Body Entering Conduit Axially Movable Within Flexible Protective Sheath Facilitating Sterile Insertion Into Body Duct Patents (Class 604/171)
  • Publication number: 20080086108
    Abstract: A device to facilitate the administration of an injection to a patient can comprise a hand piece that comprises of a core and a sheath. The core can comprise of a needle assembly and a thumb piece, and the sheath can enclose a portion of the core, at least in some configurations. In some embodiments, the hand piece can comprise of at least one releasable locking mechanism to enable the sheath to lock onto the core in different positions, particularly a safe position in which the needle assembly is enclosed within the sheath and an exposed position in which the needle is exposed from the sheath. A fluid connection within the core connects the needle assembly with a fluid source outside the core. The user can grip the hand piece by supporting their thumb on the thumb piece and positioning the hand piece between the user's two non-thumb fingers. Thus, the user can employ a traditional one-hand grip corresponding to the use of a manual dental syringe.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 4, 2007
    Publication date: April 10, 2008
    Inventors: Michael I. Falkel, Matthew J. Stepovich
  • Publication number: 20080039797
    Abstract: An infection-preventing gastrostomy catheter kit to be used in the gastrostomy, which can pass an intragastric retainer of a catheter easily and reliably through an infection-preventing sheath by an easy maneuver, and which can reduce the diameter of the infection-preventing sheath. The catheter kit comprises: a gastrostomy catheter 20 including a flexible, hollow PEG tube 21 reinforced with filaments 24, an deformable intragastric retainer 23 positioned at the trailing end of the PEG tube 21, and a tapered member 22 positioned at the leading end of the PEG tube 21 for retaining the leading end portion 40a of a guide wire 40 inserted from a leading end hole 22a thereof; and an infection-preventing sheath 1 including a flexible, hollow tubular body 2, and a socket member having a socket 4 positioned at the trailing end of the tubular body 2 for retaining the intragastric retainer 23, and pins 5, thereby removably sheathing the gastrostomy catheter 20.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 3, 2005
    Publication date: February 14, 2008
    Applicants: SHERWOOD SERVICES AG, NIPPON SHERWOOD MEDICAL INDUSTRIES, LTD.
    Inventors: Kazuhiro Abe, Nobuaki Suzuki, Shigeaki Funamura
  • Patent number: 7326189
    Abstract: A protector sheath for winged needle capable of accommodating a winged needle having a needle tube with a sharp blade edge, a hub firmly attached to a proximal end portion of the needle tube, and a wing provided on the hub is provided. The protector sheath has a cylindrical main body, at least one slit is provided in a side wall of the main body, a proximal end portion of the slit is provided so as to be parallel to the axis of the main body, and a distal end portion of the slit is provided so as to extend in a direction which is not parallel to the axial direction of the main body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2008
    Assignee: Nipro Corporation
    Inventor: Takeshi Mori
  • Publication number: 20080009799
    Abstract: A sleeve may be used on a balloon catheter for several purposes, including protecting, forming and shaping the balloon, and also to reduce the balloon profile. A resilient protection sleeve may have a generally tubular structure, with one or more wings extending radially outward that act as resilient clamps. The tubular portion(s) extending between the wings may have an arcuate cylindrical shape, or any other tubular shape. The wings may also act as handles, to facilitate removal of the sleeve from the balloon catheter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2006
    Publication date: January 10, 2008
    Inventor: Reinder N. Lap
  • Publication number: 20070173764
    Abstract: A covered yankauer suction device is protectable from contamination after use. The covered yankauer suction device includes a yankauer having a suction tip at a first end and a connector at a second end. A retractable sleeve partially encloses the yankauer. One end of the retractable sleeve is secured to the yankauer while the opposite end of the retractable sleeve is secured to a valve. The valve includes a cross-cut that enables the valve to open when the suction tip of the yankauer pushes against the underside of the cross-cut.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 24, 2006
    Publication date: July 26, 2007
    Inventors: Dale F. Greeson, Marc A. Lessem, Patricia M. Risty, Alberto C. Savage, Earl D. Wilson
  • Patent number: 7195615
    Abstract: A system for providing medical device with anti-microbial properties to prevent infections. The system includes a medical device having a portion for insertion into the body of a patient, a lumen, and a substrate comprising an anti-microbial agent to be inserted into the lumen of the medical device. To protect the substrate from anti-microbial agents during insertion into the lumen, the system further includes a collapsible cover connected to the substrate. A connector can be used for attaching the substrate to the cover. The substrate may be an iodine-based rod. A guidewire may be attached to the connector to further facilitate insertion of the substrate into the lumen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2007
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.
    Inventor: Sharon Mi Lyn Tan
  • Patent number: 7191900
    Abstract: The invention is a medical guide wire containment and dispensing device. The device is of unitary construction and defines a single, generally annular opening that receives the guide wire. Preferably, the device includes a mount for retaining a guide-wire torque device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2007
    Assignee: JS Vascular, Inc.
    Inventors: John C. Opie, Stephen J. Joyce, Thomas Izdebski
  • Patent number: 7189222
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for treating Alzheimer's disease is disclosed. The method comprises delivering indomethacin or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents having cyclooxygenase inhibitor action directly to the hippocampus or the lateral ventricle through an implanted catheter. The catheter has a flexible distal end that is implanted directly in the hippocampus or lateral ventricle as the preferred embodiment. The distal end has either a porous tip or a closed end. Where the distal end is closed, or a plurality of elution holes are present indomethacin is delivered to the hippocampus or lateral ventricle through either the porous tip or the elution holes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2007
    Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.
    Inventor: Dennis D. Elsberry
  • Patent number: 7175610
    Abstract: A protector sheath for winged needle capable of accommodating a winged needle having a needle tube with a sharp blade edge, a hub firmly attached to a proximal end portion of the needle tube, and a wing provided on the hub is provided. The protector sheath has a cylindrical main body, at least one slit is provided in a side wall of the main body, a proximal end portion of the slit is provided so as to be parallel to the axis of the main body, and a distal end portion of the slit is provided so as to extend in a direction which is not parallel to the axial direction of the main body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2007
    Assignee: Nipro Corporation
    Inventor: Takeshi Mori
  • Patent number: 7175609
    Abstract: Syringes and methods of using are described which protect the syringe barrel cavity from contaminants. A first syringe is formed with a corrugated sheath which encloses the plunger and space between the rearward end face surface of the syringe barrel handle member and the forward face of the plunger handle member. A second syringe is formed with a syringe barrel having a straight segment and a corrugated segment having the forward face of the plunger handle member molded to the rearward terminus of the corrugated segment of the syringe barrel. A third syringe is formed from mating syringe barrel and plunger member walls. The walls of the mating syringe barrel and plunger member are concentric and slide relative to each other while maintaining an enclosure around the plunger shaft. A fourth syringe is formed from inner and outer concentric syringe barrel walls mating with the walls of a plunger member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2007
    Inventor: Robin Scott Gray
  • Patent number: 7150725
    Abstract: A shieldable needle device including a needle cannula, a hub, a pair of wings extending laterally from opposing sides of the hub, a tip guard axially movable along the needle cannula from a proximal position substantially adjacent the hub to a distal position, and a drive member is disclosed. The drive member includes a first end connected to the hub and a second end connected to the tip guard and is extendable between a folded biased position and an extended position for moving the tip guard from the proximal position to the distal position. The pair of wings, when in a dorsal position, retain the drive member in the folded biased position maintaining the tip guard in a proximal position. Upon release of the wings, the drive member unfolds, extending the tip guard from the proximal position toward the distal position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2006
    Assignee: Becton Dickinson and Company
    Inventor: Bradley Wilkinson
  • Patent number: 7130700
    Abstract: A splined multilumen body for use in elongated medical devices is provided for carrying multiple conductors, wires or cables to multiple device components along the device body. Open lumens may be provided through which medical devices or therapies may be delivered. The multilumen body is constructed from a generally tubular outer member having inward-radiating splines that mate with outward-radiating splines on a generally tubular inner member. Lumens formed between sets of mated splines isolate conductors carried therein. Interaction of mated splines provides good torque transfer between outer and inner members. Materials for fabricating outer and inner members may be selected to achieve desired torque transfer properties, flexibility, and surface friction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2006
    Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth C. Gardeski, Michael R. Leners
  • Patent number: 7077826
    Abstract: Syringes and methods of using are described which protect the syringe barrel cavity from contaminants. A first syringe is formed with a corrugated sheath or non-corrugated sheath which is positioned internal or external to the syringe barrel cavity. A second syringe is formed with a syringe barrel having a straight segment and a corrugated segment having the forward face of the plunger handle member molded to the rearward terminus of the corrugated segment of the syringe barrel. A third syringe is formed from mating syringe barrel and plunger member walls. The walls of the mating syringe barrel and plunger member are concentric and slide relative to each other while maintaining an enclosure around the plunger shaft. A fourth syringe is formed from inner and outer concentric syringe barrel walls mating with the walls of a plunger member. The mating walls are concentric and slide relative to each other while maintaining an enclosure around the plunger shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2006
    Inventor: Robin Scott Gray
  • Patent number: 7066912
    Abstract: A wetting apparatus (1) for wetting a hydrophilic urinary catheter (3), comprising: a wetting fluid container (4) containing a wetting fluid and being openable by the application of a pulling force thereto; a wetting receptacle (2); and a hydrophilic urinary catheter (3) to be wetted by said wetting fluid and being arranged within said wetting receptacle (2). The wetting fluid container (4) is arranged within the wetting receptacle (2), and the wetting receptacle is extendable, for opening the wetting container without rupturing a sealed condition of the wetting receptacle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2006
    Assignee: Astra Tech AB
    Inventors: Daniel Nestenborg, Jan Utas, Agneta Pettersson
  • Patent number: 7048719
    Abstract: A resheathing apparatus for a tube that is insertable through an endovascular catheter includes a guide that has a proximal end, a distal end, at least one lumen extending from the proximal end to the distal end, and a branch extending away from the lumen at one end of the guide. A sheath may be placed over the tube by sliding the resheathing apparatus along the length of the tube. The resheathing apparatus may also include a guide tube that fits over the branch of the guide and directs a sheath over the tube that is insertable through an endovascular catheter. The resheathing apparatus may be used with vascular embolization devices, and may be used with devices that are delivered via microcatheter systems. Methods of using the resheathing apparatus are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2006
    Assignee: MicroVention, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard R. Monetti
  • Patent number: 7048718
    Abstract: A winged injection needle having a needle covering means used at treatments for infusion solution, blood transfusion and extracorporeal blood circulation, characterized by comprising a puncturing needle tube (206), a hub (208) for holding the base end of the needle tube, and a hollow needle housing member for permitting the hub to displace by sliding and to be housed in the entirely in its lumen, and by being provided with an erroneous puncturing prevention means satisfying the following three conditions: (1) the injection noodle can be easily and safety housed after use, (2) its construction is simple and easy to handle to permit easy production at low costs, and (3) it can be safely disposed of.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2006
    Assignee: JMS Co., LTD
    Inventors: Tetutoshi Mithiue, Shyouiti Fujii, Takashi Doi, Takeshi Okamoto
  • Patent number: 7014626
    Abstract: A system and method for introducing medical devices within vasculature that incorporates a dual lumen introducer allowing a plurality of guidewires to be introduced without entanglement. The introducer further includes slits formed in the dual lumen introducer and a dilator or an inner member with grooves that facilitate easy removal of the introducer and dilator from vasculature. The dual lumen introducer maintains separation between guidewires. The slits in the dual lumen introducer and the dilator grooves allow removal from the guidewires by slipping the device off the guidewires without retracting them the entire guidewire length. A peel-away sheath protects the vasculature from the guidewires, prevents the dilator from slipping off the guidewires, and maintains access to an expanded vessel for the introduction of medical devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2006
    Assignee: Endovascular Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: David K. Sanderson
  • Patent number: 6893422
    Abstract: This subject invention is a protective shield for protecting implanted and/or transdermal medical devices, during showering, bathing, or swimming. This protective shield comprises an a protective layer including an outer pocket formed from moisture resistant adhesive material located on one side along the peripheral edge of the protective layer. In an embodiment, the outer pocket includes an inner pocket to contain and provide added protection for an implanted and/or transdermal device. In an alternate embodiment, the outer pocket includes an inner bag having an opening therethrough, where the opening is surrounded by a medical grade adhesive for attachment to a patient's skin. The medical device is inserted into the bag through the opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2005
    Assignee: SDA Product, Inc.
    Inventor: Sanford D. Altman
  • Patent number: 6875199
    Abstract: This subject invention is a protective shield for protecting implanted and/or transdermal medical devices, during showering, bathing, or swimming. This protective shield comprises an a protective layer including an outer pocket formed from moisture resistant adhesive material located on one side along the peripheral edge of the protective layer. In one embodiment, the protective layer includes a line of perforations. In another embodiment, the outer pocket includes an inner pocket to contain and provide added protection for an implanted and/or transdermal device. In yet another alternate embodiment, the outer pocket includes an inner bag having an opening therethrough, where the opening is surrounded by a medical grade adhesive for attachment to a patient's skin. The medical device is inserted into the bag through the opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2005
    Assignee: SDA Product, Inc.
    Inventor: Sanford D. Altman
  • Patent number: 6863692
    Abstract: Several embodiments of an implant sleeve are shown for use with implants inserted through a wound into a surgical site. In some embodiments, the sleeve is useful to protect mating implant components from contamination during insertion through the wound. In other embodiments, the sleeve is useful to clean components that have become contaminated during insertion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2005
    Assignee: Zimmer Technology, Inc.
    Inventor: Steven L. Meulink
  • Patent number: 6852105
    Abstract: A device for the drainage of the bladder through the body's own urethra opening outside of the human body, comprising a tube-shaped body (10). The tube-shaped body is comprised: to assume a first contracted position and for taken up within the bladder as well as a to assume a second partially extended position. At least one thread (14) extends between the bladder and an opening of the urethra and is attached at a first end of the tube-shaped body so that the tube-shaped body can be extended from the first position to the second position during the application of a pulling force upon the thread. The tube-shaped body in the second partially extended position extends in such a manner so as to exceed the distance between the bladder and the point of the urethra's closing. The tube-shaped body is comprised in such a manner that it will return to the first position upon the release of the pulling force on the thread.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2005
    Assignee: Prostalund Operations AB
    Inventors: Magnus Bolmsjö, Sonny Schelin
  • Patent number: 6837873
    Abstract: A method and an apparatus for forming a one-piece introducer in which at least one finger tab is formed at one end of a tube. The apparatus is formed from a molton polymer fed into the cavity of a mold. The cavity of the mold has a portion that forms a tube and a portion that forms a tab.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2005
    Assignee: Medex, Inc.
    Inventors: William F. Polley, Fidelis C. Onwumere
  • Patent number: 6835190
    Abstract: A needle device, possibly in the form of a butterfly or IV needle, has a housing with an orthogonal passage to the bore of the housing. A key that has a non-uniform opening with spaces defined by the opposing inner walls of its two extending legs is inserted into the passage. By positioning the key at different placement locations relative to the passage so that the different dimensioned spaces of the opening become aligned with the bore of the housing, the needle assembly can be selectively retained at at least a first position whereby the needle is extended out of the housing, and a second position whereby the needle is permanently retracted within the housing after use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2004
    Assignee: Smiths Medical ASD, Inc.
    Inventor: Steven Huu Nguyen
  • Publication number: 20040260245
    Abstract: The present invention is a method for accessing the abdominal cavity of a patient in order to perform a medical procedure therein. In one embodiment the method includes the step of inserting a guide wire into the upper gastrointestinal tract, via a gastric opening in the gastric wall and an abdominal opening in the abdominal wall of the patient, the guide wire having a first end that extends from the mouth of the patient, and a second end that extends from the abdominal opening of the patient. The method further includes providing an access device in the form of an elongated sheath having a lumen therethrough, attaching the first end of the guide wire to the distal end of the elongated sheath, and pulling the second end of the guide wire to position the access device into the upper gastrointestinal tract, wherein the distal end of the access device extends into the abdominal cavity while the proximal end of the access device extends out of the mouth of the patient.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 19, 2003
    Publication date: December 23, 2004
    Inventors: Michael F. Clem, Gary W. Knight, Rudolph H. Nobis, Dale R. Schulze, Christopher J. Hess, Elliott J. Fegelman
  • Patent number: 6830561
    Abstract: A device for accessing the spinal canal of a patient includes an introducer and a protective sleeve that is attached at one end thereof to a proximal end of the introducer. The protective sleeve has an outer stationary portion and an inner moveable portion. The outer and inner portions of the protective sleeve are separated by a crown region. A catheter is disposed inside the protective sleeve. During operation, the protective sleeve is advanced within the spinal canal to form a protective barrier between the catheter and the spinal cord. The catheter is advanced and retracted within the protective sleeve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Assignee: SciMed Life Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Lex P. Jansen, Stanley W. Olson, Jr., Robert M. Abrams
  • Publication number: 20040230162
    Abstract: A system for providing medical device with anti-microbial properties to prevent infections. The system includes a medical device having a portion for insertion into the body of a patient, a lumen, and a substrate comprising an anti-microbial agent to be inserted into the lumen of the medical device. To protect the substrate from anti-microbial agents during insertion into the lumen, the system further includes a collapsible cover connected to the substrate. A connector can be used for attaching the substrate to the cover. The substrate may be an iodine-based rod. A guidewire may be attached to the connector to further facilitate insertion of the substrate into the lumen.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 14, 2003
    Publication date: November 18, 2004
    Inventor: Sharon Mi Lyn Tan
  • Publication number: 20040220584
    Abstract: An apparatus is provided for introducing a catheter through a body opening along an insertion axis. The apparatus includes an arm having an end portion configured to extend into the body opening along the insertion axis, wherein the arm is configured to extend adjacent an external catheter surface. The apparatus also includes a surface extending from the end portion of the arm at an angle to the insertion axis, wherein the surface is configured to extend at least partially within an aperture formed in the catheter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2003
    Publication date: November 4, 2004
    Inventors: Rudolph Muto, Nicholas Want, Jeffrey P. McGill
  • Patent number: 6811958
    Abstract: A medical long object of the present invention has a part made of a polymeric material containing a laser color developing agent at least in a part of the surface thereof, and a light developing portion formed in the part by color development of the laser color developing agent due to irradiation with laser light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2004
    Assignee: Terumo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Jun Iwami, Hideki Fujimagari
  • Patent number: 6811545
    Abstract: The safety needle employs a manually operable actuator that can be depressed into a housing in order to release a spring-biased slider that carries a hollow needle. Upon release, the slider moves into a position to retract the needle over a blunt cannula so that the blunt cannula protects against cutting by the needle. An actuator guard may also be employed to prevent inadvertent actuation of the actuator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2004
    Inventor: Vincent L. Vaillancourt
  • Patent number: 6808510
    Abstract: An improved multi-lumen catheter with tip configurations for the simultaneous injection and withdrawal of fluids. The multi-lumen catheter includes an outer catheter and an inner catheter. The inner catheter is contained within the outer catheter, extends throughout its length and is bisected by a septum to create two parallel lumens. The inner catheter is secured to the outer catheter and may extend beyond the distal end thereof to promote separation between fluids. The multi-lumen catheter can be supplied with a protective sheath to maintain a sterile environment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2004
    Assignee: C.R Bard, Inc.
    Inventor: Attilio DiFiore
  • Publication number: 20040210195
    Abstract: An anti-infection device is provided for endoexo implants (1) characterized by a tubular protective membrane (2) which is constructed such that it can be moved out of the sterile region inside the body into the unsterile region outside the body and in this way a wall movement from the inside to the outside, which prevents the penetration of microbes in the opposite direction, can be generated at the point (6) of passage through the skin.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2004
    Publication date: October 21, 2004
    Inventors: Klaus Affeld, Mohammed Bagheri
  • Publication number: 20040182390
    Abstract: The present invention is a catheter having a tube and including mechanisms that provide precision control over insertion and retraction of the catheter tube. The catheter is particularly adapted for introduction into the pulmonary system. The catheter includes an insertion depth control mechanism that acts as a stop and provides a tactile indication to the person inserting the catheter tube that a predetermined position has been reached. The catheter also includes an anti-bunching mechanism to prevent bunching of a protective sleeve disposed around the catheter tube, thereby reducing interference from the sleeve during insertion of the catheter tube.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2004
    Publication date: September 23, 2004
    Inventors: Warren D. Owens, William R. Hawes, Cary P. Jenkins, Ken D. Hargett
  • Publication number: 20040116865
    Abstract: The invention relates to a needle insertion device comprising a housing with a mounting surface adapted for application to the skin of a subject, where the mounting surface defines a general plane and has a needle aperture formed therein. Adhesive means is arranged on the mounting surface for adhering the insertion device to the skin of the subject, the adhesive means surrounding the needle aperture. A needle comprises a distal pointed end adapted to penetrate the skin of the subject, the pointed end being arranged within the housing in respect of the general plane. The mounting surface surrounding the needle aperture is moveable between a first position in which the pointed end of the needle is arranged within the housing, and a second position in which the pointed end of the needle projects through the needle aperture, thereby pulling the skin portion corresponding to the intended site of needle insertion against the needle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 6, 2003
    Publication date: June 17, 2004
    Inventor: Henrik Bengtsson
  • Patent number: 6726619
    Abstract: The device is equipped with the classical catheter (1) finishing in its front end in a tip (2) for attachment to the neck of the uterus, which is prolonged by a cannula (3) of smaller diameter. The device has said cannula (3) closed by means of an elongated lid (4′), with a rounded face, with a perimeter depression and concave curve (8) at the middle level, where orifices are established (5′) as an outlet for the semen, specifically two orifices in diametric opposition, whose positioning is such that they are level with the uterine horns of the pig to be inseminated, by the introduction of the catheter (1), which is defined by a mark (11) in the cannula (3) or in a connector (12), which optimises the conditions of insemination allowing a lower semen consumption. In addition, the rear end of the lid (4′) has a diameter after the cannula (3), to protect the edge of the free end from the latter, avoiding damage to the mucus of the female to be inseminated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2004
    Assignee: Iberica de Reproduccion Asistida, S.L.
    Inventor: Javier Gil Pascual
  • Publication number: 20040077998
    Abstract: An intravenous tubing line cover includes an enclosure for covering the transparent components of an intravenous infusion apparatus to shield light-sensitive fluids and medications. The cover is constructed from an opaque fabric such as flannel, polyester, or cotton-blend material and includes covering sections to accommodate an IV bag and tubing lines of various lengths. Connecting straps are included to interconnect tubing line cover sections around infusion pumps and roller clamps. The covers are reusable being provided with fasteners for attachment around the various transparent components of the IV apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2003
    Publication date: April 22, 2004
    Inventor: Nancy J. Morris
  • Patent number: 6712790
    Abstract: A parenteral catheter apparatus (40) comprises a catheter (18) enclosing a needle (20). The needle (20) and catheter (18) have a first position in which a sharp point (22) of the needle (20) extends from the catheter (18) and a second position in which the sharp point (22) is enclosed within a housing (12). Further, a tubular member (15) is connected to the needle (20). The tubular member (15) has a connection means (17) for connection to a fluid container. Thus, fluid can flow through the tube (15) and the needle (20) and in the reverse direction The needle (20) remains in a fluid pathway of the apparatus at all times.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2004
    Inventors: Dean Brian Prestidge, Maxwell Edmund Whisson
  • Publication number: 20040059296
    Abstract: A peel-away introducer cannula having a sheath tube, cannula hub, and peel-away blood flow reducing valve to prevent backflow of blood is provided. The sheath tube is weakened along opposed axial lines to allow for the sheath tube to be split in two. Similarly, the cannula hub is weakened along opposed axial lines, which align with the opposed axial lines in the sheath tube. The blood flow reducing valve is disposed within the cannula hub, wherein the blood flow reducing valve is also weakened along opposed axial lines, which align with the weakened opposed axial lines of the sheath tube and said cannula hub. Optionally, a splittable handle is attached to the hub such that the handle may be split and drawn apart to split the sheath tube, blood flow reducing valve, and hub along the weakened axial lines. Methods of introducing a vascular device are similarly provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 19, 2002
    Publication date: March 25, 2004
    Inventor: Mark W. Godfrey
  • Publication number: 20040059298
    Abstract: A system and method for introducing medical devices within vasculature that incorporates a dual lumen introducer allowing a plurality of guidewires to be introduced without entanglement. The introducer further includes slits formed in the dual lumen introducer and a dilator or an inner member with grooves that facilitate easy removal of the introducer and dilator from vasculature. The dual lumen introducer maintains separation between guidewires. The slits in the dual lumen introducer and the dilator grooves allow removal from the guidewires by slipping the device off the guidewires without retracting them the entire guidewire length. A peel-away sheath protects the vasculature from the guidewires, prevents the dilator from slipping off the guidewires, and maintains access to an expanded vessel for the introduction of medical devices.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 24, 2003
    Publication date: March 25, 2004
    Inventor: David K. Sanderson
  • Publication number: 20040025887
    Abstract: A mouthguard for allowing medical instruments to be passed into a patient includes an integrally formed or removable locking device. The locking device includes one or more mechanisms for preventing the movement of a guidewire or other medical devices during a surgical procedure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 8, 2002
    Publication date: February 12, 2004
    Applicant: Scimed Life Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Paul Scopton
  • Patent number: 6669708
    Abstract: The present invention provides devices, systems, assemblies, and methods intended for the introduction and sutureless juncture of a prepared communication channel to the interior spatial volume of a blood vessel or a hollow organ within a living subject. The introducer assembly and system is functional and suitable as a complete substitute and replacement for conventionally used apparatus and methods for performing vascular bypass graft surgery in order to overcome an obstruction in a major artery or vein in-vivo. The introducer assembly and system is also most appropriate for use in providing penetration and juncture of a tubular conduit for use as an access duct in order to drain materials from or introduce fluids into the interior spatial volume of a hollow organ in-vivo.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2003
    Inventors: Michael Nissenbaum, Ducksoo Kim, Andy H. Levine
  • Publication number: 20030208139
    Abstract: A needle holder for use with a needle assembly for blood collection is provided, and in particular, for use with a needle assembly including an activation mechanism adapted for axial displacement between a first position and a second position with respect to the needle assembly through engagement with a blood collection tube. The needle holder includes an outer body having a first end adapted for attachment to such a needle assembly and a second end having an internal opening therein. The needle holder is adapted for accommodating a blood collection tube within the internal opening for engagement with the needle assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 17, 2002
    Publication date: November 6, 2003
    Applicant: Becton, Dickinson and Company
    Inventor: Jamieson W.M. Crawford
  • Publication number: 20030208161
    Abstract: A needle holder for use with a needle assembly for blood collection is provided, and in particular, for use with a needle assembly including an activation mechanism adapted for axial displacement between a first position and a second position with respect to the needle assembly through engagement with a blood collection tube. The needle holder includes an outer body having a first end adapted for attachment to such a needle assembly and a second end having an internal opening therein. The needle holder further includes an inner body slidable within the outer body which includes a mechanism for axially displacing the activation mechanism between the first retracted position and the second activated position. The inner holder may be in the form of a tubular body which is axially slidable within the outer body, or may be in the form of an arm extending through a channel in the outer body, and including a tab for finger activation by a user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 17, 2002
    Publication date: November 6, 2003
    Applicant: Becton, Dickinson and Company
    Inventor: Jamieson W. M. Crawford
  • Publication number: 20030208162
    Abstract: A dual blunting needle assembly for use in blood collection procedures is provided. The needle assembly includes a hub assembly having a first external cannula with an intravenous puncture tip, a second external cannula with an external blunt tip and an internal lumen extending through the hub assembly from the intravenous puncture tip to the blunt tip. The needle assembly further includes an internal cannula extending concentrically within the internal lumen of the hub assembly. The internal cannula includes an internal blunt tip at a first end and a non-patient puncture tip at a second end.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 17, 2002
    Publication date: November 6, 2003
    Applicant: Becton, Dickinson and Company
    Inventor: Jamieson W.M. Crawford
  • Publication number: 20030199830
    Abstract: A needle device, possibly in the form of a butterfly or IV needle, has a housing with an orthogonal passage to the bore of the housing. A key that has a non-uniform opening with spaces defined by the opposing inner walls of its two extending legs is inserted into the passage. By positioning the key at different placement locations relative to the passage so that the different dimensioned spaces of the opening become aligned with the bore of the housing, the needle assembly can be selectively retained at at least a first position whereby the needle is extended out of the housing, and a second position whereby the needle is permanently retracted within the housing after use.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 17, 2002
    Publication date: October 23, 2003
    Inventor: Steven Huu Nguyen
  • Publication number: 20030153875
    Abstract: A medical device for insertion into a body having a surface covered by a detachable cover. The cover may be detached from the surface and removed from the body while the device is inserted in the body. The device maybe, for example, a catheter, cannula, drain, stent, pacemaker, or electrode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2002
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Inventors: Ishay Ostfeld, Eran Hirszowicz
  • Patent number: 6602240
    Abstract: According to the present invention, improved methods and apparatus are provided for regaining hemostasis or otherwise minimizing leakage during endoluminal, surgical or percutaneous intraluminal procedures, and for providing a seal during laparoscopic surgical procedures where there is leakage of the CO2 insufflation, when the primary means of hemostasis or pneumatic CO2 seal is compromised or fails. More particularly the present invention relates to devices having a front hub and a rear hub, one or other of which is adapted to retain a compression seal such that when the front and rear hub are matingly engaged, axial and radial pressure is applied to the compression plug and any devices located therebetween, thereby achieving a seal. The compression device can be applied while a guidewire or additional devices remain within the leaking sheath or trocar, thereby allowing the physician to maintain hemostasis or adequate CO2 insufflation, without exchanging the introducer sheath or laparoscopic port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2003
    Inventors: George D. Hermann, Bradley Hill, Thomas Howell, David Willis, Neil Holmgren, Joshua Whittemore
  • Patent number: 6592552
    Abstract: The invention is directed to a device and method for minimally invasive access to the pericardial space of a human or animal patient. The disclosed pericardial access device includes a penetrating body axially mobile within the lumen of a guide tube. The distal end of the guide tube includes a shoulder to buttress pericardial tissue drawn into the guide tube by a suction force applied to the guide tube lumen. The penetrating body is subsequently distally advanced within the guide tube to access the pericardium.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2003
    Inventor: Cecil C. Schmidt
  • Patent number: 6589164
    Abstract: Methods, apparatus and systems wherein the distal portion of an elongate apparatus (e.g., a catheter or cannula) having a sealed lumen (e.g., a blind lumen) formed therein is insertable into the body of a mammalian patient and a tubular sterility barrier is attached to or formed on the proximal portion of the elongate apparatus. The tubular sterility barrier is arranged so that it extends outside of a sterile field that is being maintained around the proximal portion of the elongate device. A non-sterile working apparatus (e.g., an intravascular ultrasound device or other imaging apparatus, etc.) may then be inserted through the sterility barrier and into the sealed lumen without causing contamination of the sterile field or the patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2003
    Assignee: TransVascular, Inc.
    Inventor: J. Christopher Flaherty
  • Patent number: 6585721
    Abstract: A flexible, membranous envelope, in a shroud-conduit-collector configuration for sheathing a catheter. In basic mode, the shroud, which essentially envelops the catheter, is partially disposable in an end of the catheter and is extractable therefrom by manipulation of the user. The shroud joins the conduit, that terminates in an integral, yet separable collector. To cure the basic mode's sole limitation, possible infusion of urethra secretions into the opening of the incipiently inserted catheter, a plurality of leaves are attached by their base margins to the shroud exterior, near enough to the inserted opening that their unattached, leading margins can be folded by interleaving them over, and covering, the opening. By this device, an alternate embodiment avoids the catheter-disposed shroud. Other devices are integrated to facilitate manipulation, as well as to aid in after-use separation, sealing and handling of the collector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2003
    Inventor: John M Fiore
  • Patent number: 6585705
    Abstract: A catheter system includes a working catheter having a distal working orifice. The catheter systems further includes a guide catheter having a guide lumen and a distal guide orifice. In addition, the catheter system includes a locking mechanism which locks the working catheter relative to the guide catheter in (i) an operative position, and (ii) a stowed position. The catheter system also includes a tissue ingrowth member secured to an outer surface of the guide catheter and configured to facilitate fibrous tissue growth therein, whereby subcutaneous tissue of a body becomes affixed to the tissue ingrowth member when the tissue ingrowth member remains in contact with the subcutaneous tissue over a period of time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2003
    Assignee: Maginot Catheter Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul J. Maginot, Thomas J. Maginot