Abstract: A cannula having at least three separate flow passages and comprising separate nasal and mouth main bodies. The nasal body has first and second nares and first and second main flow chambers respectively communicating with first and second ports, and the first and second flow chambers are separated from one another by a septum. The mouth main body is adjacent the nasal main body and has at least one mouthpiece and at least a third main flow chamber therein communicating with a third port. The cannula has at least first, second and third flow paths which can be connected with a desired supply, monitoring or detection device. The invention also relates to the method of manufacturing the cannula.

Abstract: A catheter hub (100) including a first port (104) and a second port (108) fluidly communicating with the first port through a first conduit (106). The first conduit (106) turns at an angle of greater than approximately 135 degrees between the first port (104) and the second port (108). The hub (100) also includes a third port (120) fluidly communicating with the second port (108) through a second conduit (122) that similarly turns at an angle of greater than approximately 135 degrees between the third port (120) and the second port (108). Further, the hub (100) includes a fourth port (130) fluidly communicating with the second port (108) and is generally co-axial therewith. A catheter assembly (150) that utilizes the catheter hub (100) is also disclosed.

Abstract: Each arterial bifurcation lesion has a fingerprint-like pattern related to varying amounts of plaque and degree of obstruction in the main vessel proximal to, within the bifurcation itself, and the distal limbs of the main branch and side branch(es) and related to the angle of the bifurcation. A new device and with it a new technique is described to optimize treatment of bifurcation (and trifurcation) lesions. The invention and related method use a catheter capable of delivering two or more guide wires exiting at the distal end of the catheter allowing treatment of lesions more safely and efficaciously. Safety is increased by allowing both guide wires to remain in place throughout the entire procedure. Efficacy is increased, particularly in the long-term, by providing a result that maximizes vessel coverage and normal flow dynamics in the entire bifurcation area.

Abstract: A check valve for use in a Y-site in an infusion system comprises a fixation portion configured to retain the check valve in a common lumen of the Y-site, and a flap member extending axially from the fixation portion. The flap member has an outer surface, at least a portion of which is configured to engage an internal wall of the common lumen overlying an inlet from a main lumen. In one embodiment, the flap member comprises a pocket surrounding the hole and any burr extending from the wall adjacent the hole. In some embodiments, the flap member is resiliently biased towards a sealed position, and can flex to allow fluid flow from the main lumen to the common lumen.

Abstract: A ureteral access sheath comprises a sheath assembly having a main lumen and one or more secondary lumens. The sheath assembly can be configured with medical devices in both lumens, for example, a ureteroscope in the main working channel, and a guidewire, stone basket, grasper, laser fiber, or other surgical instrument in the secondary working channel. Or the sheath assembly can be configured with a medical device in one channel and the other lumen coupled to an irrigation means, such that irrigation of the surgical field can be efficiently accomplished even though the main working channel is substantially completely occupied by, e.g., a ureteroscope. Or the sheath assembly can be configured for irrigation through one lumen and aspiration through the other lumen, thereby creating a turbulent flow which washes the surgical field to facilitate removal of particles and debris.

Abstract: Systems for treating a vessel bifurcation comprise a bifurcated catheter having a first branch and a second branch. Each branch defining an exchange region that extends from the distal end of the shaft to the guidewire port of the shaft. The catheter has a radial alignment mechanism which provides improved radial alignment characteristics of at least the exchange region of the branches.

Abstract: A catheter assembly and related methods directed to a main balloon and a side balloon, wherein the side balloon is coupled in fluid communication with the main balloon at a location distal of the side balloon. In one example, a side inflation member couples the side balloon in fluid communication to the main balloon at a distal end portion of the main balloon. A side catheter branch of the catheter assembly, which defines a side guidewire lumen, can be operatively mounted to the side balloon at a side balloon connection point to help maintain alignment of the side catheter branch relative to the side balloon.

Abstract: A medical catheter assembly including a safety Y-port adaptor. In one embodiment, the medical catheter assembly is a percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) assembly and includes a PEG tube, the PEG tube having a proximal end, a distal end and a longitudinal conduit. An internal bolster is disposed at the distal end of the PEG tube. The safety Y-port adaptor includes a tubular first arm, a tubular second arm and a tubular third arm, each of the second and third arms being in fluid communication with the first arm. The first arm is coupled to the proximal end of the PEG tube and is fluid communication therewith. A first anti-reflux valve is disposed within the second arm, and a second anti-reflux valve is disposed within the third arm. The anti-reflux valves may be positioned within their respective arms so that each may be biased open by the insertion of a dispensing tip into the arm.

Abstract: A y-port device including a valve positioned proximally to the fluid channel thereby eliminating aberrant currents and dead space within the y-port device. The valve is a septum and penetrable by a probe. The valve is positioned such that the external end may be cleaned and/or sanitized prior to penetration by a probe and the internal end abuts the fluid channel of the device such that dead space is eliminated between the flow path and the internal end of the valve. The y-port device ensures that an entire infused bolus is flushed from the interior of the y-port and into the desired vascular system.

Abstract: A warming device for an IV fluid line according to the present invention includes a warmer unit and a wye type fitting with an injection site. The warmer unit includes a tube for intravenous fluid and channels containing a warming fluid to heat the IV tube. One fitting branch is connected to an intravenous fluid source, while the remaining branch houses the injection site. The injection site branch includes an injection safety member that ensures a syringe needle or other instrument is contained within the fitting to prevent rupture of the IV tube. The warming device may include an additional wye type fitting coupled to the initial fitting and including another injection site, where the fittings typically exclude the safety member. A syringe needle is inserted into the additional injection site to prevent rupture of the IV tube. In addition, the warming device may be configured for needleless injections.

Abstract: Systems for treating a vessel bifurcation comprise a bifurcated catheter having a first branch and a second branch. Each branch defining an exchange region that extends from the distal end of the shaft to the guidewire port of the shaft. The catheter has a radial alignment mechanism which provides improved radial alignment characteristics of at least the exchange region of the branches.

Abstract: A blood treatment catheter pre-assembled with a stiffening tube is provided. The catheter includes a withdrawal lumen and a supply lumen each having distal split tube unjoined segments and an intermediate joined segment. The split tube segment of the supply lumen is provided with a sidewall aperture. The stiffening tube extends through the withdrawal split tip tube, out the distal end of the withdrawal tube, through the aperture of the supply split tip tube and through the split tip supply tube distal of the aperture, out the distal end of the split tip supply tube. When the stiffening tube is positioned inside the catheter, the aperture is adjacent to the withdrawal tube distal opening so as to minimize stiffening tube exposure and to provide a smooth exterior profile. In a preferred design, the tubes and their lumens, over their common length, are semi-circular to provide a circular profile for the catheter.

Abstract: A bifurcated catheter includes a first catheter branch having a first distal portion and a second catheter branch having a second distal portion. The first and second distal portions are linked together for delivery to the bifurcated region. Upon delivery to the bifurcated region, the first and second distal portions are released from each other such that the first and second catheter branches may be tracked into first and second vessel branches, respectively. The first and second distal portions can be linked together by inserted the second distal portion into a skive in the first distal portion, adhesive beat bonding the distal portions together, a coil wrapped around the distal portions, or a spiral cut in the first distal portion sized and shaped to received a guidewire.

Abstract: A bifurcate catheter having a self-orientating distal portion with improved pushability is disclosed. The distal portion of the bifurcate catheter includes a dilatation balloon attached to each of two distal branch portions of the catheter. The distal branch portions are of a length that permits rotational compliance of the distal portion of the bifurcate catheter as it is tracked over two guidewires and include at least one bond between the distal branch portions to improve pushability.

Abstract: A tubing fitting for use in microsurgery including a female tubing fitting and a male tubing fitting. The female tubing fitting has an external surface with a pair of opposing projections disposed thereon and an internal bore. The male tubing fitting has a second internal bore and a collar at least partially surrounding the second internal bore. The collar has an internal surface with two pairs of opposing sloping ramps disposed thereon. The pairs of opposing sloping ramps are arranged so as to create a pair of opposing spaces for removably receiving the pair of opposing projections.

Abstract: A first aspect of the invention relates to an auxiliary catheter comprising a main body comprising, in turn, a first duct defining a first lumen and a second duct defining a second lumen. Along the main body from the distal end in the proximal direction, the followings are found in the order: the distal end of the first duct, the side opening of the first duct, and the distal end of the second duct comprising the front opening. A second aspect of the invention relates to a kit comprising an equipped catheter and an auxiliary catheter having the same size as the equipped catheter. Finally, the invention relates to the methods for using these devices.

Abstract: Systems and methods for the clinical treatment of individuals susceptible to or suffering from acute kidney injury are provided. Drugs, biologics, or other therapies or treatments are administered by fluid agent delivery directly to the kidneys via their arterial blood supply. Bifurcated renal artery infusion catheter devices and methods can treat kidney injury in patients with locally-delivered drugs, biologics, and other agents, so as to increase the ability of the kidneys to excrete nitrogenous waste products from the blood, and prevent or ameliorate azotemia.

Abstract: A bifurcated catheter includes a first catheter branch having a first distal portion and a second catheter branch having a second distal portion. The first and second distal portions are linked together for delivery to the bifurcated region. Upon delivery to the bifurcated region, the first and second distal portions are released from each other such that the first and second catheter branches may be tracked into first and second vessel branches, respectively.

Abstract: The present invention pertains to a miniature flexible thrombectomy catheter having one or more flexible miniature noncollapsing tubular portions including pushable and torqueable structure for introduction into the smaller vessels in neurovascular regions. A jet body having an arcuate fluid jet emanator is incorporated in order to minimize size at the distal portion of a minimally sized catheter tube.

Abstract: A-type blood transfusion set having a blood limb, a saline limp and common limb and a one-way saline valve provided in the saline limb which only allows fluid within the saline limb to flow toward the Y connector. The blood limb and saline limb are color coded or marked with some type of identification so that, prior to coupling the blood limb to a source of blood or the saline limb to a source of saline, visual identification of the saline limb, having the one-way saline valve therein, can be readily achieved.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for treating congestive heart failure using a catheter having an inlet end configured for placement in the source of arterial blood such as the aorta, left ventricle or a femoral artery, and an outlet end having at least one conduit configured to be placed in the renal arteries. The catheter includes a lumen through which blood passes from the aorta or left ventricle directly to the renal artery, means for engaging the first conduit with renal artery. The means for engaging also may reduce backflow of blood into the abdominal aorta. The catheter preferably is configured to permit percutaneous, transluminal implantation. Methods of using and implanting the catheter are also provided.

Abstract: A needleless connector for adding medication to a parenteral fluid is provided. The needleless connector comprises a connector adapted to receive a syringe and having a check valve to seal the port in place of a puncture pad. The check valve comprises a resilient disc held in place and biased closed by the tensile stress of the check valve material. When a syringe or other apparatus having a male luer connector is engaged with the connector and fluid pressure is applied to the check valve the resilient disc is deformed which allows the medication to flow through the connector into the tubing and thus to the patient.

Abstract: A catheter for providing blood flow includes first and second lumen parts having a distal portion with at least one port for delivering and receiving flow from a patient and a non-linear profile along the distal portion.

Abstract: A single body port or body flange access device and method for performing laparoscopic surgery are disclosed. The device comprises a plurality of crisscrossing conduits through which surgical instruments may be inserted. The instruments are manipulated so that triangulation is obtained using one patient body flange while standard surgical procedures are performed on the patient.

Abstract: An operating device is provided which includes an instrument insertion conduit, having a distal end connectable to the operating channel input of a handle of an endoscopic probe, the proximal end of the instrument insertion conduit forming an instrument input for the operating device, a suction assembly comprising a suction conduit communicating with the insertion conduit and a control device for selectively connecting the suction conduit to a pump, to suck out fluids through the operating channel, and a connecting conduit putting the suction conduit into communication with the insertion conduit, and the length of which is such that when the operating device is fixed on the handle, the suction control device is positioned close to the control means located in a proximal part of the handle.

Abstract: Apparatus, methods and kits for simultaneous delivery of a fluid or other substance to two or more breast milk ducts are provided. The fluid can be delivered for a variety of purposes including lavage of the ducts and administering an agent for therapeutic, prophylactic, or diagnostic purposes.

Abstract: The invention is a saline lock and intravenous catheter combination that is simple to use. The device preferably includes a hub and a catheter with the hub having a first port and a second port. A further embodiment provides a needle in communication with the device. The invention also includes a method for using the device in combination with a needle.

Abstract: By interposing an adapter between the endotracheal or tracheal tube inserted to a patient and the ventilation and suction systems that are connected to the endotracheal tube, a catheter could be inserted via an input port built into the adapter so as to enable a medical personnel to provide localized treatments in the lungs of a patient without having to disconnect either one of the systems connected to the endotracheal tube. The adapter is configured to have a securing mechanism that allows the medical personnel to secure the medication catheter in place. A one way valve fitted to the apertured arm that forms the input port of the adapter prevents any back flow of fluid from the input port.

Abstract: A medical catheter comprising a proximal end having an opening for fluid containing a therapeutic drug, a distal end, the distal end defining at least one opening, and a porous portion covering the opening defined by the distal end. In one embodiment, the medical catheter comprises a proximal end having an opening for fluid containing a therapeutic drug, at least two distal ends, the proximal end connected to the two distal ends with a connector, the distal ends each defining at least one opening, a diffuser covering the opening of each distal end, and a separate restrictor downstream of the connector and upstream of each distal end to provide substantially equal flow through each distal end. An additional restrictor can also be placed upstream of the connector. In another embodiment, a combination diffuser and restrictor covers the opening of each distal end.

Abstract: A catheter for delivering a therapeutic or diagnostic agent to a branch blood vessel of a major blood vessel, generally comprising an elongated shaft having at least one lumen in fluid communication with an agent delivery port in a distal section of the shaft, an expandable tubular member on the distal section of the shaft, and a radially expandable member on the tubular member. The tubular member is configured to extend within the blood vessel up-stream and down-stream of a branch vessel, and has an interior passageway which is radially expandable within the blood vessel to separate blood flow through the blood vessel into an outer blood flow stream exterior to the tubular member and an inner blood flow stream within the interior passageway of the tubular member. The radially expandable member is located down-stream of the shaft agent delivery port, and has an expanded configuration with an outer diameter larger than an outer diameter of the tubular member.

Abstract: A connector and tubing assembly including a multi-lumen molded connector having at least three flexible tubes also molded into the connector. The connector may be “Y” shaped and include three flexible tubes. A process of making the connector and tubing assembly involves forming a first part of the connector with two tubes molded therein and then removing an internal mold member prior to molding the final connector portion and third tube in place.

Abstract: Apparatus, methods and kits for simultaneous delivery of a fluid or other substance to two or more breast milk ducts are provided. The fluid can be delivered for a variety of purposes including lavage of the ducts and administering an agent for therapeutic, prophylactic, or diagnostic purposes.

Abstract: A peritoneal dialysis catheter having an inflow conduit and an outflow conduit. Each conduits are linearly mated and contoured to cooperatively define a substantially circular cross sectional profile along a medial, trans-abdominal segment, but separating perhaps in radial fashion on either end of the medial, trans-abdominal segment, on a distal end to join fluted fluid transport branches and on proximal ends to join fittings for fluid delivery and collection external of the patient.

Abstract: A central nervous system (CNS) catheter assembly adapted for use as a ventriculostomy catheter and a spinal catheter includes a catheter body defining at least one lumen therethrough having a drug delivery branch and a monitoring/sensing branch. The drug delivery branch and the monitoring/sensing second branch are in fluid communication with the lumen. Openings are disposed in fluid communication with the lumen and being located at proximal ends of the drug delivery branch and the monitoring/sensing branch. Another opening is disposed at a distal end of the main body. The assembly further includes a component such as an intracranial pressure/osmotic pressure monitoring system, a fluid drainage system, an attachable introduction aid, a patient surface attachment aid, a micromanipulator and a comprehensive intracranial pressure evaluation and relief system. The assembly optionally includes a filter assembly containing a proton exchange membrane.

Abstract: A catheter for delivering and withdrawing blood from a patient's body comprising a catheter body having a distal portion, a central return lumen extending from a proximal portion of the catheter body to the distal portion to allow blood passage therethrough, at least three longitudinally extending intake lumens independent of the return lumen and radially displaced with respect to the return lumen, and means for enabling simultaneous cut off of fluid flow to the at least three longitudinally extending lumens.

Abstract: The invention concerns catheterization assemblies designed to reduce the risk of infection, transmission of bloodborne pathogens, loss of blood, and development of embolisms in a patient. Embodiments of the invention are directed to a catheterization assembly having a catheter hub with multiple access ports. In some embodiments, the catheter hub is permanently attached to a catheter and a valve. The catheter hub provides fluid communication between the valve and the catheter. The catheter hub may also be provided with a sealing member that provides access to a fluid passageway of the catheter hub but which prevents leakage of fluids from the catheter hub. In other embodiments, the catheter hub includes a passageway and an air vent for allowing air to pass out of the catheterization assembly.

Abstract: A blood treatment catheter pre-assembled with a stiffening tube is provided. The catheter includes a withdrawal lumen and a supply lumen each having distal split tube unjoined segments and an intermediate joined segment. The split tube segment of the supply lumen is provided with a sidewall aperture. The stiffening tube extends through the withdrawal split tip tube, out the distal end of the withdrawal tube, through the aperture of the supply split tip tube and through the split tip supply tube distal of the aperture, out the distal end of the split tip supply tube. When the stiffening tube is positioned inside the catheter, the aperture is adjacent to the withdrawal tube distal opening so as to minimize stiffening tube exposure and to provide a smooth exterior profile.

Abstract: The present invention provide a catheter which exhausts a humor such as a hematoma, a brain fluid, and an encephalophyma smoothly without any infection, and be able to inject a hematoma resolvent while maintaining a constant brain pressure, and is inserted into an accurate operative portion in the cranial cavity using a brain stereotactic frame conveniently and easily. The catheter 100 includes a long tube 110 made of an atoxic, transparent and flexible material; a two-way fitting 160 having two channels and inserted into a rear portion of the tube through a fitting 120; second and third coupling members 140 and 150 selectively coupled to a branched channel of the two-way fitting 160; an injection member 170 including a needle portion 174 inserted into a rear portion of the third coupling member 150 through an inserting hole 153; and a fourth coupling member 180 including a seal member 181 and being inserted into a reception groove 171 formed in a rear portion of the injection member 170.

Abstract: A medical ventilation tube for placement in an opening formed in an anatomical structure, such as the tympanic membrane of the ear, includes a hollow tubular shaft made of a first material having a hardness or durometer to maintain a passage through the shaft when the medical ventilation tube is placed in the opening, and a flange made of a second material having a hardness or durometer less than that of the first material to permit the flange to deform in response to contact with the anatomical structure during removal of the medical ventilation tube from the opening.

Abstract: A conduit is provided to provide a bypass around a blockage in the coronary artery. The conduit is adapted to be positioned in the myocardium or heart wall to provide a passage for blood to flow between a chamber of the heart such as the left ventricle and the coronary artery, distal to the blockage. The stent is self-expanding or uses a balloon to expand the stent in the heart wall. Various attachment means are provided to anchor the stent and prevent its migration. In one embodiment, a conduit is provided having a distal top which is more preferably a ball top, wire top, flare top or flip-down top. These top configurations anchor the shunt at one end in the coronary artery.

Abstract: An infusion device is provided for use with an intravenous catheter connected to a primary fluid supply. A Y site (92) is in fluid communication with the catheter (90). The infusion device is releasably connectable with the Y site (92) to connect a secondary fluid supply (97) to the catheter (40). The infusion device includes a retractable needle (70) that is retractable after use.

Abstract: A continuous flow catheter is disclosed. The catheter includes a proximal portion having first proximal end, a first distal end, and an intake lumen and a return lumen. Each of the intake and return lumens extends between the first proximal end and the first distal end. The catheter also includes a connector portion fixedly connected to the first distal portion, wherein the return lumen terminates at the connector portion. The catheter also includes a distal portion having a second proximal end, a second distal end, and a distal lumen extending between the second proximal end and the second distal end. The second distal end is fixedly connected to the connector portion such that the distal lumen and the intake lumen are in fluid communication with each other.

Abstract: A peritoneal dialysis catheter having an inflow conduit and an outflow conduit. Each conduits are linearly mated and contoured to cooperatively define a substantially circular cross sectional profile along a medial, trans-abdominal segment, but separating perhaps in radial fashion on either end of the medial, trans-abdominal segment, on a distal end to join fluted fluid transport branches and on proximal ends to join fittings for fluid delivery and collection external of the patient.

Abstract: An intravascular device comprising an intra-aortic and extra-aortic component for perfusing the spinal arteries during thoracoabdominal surgeries. The intra-aortic component comprises a catheter having a shunt releasably mounted on a distal end of the catheter. An expandable occluder is disposed about the shunt for occluding the aortic lumen. The extra-aortic component comprises a tubular member having a lumen communicating with a first end and a second end. The first end is adapted for attachment to the shunt. The second end of the second tubular member is attached to a plurality of tubular branches. A cooler may be attached to the second tubular member for providing hypothermic perfusion. When the intra-aortic component is attached to the extra-aortic component, blood flows from the proximal aorta to the spinal arteries through the lumens of the tubular branches. Methods of using the device for spinal perfusion during thoracoabdominal surgeries herein are also disclosed.

Abstract: In one embodiment, an access sheath includes a sheath assembly including sheath tubing, the sheath tubing having a main lumen and a secondary lumen that extends along the length of the main lumen, the main lumen being large enough to receive an endoscope.

Abstract: Shunt devices and a method for continuously decompressing elevated intraocular pressure in eyes affected by glaucoma by diverting excess aqueous humor from the anterior chamber of the eye into Schlemm's canal where post-operative patency can be maintained with an indwelling shunt device which surgically connects the canal with the anterior chamber. The shunt devices provide uni- or bi-directional flow of aqueous humor into Schlemm's canal.

Abstract: Shunt devices and a method for continuously decompressing elevated intraocular pressure in eyes affected by glaucoma by diverting excess aqueous humor from the anterior chamber of the eye into Schlemm's canal where post-operative patency can be maintained with an indwelling shunt device which surgically connects the canal with the anterior chamber. The shunt devices provide uni- or bi-directional flow of aqueous humor into Schlemm's canal.

Abstract: An infiltration tubing having a one-to-many connector is disclosed herein. The one-to-many connector includes a Y-shaped body. The Y-shaped body includes a proximal inlet configured to connect to a fluid source (e.g., an IV bag or bottle) and at least two distal outlets. Each distal outlet is configured to connect to a respective fluid delivery device (e.g., an infiltration cannula, a catheter or a hypodermic needle) for infiltrating fluid into a patient.

Abstract: The invention relates to an implant for draining the aqueous humour from the anterior aqueous chamber of the eye into Schlemm's canal. Said implant comprises a tubular proximal part (1) with at least one lumen, whose open end (2, 3) can be introduced into the anterior aqueous chamber for draining the aqueous humour and a tubular distal part (5) that is open at both ends (6) and that has at least one lumen connected to the proximal part (1) to form a substantially T-shaped implant, whereby said distal part (5) can be introduced into Schlemm's canal. To produce an implant of this type, which can be securely fixed, at least one plate-shaped fixing element (7) is provided, said element stabilising the implant on the sclera. The fixing element is connected by the central section to the distal part (5) on the opposite side of the latter to the proximal part (1) and comprises at least one eyelet (8) or similar for fixing with a suture.

Abstract: A catheter is described. In one embodiment, the catheter includes: a shaft segment including a shaft segment uptake lumen and a shaft segment return lumen; and a distal end segment coupled to the shaft segment, the distal end segment including a distal end segment uptake lumen and a distal end segment return lumen, where the distal end segment central axis forms a non-zero angle with the shaft segment central axis when the catheter is in its unstressed configuration. In a second embodiment, the catheter includes: a shaft segment; and a distal end segment coupled to the shaft segment; where the uptake lumen distal end is terminated by a closed surface, further where the uptake lumen distal segment includes only one side hole. In a third embodiment, the catheter includes: an uptake lumen; and a return lumen; where at least a portion of the return lumen distal segment is helically coiled around the uptake lumen distal end.