Abstract: The disclosure is directed to an apparatus for preventing needle pricks and for safely disposing used intravenous needles. The apparatus comprises a longitudinal body, having first and second ends, an entry and closure mechanism on the first end and an aperture on the second end of the longitudinal body, and a pulling structure which passes through the interior and both ends of the longitudinal body. The pulling structure is attachable to an intravenous needle. The other end of the pulling structure may be attached to a syringe or blood-drawing device. A user pulls on the pulling structure to draw the intravenous needle into the longitudinal body after use. The entry and closure mechanism prevents the needle from exiting the longitudinal body after it becomes disposed within the longitudinal body. The longitudinal body, containing the needle within, can then be disposed of.

Abstract: A package for a catheter includes a main housing compartment for housing a distal section of an intravascular catheter. The main housing compartment has an opening allowing removal of the catheter therethrough and includes a first section for housing a distal end portion of the catheter which has at least one port. The first section further includes an absorbent member for absorbing a fluid flowing out through the catheter at least one port. The main housing compartment also includes a second section for housing the catheter central section and a sheath that is mounted thereon. The second section is located at a higher elevation than the first section to ensure that all of the fluid used to flush the catheter remains in the first section. A cover layer seals the main housing compartment from micro-organisms and particles in the surrounding environment but is removable to expose the catheter. A catheter proximal end holding section holds the proximal end of the catheter.

Abstract: A disposable indwelling catheter placement unit includes a transparent plastic catheter for insertion into a blood vessel having depth indicating graduations thereon. The catheter is freely slidable into a transparent plastic tubular sheath having a slit line there along. The unit has a transparent inserter having an inner tube connected to a front portion of the inserter. The sheath tube is releasable from around the catheter responsive to movement through the inserter. By pushing the sheath tube forward into the inserter with the fingers while holding the inserter with other fingers, or pulling the split sheath from the inserter, the catheter can be pushed into the blood vessel up to a desired depth while maintaining sterility.

Abstract: A syringe needle assembly including a needle having at least one point for use in a syringe assembly, including a needle shaft with at least one point at one end for entering the patient and one end for engaging the syringe, and a puncture-proof sheath surrounding a major portion of the needle shaft and normally extending substantially the entire length of the shaft while leaving said needle point exposed, the sheath including at least one radially expanded inner portion joined by a portion attached to said shaft, the radially expanded portion being axially compressible to force the sheath to slide in the direction of said point along said shaft to extend beyond and non-retractably cover said point. The present invention is specifically adapted to sheath a single pointed or double pointed needle.

Abstract: An intravascular delivery device (10) for inserting and withdrawing a thin, elongate probe (12) through a catheter (14). The delivery device (10) includes a fitting (18) connected to a flexible guide tube (15) and a delivery assembly (20) comprising a fixed inner sleeve (22) and a slidable outer actuator sleeve (24). The fitting (18) has an internal axial bore into which a seal (28) is placed. The seal (28) has a cone-shaped forward end (31) and an internal axial bore through which the cable (11) slidably passes. The outer sleeve (24) has its proximal end (26) affixed to the larger cable insulation (17) that is joined to the sheath (16) of the cable (11). A first ring (38) affixed to the cable (11) and a second ring (40) affixed to the proximal end (36) of the inner strain relief sleeve (22) cooperate to limit movement of the outer actuator sleeve ( 24) as it is slid over the inner strain relief sleeve (22) away from the fitting (18).

Abstract: A novel suction catheter assembly received and removably stopper-sealed within an outer sheath holder adapted to be mounted in a fixed location to obviate inadvertent discharge of fluids after use and accidental slipping onto the floor and similar present-day mishaps.

Abstract: This invention provides a catheter for nasogastric intubation comprises a tube for nasogastric intubation and a plastic separator, said tube for nasogastric intubation consisting of a catheter and a plastic sheath tube having a longitudinal tear-off line over full length thereof together with elasticity and rigidity slightly larger than those of said catheter inserted slidably thereinto, and said separator for splitting said sheath tube fixing said tube at the vicinity of a nostril.

Abstract: A device for removing monitoring tubes, especially nasogastric tubes, which have come in contact with bodily secretions from hospitalized patients, in a sanitary manner using a plastic housing canister open at both ends in which is affixed a long, thin plastic sheath. The device is used by removing the attached cap and introducing the free end of the monitoring tube into the mouth of the canister and then into the blind tip of the fully retracted sheath. One hand grasps the indwelling tube by grasping the surrounding sheath and the tube and gently pulling the sheath and tube to its fullest extension. The completely encased tube remains in the sheath and the cap is replaced over the canister for disposal in a sanitary fashion.

Abstract: A completely disposable apparatus of single unit construction designed for operative use in conjunction with a transvaginal ultrasound probe when performing transvaginal surgical procedures with ultrasonic guidance. This invention consists of a probe covering sheath containing a probe securing mechanism, an instrument or needle guide, and an ultrasound cable sleeve. When this unit is surgically sterilized and applied to the transvaginal ultrasound probe it provides an uninterrupted covering that permits the ultrasound probe and cable to be introduced into a sterile operative field while at the same time eliminating contamination of the ultrasound equipment with body fluids. Embodiments of the present invention provide a sterile plastic sheath to cover the transvaginal ultrasound probe during daily non-operative diagnostic examinations and a durable plastic sheath that when fitted over the transvaginal ultrsound probe protects it from accidental damage during storage.

Abstract: The invention provides an universally applicable transfer device for material such animal sperm or embryos to be implanted, having a catheter covered by a sleeve which is generally discarded after use and which is detachably held in place by a clamp, more especially an eccentric gripping device at the proximal end of the catheter. The design of the sleeve end is unimportant. At the distal end the sleeve tapers conically and externally it has a shaped member securing the conical form and a rounded form. The shaped member is mounted on the wall material of the sleeve. The external shaped member may be supplemented by an internal shaped member so that the distal sleeve end is gripped between the two. A cutting means integrated in the device ensures that the cartridges are cut accurately in the desired plane.

Abstract: A dispenser comprising a base and a reel rotatably mounted on the base. An elongated flexible member which is to be dispensed is wound on the reel, and a housing is provided for the reel and the flexible member. Interlocking members on the reel and the housing hold the reel against rotation in the housing. The reel has first and second sets of radially extending fingers at the periphery of the reel, with the first set of fingers being inclined relative to the second set of fingers. The flexible member is wound on the reel between the first and second sets of fingers.

Abstract: An improvement in a catheter assembly including a cannula, an inserter having a guide channel therethrough in which the cannula slidably fits and a hub structure with the cannula proximal end portion attached to the hub structure. The improvement includes a sheath having a longitudinal slit or weakened portion and being about the cannula between the inserter and the hub structure. A sheath stripping construction carried by the inserter strips the sheath from about the cannula as the cannula slides distally through the guide channel. A first lock member is carried by the inserter and an interlocking second lock member is located about the cannula between the inserter and the hub structure. The cannula is protected from contamination and from kinking and a positive lock serves to prevent its accidental withdrawal. A method of inserting a cannula using such an assembly is likewise set forth.

Abstract: A ventilating and aspirating assembly comprising an aspirating catheter tube internally disposed within and coextensive with a surrounding flexible collapsible sterility preserving film envelope, a connector by which ventilating air is involuntarily delivered to and exhausted from the lungs of a medical patient, said connector comprising structure which accommodates the manual insertion of the catheter tube into and manual removal from the trachea/bronchi patient through the connector. This facilitates aspiration of undesired respiratory fluids.

Abstract: Equipment is disclosed for shielding a catheter such as a balloon-tipped vascular catheter from contamination during testing and insertion and for shielding a substantial reserve catheter section for use if catheter re-positioning is necessary. As shown, the structure includes two interconnecting envelopes which physically isolate the catheter. One envelope is designed to shield the distal end portion of the catheter during testing for luman patency and balloon inflation. The other envelope is extendible to cover the entire length of catheter intended for insertion into the patent upon completion of required tests. The second envelope thereafter provides a means for advancement or re-positioning of the catheter or withdrawal of the same without physical contact by the hands or exposure to airborne contaminants.

Abstract: A suction tube is adapted to receive an enteral feeding catheter through its lumen and has a longitudinally splittable wall to allow the suction tube to be removed from a patient while leaving the feeding catheter in place. In a modified embodiment, the suction tube has a second longitudinally extending lumen in the wall thereof which may be used for air bleed, sample aspiration and delivery of medication.

Abstract: A penile-cup of a character that has an open expanded upper end and an open lower constricted end forming a passageway to receive a penile catheter therethrough. The lower constricted end can be constricted about the catheter to prevent fluid leakage and restrain the catheter from upriding in the urethral canal and into the bladder. The preferred structure includes one or more adhesive coated elements extending from the expanded upper end of the penile-cup to afford securement of the penile-cup to the penile-shaft.

Abstract: An aspirating device includes a flexible catheter having a proximal first end, a distal second portion including a second end and a passageway therethrough. The catheter is adapted for insertion into the trachea of a patient and includes at least one aperture in the second portion for allowing fluid communication between the exterior of the catheter and the passageway. A housing includes a proximal end having a proximal opening, a distal end having a distal opening and a side wall therebetween defining a conduit in the housing. The catheter is positioned in the proximal opening and capable of passing through the distal opening. A catheter connector fitting on the housing is provided for connecting the first end of the catheter to the housing.

Abstract: The present invention provides a catheter for nasogastric intubation comprising a plastic sheath tube and a fixing means of said tube at nose, said tube having a longitudinal tear-off line over the full length thereof and having elasticity and rigidity slightly larger than those of said catheter, said catheter being inserted entirely in said plastic sheath tube slidably.

Abstract: The pacing lead stylet includes a proximal end, a stylet wire, a decreasing taper, a flat, an increasing taper and a tip. The decreasing taper is connected to the stylet wire and extends in a distal direction away from the wire distal end for a decreasing taper distance. The decreasing taper has a decreasing cross section which is reduced from the stylet cross sectional area to a decreased cross sectional area at a decreasing taper distal end of the decreasing taper. The flat is connected to the decreasing taper and extends in a distal direction away from the decreasing taper distal end for a flat distance to a flat distal end. The increasing taper is connected to the flat and extends in a distal direction away from the flat distal end for an increasing taper distal. The increasing taper has an increasing cross section from the minimum extension to the stylet cross section area.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for aspirating secreted fluids from a wound is disclosed which involves the placement of a drain into a wound via the tissue adjacent the wound. After the wound is closed, a secretion aspiration and collection device, which is connected to the drain via a tube, is placed into operation. The device is designed to have a suction effect controlled between a minimum value and a maximum value according to the quantity of secreted fluid to be aspirated. This is achieved by one or more sensors which control a tube pump. When a second sensor is used, the pump will not be shut off by a passing air bubble in the fluid. A sleeve may also be provided to facilitate introduction of the drain into the wound. Additionally, a needle may be detachably connected to the sleeve to aid the insertion of the sleeve.

Abstract: A flexible plastic catheter extends from a distal end of a rigid plastic housing. An elastomeric seal at the distal end of the housing tightly fits within the housing and grips in its bore a stylet. The stylet has a sharp distal end and an enlarged proximal end which receives a distal end of a plastic tube within the housing. The stylet is slideable within the elastic seal. In an extended position, the stylet distal end extends beyond a distal end of the catheter and the proximal end abuts the elastomeric seal. In a retracted position, the elastomeric seal grips the catheter near its distal end and the proximal end abuts a constriction in the proximal end of the housing. In that retracted position, the tubing, the stylet and the catheter form a fluid flow path.

Abstract: A novel endoscopic intubator which permits atraumatic intubation through the cricopharyngeal sphincter of the esophagus without risk of perforation of the esophagus or pharynx. The intubator of the present invention comprises a deformable hood for shielding and carrying the distal end of the endoscope, the hood having two deformable leaves which define a pocket for receiving the distal end, an elongaed conduit joined to the hood for external manipulation of the hood, the length of conduit being at least coextensive with the length of the shaft of the endoscope so that a proximal end of the conduit protrudes from the patient's mouth, and an annular gripping member secured to the proximal end of the conduit to permit an endoscopist to slidably withdraw the hood from the distal end.

Abstract: The catheter protective shield is used to protect a flow directed catheter of the type used in the measurement of central venous pressure and pulmonary wedge pressure. The cathetershield assembly includes front and rear hubs sized to permit movement of the catheter therethrough and an external support tube for interconnecting the front and rear hubs. A flexible protective sleeve interconnects the two hubs. The protective sleeve is substantially longer than the external support tube and is collapsible to permit interconnection of the hubs by the external support tube and may be extended to shield a substantial length of catheter.

Abstract: A cholangiogram cannula of flexible plastics has an enlarged olive close to its patient end. A transparent sleeve of polyethylene is a close sliding fit along the cannula between the olive and a connector at the machine end of the cannula. The cannula is graduated along its length, the graduations being visible through the sleeve. In use, the sleeve is slid forwards against the olive to provide a reinforced gripping site by which the cannula can be gripped between finger and thumb or by forceps. The patient end of the cannula is manipulated into an incision made in the cystic duct and the sleeve is then slid rearwardly and the cystic duct sealed about the cannula to the rear of the olive.

Abstract: A machine for reprocessing catheters of the type having a double lumen, one of which leads to a balloon. A used catheter is sealed within a cassette which in turn is connected by multiple ports to a cleaning side of the machine. Cleaning solution is flushed through the inside and outside of the catheter. The balloon integrity is tested by adding step wise volume additions and monitoring the pressure. The data generated is compared to a standard curve for new catheters. The cleaned, sterile catheter is then rinsed to remove all traces of sterilant. Sterile saline is alternatively flushed through the cassette and catheter. The balloon is again tested for leaks. No portion of the rinse side of the machine requires sterilizing except for the disposable tubing set and saline source. The rinsed, clean and sterile catheter is removed from the cassette for reuse.

Abstract: A dispenser comprising a base and a reel rotatably mounted on the base. An elongated flexible member which is to be dispensed is wound on the reel, and a housing is provided for the reel and the flexible member. Interlocking members on the reel and the housing hold the reel against rotation in any direction in the housing until the housing is removed from the base. The reel has first and second sets of radially extending fingers at the periphery of the reel, with the first set of fingers being inclined relative to the second set of fingers. The flexible member is wound on the reel between the first and second sets of fingers.

Abstract: An indwelling urinary catheter having semi-rigid tubular portions for holding open the entrance of the bladder and the urethral exit and a collapsible tubular portion extending through the urethra. The collapsible tube is closed by the normal urethral mechanism and opened upon the flow of urine, thus blocking bacterial migration into the body and avoiding abnormal, continuous distention of the urethra and consequent discomfort to the patient. Avoided, as well, is the transmission of infection occasioned by the sliding motion of rigid-tube catheters within the urethra.

Abstract: A ventilating and aspirating assembly comprising an aspirating catheter tube internally disposed within and coextensive with a surrounding flexible collapsible sterility preserving film envelope, a connector by which ventilating air is involuntarily delivered to and exhausted from the lungs of a medical patient, said connector comprising structure which accommodates the manual insertion of the catheter tube into and manual removal from the trachea/bronchi patient through the connector. This facilitates aspiration of undesired respiratory fluids.

Abstract: This invention provides a surgical wound drain device which is adapted for postoperative multiphasic suction withdrawal of physiological fluids and coagulated solids and tissue debris from a wound cavity in a closed drainage system.The drain device consists of an inner catheter member, and an outer tubular member which has one or more thin pliable strips extending form the distal end periphery. The catheter withdraws accumulated body fluids in a postoperative first stage. The catheter is removed, and the remaining outer tubular member with its extended pliable strips is adapted to withdraw body fluids and coagulated solids and tissue debris in a second stage over an extended period.

Abstract: An aspirating device includes a flexible catheter having a proximal portion including a proximal end, a distal portion including a distal end and a passageway therethrough. The catheter is adapted for insertion into the trachea of a patient and includes at least one aperture in its distal portion for allowing fluid communication between the exterior of the catheter and the passageway. A patient housing includes a proximal first end having a first opening, a distal second end having a second opening and a side wall therebetween defining a cavity in the patient housing. The catheter is positioned in the first opening and capable of passing through the second opening.

Abstract: The present invention provides an intubation assembly for nasogastric intubation comprising a catheter and a plastic sheath tube for encasing the catheter along substantially the full length thereof, the sheath tube having a longitudinal tear-off line over the full length thereof and having elasticity and rigidity slightly greater than the catheter which is slidably inserted in the sheath tube.

Abstract: An intravenous needle with a sharpened distal end has a proximal end fixed within a first enlarged end of an inner tube. The enlarged end of the inner tube is held tightly within a first end of an outer tube by friction. The needle passes through a constricted opening in the first end of the outer tube. The second end of the inner tube passes through a constricted opening in the second end of the outer tube. The needle is used by gripping soft plastic wings on the outer tube and removing a needle cover from a nipple on the first end of the outer tube. The needle is then inserted in the desired location and the outer tube and a protruding end of the inner tube are taped in place. Fluids are permitted to flow through the inner tube and needle. When use is complete, the needle is removed from the vein, the protruding end of the inner tube is pulled outward, pulling the first end of the inner tube and the needle into the outer tube.

Abstract: A catheter system is provided for the introduction and placement of a flexible catheter into the lumen of an artery or vein. A guide wire is provided and is kept in a sterile condition within a flexible bag-like enclosure attached to the hub of a needle. The needle is hollow and is sharpened in the usual manner and is secured in a hub to provide a needle assembly. This hub is provided with a skirt and extends through this hub and into flow communication with a "flashback" chamber. In one embodiment, the needle is connected to a tubular member having a transverse hole near its interior end, and in another embodiment the needle's inner end is in flow communication with a channel or annular groove in a centering plug. In every embodiment, there is a centering plug which provides a guideway for the guide wire which is positioned in this guideway to prevent fluid flow.

Abstract: A urinary catheter assembly having a catheter tube disposed within an outer sheath, a closure member being provided over the distal end of the sheath. Penetration of the catheter assembly into the urethra is limited by the provision of a stop member extending outwardly from the sheath and spaced from the sheath's distal end by a specific distance to allow the sheath to pass bacteria in the outer portion of the urethra, but penetrate no further.

Abstract: A catheter system is provided for the introduction and placement of a flexible catheter into the lumen of an artery or vein. A guide wire is provided and is kept in a sterile condition within a flexible bag-like enclosure attached to the hub of a needle. The needle is hollow and is sharpened in the usual manner and is secured in a hub to provide a needle assembly. This hub is provided with a skirt and extends through this hub and into flow communication with a "flashback" chamber. In one embodiment, the needle has a side transverse hole in its interior end, and in another embodiment the needle's inner end is in flow communication with a tapered recess in the needle hub which provides a guideway for the guide wire which, when it enters the needle, prevents blood flow. The guide wire is manipulated forwardly by grasping the wire through the bag-like enclosure and advanced forwardly by "feel" and into the lumen after penetration has been made as indicated by the "flashback.

Abstract: A ventilating and aspirating assembly comprising an aspirating catheter tube internally disposed within and coextensive with a surrounding flexible collapsible sterility preserving film envelope, a connector by which ventilating air is involuntarily delivered to and exhausted from the lungs of a medical patient, said connector comprising structure which accommodates the manual insertion of the catheter tube into and manual removal from the trachea/bronchi patient through the connector. This facilitates aspiration of undesired respiratory fluids.

Abstract: A flexible sheath assembly for an indwelling catheter is provided which maintains the sterility of an otherwise exposed portion of an indwelling catheter so that the depth of insertion of the catheter within a body may be adjusted without causing contamination. The assembly includes a transparent flexible sheathing which is sealingly secured at its ends to front and rear hubs each having a passageway therethrough which is sized to permit passage of a catheter. The flexible sheathing is longitudinally expandable from a collapsed position wherein the sheathing is twisted about an axis substantially parallel to the length of the sheath. The flexible sheathing in the collapsed position defines a central passageway which is aligned with the front and rear hub passageways for permitting the catheter to be guided through the interior of the flexible sheathing as it is passed between the front and rear hubs.

Abstract: A culture collection instrument for use in animal husbandry includes a tubular swab holder adapted to receive an elongated rod having a swab element on its end and a tubular swab protector adapted to receive and hold the tubular swab holder. The tubular swab protector includes a scored portion thereon a predetermined distance from the end of the swab protector such that flexing of the swab protector predeterminely breaks the swab protector and swab element from the elongated rod to provide a sealed tubular holder for the cultured swab element.

Abstract: A ventilating and aspirating assembly comprising an aspirating catheter tube internally disposed within and coextensive with a surrounding flexible collapsible sterility preserving film envelope, a connector by which ventilating air is involuntarily delivered to and exhausted from the lungs of a medical patient, said connector comprising structure which accommodates the manual insertion of the catheter tube into and manual removal from the trachea/bronchi patient through the connector. This facilitates aspiration of undesired respiratory fluids.

Abstract: Catheter introducing device for inserting a dilatation catheter into a guiding catheter having a flexible tubular member formed of a flexible material. The tubular member has a spiral cut extending longitudinally throughout the entire length of the tubular member. A pull member is secured to the tubular member to facilitate removal of the device after it has been utilized for introducing the dilatation catheter into the guiding catheter.

Abstract: A transparent intravascular catheter preparation and dispensing container assembly has a main housing compartment with an opening detachably covered to permit the hand to remove part of the catheter therefrom with a bumper, which can be rotatable, to prevent catheter crimping, and basin beneath a catheter port to enhance liquid visibility; and has a connector compartment housing the more proximal catheter portion which is detachably covered to allow hand removal of the catheter portion therefrom, with a slotted washer mounted between said compartments to receive the catheter; a transparent glove surrounding a more distal catheter section with pleated sections of alternating sizes; a proximal glove washer with distal funnel bore to facilitate catheter retraction and a tapered proximal exterior to facilitate taping it to the catheter after catheter insertion; a distal glove collar with a catheter guide tube mounted therein; a trough housing the glove at an upward angle, trough chambers covered by detachable lid

Abstract: A device for sterile storage of a catheter (11) and sterile advancing thereof a given length directly in a blood vessel, the device comprising a connecting piece (13), which is connectable both to a cannula and to a transparent, flexible protective sheath (15), in particular a plastic bag, enclosing the catheter. In order to allow continuous reading of the fed out catheter length the protective sheath (15) is equipped with a length scale (17), which has its highest value nearest the connecting piece (13) and which is made so that the reading of the length scale against the remaining length of the catheter in the protective sheath corresponds to the fed out length of the catheter. Further means (23;31;32;33) are provided which allow withdrawal of the protective sheath from wrinkled position to stretched position without bringing the catheter (11) with it.

Abstract: An elongated aspirating needle guide made of flexible plastic such as polypropylene and an elongated flexible aspirating needle having a medial plastic tubular portion made of PVC and terminating at ends with metallic needle portions. The guide has a base portion and an upper portion and has an elongated opening through the upper portion which receives the elongated aspirating needle. The opening in the elongated guide terminates short of the distal end of the guide. The base portion of the guide is wider than the upper portion and the base portion also extends distally from the upper portion. The distal end of the base portion is adapted to overlie the inner surface of the operator's finger adjacent the distal end of the finger of the operator who will utilize the device so that the flexible base portion protects the inner surface of the finger while being sufficiently thin enough to allow tactile palpation to be conducted through the distal end of the base portion.

Abstract: A flexible sheath assembly for an indwelling catheter is provided which maintains the sterility of an otherwise exposed portion of an indwelling catheter so that the depth of insertion of the catheter within a body may be adjusted without causing contamination. The assembly includes a transparent flexible sheathing which is sealingly secured at its ends to front and rear hubs each having a passageway therethrough which is sized to permit passage of a catheter. The flexible sheathing is longitudinally expandable from a collapsed position wherein the sheathing is twisted about an axis substantially parallel to the length of the sheath. The flexible sheathing in the collapsed position defines a central passageway which is aligned with the front and rear hub passageways for permitting the catheter to be guided through the interior of the flexible sheathing as it is passed between the front and rear hubs.

Abstract: A catheter system is provided for the introduction and placement of a flexible catheter into the lumen of an artery or vein. A guide wire is provided and is kept in a sterile condition within a flexible bag-like enclosure attached to the hub of a needle. The needle cannula is hollow and is sharpened in the usual manner and is secured in a hub to provide a needle assembly. This hub is provided with a skirt and the cannula extends through this hub and into flow communication with a "flashback" indicator. In one embodiment the cannula is formed with a transverse hole near its interior end and in the other embodiment the cannula's inner end is in flow communication with a channel and then to a longitudinal or annular groove in a centering plug. In every embodiment there is a centering plug which provides a guideway for the guide wire which is positioned in this guideway to prevent fluid flow. The guidewire is manipulated forwardly into the lumen after penetration has been made as indicated by the "flashback".

Abstract: Disclosed is a shield assembly for a catheter particularly useful for the protection of flow directed catheters used in the measurement of central venous pressure and pulmonary wedge pressure. The shield assembly includes front and rear hubs each with a central passage sized to permit movement of a catheter therethrough and a feed tube for interconnecting the front and rear hubs. The feed tube has a lumen extending between the passage and the hubs for guiding a catheter passed through the rear hub and out through the front hub. A flexible sheath interconnects the two hubs. The sheath is substantially longer than the feed tube and is collapsible to permit interconnection of the two hubs by the feed tube for catheter guidance during feeding of the catheter through the rear hub, through the feed tube and through the front hub and is extendable to shield a substantial length of catheter from contamination when the front and rear hubs are separated.

Abstract: A sterile assembly and method for protecting and affixing an indwelling device such as an elongated catheter, or pacer lead, in an incision in the human body includes an elongated, hollow tubular, sheath of transparent, relatively limp, impervious plastic having at its proximal end a dome of self-supporting plastic adherable around the incision and having, at its distal end, an elongated tube, several inches in length, of self-supporting plastic. The sheath is shipped accordion folded onto the tube to save space. The indwelling device is sleeved into the sheath with the conventional nub at its distal end wedged in the bore. The proximal end is introduced into the incision and the domed distal end of the sheath is adhered around the incision so that the device is contamination free. The device and sheath are then gripped in the slot of a clamp and the clamp adhered to the body near the incision or elsewhere.