coronary intervention). In particular embodiments, the catheter device can be used to (i) precondition heart muscle tissue before the heart is isolated from the circulatory system, (ii) deliver cardioplegia into the coronary sinus during the cardiac surgery when the heart is isolated from the circulatory system, and (iii) control the blood flow through the heart after the heart is reconnected with the circulatory system. In some embodiments, the catheter device can perform some or all of: (i) intermittently occluding the coronary sinus, (ii) delivering a treatment fluid into the coronary sinus, and (iii) monitoring a flow rate of blood passing from the coronary sinus to the right atrium.

Abstract: The present invention provides an intraluminal stent delivery catheter device having improved stent retention. Particularly, the present invention is directed to a catheter having an expandable member and a fibrous matrix positioned over the expandable member and a stent mounted on the outer surface of the fibrous matrix. The fibrous matrix provides mechanical interface for improved stent retention, delivery and deployment.

Abstract: A retrograde coronary sinus perfusion catheter including a tubular catheter body having a proximal end, a distal end, and an inner lumen, and an inflatable balloon spaced proximally from the distal end of the catheter body, wherein the balloon is echogenically enhanced.

Abstract: There is disclosed a device for cannulation of a hollow organ, in particular of an arterial or venous blood vessel of a mammalian body, e.g., human, said device comprising a cannula that has a proximal end, a distal end, and a central section located between the proximal end and distal end. The distal end has an expandable structure which can be converted, for example by means of a dilator, from a non-expanded state to an expanded state, and the expandable structure comprises openings at least in the expanded state.

Abstract: A shieldable needle device includes a hub with and a needle cannula having a puncture tip extending from a forward end thereof, and a shield member in telescoping association with the hub. At least one of the hub and the shield member are adapted for relative axial movement with respect to the other between a first position in which the puncture tip of the needle cannula is exposed from a forward end of the shield member and a second position in which the puncture tip of the needle cannula is encompassed within the shield member. A drive member extends between the hub and the shield member, biasing the hub and the shield member axially away from each other. A packaging cover may further extend about the needle cannula, applying external pressure between the cooperating portions of the hub and the shield.

Abstract: A method for producing a temperature control means (5c, 5c) of an elastic heating profile (1), which heat and/or cool a medical instrument inserted into a cavity (3) of the heating profile (1), are provided in bores (4a, 4b, 4c, . . . ) having a bore diameter (110, 110?) which is smaller than the outer diameter (120, 120?) of the temperature control means (5c, 5e) to be inserted into the bores (4a, 4b, 4c, . . . ). A positive and/or non-positive connection between the heating profile (1) and the received temperature control means ensures good thermal contact. The production costs for an operable heating profile or temperature control means are also reduced.

Abstract: Devices and methods for powering a medical device for sustained delivery of fluids or continuous monitoring of body analyte. The devices may comprise a pumping mechanism, a driving mechanism for activating the pumping mechanism to dispense fluid, and a power source coupled to the driving mechanism and having an energy storage cell for providing a pulsed power to the driving mechanism. The methods may be implemented by activating the driving mechanism using pulsed energy in the form of at least one pulse train pattern accumulated in and discharged from an energy storage component.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for automatic injection of a product, comprising: a body (3) housing a container, the container being movable relative to said body between an initial position, to an insertion position; a safety shield (26) movable with respect to said container and said body between an insertion position to a protection position, when the user removes the device from an injection site; an external socket (48) receiving the body and provided with selection means (53) which can be placed by a user: either in a first position, in which the body (3) and the external socket (48) are bound to each other, the safety shield extending beyond the distal end of both said body and said external socket in the protection position; or in a second position, in which the external socket (48) is able to move axially in the distal direction with respect to the body (3), both the safety shield and the external socket extending beyond the distal end of said body, in the protection position.

Abstract: It may desirable to monitor or control a pump remotely. For example, the pump may be positioned near the patient, with remote control or monitoring of the pump occurring in a control room. In one exemplary embodiment, the pump is used in an MRI environment. In another exemplary embodiment, the pump is used in a hyperbaric chamber. The pump may monitor one or more physiological parameters and transmit them to the remote. The pump may also transmit information relating to the pump's operation. The pump may send the device and/or physiological data using one or more packets. The packets may consist of low priority sequential packets and high-priority asynchronous packets. The high-priority packets may enable the real-time monitoring of a patient's heart beat or other physiological parameter.

Abstract: A trocar is provided with a cannula and a housing and valve assembly disposed in the housing which forms a housing seal, and instrument seal, and in some cases a zero seal. A gel material is included in the valve and provides the valve with superior flotation properties for maintaining the instrument seal even when the instrument is moved off-axis. In order to accommodate movement of the gel material, voids can be formed within the valve housing and even within the gel material.

Abstract: A method of producing an indwelling needle assembly formed by assembling an inner needle having a point only at its tip, an inner needle hub fixed to the base end of the inner needle, a hollow outer needle through which the inner needle is insertable, an outer needle hub fixed to the base end of the outer needle, and an elastic seal member on the outer needle hub effecting sealing when the inner needle is withdrawn. The method involves: inserting the inner needle into the seal member to set the inner needle to an inserted state; applying, in the inserted state, lubricant to the outer peripheral surface of at least that portion of the inner needle which protrudes from the seal member; and axially reciprocating at least one time the inner needle relative to the seal member to cause the lubricant to penetrate the inside of the seal member.