Abstract: The present invention provides a catheter for the delivery of fluid medication across an anatomical region. In accordance with some embodiments, the catheter includes an elongated tubular member made of a porous membrane. The porous membrane is configured so that a fluid introduced into an open end of the tubular member will flow through side walls of the tubular member at a substantially uniform rate along a length of the tubular member. In accordance with other embodiments, the catheter includes an elongated “weeping” tubular coil spring attached to an end of, or enclosed within, a tube. Fluid within the spring and greater than or equal to a threshold pressure advantageously flows radially outward between the spring coils. Advantageously, the fluid is dispensed substantially uniformly throughout a length of the spring. In accordance with other embodiments, the catheter includes a tube having a plurality of exit holes in a side wall of the tube.

Abstract: Devices and methods for performing improved percutaneous myocardial revascularization (PMR) procedures. One device includes a preassembled PMR drug delivery catheter and a drug neutralizing vial. The vial assembly allows prepping the PMR catheter by flushing drug through distal needle, and into a vial cavity where the drug is neutralized by a neutralizing agent. One set of devices includes needles having protrusions secured to the distal regions of drug delivery tubes. One needle has outward protruding barbs engaging the inner tube wall while another needle has outward threads which can screw into the tube inner wall. Radiopaque marker bands are also included in the present invention which are asymmetrically distributed on the catheter shaft, allowing a treating physician to determine under fluoroscopy whether the catheter distal region is pointed away or toward the treating physician, as well as determining whether the catheter distal region is rotated toward or away from the treating physician.

Abstract: A suction probe system for cleaning debris from a surgical site includes a probe tip, a filter unit in fluid communication with the probe tip, and a suction source in fluid communication with the filter unit. The filter unit includes a cylindrical filter having an inner chamber attached to the suction source and an outer surface which accumulates debris particles too large to pass through holes within the cylindrical filter. The filter unit also includes a slider having an open-ended cylinder which is slid along the outside of the cylindrical filter to remove accumulated debris particles and to push these debris particles into a reservoir within the filter unit. The slider and the probe tip can be made integral parts of a single sliding member.

Abstract: This invention relates to apparatus and methods of delivering various compositions including medicaments to a variety of targets. The invention also includes an intranasal delivery device for the delivery of such compositions or medicaments including live virus vaccines to both humans and animals. Specifically, the invention addresses the difficulties of delivering cold-adapted live equine influenza viruses intranasally to equids.

Abstract: An apparatus and method is provided for reducing the number of needle penetrations experienced by a dialysis patient comprising a hollow needle having penetrating tip and a fluid inlet formed in the side wall for withdrawal of blood from the patient for transport through the lumen to a dialysis machine. A tubular member is positioned inside the hollow needle and has a longitudinal lumen formed therein, terminating in a distal port, for delivery of blood to the patient received from a dialysis machine. The longitudinal lumen is isolated from the lumen of the hollow needle to prevent mixing of the withdrawn blood and the delivered blood in the apparatus. A housing retains the hollow needle and has a first chamber in fluid communication with the lumen of the hollow needle and a second chamber in fluid communication with the longitudinal lumen of the tubular member. In an alternate embodiment a separator is provided to divide the lumen of the needle into separate chambers.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a device for storing and/or delivering an effective amount of biological or pharmaceutical material to an animal comprising a tube disposed to contain said biological or pharmaceutical material and sealed at its ends and adapted to provide an opening through which the biological or pharmaceutical material exits and is administered to an intended site of the animal.

Abstract: Materials and methods for reducing the incidence of preterm birth involving the use of polymeric compositions are provided.

Abstract: A manometer for measuring the hydrodynamic pressure of fluids parenterally administered to a patient is disclosed. The manometer includes a transparent housing that has a passage that accommodates continuous flow of fluid. A pressure-measuring chamber is formed in the housing with one end in fluid communication with the passage. The other end of the chamber communicates with an enclosed air space. The fluid flowing through the passage enters the pressure-measuring chamber and rises to a level which is dependent upon the pressure of the fluid flowing through the passage. A space-saving chamber is provided, which is in air communication with the pressure-measuring chamber, and which allows the housing to be reduced in size. Markings are provided on the housing which indicate the relative flow state of fluid flowing through the passage.

Abstract: A urethral catheter adapted to facilitate transperineal brachytherapy, comprising, a sleeve having a proximal end, a distal end and at least one lumen filled with a masma comprising a plurality of hypoechoic microspheres; an inflatable balloon fixed about the sleeve proximate the distal end; an inflation valve proximate the proximal end; and a channel, integral with at least a portion of the sleeve, for transporting an inflation medium from the valve to the balloon.

Abstract: A medical instrument includes a case formed with a receiving space, a motor mounted in the case as a driving source which is driven by a battery, a power transmission element for converting a rotational motion of the motor to a linear motion, a pressure element connected to the power transmission element for inhaling and discharging ambient air so as to generate a suction force or discharging force of a predetermined pressure, a suction/discharge element integrally coupled with the pressure element and having an inlet for allowing an air to be inspired into the pressure element and an outlet for allowing the inspired air to be discharged from the pressure element to the outside, a power switch mounted an external surface of the case for controlling operations of the motor. Moreover, either of device or an injection device is detachably mounted to the main body of the medical instrument in communication with the inlet or the outlet of the suction/discharge element.

Abstract: A device (3) comprising a sheet member (6) having a plurality of microprotrusions (4) for penetrating the skin and a rigid support (15) contacting and extending across the sheet member (6) for transmitting an applied force evenly across the length and width of the sheet member (6) to reproducibly and reliably penetrate the skin with the microprotrusions (4).

Abstract: An implanted medical device (e.g. infusion pump) and handheld communication device wherein the implantable device is capable of operating under control of different software programs, wherein a first program operates after resetting the implantable device and is not capable of providing significant medical functionality but is capable of selected telemetry operations including telemetry operations that allow replacement software to be downloaded, and wherein a second program may be caused to take control of the device and is capable of significant medical functionality and selected telemetry operations but is incapable of receiving replacement software. A software image may be received in multiple messages where each message is provided with its own validation code and wherein a validation code for the whole image is provided and wherein each provided validation code must compared to a derived validation code prior to accepting the validity of the replacement software.

Abstract: The invention relates to a pharmaceutical composition comprising Factor VIIa for subcutan, intramuscular or interdermal administration. Factor VIIa administered subcutanously, intramuscularly or intradermally shows a sufficient transport into the bloodstream in biologically active form and in adequate concentrations, and favorable pharmacokinetic properties.

Abstract: A double-lumen chest drainage tube is employed to remove a mixture of air, blood and fluids from a pleural cavity following lung surgery. The drainage tube is constructed of a polymeric inner tube having large but few aspirating perforations surrounded by a connected, spaced-apart, outer tube defining numerous smaller perforations. The outer and inner tubes are separated by septa to prevent collapse of the tubes. When a relatively high suction pressure is applied to the inner tube, the suction pressure is transmitted through the large, few perforations in the inner tube to the space between the two tubes, where the negative aspirating pressure is to be equalized and evenly distributed. When this equalized aspirating pressure is transmitted to the numerous small perforations of the outer tube to the pleural cavity, the negative pressure per square centimeter becomes considerably reduced due to a substantially increased surface area of these numerous, small perforations of the outer tube.

Abstract: In the method proposed, the implant material in the form of a fibre is unwound from a bobbin (10) with the aid of a stream of air (24) and injected through a tube (19) into the body (22). In front of the distal opening (20) of the fibre injection tube, the implant material forms a coherent, open-pore structure in the form of a ball of fibre (25). The fibre-injection tube (19) can be a syringe needle, a catheter or an endoscope tube. This enables the implant (25) to be inserted using minimum-invasive surgery. The size and shape of the implant thus produced can be very variable and can be determined intra-operatively. Various implant materials and fibre shapes can be used. Possible applications of the implant are in the filling of body cavities, systems for the controlled release of systemically acting drugs or chemotherapeutic agents, the induction of tissue, cell transplantation and therapeutic embolization.

Abstract: Methods for treating total and partial occlusions employ a perfusion conduit which is penetrated through the occlusive material. Oxygenated blood or other medium is then perfused through the conduit in a controlled manner, preferably at a controlled pressure below the arterial pressure, to maintain oxygenation and relieve ischemia in tissue distal to the occlusion. In another aspect, interventional devices, such as stents or balloon catheters, are passed through the perfusion catheter to remove obstructions. Optionally, the occlusion may be treated while perfusion is maintained, typically by introducing a thrombolytic or other agent into the occlusive material using the perfusion conduit or by employing mechanical means to remove the obstruction. Such methods are particularly suitable for treating acute stroke to prevent damage to the cerebral tissue.

Abstract: A method and packaging for vaccinating or medicating an animal by implanting a solid dose medicament in an animal. The solid dose medicament, or plurality of such medicaments, are each color-coded to identify a particular active ingredient, then packaged in a pellet magazine through which the doses are visible, and thereafter the pellets are implanted, usually subcutaneously, into the base of the ear or in the neck of an animal. The same system can be used for colored ballistic implants.

Abstract: An improved catheter for delivery of a saline solution to a fallopian tube to be examined by ultrasonic energy and for filling the uterus with a saline solution simultaneously in a sealed position. The device uses first and second expandable balloon sealing elements, one for the fallopian tube opening, the other for the cervix opening to completely seal the fallopian tube and the uterus. The distance between the balloons is adjustable, and a catheterization tip is insertable through a lumen into the fallopian tube. Liquid is provided to the balloons through separate lumens that include cutoff valves for holding the liquid in the balloons. The method employed involves inserting the distal end of the device into the uterus opening while positioning the balloon within the cervical opening and positioning a second balloon in the fallopian tube. The method then includes expanding both balloons so that the cervix and then the fallopian tube are sealed tightly.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for guiding insertion of an endotracheal tube into a patient's trachea simultaneously allows a continued supply of air/oxygen to be delivered into the patient's airway and lungs. A guide having a curved distal portion is inserted into the patient's mouth and hypopharynx. A second lumen extending along the guide is used to supply air/oxygen into the patient's airway and to flush carbon dioxide from the lungs. A fiber optic probe is inserted through an endotracheal tube and this assembly is advanced along the guide into the patient's airway, while ventilation continues without interruption through the second lumen. The direction of the distal tip of the fiber optic probe can be controlled by the physician. This allows the physician to carefully guide the fiber optic probe and endotracheal tube to a position past the larynx while ventilation continues.

Abstract: Essentially inelastic backing material for medical purposes, characterized in that the backing material has an addition of high-strength fibers, multi-strand yarns, mixed multistrands or filaments having an ultimate tensile stress strength of at least 60 cN/tex, preferably from 80 to 500 cN/tex, the high-strength fibers, multi-strand yarns, mixed multistrands or filaments having a water absorption of less than 10%, preferably less than 5% and, with particular preference, less than 3% and the high-strength fibers, multi-strand yarns, mixed multistrands or threads giving the backing material an ultimate stress strength of at least 50 N/cm, preferably from 60 to 450 N/cm and, with particular preference, from 65 to 250 N/cm, and in that the backing material is coated at least partially on at least one side with a hotmelt adhesive composition.

Abstract: Therapeutic device intended for the selective cytoreductive treatment of an obstruction in a natural lumen or passage of the human or animal body, said lumen being obstructed by the effect of a local cell proliferation, said device comprising a tubular element, in particular of cylindrical shape, intended to be placed in said natural lumen and sufficiently flexible to conform to said natural lumen, but sufficiently rigid to maintain an artificial channel in said lumen. The tubular element supports lengthwise a medicinal sleeve which is intended to come into line with, and into contact with, the obstruction once the natural lumen has been intubated, and is designed to deliver locally, at least in its outer surface portion, at least one therapeutic agent which is cytoreductive, in particular cytotoxic, through contact with the cells under whose effect said lumen is obstructed.

Abstract: A method of assembling needles for eyebrow makeup comprises the steps of inserting short needles into holes, wrapping a thermoplastic tube onto distal ends of short needles, inserting a long needle through thermoplastic tube and one hole such that sharp points of the needles contact top surface of planar heat-proof plate, moving needles and fastener plate assembly into oven to heat for integrally forming a needle assembly, taking needle assembly and fastener plate assembly from oven, removing needle assembly from the fastener plate assembly, inserting needle assembly into a hole through a tapered portion of fastener body for compressing the sharp ends of needles, and soldering needles together form a complete needle assembly.

Abstract: A method of enhancing injury-induced revascularization of a tissue as treatment of a disease, such as coronary artery disease, is described. The method involves (i) creating injury in a tissue (e.g., muscle, such as cardiac muscle) by, for example, use of a laser, an ultrasonic device, or a Thermal probe, and (ii) injecting into the tissue a revascularization-promoting molecule or a nucleic acid molecule encoding a revascularization-promoting molecules Also described is an apparatus that can be used to practice this method.

Abstract: An everting toroid for use in delivering a powdered, fluid, or aerosolized pharmaceutical composition, or other composition, to an internal body cavity, such as the urethra, or other cavity, is contained within a tubular housing and may be extended therefrom and retracted back into the tubular housing. The composition may be distributed on the surface of the everting toroid when made from an impermeable membrane, contained within the toroid when made from a permeable membrane, or may be injected through the lumen thereof via an aerosol wand which releases the composition as the toroid and/or wand are withdrawn from the cavity.

Abstract: A subcutaneous drug delivery device having a housing having an internal reservoir in communication with a drug delivery needle via a fluid path. An expandable chamber disposed adjacent to the reservoir forces drug from the reservoir to the needle when supplied with a gas. A flow regulating chamber, in communication with the fluid path, is capable of volumetric changes in response to temperature and/or pressure changes. An increase in the volume of the flow regulating chamber increases flow resistance to the needle and thereby counteracts the corresponding increase in delivery rate resulting from the expansion of the expandable chamber due to the same volumetric changes in response to temperature and/or pressure. The device also includes an improved filling system that enables the reservoir within the device to be filled with drug from a source without regard to filling position and with a decreased risk of injury from needles.

Abstract: A catheter includes a plurality of primary leads to deliver energy for ligating a hollow anatomical structure. Each of the primary leads includes an electrode located at the working end of the catheter. Separation is maintained between the primary leads such that each primary lead can individually receive power of selected polarity. The primary leads are constructed to expand outwardly to place the electrodes into apposition with a hollow anatomical structure. High frequency energy can be applied from the leads to create a heating effect in the surrounding tissue of the anatomical structure. The diameter of the hollow anatomical structure is reduced by the heating effect, and the electrodes of the primary leads are moved closer to one another. Where the hollow anatomical structure is a vein, energy is applied until the diameter of the vein is reduced to the point where the vein is occluded. In one embodiment, a balloon is inflated to occlude the structure before the application of energy.

Abstract: In order to prevent conception and/or the spread of sexually transmitted diseases (STD's) one or more lectins capable of binding sperm and/or the pathogenic microorganisms responsible for STD's are administered to the vagina prior to sexual intercourse. The lectins immobilize the sperm to render them incapable of fertilization and also bind to the microorganisms to render them non-pathogenic or to the cells to prevent infection by the microorganisms. Lectins can also be administered to treat sexually transmitted vaginal infections. The invention also encompasses a device for to be placed in the vault of the vagina which comprises a ring which surrounds the cervix and a membrane spanning the central aperture of the ring to prevent the direct contact of ejaculate with the cervical tissues. The device is impregnated or coated with lectins and releases them into the vaginal environment over a period of time.

Abstract: A cleaning device is a device directly connected with a bath shower head. It is primary used in the individual hygiene. The structure thereof includes a joint directly connected a general used shower bath device. The body of the cleaning device connected with the joint is made by resin and has a cylindrical holding portion matching the requirement of ergonomics. A water box and a cleaning channel are formed within the holding portion. A rotary nozzle is connected on another end of the holding portion, which may be inserted into an organization (for example excretory organs) for cleaning. The present invention may be directly used in shower bath devices of any bathroom.

Abstract: A surgical visualization and moisturizing device providing improved visualization and moisturizing of a surgical site such as an anastomosis. The device of the present invention is provided with a plurality of small flexible lumens extending through and terminating distal of a gas flow port to thoroughly mix and moisture the gas flow with a saline solution. Each of the plurality of flexible lumens, preferably forming a ribbon, are separated from one another slightly at the distal tip to permit vibration due to the gas flow exiting about and past each of the saline lumens. This spacing further facilitates uniform moisturizing of the gas flow. The distal ends of the saline lumens extend beyond the tip of the device such that the pressure of the gas flow approaches atmospheric pressure, whereby gas flow will not go against the head pressure of the saline bag. This eliminates the need for a pressure cuff on the saline bag.

Abstract: A catheter according to the present invention includes a multiple lumen catheter for delivery of a liquid embolic composition through a first lumen and delivery of a solidification agent through a second lumen. The catheter allows adjustment of the relative longitudinal position of the two lumens to control the solidification of the embolic composition within a blood vessel. The multiple lumen catheter system is used by inserting the catheter endovascularly into an aneurysm site and injecting a liquid embolic composition through the first lumen while injecting a solidification agent through the second lumen to wash the area of the aneurysm of blood which has become saturated with solvent, while replacing it with a fresh solidification agent.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are disclosed for treating body tissue whereby a section of tissue is drawn into contact with the open distal end of the first passageway of the apparatus. A tissue treatment fluid is introduced into the second passageway for treating the desired section of tissue retained within the first passageway. Methods and apparatus are also disclosed for positioning a medical device at a desired location within the heart. A portion of the apparatus is retained at a desired location of the heart and a medical device is extended through a passageway of the apparatus for contacting the heart at the desired location.

Abstract: Methods and compositions for systemically or locally administering by implantation a beneficial agent to a subject are described, and include, for example, compositions having burst indices of 8 or less for systemic applications and systems releasing 10% or less of the total dose of beneficial agent in the first 24 hours after implantation for local applications. The compositions include a biocompatible polymer, a biocompatible solvent having low water miscibility that forms a viscous gel with the polymer and limits water uptake by the implant, and a beneficial agent.

Abstract: Biodegradable polymeric compositions are provided, wherein biodegradable polyphosphazenes are combined with at least one other polymer, either in the form of a blend, a semi-interpenetrating network (semi-IPN), or an interpenetrating network IPN. The side groups and composition of the polyphosphazenes are used to determine the properties of the compositions, for example, the rate and extent of degradation, and mechanical properties. These are useful in biomedical applications, including controlled drug delivery and tissue regeneration, and environmental applications. In the most preferred embodiment, as demonstrated by the examples, the polyphosphazenes contain hydrophobic side groups, such as p-methylphenoxy and other aromatic groups, and groups which impart hydrolytic instability, such as amino acid alkyl esters, and degrade by surface erosion. A preferred example is ethyl glycinato-substituted polyphosphazene (PPHOS) with p-methylphenoxy as co-substituent.

Abstract: In order to prevent conception and/or infection by sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) one or more lectins capable of binding sperm or agglutinable components of male ejaculate and/or the pathogenic microorganisms responsible for STDs or the carbohydrate moieties expressed on cell surfaces by which the microorganisms bind to the cells, are administered to the vagina prior to sexual intercourse. The lectins prevent conception by binding to the sperm or agglutinable components of male ejaculate to render the sperm incapable of fertilization. They also bind to the pathogenic microorganisms to render them non-pathogenic or to carbohydrates expressed on cell surfaces to prevent infection by the microorganisms or treat such infections. Lectins can also be administered to treat sexually transmitted vaginal infections. The lectins can also be applied to or contained within a condom.

Abstract: Methods for treating total and partial occlusions employ a perfusion conduit which is penetrated through the occlusive material. Oxygenated blood or other medium is then perfused through the conduit to maintain oxygenation and relieve ischemia in tissue distal to the occlusion. Optionally, the occlusion may be treated while perfusion is maintained, typically by introducing a thrombolytic or other agent into the occlusive material using the perfusion conduit. Such methods are particularly suitable for treating acute stroke to prevent irreversible damage to the cerebral tissue.

Abstract: This is a catheter assembly having an expandable balloon adjustably positionable over a polymeric delivery catheter shaft.

Abstract: Aqueous solutions comprising a polysaccharide oncotic agent, a physiologically compatible buffer, a simple hexose sugar, dissolved chloride salts of calcium, sodium and magnesium, and a dissolved organic salt of sodium are disclosed. The solutions are effective substitutes for blood and may be used to preserve the biological integrity of the organs of a mammalian donor organism as shown by superior anatomical integrity of cryopreserved organs and tissues of subjects perfused with the solution. The solutions may be used for maintaining a partially or substantially completely exsanguinated subject at normal temperatures and at temperatures substantially below those normally maintained by a mammal and may be used in conjunction with hypobaric environments to maintain such partially or completed exsanguinated subjects alive without infusing blood back into the subject.

Abstract: A method for morselating and removing the morselated tissue through a small incision comprising in general inserting a tissue container into the body cavity of a patient through an incision, placing resected tissue in the vessel, inserting a morselator having a rotatable electrode thereon through the incision and into the vessel, morselating the tissue and removing the tissue from the containment vessel and the body. An apparatus for morselating and removing tissue through a small incision within the body cavity of a patient is also disclosed and may comprise a tissue container having an inner chamber for containing resected tissue, and a morselator having a proximal end and a distal end carrying an electrode wherein the distal end is insertable into the body cavity and containment vessel for morselating resected tissue.

Abstract: A balloon-free dilatation catheter has an elongated flexible sheath which is insertable into an animal body so that its distal end is located at or within a selected portion of an internal passage, such as in a blood vessel. The distal end normally confines an elongated cage-like expander having elongated at least partially resilient expanding elements which store energy when confined within the distal end but expand and bear against the tissue surrounding the selected portion of the internal passage when expelled from the distal end by one or more sleeve-like displacing elements confined in and movable circumferentially and/or longitudinally of the sheath. The expanding elements can carry one or more thermometers and/or the discharge end(s) of one or more conduits for a medication or another flowable substance and/or they can be connected to an energy source, e.g., to cool or heat and/or otherwise treat the tissue.

Abstract: A burr hole ring with a catheter for use as an injection port comprises a modified burr hole ring adapted to engage the skull at a burr hole drilled therein. The interior of the burr hole ring defines a fluid reservoir that may be accessed by a needle or stylet inserted through a septum positioned over the top of the burr hole ring. The reservoir is in fluid communication with the central lumen of a catheter. The assembly comprises a fluid flow path suitable for the transfer of fluids to or from selected location at, near or within the brain. A filter layer may be provided to prevent contamination of the drug infusion site.

Abstract: An everting toroid for use in delivering a powdered or liquid or aerosolized drug to an internal body cavity, such as the urethra, is described. The drug may be distributed on the surface of the everting toroid or may be injected through the lumen thereof via an aerosol wand which is designed to release the drug as the toroid and/or wand are withdrawn from the body cavity.

Abstract: An implantable subcutaneous set for mounting onto a skin of a user and contacting a subcutaneous placement site beneath the skin includes a base, a cannula, an insertion device and an externally extending conduit. The base is used to secure the implantable subcutaneous set to the skin of the user. The cannula is coupled to and extends from the base. Also, the cannula has at least one lumen with an end for fluid communication with the subcutaneous placement site. In addition, the cannula has at least one port formed near another end of the lumen opposite the end for fluid communication. The insertion device is operatively coupled to the implantable subcutaneous set and the cannula to facilitate insertion of the cannula to contact the subcutaneous placement site. Also, the insertion device may be withdrawn from the subcutaneous set and the cannula after placing the cannula in contact with the subcutaneous placement site.

Abstract: An ultrasonic device and method for removing obstructive matter from an anatomical structure or passageway (e.g., blood vessel). The device comprises an elongate pliable catheter having a distal tip member attached to the distal end thereof, and an ultrasound transmission member which extends longitudinally therethrough to carry ultrasound from the proximal end of the catheter to the distal tip member. The distal tip member has a concave indentation formed in the distal surface thereof, and at least one inlet passageway extending therethrough in communication with a catheter lumen to facilitate suctioning of severed matter which becomes located within the concave indentation of the distal tip. The device may further incorporate means for infusing fluid (e.g., irrigation fluid, medicaments) separately or concurrently with the aspiration of the severed obstructive matter.

Abstract: A PCA device includes a fluid conduit having an upstream portion and a downstream portion, a first flow-restricting orifice in the upstream portion, a second flow-restricting orifice in the downstream portion, a pressure-responsive check valve in the downstream portion in parallel with the second flow-restricting orifice, and a bolus dose delivery mechanism including a chamber in fluid communication between the upstream portion and the downstream portion. Continuous flow is provided through the first flow-restricting orifice, the chamber, and the second flow-restrictive orifice, the continuous flow serving to fill the chamber at a controlled rate through the first flow-restrictive orifice. The bolus dose delivery mechanism is manually actuable to express the contents of the chamber through the check valve to supplement the continuous flow through the downstream portion. The bolus dose delivery mechanism includes a resilient diaphragm that forms a sealed closure for the chamber.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for occlusion monitoring in a flow circuit using pressure waveform analysis. The flow circuit includes a first conduit and a second conduit which fluidly interconnects a fluid supply with the first conduit. A pump is disposed in an intermediate portion of the second conduit. Monitoring of the pressure in the first conduit is used to identify any occlusions in that portion of the second conduit which is disposed between the pump and the fluid supply.

Abstract: There is disclosed a nasal irrigation system having an applicator or irrigating member through which a pressurized stream of irrigating fluid is passed through to the nasal passage. The applicator or irrigating member includes a tubular member, adapted for receiving a pressurized stream of fluid from a fluid source, having a bore extending therethrough. The tubular member is formed of a first portion and a second portion offset at an angle from each other. One portion of the tubular member includes an opening extending into the bore. The covering and uncovering of the opening by the user allows for the user to control the pressure of the fluid stream through the irrigating member, such that the fluid stream is directed to the nose and nasal passages when desired. A fitting is attached to an end of the tubular member for further comfort for contacting the nose. A method for using the irrigating member and the system including this irrigating member is also disclosed.

Abstract: A portable analgesic system comprises a liquid medicine supply unit which stores a given amount of liquid medicine temporarily and then discharges the liquid medicine automatically, a first three-way connector connected to an outlet of the liquid medicine supply unit, an intermittent injection line for liquid medicine connected to one outlet of the first three-way connector, a continuous injection line for liquid medicine connected to the other outlet of the first three-way connector, and a second three-way connector for intercommunicating with outlets of the both lines.

Abstract: An extension regulator for catheter carried medical instruments which extend from the distal end of the catheter or a point adjacent thereto, includes a regulator which is disposed on a hand-held deployment mechanism used to extend and retract the medical instrument. The deployment mechanism includes a body, and a sliding member which is attached to the connector and which slides along the body between a first position, wherein the medical instrument is retracted, and a second position wherein the medical instrument is fully extended. The regulator limits movement of the sliding member toward the second position to thereby limit extension of the medical instrument from the catheter.

Abstract: A multi-catheter emboli containment system is disclosed in which a treatment chamber within a blood vessel is formed by at least two occlusion balloons on opposite sides of a stenotic lesion, thereby preventing emboli migration during the treatment procedure. Irrigation and aspiration are provided to remove emboli and debris from the chamber. The irrigation and aspiration can be provided through separate catheters, or, the catheters used to create the chamber, together with the catheter used to provide therapy to the stenosis can be used. The catheters are all sized so as to be concentric, slidably disposed with respect to one another, and able to be delivered into blood vessels less than 25 mm in diameter or even smaller.

Abstract: A pencil-grip fine needle aspiration syringe holder for accurately placing a needle into a region using a single hand disposed close to the needle tip in a position of natural function, useable with a standard syringe. A body is provided for receiving a syringe barrel, and a slide is movably mounted to the body for engaging a syringe handle, for movement between a withdrawal position where a syringe plunger is in a compact position and a released position where the plunger is in an extended position. A finger engaging member is fixed to the body for grasping the holder in a pencil-grip manner, and a biasing member is coupled between the body and the slide for urging the slide toward the released position and the plunger toward the extended position.