Abstract: A template, to be provided at some distance from the skin, provided with multiple guide holes for needles or catheters of which one or more can anchor in the prostate. The template is provided with a locking mechanism so that, after placement, the anchored needles keep all needles in their original places. The above-described method of fixedly positioning a treatment template prevents the needles from moving due to swelling of the tissue in the prostate, which causes the irradiation source, which is later provided in the needles, to improperly irradiate the area.

Abstract: A template for identifying a specific location for insertion of a hypodermic injection device to inject insulin at specific areas of an abdomen. It comprises a flexible sheet having at least top and bottom edges and first and second lateral edges. The exterior face has a hole and at least one legend. The at least one legend comprises a calendar reference and first and second marking holes. The exterior face further comprises at least one offset hole at a predetermined distance from the hole. The calendar reference defines dates or days of a week. The calendar reference is positioned in between the first and second marking holes. The first and second marking holes serve as identifying means for identifying a specific location for insertion of a hypodermic injection device to inject insulin at specific areas of an abdomen in between the first and second marking holes.

Abstract: An applicator for treating skin, includes a housing, in which a device for perforating an area of skin is arranged, wherein the device for perforating the skin can be brought into contact with the area of skin through an opening in the housing. At least one device for disinfecting is additionally arranged in the housing, and the device for disinfecting acts upon the area of skin through the same opening. With the applicator, a particularly secure and simple handling can be achieved.

Abstract: A spinal platform for delivering a therapeutic agent to a spinal cord target includes a brace member for attachment to a plurality of bony structures surrounding at least a portion of the spinal cord target, a carriage member operatively coupled to and movable along the brace member, and a universal joint for adjusting the coronal or sagittal angle of a surgical instrument. The brace member includes at least one longitudinal rail and a plurality of attachment members. The plurality of attachment members is operably connected to the at least one longitudinal rail. The at least one longitudinal rail includes a proximal end portion, a distal end portion, and a middle portion extending between the proximal and distal end portions. The universal joint is seated within a portion of the carriage member and is capable of delivering the therapeutic agent to the spinal cord target.

Abstract: A regional anesthesia system and a cart for aiding in the placement of a regional anesthesia block without the need of ancillary assistance. The invention includes equipment for use in the performance of a regional anesthesia block which is carried on a cart for transporting and providing a stable foundation for the equipment. The equipment includes a nerve localization means such as ultrasound or a peripheral nerve stimulator for locating a target nerve of a patient, a position assist arm for maintaining the position of the localization means over the target nerve while the operator inserts an anesthetic needle over the target nerve, and an anesthetic infusion device for infusing or aspirating through the anesthesia needle. The infusion device includes an infusion pump controlled by a foot pedal. The system may be easily transported to a patient requiring a regional anesthesia block, and allows the regional anesthesia block to be performed with minimal ancillary assistance.

Abstract: The present invention provides a puncture device and an administration device in which a puncture needle can be stuck certainly to a predetermined region of a skin. The puncture device and the administration device of the present invention are provided with a puncture needle moving means for retaining aforesaid puncture needle to be movable and a skin deforming means for deforming the skin, wherein it is constituted such that the puncture needle is moved by aforesaid puncture needle moving means and punctures the skin deformed by aforesaid skin deforming means.

Abstract: A sheet for guiding location of insulin injection has a sheet shape. The sheet has a first face and a second face opposite to the first face. A reference mark is formed at a first portion of the sheet to correspond to user's navel. A plurality of injection holes is formed at a second portion of the sheet opposite to the first portion to inject insulin, so that the insulin is injected at a left portion with respect to the reference mark by using the first face and the insulin is injected at a right portion with respect to the reference mark. A manual of the sheet is indicated on the first face and/or the second face. A day of a week is indicated corresponding to and adjacent to each of the injection holes. Thus, patient's convenience may be enhanced.

Abstract: The present invention is a Miniature Vein Enhancer that includes a Miniature Projection Head. The Miniature Projection Head may be operated in one of three modes, AFM, DBM, and RTM. The Miniature Projection Head of the present invention projects an image of the veins of a patient, which aids the practitioner in pinpointing a vein for an intravenous drip, blood test, and the like. The Miniature projection head may have a cavity for a power source or it may have a power source located in a body portion of the Miniature Vein Enhancer. The Miniature Vein Enhancer may be attached to one of several improved needle protectors, or the Miniature Vein Enhancer may be attached to a body similar to a flashlight for hand held use. The Miniature Vein Enhancer of the present invention may also be attached to a magnifying glass, a flat panel display, and the like.

Abstract: A selectively lockable introducer assembly is disclosed that comprises an introducer cannula and a needle guide. The introducer cannula is defined by a proximal end and a distal end and includes a lumen extending therebetween. The needle guide is defined by a body portion that includes at least one channel extending therethrough. The introducer cannula is configured to be selectively receivable within the at least one channel and the introducer cannula may be selectively lockable with respect to the needle guide such that the introducer cannula is selectively prevented from moving laterally with respect to the needle guide.

Abstract: Apparatuses and methods for performing and aiding venipuncture. The apparatuses of the present invention provide the medical practitioner with an improved tool for performing venipuncture methods. The apparatus preferably includes a handle that is connected to a plurality of tines that run roughly parallel to one another. During use, the tines of the apparatus are pressed against the skin of the patient such that they sit astride the vein to be accessed. The distance between the various tines of the present apparatuses varies so as to be able to accommodate a variety of vein widths. The apparatuses of the present invention may have tines at either one or both ends of the body of the apparatus. The apparatuses of the present invention may be used with a variety of vein accentuating devices, such as those that employ light to accentuate the vein to be punctured.

Abstract: The present invention is a Miniature Vein Enhancer that includes a Miniature Projection Head. The Miniature Projection Head may be operated in one of three modes, AFM, DBM, and RTM. The Miniature Projection Head of the present invention projects an image of the veins of a patient, which aids the practitioner in pinpointing a vein for an intravenous drip, blood test, and the like. The Miniature projection head may have a cavity for a power source or it may have a power source located in a body portion of the Miniature Vein Enhancer. The Miniature Vein Enhancer may be attached to one of several improved needle protectors, or the Miniature Vein Enhancer may be attached to a body similar to a flashlight for hand held use. The Miniature Vein Enhancer of the present invention may also be attached to a magnifying glass, a flat panel display, and the like.

Abstract: A method of marking the boundaries of at least one vessel with a vessel access marking for locating a vessel puncture access site to facilitate the introduction or withdrawal of fluid from the vein in connection with a medical procedure, the method comprising the steps of: designating an anatomical portion of an individual on which the medical procedure is performed; locating a vessel along the anatomical portion of the individual; applying a marking material to designate the boundaries of the vein, the marking material defining a region for vessel puncture access; cleansing an area proximate the vessel access marking and accessing the region of vessel puncture access using the vessel access marking as a visual reference.

Abstract: A needle biopsy guide system is disclosed for attachment to an endoluminal ultrasound probe or like sonographic instrument. The device includes a biopsy-guide attachment that allows for trocar catheter placement for abscess drainage or like procedures, using the transvaginal or transrectal route under sonographic control. The device has a base portion, which is attachable to an ultrasound probe. A removable retainer is provided that slides into the base unit to hold a biopsy needle in place. A physician may locate the target area in the body with the ultrasound probe, insert the biopsy needle into the target area, and then remove the insert (retainer) from the base unit and ultrasound probe, and leave the biopsy needle in place in the body.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a compression device for stimulating the efflux of a body fluid from a body part. The device has a compression unit with a pressure-application region made of a deformable material, the region being formed to generate a repulsive force between the body part and the compression unit. The repulsive force passes through a force maximum then decreases to serve as an indication that the body part is guided sufficiently firmly and far enough onto the compression unit.

Abstract: An injection device for injecting a product into an eye, said device comprising an injection needle and a support on which the injection needle is fixed, said device being characterized in that it comprises a locating mark disposed in such a way that the latter can be placed in contact with a defined bearing region of the surface of the eye, before any contact of the injection needle with said surface, and can then be kept in contact with said bearing region during a stage of penetration of said injection needle through said surface of the eye.

Abstract: This is a Rapid Local Anesthesia Linear Injection Device. It is made of a very simple triangular shaped piece of clear plastic with encased conduits connecting a flange on the tip of the cone where a Luer lock syringe can attach, and the base where there are a multiple tiny hypodermic needles protruding from the base of the triangle. The number of needles would be directly proportional to the length of the base of the device. It would be available in many sizes identified by the shape and the length of the base.

Abstract: A medical device adapted to a view one or more body passageways in a body portion.

Abstract: A template system for use in conjunction with a multiple reservoir or chambered implantable infusion pump is disclosed. The template system preferably includes at least one template having opening(s) for guiding a needle or syringe to various ports of the multiple reservoir pump. Preferably, each template includes at least two surfaces for cooperating with a like portions of the implantable pump, for properly seating the template on the pump. A kit is also disclosed including three templates for guiding injections into different ports of the pump.

Abstract: The present invention is a Miniature Vein Enhancer that includes a Miniature Projection Head. The Miniature Projection Head may be operated in one of three modes, AFM, DBM, and RTM. The Miniature Projection Head of the present invention projects an image of the veins of a patient, which aids the practitioner in pinpointing a vein for an intravenous drip, blood test, and the like. The Miniature projection head may have a cavity for a power source or it may have a power source located in a body portion of the Miniature Vein Enhancer. The Miniature Vein Enhancer may be attached to one of several improved needle protectors, or the Miniature Vein Enhancer may be attached to a body similar to a flashlight for hand held use. The Miniature Vein Enhancer of the present invention may also be attached to a magnifying glass, a flat panel display, and the like.

Abstract: The invention is an apparatus comprising of a syringe, a plunger and a circuit for the purpose of activating a light source to illuminate a target area for application of the contents of the syringe in low-light or no-light situations.

Abstract: Medical devices can be positioned within a patient by use of apparatus and methods according to the invention. The apparatus and methods permit insertion of the medical devices into various locations of the patient's body without requiring removal and reinsertion of already-inserted medical devices. The apparatus and methods are typically used to place medical devices into a male patient's urinary system to treat a disease or condition. The medical devices can be cryoablation probes that are inserted into the prostate gland to treat prostate cancer, for example.

Abstract: A safety enclosure for a Huber needle includes a needle housing and a panel unit. The panel unit includes a series of planar panels assembled in an enclosing arrangement defining an enclosed area and is movable between an installation position where the sharp outer end of the Huber needle projects from the panel unit and a safety position where the sharp outer end is covered by the panels. The Huber needle has an aft end and a fore end connected by a bend with the fore end including a sharp outer end.

Abstract: A system and method is provided for an injectable substance delivery device comprising a limiter, shoulder or post, that controls how deep the needle is inserted into the tissue. The limiter is sized in proportions that control the maximum insertion depth of the needle into the tissue without excessively restricting the complete insertion of the needle. The system and method further comprises an normalization or stabilizer ring that prevents distortion of the tissue in the vicinity of the infusion, so that the needle length is the major determining factor as to how deep the infusion is delivered.

Abstract: A liquid injector displays a plotting chart image whose vertical axis represents liquid injection rates and horizontal axis represents liquid injection times. When an injection graph which represents a liquid injection rate at each quantity of the liquid to be injected is entered into the displayed plotting chart image, the liquid injector controls operation of an injection performing means according to the injection graph and a time which has elapsed from the start of injection of the liquid. The rate at which the liquid is injected can thus be changed as desired with time according to the injection graph.

Abstract: Transcutaneous devices are disclosed that self-provide cues for exact location of transcutaneous insertion sites, exit sites, and/or the track of the device between the sites, as are methods and kits for using the transcutaenous devices to mark the sites and track of the device and for removing location cues.

Abstract: A guide for use in medical procedures involving the eye comprises a shield for protecting portions of a patient's eye, as well as guide apertures through which an instrument, such as a needle can be inserted. The guide is positioned on the patient's eye, and a visible alignment member, such as a central opening will align the guide relative to the cornea, exposed through this opening. The guide apertures would thus be positioned so that penetration of the eye would occur at a site where no damage to the eye, and especially to the lens, could not occur. The guide apertures extend through cylindrical members that will position a syringe and insure proper entry of the needle into the patient's eye.

Abstract: An injection device (100), provided for injection with an injection syringe (50) into an organism (1), comprises a guide device (10) designed to receive the injection syringe (50), wherein an injection needle (51) and a syringe body (52) of the injection syringe (50) can be moved relative to the guide device (10), in an advance movement towards or in a withdrawal movement away from the organism (1), and an actuating device (20) to which the injection syringe (50) can be coupled and which is used to actuate the injection syringe (50) for injection of an injectable substance into the organism (1), wherein the actuating device (20) has an actuating element (21) which forms an abutment for a piston device (53) of the injection syringe (50) on the guide device (10), in such a way that, during the withdrawal movement, the piston device (53) executes a relative movement counter to the injection needle (51) and the syringe body (52).

Abstract: An artery stabilizer device, which is held in place by a technician over a targeted artery using just one or two fingertips of the technician's hand, is provided for stabilizing the artery while the user inserts the needle of a syringe into the artery. A pair of stabilizer fingers, which protrude from the bottom surface of a finger-hold platform, hold the artery in place while the needle is inserted into the artery distal the tips of the stabilizer fingers. In one embodiment, a gauze pad is attached beneath the finger-hold platform, allowing the user to quickly apply a dressing over the wound created by the needle puncture. Another embodiment provides a needle guide between extended stabilizer fingers for stabilizing the needle during the arterial puncture. Each embodiment creates an augmented pulse at the targeted needle insertion site, making it easier for the technician to palpate the pulse there. Arterial line insertions can also be facilitated using this invention.

Abstract: A guide for use in medical procedures involving the eye comprises a shield for protecting portions of a patient's eye, as well as guide apertures through which an instrument, such as a needle can be inserted. The guide is positioned on the patient's eye, and a visible alignment member, such as a central opening will align the guide relative to the cornea, exposed through this opening. The guide apertures would thus be positioned so that penetration of the eye would occur at a site where no damage to the eye, and especially to the lens, could not occur. The guide apertures extend through cylindrical members that will position a syringe and insure proper entry of the needle into the patient's eye.

Abstract: A medical apparatus for an intra-articular injection or aspiration, the apparatus having a hollow piercing member through which fluid may pass, the piercing member having a first end adapted to pierce a patient, and a second end releasably secured to a body; a sensing means, wherein upon entering a cavity of the patient the sensor means senses the change in resistance at the first end of the piercing member which results when the first end of the piercing member enters the cavity.

Abstract: A self-contained, self-piercing, and side-expelling marking apparatus for percutaneously placing a imaging marker in a tissue mass.

Abstract: An ultrasonic probe with an ultrasonic head (K), which is arranged on or in a shaft (S) and is moveable with or in this shaft, and a positioning apparatus (P) for at least one examination or operating device is described, which is connected with the shaft. Also, medical operating apparatuses with examination probes and uses of the ultrasonic probe and the medical implements are described.

Abstract: A regional anesthesia system and a cart for aiding in the placement of a regional anesthesia block without the need of ancillary assistance. The invention includes equipment for use in the performance of a regional anesthesia block which is carried on a cart for transporting and providing a stable foundation for the equipment. The equipment includes a nerve localization means such as ultrasound or a peripheral nerve stimulator for locating a target nerve of a patient, a position assist arm for maintaining the position of the localization means over the target nerve while the operator inserts an anesthetic needle over the target nerve, and an anesthetic infusion device for infusing or aspirating through the anesthesia needle. The infusion device includes an infusion pump controlled by a foot pedal. The system may be easily transported to a patient requiring a regional anesthesia block, and allows the regional anesthesia block to be performed with minimal ancillary assistance.

Abstract: Intravitreal injection devices include an injection assembly adapted to receive an injector, and an alignment guide adapted to facilitate placement of the injector relative to a patient's eye for injecting an injectant therein. The injection assembly, in response to a user input, is adapted to automatically and sequentially first, translate the injector into the patient's eye, and then second, dispense the injectant from the injector. In some embodiments the injector is a typical syringe. Some embodiments are adapted to receive syringes having different configurations. Methods of injecting an injectant into a patient's eye are also provided.

Abstract: The invention in at least one embodiment includes a device having a hub, a housing, a cannula, and a needle where the relative positions of the hub and the housing controls the relative positions of the cannula and the needle. In at least one embodiment, the housing includes a pathway in which a pin on the hub travels through to allow for selection of the insertion depth of the needle relative to the cannula.

Abstract: A suction catheter assembly, particularly adapted for neonatal use includes a distal manifold body including a rotatable connector for connection to an endotracheal tube, a ventilating port member and an ancillary catheter receiving port member. The manifold body is rotatably joined to a catheter tube seal housing. The seal housing includes an irrigation port member. A catheter tube wiper seal and a filter member are disposed in the seal housing which is joined to a suction control valve assembly by an elongated flexible sheath defining an enclosed space through which the catheter tube extends between the valve assembly and the manifold. A resilient closure member actuator and slide lock member are engageable with a closure member of the valve assembly.

Abstract: A sheet for guiding location of insulin injection has a sheet shape. The sheet has a first face and a second face opposite to the first face. A reference mark is formed at a first portion of the sheet to correspond to user's navel. A plurality of injection holes is formed at a second portion of the sheet opposite to the first portion to inject insulin, so that the insulin is injected at a left portion with respect to the reference mark by using the first face and the insulin is injected at a right portion with respect to the reference mark. A manual of the sheet is indicated on the first face and/or the second face. A day of a week is indicated corresponding to and adjacent to each of the injection holes. Thus, patient's convenience may be enhanced.

Abstract: Embodiments of a needle insertion system and method are disclosed. One method embodiment includes transmitting a sound beam along an axis to contact a blood vessel; receiving the reflected sound beam from the blood vessel; processing the reflected sound beam to detect the location of the blood vessel; and, responsive to the detection, receiving a needle in a guideway that is oriented parallel to the axis.

Abstract: A catheter syringe conveyor with a needle guard housing is adapted to facilitate the insertion of a catheter into a targeted blood vessel. A catheter syringe is slidably situated within a hand-held housing structure; a syringe holder that is slidably connected to the housing allows a technician to maneuver the catheter syringe up and down within the housing. At least one stabilizer finger is attached to the bottom of the housing. After a blood vessel is penetrated by the needle of the catheter syringe, the technician maneuvers a catheter pusher to lower the catheter off of the needle and into the blood vessel. After the catheter is inserted, the technician is able to slide the catheter syringe back up within the housing to move the needle within the protective walls of the housing for safety, and a syringe lock holds it there securely for safekeeping.

Abstract: One embodiment having features of the invention is directed to a guide block for an MRI device which has a block body with a proximal face, a distal face, and four parallel passageways extending between the two faces. The first passageway is centrally disposed, the second passageway is disposed vertical or horizontal to the first, the third passageway is located diagonal to the first and has a longitudinal opening in fluid communication with the first passageway, and the fourth passageway is diagonal to the first and in an opposite side of the body from the third passageway. In an alternative embodiment the guide block has at least one passageway that is not parallel to the longitudinal axis.

Abstract: A template system for use in conjunction with a multiple reservoir or chambered implantable infusion pump is disclosed. The template system preferably includes at least one template having opening(s) for guiding a needle or syringe to various ports of the multiple reservoir pump. Preferably, each template includes at least two surfaces for cooperating with a like portions of the implantable pump, for properly seating the template on the pump. A kit is also disclosed including three templates for guiding injections into different ports of the pump.

Abstract: One embodiment having features of the invention is directed to a guide block for an MRI device which has a block body with a proximal face, a distal face, and four parallel passageways extending between the two faces. The first passageway is centrally disposed, the second passageway is disposed vertical or horizontal to the first, the third passageway is located diagonal to the first and has a longitudinal opening in fluid communication with the first passageway, and the fourth passageway is diagonal to the first and in an opposite side of the body from the third passageway. In an alternative embodiment the guide block has at least one passageway that is not parallel to the longitudinal axis.

Abstract: An adapter for use in puncture (a puncture adapter) for performing puncture while an ultrasonic image is being observed. The puncture adapter is composed of a holder for holding a probe which transmits and receives an ultrasonic wave, and a base unit for movably supporting the holder. A guide mechanism provided in the base unit guides a puncture needle. Moving the probe held in the holder moves a beam scan plane, and the intersection between the beam scan plane and a puncture route can be moved along the puncture route. The base unit functions as a seat which is brought into contact with a surface of a living body. A plurality of projecting legs may be provided on the base unit. The plurality of projecting legs are provided along the periphery of the movement region in which the wave transmitting and receiving surface of the probe moves.

Abstract: An automatic vaccinator of eggs, consisting of a system for applying vaccine with a vaccine chamber in which vaccine bags are hung and with an air bag that, when expanded, forces the vaccine from the bags and through tubing to a distribution manifold and the injectors, so that the vaccine is delivered to the eggs, is disclosed. A pressure sensor is installed in the distribution manifold and connected to a regulator, measuring the pressure in the distribution manifold at the point farthest from the vaccine chamber and controlling the pressure in the air bag to maintain a uniform quantity of vaccine being injected into the eggs and turning off the vaccinator if the pressure falls below a critical level, signaling that the vaccine bags are empty. The mechanical unit includes a system to support, align and secure the injectors over the egg tray, composed of two plates that work independently, a support plate and an alignment plate.

Abstract: The invention provides systems and methods for providing access to a target site. Example systems may include a needle, a grid to guide the needle, a plate with an aperture, a member coupled to the plate and including a semispherical surface, and a hub slideably coupled to the plate by a guide. The system may also include a needle coupled to the hub, the needle including a magnetically trackable sensor positioned in a tip of the needle. The semispherical surface can be positioned against skin of a body and the hub slid relative to the plate along the guide to insert the needle through the aperture in the plate into the body until the tip reaches a target site. The hub can be locked by a lock mechanism when the tip of the needle reaches the target site, and an action performed on the target site through the needle.

Abstract: The self-injection guide tablet for subcutaneous injections includes adhesively mounted templates with headings indicating a particular day and body injection area. Each template further includes a grid guide, designed to cover the body injection area, along with instructions for placing the grid guide on the particular body injection area. Each grid guide includes a plurality of injection grids, in column or row format, with indicia marking a predetermined injection grid. Upon removing the grid guide from the specific template, the predetermined injection grid remains on the template, so the vacated injection grid forms the injection area for the subcutaneous injection.

Abstract: A medical device adapted to a view one or more body passageways in a body portion.

Abstract: A template system for use in conjunction with a multiple reservoir or chambered implantable infusion pump is disclosed. The template system preferably includes at least one template having opening(s) for guiding a needle or syringe to various ports of the multiple reservoir pump. Preferably, each template includes at least two surfaces for cooperating with a like portions of the implantable pump, for properly seating the template on the pump. A kit is also disclosed including three templates for guiding injections into different ports of the pump.

Abstract: An intravitreal injection device for administering a pharmacological agent formulation to an intravitreal compartment of an eye, comprising (i) a nozzle member having an internal formulation chamber that is adapted to receive and contain the pharmacological agent formulation therein, (ii) a microneedle having a first end that is in communication with the nozzle member and a second ejection end, (iii) and piercing depth limiter means for limiting the penetration depth of the microneedle into the eye, the microneedle piercing depth limiter means including guide means for positioning the limiter means and guiding the microneedle.

Abstract: A delivery cannula for a site marker deployment device is disclosed. The delivery cannula comprises a cannula having a tubular sidewall and at least one slot intersecting through the side wall. Each slot is sized to have a predetermined width so as to be configured to receive at least one filament of a site marker. When the site marker is inserted into the delivery cannula, at least a portion of the filament extends outwardly from the cannula and through the slot. A deployment system is also disclosed.