Abstract: Disclosed is an intravenous cannula connector for connection of a cannula to a syringe or intravenous drip feed. The cannula has a central portion that allows fluid to pass through that is flanked by a pair of solid arm portions, each connected to a lateral wing portion. The wing portions sit laterally and forward relative to the central portion corresponding with the socket end of the cannula. The connector may be fixed in a non-detachable manner to the lower end of an intravenous set or to other syringe or intravenous attachments.

Abstract: The present invention provides a tube and cable restraint comprising: an attachment strip of flexible material having on its underside a coating of adhesive suitable for adhering to a surface; a holding strip of flexible material having a fixed end, a repositionable end and a bridging section between the fixed end and the repositionable end comprising a bridging strip; an adhesive layer between the bottom surface of said holding strip and the top surface of said attachment strip at least at each end of said restraint; and a finger tab. The present invention also provides surgical drapes and gowns with tube and cable restraints attached thereto.

Abstract: A recloseable belt for a peritoneal dialysis patient having an aperture for receiving and orienting the protruding portion of an implanted catheter toward a plurality of holders along one portion of the belt.

Abstract: A positive locking device for connecting an inner cannula within an outer cannula to form a tracheostomy tube device. The tracheostomy device is provided with a connector head or connector body having ribs and or lips with associated catches disposed thereon. Cantilevered members with latch receiving members corresponding to the catches are provided on the component (connector or connector head) not having the rib or lip. Alternatively, catches may be associated with cantilevered members and latch receiving members with lips or ribs. Catches and latch receiving surfaces interlock and a securing component is fixed over the connector and connector head to create a positive lock.

Abstract: A tracheostomy tube assembly including an outer cannula having a hollow tube-shaped body with an interior passage therethrough, an open distal end, and a proximal end zone including an open proximal end; an inner cannula having a hollow tube-shaped body having an air flow channel therethrough, a first open end and an opposite second end zone including an open second end, the inner cannula being structured for fitted, sliding receipt within the inner passage of the outer cannula such that the second end zone protrudes from the open proximal end of the outer cannula.

Abstract: A catheter anchoring system is provided to securely anchor to a patient's skin a catheter and fluid supply tube interconnection. The anchoring system comprises a retainer configured to receive a catheter adaptor in a variety of positions. The adaptor interconnects the catheter and the fluid supply tube. The anchoring system additionally includes a flexible, adhesive anchor pad which supports a tube clip, as well as the retainer. The retainer desirably slides relative to the base pad to precisely position the retainer relative to the catheter. The retainer advantageously includes an interlocking element which secures the retainer in the manually selected position relative to the catheter. In one embodiment, the adaptor includes an annular collar which engages the retainer to lock the adaptor in a longitudinal position within the retainer.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an improved I.V. cover/protector which includes a housing having a generally triangular top, a larger end-wall, a smaller end-wall, and two tapered sides. Two flexible wings are joined by a living hinge along the edge of the two tapered sides. An arch defines a passage through the larger end-wall into the housing. Protuberances are located along the inside walls of the arch for prehension of a catheter/catheter line. The passage defined by the arch and protuberances is oblique to the plane of the flexible wings so that the catheter/catheter line slants downwards toward the insertion site.

Abstract: An endotracheal tube holding device for securing the position of an endotracheal tube. The tube holding device (10) includes first and second tube engaging apparatus (14, 16), each of which includes a foundation strap (24) having an outer bonding surface (30) proximate its distal end portion (26). Each of the tube engaging apparatus (14, 16) also includes a tube engaging strap (36) for releasably engaging and securing the position of the endotracheal tube (12). The tube engaging straps (36) each define a proximal end (38) secured to the operatively associated foundation strap (24) and an inner surface (42) coated with an adhesive for releasably engaging the outer bonding surface (30) of the operatively associated foundation strap (24).

Abstract: A portal sleeve in combination with a stabilizer for stabilizing the portal sleeve includes a portal sleeve having a distal end for being disposed in an anatomical cavity and a proximal end for being disposed externally of the anatomical cavity and a stabilizer including a body disposed on the portal sleeve and being movable longitudinally along the portal sleeve for insertion in an opening in a wall forming the anatomical cavity. An expandable portion is carried by the body to be movable with the body along the portal sleeve and into the opening. The expandable portion is movable from a contracted position wherein the expandable portion is disposed close to the portal sleeve to facilitate insertion in the opening and an expanded position wherein the expandable portion is disposed further away from the portal sleeve to engage the anatomical cavity wall to resist withdrawal of the stabilizer body and the portal sleeve from the anatomical cavity wall.

Abstract: A tracheostomy tube includes a substantially straight tube of a highly flexible material and having a wire reinforcement and a neck plate which is adapted for sliding movement axially of the tube between the proximal and distal ends of the tube. The neck plate includes a split collar elastic member which extends around the tube. The split collar member includes a tab at one end which is stretched to overlie the other end of the collar and can be locked to the other end of the collar by a pin and hole arrangement to fixedly secure the neck plate to a predetermined position on the tube.

Abstract: A non-kinking tubing adaptor for an intravenous catheter and associated flexible tubing including a rigid tube having a J-shaped configuration, the short end of the J-shaped tube being constructed for connection to an intravenous catheter and the long end of the J-shaped tube being constructed for connection to a flexible intravenous tubing.

Abstract: A system and method are disclosed for supporting orotracheal tubing in the mouth and trachea of pediatric patient (e.g., infant) during prolonged intubation. In general, the system comprises an intraoral component and an extraoral component, each of unitary construction. The intraoral components includes a base portion and an alveolar ridge cushioning flap portion. The base portion has a longitudinal extent, a bore formed along the longitudinal extent for passage and support of a first selected portion of the endotracheal tubing, and a palate facing surface made of a soft resilient material for cushioning the palate of the infant during intubation. The extraoral component of the system includes a flexible lip cushioning flap portion and a tubing clasping portion. A centrally disposed hole is formed in the lip cushioning flap portion for releasable receipt of a projection extending from the alveolar ridge cushioning portion.

Abstract: A nasal cannula is supported on the crossbar of a generally U-shaped frame having bows adapted to extend rearwardly along the sides of a patient's head and adapted to rest on the patient's ears. Clips on the crossbar and the bows support flexible tubes for supplying oxygen to the cannula. A strap is connected to the bows and contracts around the rear and sides of the patient's head to help hold the frame in place.

Abstract: An improved device and process of assuring separation of an anticoagulant type fluid from a saline type fluid each of which is utilized in the process and operation of a plasmapheresis apparatus or the process of collecting donor blood, is disclosed. The improvement includes a cross-spike prevention receptacle which is dimensioned, and installed positionally in reference to a plasmapheresis or blood donor apparatus, to receive an anticoagulant fluid container to which a proper respective supply communication line will connect, and to exclude and not receive a saline fluid container or container holding a similiar type of fluid, whose fluid line will not reach and connect to the installed cross-spike prevention receptacle.

Abstract: A device for holding an endotracheal tube in various positions in alignment with the mouth of a patient. The tube holder has a tube holding support engaged on a frame for the holder in alignment with the mouth of a patient. The support is adjustable along the frame to position the support in various locations along the frame while still in alignment with the patient's mouth. The frame is shaped to engage the chin of a patient, and is pliant in order to conform to the chin.

Abstract: A tracheostomy system having a neckplate, a tracheostomy tube having an end adapted for insertion into a patient's breathing passage and an end provided with a trach head for swivel connection to the neckplate and a connection mechanism for swivelly connecting the trach head to the neckplate without deformation of the trach head or neckplate and without thermal processing. The present invention also relates to a method for swivelly connecting a trach head to a neckplate without deformation of the trach head or neckplate and without thermal processing.

Abstract: An anesthesia conduit for connecting a tracheal tube and a gas circuit. The connector includes a flexible portion integral with a substantially rigid longitudinally extending portion. The longitudinally extending portion may include two ports, one connected to apparatus such as an respiratory gas monitor, and the other configured such that suction catheters can be inserted into the conduit and tracheal tube.

Abstract: An apparatus and method of use for treating carpal tunnel syndrome designed to permit delivery of a sustained release, depot form of a corticosteroid agent at an adequate therapeutic dosage, directly into the center of the carpal tunnel. The apparatus consists of an armboard adapted for receiving and securing a human forearm and hand. In a preferred embodiment, the armboard also includes at least one forearm bracket and at least one wrist bracket having an integrally formed centering pointer and needle guide for delivery of medication into the carpal tunnel. In one embodiment of the method of use, an anesthetic agent and a corticosteroid are delivered by a needle installation directly into the anatomic center of the carpal tunnel in order to produce the desired pharmacological effects.

Abstract: A suture sleeve for anchoring the lead body of an implantable medical device includes a tubular body having an exterior surface defining at least one annular, suture-receiving groove. The exterior surface further includes at least one longitudinally extending groove intersecting the at least one annular suture receiving groove and having ends extending longitudinally beyond the at least one suture receiving groove. The interior surface of the tubular body includes a plurality of inwardly extending projections having surfaces adapted to engage the lead body to prevent the sleeve from sliding along the lead body when the lead body is held vertically.The suture sleeve is fabricated of a biocompatible, polymeric material to which has been added color pigment and a radiologically dense material to render the suture sleeve readily visible to the naked eye against surrounding bodily tissue as well as radiologically visible.

Abstract: A bite block where, in a first embodiment, the mouthpiece is flanked by laterally-extending arms that define large, inverted "U"-shaped finger-accommodating openings so that a surgeon may guide a surgical tool by placing fingers within those openings. The mouthpiece has a cylindrical throughbore that receives the surgical instrument. The upper and lower teeth of the patient are supported by flat upper and lower support walls that are formed integrally with the mouthpiece, and each support wall includes a retention ridge that helps keep the mouthpiece in the patient's mouth. Upper and lower flanges extend above and below the plane of their respective support walls, so that the mouthpiece cannot enter the patient's mouth even when the surgeon pulls back the patient's lips to their limit.

Abstract: A variable position endotracheal tube holder includes a face piece having an arcuate transverse portion adapted to pass between the nose and upper lip of the patient, and a pair of downwardly extending wings at either end of the transverse portion. The lateral portion of the face piece has upper and lower flanges protruding away from the patient's face, and defining a groove or way which receives and retains a movable support for holding the endotracheal tube. The support includes a slider which can be locked in various positions along the groove, and an integral tube hanger bracket extending downward to the tube.

Abstract: A modular interconnecting component support unit has a rigid plate (14) with a planar face (16) and a rib (24) and a slot (38) extending parallel the plate face but from opposite sides or edges (22, 34) of the plate so that two such units may be slid together while their faces are in planar relationship. Locking arms (46) adjacent the ends (40) of the slots (38) are provided to releasably grip a rib (24) of one unit received in the slot (38) of a second unit. A medical device, such as a reusable portion of a medical pressure transducer (20), may be permanently affixed to the plate face (16).

Abstract: Disclosed is a fluid-impermeable protective shield for covering the proximal end of an indwelling, percutaneous catheter and the puncture site through which the catheter extends. A medical grade adhesive is used to attach the protective shield to the skin that surrounds the puncture site. The protective shield allows the patient to swim or bathe without undue risk of infection.

Abstract: A holding apparatus for holding at least an operational part of an endoscope is provided as a removable unit of an endoscope system storage rack. An endoscope storage case in which an insertion tube of an endoscope hung on the holding apparatus is removably provided in the storage rack below the holding apparatus. The endoscope storage case stores at least a used endoscope.

Abstract: A stabilizing fitting useful for securing a catheter hub or a syringe body adjacent to a venipuncture site is provided. The stabilizing fitting, of unitary pliable plastic construction, includes an elongated base having support members at each end. A VELCRO fastener is secured to an upper surface of each support member. A retaining strap removably attachable to the VELCRO fastener may be looped about the patient's arm, for example, to secure the stabilizing fitting in place without the use of skin-contacting adhesives. A catheter hub/syringe body retainer is centrally disposed between the support members and surrounded by a catheter hub/syringe body wing housing. A plurality of medical tube retaining slots are provided through each support member in alignment with the catheter hub/syringe body retainer. Alower surface of the base includes recesses for the retainer, the wing housing and the medical tube retaining slots.

Abstract: This invention is directed to a mouthpiece which directs oxygen into to the mouth of a patient, whether the oxygen is supplied to the patient by a single oxygen supply tube or by conventional nasal cannulae extending from a common oxygen supply tube. In addition, the mouthpiece of the invention provides auxiliary openings through which fingers can be inserted into a patient's mouth so as to allow for manual manipulation of the mouthpiece once it is placed in the mouth.

Abstract: A biomedical tube stabilizing device comprised of a soft cincture made of a resilient, sterilizable material having a permanently formed loop for receiving a biomedical tube such as a tracheal or esophageal tube at one end. Following intubation, the loop is placed over the exposed portion of the biomedical tube, and the free end encircles the head and is wrapped around the biomedical tube. The tube is secured by pulling the free end in opposition to the loop engaging the biomedical tube and attaching it to the body of the encircling cincture with a tab of Velcro-like material. An alternative embodiment calls for the biomedical tube receiving loop to be formed by releasably attaching one end of the cincture to itself with a tab of Velcro-like material. An additional embodiment applies a treatment to the inner surface of the biomedical tube receiving loop in order to increase grip strength.

Abstract: A breathing circuit is provided for conveying an inspiratory gas from a gas dispensing apparatus to a patient, and for conveying an expiratory gas from the patient. The circuit includes a corrugated expiratory tube having a first end and a second end. The expiratory tube has a relaxed length. A corrugated inspiratory tube is provided which is disposed generally colinearly and interiorly of the expiratory tube. The inspiratory tube has a first end disposed adjacent to the first end of the expiratory tube, a second end disposed adjacent to the second end of the expiratory tube, and a relaxed length greater than the relaxed length of the expiratory tube such that the inspiratory tube normally exerts a longitudinally directed pressure on the circuit. A first end coupling member is fixedly coupled to both the inspiratory tube and the expiratory tube. The first end coupling member is generally transparent and hollow, and has an interior and an exterior.

Abstract: An endotracheal tube holder that includes a face plate assembly which is attached to a patient's head by an adjustable headband. The face plate assembly is formed with a face plate adapted to be positioned over the mouth of the patient and is formed with an open end channel terminating with a V-shaped notch over which is superposed a tube holding block that is affixed to the outer surface of the face plate, and also includes a matching V-shaped notch in which an endotracheal tube can be fixedly positioned by a thumb screw, a bite block being integrally secured to the inner surface of the face plate which is also provided with an aligned V-shaped notch. The face plate also includes an opening for ready access to the patient's mouth, as might be required.

Abstract: A holder for retaining an endotracheal tube in a patient's mouth has upper and lower portions, each including a semi-cylindrical member with wings extending radially on opposite sides. The upper and lower portions are joined by a flexible hinge between a first wing of the upper portion and an opposed first wing of the lower portion. When the hinge is closed, a region of each upper wing is adjacent to a region of a corresponding opposed lower wing, and the semi-cylindrical members form a sleeve defining a lumen sized to receive the endotracheal tube. A safety clamp limits the extent to which the upper and lower portions can pivot apart about the hinge to a predetermined maximum angle, whereby the position of the endotracheal tube can be adjusted axially, but radial displacement of the tube from the holder is restricted.

Abstract: A securing tape for securement to a foreign body including an elongated tape having first and second sides, a base portion on the tape, adhesive on the first side of the tape for securing the base portion to a foreign body, a tab having a fixed end and a free end with the tab being formed by cutting it out of the tape while leaving the fixed end integrally attached to the base portion, an opening in the base portion being formed in the location from which the tab was cut of the tape, an outer end on the opening remote from the fixed end of the tab, a relocating arrangement for effectively relocating the free end of the tab and the outer end of the opening relative to each other to permit the free end of the tab to be secured relative to the base portion, and securing structure for securing the free end of the tab to the base portion.

Abstract: A method of percutaneously emplacing at least two cannulae in a patient, such as for percutaneous decompression of a herniated disc, using a guide secured to one cannula to index a second cannula as it is percutaneously advanced into the body. The guide may take the form of jigs adapted to be secured to one cannula with bores arranged to slidingly receive a guidewire or a cannula.

Abstract: A one or two-piece, one-time or reusable catheter anchoring system is disclosed which may be utilized to facilitate the anchoring of a urinary catheter, an umbilical catheter or other draining device to the thigh or abdomen of the patient in a manner which prevents irritation and accidental dislodgement.

Abstract: A tube securing device is described which is useful for fixing the position of a medical tubing, such as a thoracostomy tube, with respect to the skin of a patient. The anchoring device comprises a unitary strap resembling a cable tie having a free end, a body portion and a buckle end. The buckle end has two or more unidirectional locking mechanism thereon for enabling movement of the body portion of the strap in only one direction. In operation, the body portion of the device is wrapped around the invasive medical tubing at the point where it enters the skin and the free end of the strap is passed through the first unidirectional locking mechanism on the buckle portion to form a first loop which encircles and grasps the tubing. The loop may be taped to the body to secure the tubing in position. A special release loop is provided that enables removal of the anchoring device from the tubing without damaging the tubing.

Abstract: A tracheostomy device having an inner cannula with a connector head and an outer cannula. The inner cannula is secured within the outer cannula by a locking device having spaced apart, elongated handles that are pivotally mounted on the inner cannula. The handles are spaced such that a connector may be mounted on the connector head, thereby preventing movement of the handles. A method of locking the inner cannula to the outer cannula is also described.

Abstract: The device of the present invention is a bite block for use with endotracheally intubated patients. The bite block is generally U-shaped and made of a hard but pliable material. The termini of each of the legs of the "U" are wedge shaped, being thinner at the terminus of each leg. A curved rib connects the two legs. The combination of the wedge-shaped legs and the curved rib allow the interjaw compressive forces to be borne by the molars rather than the incisors or front teeth.

Abstract: An endotracheal tube stabilization device includes a length of K-wire having a flattened loop or the like formed on each end thereof for insertion through a slot in a patch of moleskin to thereby secure patches of moleskin at each end thereof. The patches of moleskin may then be applied near the ears of a patient to orient the K-wire about the patient's face and spaced apart therefrom to secure an endotracheal tube thereto and hold it in place.

Abstract: A securing bridge for a catheter which is to be inserted into the umbilical stump of a neonate. The bridge is for the purpose of tightly securing in position the portion of the catheter extending from the umbilical stump. The bridge includes a base which is adhesively secured to the skin around the umbilical stump. Mounted on the base are a pair of pivotal flaps which are to be adhesively secured together clamping a portion of the catheter therebetween.

Abstract: An Urethral Catheter Holder is a device that has two semicylindric elements hinged with each other by a flexible living hinge on one edge. It has a single non adjustable male and female locking tooth on the other edges opposite to the living hinge. It has a semicylindric rim extension at one end of the device that extends to a diameter larger than said semicylindrical segment. There is a wedge defect at the living hinge side of the rim extension. The defect of the rim extension is covered by the curve extension cover. There is a compressible foam pad lining the surface of the semicylindric element and rim extension. The foam pad on the rim extension is impregnated with antimicrobial agent. When the device is placed in operative position, it forms a lumen inner to the foam pads able to hold and affix the Foley catheter without compromising and distorting the lumen of the catheter and the balloon inflation and deflation tube.

Abstract: A soft reusable tracheostomy collar is provided for holding a tracheostomy tube securely in place. The collar is specifically made with machine washable materials. The present tracheostomy collar provides increased comfort and stability to the tracheostomy tube, alleviating leaks and dislodged tracheostomy tubes. In addition, the present tracheostomy collar includes two tying tapes of equal lengths with easily threadable plastic tips to place through the tracheostomy tube flanges and tie at the back of the neck. The present collar also is available with two additional tying tapes to tie across the front to hold a mechanical breathing device in place. The present tracheostomy collar is provided in a variety of different sizes to accommodate all possibilities. Furthermore, the relatively simple design makes the present collar easy and inexpensive to manufacture.

Abstract: A securing system for an endo-tracheal tube in which a holder in the shape of an open ring with side-flanges is slipped around the tube. Adhesive discs bearing catches are stuck to the patient's face in front of the ear lobes with bands securing-the ring flanges to the catches. Additional bands run to and from the remaining catches over the patient's head and around his neck to provide counterpull.

Abstract: An anchor sheet and anchor body for holding a cannula within the abdominal cavity of a patient is described. The cannula is used during a laparoscopic surgical procedure. The anchor sheet and anchor body assist in holding the cannula in a preferred orientation relative to the abdominal cavity. An attachment mechanism such as a hook and loop fastener may be utilized to connect the anchor sheet to the anchor body.

Abstract: A tracheostomy system having a neckplate, a tracheostomy tube having an end adapted for insertion into a patient's breathing passage and an end provided with a trach head for swivel connection to the neckplate and a connection mechanism for swivelly connecting the trach head to the neckplate without deformation of the trach head or neckplate and without thermal processing. The present invention also relates to a method for swivelly connecting a trach head to a neckplate without deformation of the trach head or neckplate and without thermal processing.

Abstract: A medical tube retention device for securing a tube to a patient. The device is comprised of a band having interior and exterior surfaces and an elastic portion. At least a portion of the exterior surface has a first type of textile fastener covering. A first complementary textile fasting strip is affixed to one end of the band, and a second complementary textile fastening strip is releasably affixed to the opposite end. The textile fastening strips are attached to a tracheostomy or endotracheal tube flange through slots located on opposite sides of the flange. An optional third complementary textile fasting strip, affixed to the first end of the band, is secured to a tube connector and releasably affixed to the opposite end of the band to positively retain the connector to the tube.

Abstract: A recapping apparatus includes a generally U-shaped frame member having a plurality of spring biased attachment clips for receiving a syringe with needle cap so that the medical professional can remove the needle with syringe from the cap with one hand and thereafter replace the syringe with needle back into the cap in case it is needed for reuse. At the end of the period of use such as an operation, the syringes with needles inserted into the caps can be removed from the attachment clips and disposed of in a sharps container.

Abstract: A gastrostomy tube having a collapsible, internal retention flange is disclosed, and the gastrostomy tube is inserted into a patient's stomach by a percutaneous endoscopic or other suitable technique. The internal retention flange comprises a dome shape that will not only reduce patient risk during the placement procedure, but will also allow for a more consistent and less traumatic external removal procedure.

Abstract: An apparatus for stabilizing a trocar inserted through the skin of a patient during a medical procedure that provides the operating personnel with the ability to adjust the angle of orientation of the inserted trocar with respect to the patient and rotate the trocar as desired after insertion into the patient. The apparatus is attached to the skin of the patient and the trocar movement is facilitated by a trocar receivable rotatable spheroid frictionally retained in a stabilizing member. The apparatus provides for a secure, yet, adjustable surgical aid.

Abstract: An endotracheal tube (38a) demountably attachable to and for use in combination with an oral airway (10) having a tabular flange (22) with C-shaped openings thereon, the endotracheal tube (38a) having an elongated hollow tubular body (56) with first open end (60) and a second open end (62), the body (56) having a portion containing alternating ribs (50) and bays (52) integral with the body of the endotracheal tube (38a). The bays (52) are dimensioned to fit snugly within the C-shaped opening of said oral airway (10) and the ribs (50) being dimensioned to prevent longitudinal displacement of the endotracheal tube (38a) with respect to the oral airway (10).

Abstract: A band for securing a tube device to a limb or other body member is disclosed. A primary stretchable strap is designed to be secured about a body member at a position therealong at which the tube is to be secured. The primary strap length is adjustable to accommodate body members of varied circumference. A flexible secondary strap designed to retainably engage the tube is secured to and aligned with the primary strap. The secondary strap has a non-stretchable portion that forms a seat for the tube and a stretchable portion, both of which are coated with high-friction material. The tube is enveloped between the lower seat and the upper stretchable portion of the secondary strap, which is pulled and folded in overlying engagement with the tube, and is held in such configuration by Velcro-type fastener means that releasably engages the primary strap.

Abstract: The present invention includes a flexible stability device for holding a medical device entering a body. The device includes a plurality of spaced apart flexible legs which extend from one side of a flexible planar member. The legs are clampable about the medical device.