US20030183545A1 - Surgical syringe holder - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention provides a medical device holder for holding a surgical device, such as a surgical syringe, in a relatively fixed position. In one embodiment, the device includes a hollow elongate member having a first end, a second end, and an inner lumen extending therebetween for receiving a medical device. First and second end cap members, each having a central opening formed therein for receiving a portion of the medical device, are removably mated to the first and second ends of the elongate member. In use, the end cap members are effective to retain the medical device within the hollow elongate member. In another embodiment, a medical device holder is provided having first and second members, each member including at least one grasping member for engaging and support a medical device disposed therebetween.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION
• The present invention relates to medical device holders, and more particularly to devices for positioning and holding medical instruments, such as surgical syringes.[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
• Surgical syringes are commonly used by physicians, nurses, and other hospital personnel for a variety of purposes. In certain surgical procedures, syringes are used to deliver fluids gradually and/or intermittently over a period of time via a single puncture wound in a patient. Such procedures typically require the surgeon or other staff member to maintain the position of the surgical syringe. However, it is undesirable to manually hold a syringe, as it can be difficult to maintain a steady hand. Unnecessary movement can result in displacement of the needle, or can cause injury to the patient. In addition, it is desirable to free-up the surgeon's, or other staff member's, hands to allow them to perform other functions during the time between injections.[0002]
• Accordingly, there is a need for a surgical syringe holder that is effective to maintain a syringe in a relatively fixed position over a period of time.[0003]
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
• The present invention provides a medical device holder for holding a surgical device, such as a surgical syringe, in a relatively fixed position. In one embodiment, the device includes a hollow elongate member having a first end, a second end, and an inner lumen extending therebetween for receiving a medical device. At least one end cap member is removably mated to at least one of the first and second ends of the elongate member, and includes a central opening formed therein. The central opening in at least one of the end cap members has a size configured to assist in retaining at least a portion of a medical device within the inner lumen of the elongate member.[0004]
• In one embodiment, the medical device holder includes a first, distal end cap member removably mated to the first, distal end of the elongate member, and a second, proximal end cap member removably mated to the second, proximal end of the elongate member. A variety of mating elements can be provided for removably mating the first and second end cap members to the elongate member. By way of non-limiting example, each end cap member can include at least one threaded member formed on an inner surface thereof, and the first and second ends of the elongate member can include at least one corresponding threaded member. Alternatively, the first and second end cap members can be mated to the elongate member by an interference fit, or a positive mechanical engagement.[0005]
• In other aspects, the medical device is a surgical syringe having a barrel, a needle extending distally from the barrel, and a plunger extending proximally from the barrel. The elongate member preferably has a generally cylindrical shape and is adapted to receive at least a portion of the barrel of the syringe. The central opening in the distal end cap member can have a diameter smaller than a diameter of the barrel of the syringe to prevent the barrel from extending through the distal end cap member. Conversely, the central opening in the proximal end cap member preferably has a diameter greater than the diameter of the barrel of the syringe to allow the barrel to extend therethrough. In an alternative embodiment, the central opening in the first, distal end cap member and the central opening in the second, proximal end cap member can each have substantially the same diameter, and the diameter is greater than a diameter of the barrel of the syringe.[0006]
• In another embodiment, the medical device holder can include at least one gripping member, such as an o-ring, disposed between at least one of the first and second end cap members and the first and second ends of the hollow elongate member. The gripping member is effective to grip the barrel portion of the syringe to hinder movement of the syringe with respect to the elongate member.[0007]
• A system for holding a medical device is also provided and includes a medical device holder having a hollow elongate member, proximal and distal end cap members removably mated to proximal and distal ends of the elongate member, and a medical device removably disposed within the inner lumen of the hollow elongate member. The proximal and distal end cap members each include a central opening extending therethrough, and at least one of the end cap members is effective to retain the medical device within the hollow elongate member.[0008]
• In a preferred embodiment, the medical device is a surgical syringe having a barrel disposed within the inner lumen of the hollow elongate member and through the central opening in the proximal end cap member, a needle extending from the distal end of the barrel and through the central opening in the distal end cap member, and a plunger extending from the proximal end of the barrel. The central opening in the distal end cap member can have a diameter smaller than a diameter of the syringe barrel, and the central opening in the proximal end cap member can have a diameter greater than a diameter of the syringe barrel. In a preferred embodiment, the central opening in each of the proximal and distal end cap members are substantially the same, and the diameter is larger than a diameter of the syringe barrel.[0009]
• In use, the second, distal end cap member is mated to the medical device holder. The syringe is then inserted through the proximal end of the elongate member to insert the needle through the central opening in the distal end cap member and position the distal end of the barrel against the inner surface of the distal end cap member. The first end cap member can then optionally be mated to the proximal end of the elongate member.[0010]
• In other aspects, the medical device holder can be configured to either allow movement or limit movement of the surgical syringe with respect to the elongate member. In one embodiment, the surgical syringe is slidably disposed and movable within the inner lumen of the hollow elongate member such that the barrel portion of the syringe can slidably extend through the proximal end cap member. The device having this configuration, preferably includes a connector element adapted to mate to a rigid surgical retractor arm.[0011]
• In another embodiment, the medical device holder can include a gripping member, such as an o-ring, effective to grip a portion of the medical device to hinder movement of the device with respect to the elongate member. The gripping member can be disposed within the elongate member, within one or both end cap members, or between one or both end cap members and the elongate member. The gripping member is preferably configured to extend into the lumen of the elongate member and/or end cap members to effectively limit the inside diameter of the lumen. In this configuration, the device preferably includes a connector element adapted to mate to a flexible surgical retractor arm.[0012]
• In yet another embodiment, a medical device holder is provided having a substantially hollow elongate member having a distal end, a proximal end, and a lumen extending therebetween defined by an inner lumen wall. A compressible gripping member is disposed over at least a portion of the inner lumen wall, and is effective to effectively reduce an inner diameter of the lumen. The device further includes connector element disposed on at least a portion of an outer wall of the elongate member. The connector element is effective to mate the elongate member to a support member. The gripping member can be, for example, an o-ring or a compressible sleeve. In an exemplary embodiment, the gripping member is compressible between a first inner diameter when no medical device is disposed within the lumen of the elongate member, and a second, larger inner diameter when a medical device having an outer diameter greater than the first diameter is disposed within the inner lumen of the elongate member.[0013]
• In another embodiment, the device includes first and second members, each having a generally elongate extension with first and second ends, an upper grasping member mated to the first end, and a lower grasping member mated to the second end. A mating element is formed on at least one of the first and second members for pivotally mating the first member with respect to the second member. In use, the first and second members are pivotally movably between a first, open position, and a second, closed position wherein the upper and lower grasping members of the first and second members are adapted to engage and support a medical device.[0014]
• The first and second members of the medical device holder can include an actuating member for effecting movement of the first and second members with respect to each other. In one embodiment, the actuating member can be opposed first and second handles mated to the first and second members. A compressive force applied to bring the first and second handles in contact with each other causes opening of the first and second members. The device can optionally include a biasing element for biasing the first and second members to one of the open or closed positions. The device can also include a locking element effective to lock the first and second members in the open or, more preferably, in the closed position, wherein the upper and lower grasping members of the first and second members are adapted to engage and support a medical device.[0015]
• The upper and lower grasping members of each of the first and second members can have a variety of configurations, but preferably each grasping member has a generally semi-cylindrical shape and is adapted to grasp a generally cylindrical medical device, such as the barrel of a surgical syringe. The grasping members can include a resilient surface disposed on an inner, gripping surface of each grasping member. Alternatively, or in addition, each grasping member can include a high friction surface disposed on the inner, gripping surface thereof.[0016]
• The first and second members can be mated together using a variety of configurations, but preferably the generally elongate extension of each member includes an outwardly extending portion having a bore disposed therethrough. A pin member is removably disposed through each bore in the first and second members, thereby mating the members, yet allowing pivotal movement of the members with respect to each other. In one aspect, the pin member can include proximal and distal ends. The proximal end preferably has a diameter larger than a diameter of the bore in each of the first and second members to prevent the proximal end of the pin member from extending through each bore. The distal end of the pin member can be adapted to mate to a support member, and can, for example, include a groove formed therein and adapted to mate with a retaining ring to prevent the pin member from being removed from the bore formed in each of the first and second members. The distal end of the pin can also include a locking element effective to lock the first and second members in one of the open or closed positions. The locking element can be, for example, threads formed on the distal end of the pin member for mating with complementary threads formed on the support member.[0017]
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
• The invention will be more fully understood from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:[0018]
• FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustration of a medical device holder according to one embodiment of the present invention;[0019]
• FIG. 2 is a side view illustration of the medical device holder of FIG. 1 in the disassembled form;[0020]
• FIG. 3 is cross-sectional view illustration of another embodiment of a medical device holder having a surgical syringe disposed therein;[0021]
• FIG. 4 is a perspective view illustration of a medical device holder mated to a support member according to another embodiment of the present invention;[0022]
• FIG. 5 is a front view illustration of a medical device holder according to another embodiment of the present invention;[0023]
• FIG. 6 is a side view illustration of the medical device holder of FIG. 5;[0024]
• FIG. 7 is a perspective view illustration of one component of the medical device holder of FIG. 5;[0025]
• FIG. 8 is a perspective view illustration of another component of the medical device holder of FIG. 5;[0026]
• FIG. 9 is a perspective view illustration of a mating element and a portion of a support member for use with a medical device holder of the present invention; and[0027]
• FIG. 10 is a top view illustration of the medical device holder of FIG. 5.[0028]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
• The present invention provides a medical device holder for positioning and holding a medical device in a relatively fixed position. The medical device holder is particularly useful for holding surgical syringes over a length of time, thereby allowing the surgeon and/or other medical personnel to perform other functions during the time between injections. A person having ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that, while the device is described for use as a surgical syringe holder, the device can be configured to hold a variety of medical instruments.[0029]
• FIG. 1 illustrates one embodiment of a[0030]medical device holder10. As shown, thedevice10 generally includes a substantially hollowelongate member12 having aproximal end14, adistal end16, and aninner lumen18 formed therein. A firstend cap member20 is removably and replaceably disposed on theproximal end14 of theelongate member12, and a secondend cap member22 is removably and replaceably disposed on thedistal end16 of theelongate member10. In use, one or bothend cap members20,22 of themedical device holder10 can be effective to assist in retaining at least a portion of a medical device within theinner lumen18 of the hollowelongate member12. For example, the distalend cap member22 can be configured to retain a portion of a medical device within theinner lumen18 of the hollowelongate member12, while the proximalend cap member20, on the other hand, can be configured to allow a medical device to be slidably disposed therethrough. In a preferred embodiment, bothend cap members20,22 are configured to allow a medical device to be slidably disposed therethrough.
• The hollow[0031]elongate member12, as shown in more detail in FIG. 2, includes aproximal end14, adistal end16, and aninner lumen18 extending therebetween. The outer wall of theelongate member12 can be formed from a substantially solid structure, or it can optionally include one or more openings formed therein and extending into theinner lumen18. By way of non-limiting example, theelongate member12 can include at least oneslot13 extending along the length of theelongate member12 to allow visual access to a medical device disposed within theinner lumen18 of theelongate member12.
• The[0032]elongate member12 can have virtually any shape and size, but preferably has a shape and size configured to hold a pre-selected medical device. As shown in FIGS.1-3, theelongate member12 has a generally cylindrical shape and is configured to receive asurgical syringe50, or at least thebarrel portion52 of asurgical syringe50. While FIGS.1-3 illustrate a generally cylindrical shape, theelongate member12 may have alternative shapes such as, for example, a square, rectangular, polygonal, or ovoid shape. Moreover, theelongate member12 can include a variety of surface features, cut-out portions, indentations, or other features which define the shape.
• The length l[0033]_eand diameter d_eof theelongate member12 can also vary, but should be configured to receive at least a portion of a barrel of asurgical syringe50. The diameter d_eis preferably greater than the diameter of a surgical syringe barrel to allow the barrel to be slidably disposed within theinner lumen18 of theelongate member12. The diameter d_ecan, however, be configured to hinder rotational movement of asyringe50 with respect to theelongate member12. The length l_eof theelongate member10 is preferably less than the length of a barrel of a surgical syringe. In an exemplary embodiment, theelongate member12 has a length l_ein the range of about 1 and 10 inches, and a diameter d_ein the range of about 0.1 and 100 mm.
• The proximal and distal ends[0034]14,16 of theelongate member12 are each adapted to mate with anend cap member20, and thus can include amating element24a,24bformed thereon. In one embodiment, themating elements24a,24bmay be formed from one or more threads disposed around an outer surface of theelongate member12 adjacent the proximal and distal ends14,16. Thethreads24a,24bare configured to mate withcorresponding threads26a,26bformed on eachend cap member20,22. A person having ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that a variety of alternative mating elements can be used to connect theend cap members20,22 to theelongate member12. For example, the proximal and distal ends14,16 of theelongate member12 can include an annular flange or a groove formed thereon for mating with a corresponding groove or annular flange, respectively, formed on eachend cap member20,22. Other suitable mating techniques include, but are not limited to, an interference fit and a positive mechanical engagement.
• The[0035]medical device holder10 can include one or moreend cap members20,22, which are also shown in more detail in FIG. 2. Theend cap members20,22 can have a variety of shapes and sizes, and preferably include acentral opening28a,28b, or inner lumen, extending therethrough for receiving a at least a portion of a medical device disposed within theinner lumen18 of theelongate member12. The distalend cap member22 can be formed integrally with theelongate member12, or alternatively it can be removably and replaceably mated to thedistal end16 of theelongate member12. The proximalend cap member20 is optional depending on the intended use.
• Preferably, each[0036]end cap member20,22 has a size and shape which allows eachmember20,22 to be removably and replaceably mated to the proximal and distal ends14,16 of theelongate member12. In one embodiment, eachend cap member20,22 has a generally cylindrical shape. Theend cap members20,22 can also optionally include a knurled outer surface, as shown in FIG. 1, for facilitating gripping of theend cap members20,22. In use, the distalend cap member22 can be adapted to assist in retaining a medical device within theinner lumen18 of theelongate member12.
• In one embodiment, the[0037]central opening28a,28bin the proximal and distalend cap members20,22 each have an inner portion pp_i, dp_i, a middle portion pp_m, dp_m, and an outer portion pp_o, dp_o. The inner portion pp_i, dp_iof eachend cap member20,22 can include amating element26a,26bformed therein for mating with the proximal and distal ends14,16, respectively, of theelongate member12. In an exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 2, themating elements26a,26bare formed from at least one thread configured to engage correspondingthreads24a,24bformed on theelongate member12. As previously stated, a variety of mating techniques can be used to connect theend cap members20,22 to theelongate member12. The middle portion pp_m, dp_mof eachend cap member20,22 preferably has a diameter d_mabout the same as, or greater than, the diameter d_eof theinner lumen18 of theelongate member12. Thus, when eachend cap member20,22 is mated to theelongate member12, the middle portion p_mand theinner lumen18 of theelongate member12 form a substantially contiguous, smooth surface.
• The outer portion pp[0038]_o, dp_oof eachend cap member20,22 can vary depending on use. In one embodiment, the distalend cap member22 can be configured to prevent at least a portion of a medical device from extending therethrough. For example, where the medical device is asurgical syringe50 having abarrel52 disposed within theelongate member12, as shown in FIG. 3, the outer portion dp_oof the distalend cap member12 can have a size which allows aneedle54 extending distally from thebarrel52 of thesyringe50 to extend through thecentral opening28b, yet prevents thebarrel52 of thesyringe50 from extending therethrough. As a result, the distalend cap member22 is effective to assist in retaining thebarrel52 of thesyringe50 within theinner lumen18 of theelongate member12. The diameter dd_oof the outer portion dp_ois thus preferably smaller than the diameter dd_mof the middle portion dp_mand/or the diameter d_eof theinner lumen18 of theelongate member12. The proximalend cap member20, on the other hand, can have middle and outer portions pp_m, pp_ohaving diameters substantially the same as, greater than, or smaller than the diameter d_eof theinner lumen18 of theelongate member12.
• The[0039]medical device holder10 can optionally include one or more gripping elements configured to hinder movement of a medical device with respect to theelongate member12. The gripping element can be provided, in addition to or as an alternative to theend cap members20,22, to assist in retaining a portion of a syringe within theelongate member12. The gripping element can be positioned anywhere within the medical device, and should be effective to grip a portion of a medical device disposed within theinner lumen18 of theelongate member12. In one embodiment, the gripping element can be fixedly or removably disposed within theelongate member12, disposed within theend cap members20,22, or disposed between theend cap members20,22 and theelongate member12.
• In the embodiment shown in FIG. 3, the gripping element is an o-[0040]ring34 disposed between theend cap members20,22 and theelongate member12. In an exemplary embodiment, the o-ring is disposed within the middle portion p_mof one or eachend cap member20,22. The o-ring can have a variety of shapes and sizes, and can be formed from a variety of high friction and/or compressible materials. Preferably, at least a portion of the o-ring extends into the space defined by thelumen18 of theelongate member12 and/or theend cap members20,22 to effectively limit the inside diameter of thelumen18 orend cap members20,22. As a result, the o-ring is effective to grip thebarrel portion52 of thesurgical syringe50 to hinder or prevent movement of thesyringe50 with respect to theelongate member12.
• A person having ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the[0041]medical device holder10 can alternatively or additionally include a variety of other gripping elements or similar type of frictional elements disposed within theinner lumen18 of theelongate member12, or within theend cap members20,22, for preventing or hindering movement of a syringe with respect to theelongate member12. For example, one or more high friction strips can be placed along the length, or around the circumference of theinner surface18 of theelongate member12. Alternatively, or in addition, theelongate member12 can include surface features that are adapted to engage the surgical syringe, or a compressible sleeve disposed over at least a portion of theinner lumen wall18 and compressible between a first inner diameter when no medical device is disposed within thelumen18 of theelongate member12, and a second inner diameter when a medical device having an outer diameter greater than the first diameter is disposed within theinner lumen18 of theelongate member12. In another embodiment, a compressible gasket can be placed withinlumen18, extending along all or a portion thereof.
• In use, the[0042]medical device holder10 is preferably assembled by attaching the distalend cap member22 to thedistal end16 of theelongate member12. An o-ring can optionally be placed between the distalend cap member22 and theelongate member12 prior to mating the two members. A syringe, or other medical device, is then inserted into theproximal end14 and theinner lumen18 of theelongate member12. The needle of thesyringe54 extends through thecentral opening28bin the distalend cap member22. Depending on the diameter dd_oof theopening28bin the distalend cap member22, a distal end surface of thebarrel52 can abuts the distalend cap member22. Thedevice10 can be utilized in this configuration.
• Alternatively, or in addition, the proximal[0043]end cap member20 can be mated to the proximal end of theelongate member12. As shown in FIG. 3, the barrel of thesyringe52 can extend through thecentral opening28ain the proximalend cap member20, and thus is slidably movably with respect to theelongate member12. An o-ring member34 can optionally be positioned between the proximalend cap member20 and theelongate member12 prior to mating theend cap member20 to theelongate member12.
• As shown in FIG. 4, the[0044]medical device holder10 is preferably configured to mate with a surgical support member, such as asurgical retractor arm70, for maintaining the position of themedical device holder10 with respect to a patient. Thus, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, thedevice holder10 can include at least oneconnector42,44 for mating with a complementary connector72 (FIG. 4) formed on asupport member70. A person having ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that virtually any type of connector can be used to mate themedical device holder10 to virtually any type of surgical support member, such as a table support or a retractor arm.
• In an exemplary embodiment, the[0045]medical device holder10 is configured to mate with either a rigid retractor arm (not shown) or aflexible retractor arm70. In certain surgical procedures where a syringe is inserted at a single puncture wound over an extended period, it can be desirous to allow the syringe to move in conjunction with the patient's breathing. Thus, where a rigid surgical retractor arm is employed, themedical device holder10 is preferably configured to allow thesyringe50 to move with respect to theelongate member12. Alternatively, where a flexible surgical retractor arm is employed, themedical device holder10 is preferably configured to prevent movement of thesyringe50 with respect to theelongate member12. As a result of either configuration, thesyringe50, or alternatively the flexible retractor arm, is allowed to move in conjunction with the patient's breathing.
• FIGS.[0046]5-10 illustrate another embodiment of amedical device holder100. As shown in FIG. 5, themedical device holder100 generally includes opposed first andsecond members102a,102b, each having a generallyelongate extension104a,104b, and at least one graspingmember106a,106b,108a,108b. Amating element110, shown in FIG. 6, is formed on, or disposed between, the first andsecond members102a,102bfor pivotally mating the first andsecond members102a,102b. In use, the first andsecond members102a,102bare movable between a first, open position (not shown), and a second closed position in which the graspingmembers106a,106b,108a,108bare adapted to engage and support a medical device, such as asurgical syringe150. The first andsecond members102a,102bcan also each include an actuatingmember112a,112bfor effecting movement of the first andsecond members102a,102bwith respect to each other.
• While FIG. 5 illustrates[0047]medical device holder100 engaging and supporting asurgical syringe150, a person having ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that themedical device holder100 can be used to support a variety of medical devices.
• The first and[0048]second members102a,102bare each shown in more detail in FIGS. 7 and 8, respectively. As shown, eachmember102a,102bincludes a generallyelongate extension104a,104bhaving a first,proximal end104a₁,104b₁, and a second,distal end104a₂,104b₂. An upper graspingmember106ais mated to theproximal end104a₁of theelongate extension104aof thefirst member102a, and an opposed, upper graspingmember106bis mated to theproximal end104b₁of theelongate extension104bof thesecond member102b. Likewise, themedical device holder100 can include a lower graspingmember108amated to thedistal end104a₂of theelongate extension104aof thefirst member102a, and an opposed, lower graspingmember108bmated to thedistal end104b₂of theelongate extension104bof thesecond member102b. In use, the upper and lower graspingmembers106a,106b,108a,108bare adapted to engage and support amedical device150 disposed therebetween.
• The[0049]elongate extensions104a,104bcan have virtually any shape and size, but should be configured to support the graspingmembers106a,106b,108a,108bin a position in which the graspingmembers106a,106b,108a,108bare effective to engage and support amedical device150. A person having ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the first andsecond members102a,102bof themedical device holder100 can be constructed without anelongate extension104a,104b. Moreover, eachmember102a,102bcan include one or more grasping members mated thereto or formed thereon.
• Each grasping[0050]member106a,106b,108a,108bcan have a variety of shapes and sizes, but preferably eachmember106a,106b,108a,108bhas a shape and size configured to engage a medical device, such as asurgical syringe150. The graspingmembers106a,106b,108a,108bcan be formed integrally with theelongate extension104a,104bor some other portion of the first andsecond members102a,102b, or alternatively can be mated thereto using a variety of techniques known in the art. Moreover, the graspingmembers106a,106b,108a,108bcan be adjustably mated to themedical device holder100 to allow each graspingmember106a,106b,108a,108bto be positioned properly to facilitate engagement and support of a medical device. In an exemplary embodiment shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, each graspingmember106a,106b.108a,108bhas a generally semi-circular shape and includes an inner, concavegripping surface106a_i,106b_i,108a_i,108b_i, and an outerconvex surface106a_o,106b_o,108a_o,108b_o,. The inner, grippingsurface106a_i,106b_i,108a_i,108b_iof each graspingmember106a,106b,108a,108bcan optionally including a resilient, compressible, and/or high friction surface disposed thereon for facilitating engagement of the medical device disposed therebetween.
• Still referring to FIGS. 7 and 8, the[0051]proximal end104a₁,104b₁, of eachelongate extension104a,104bcan optionally include atransverse portion118a,118bconfigured to receive amating element110 for pivotally mating the first member with respect to the second member. The transverse portion118a,118bcan have a variety of shapes and sizes, but preferably each transverse portion118a,118bhas an L-shaped, generally planar configuration. Thetransverse portions118a,118bare configured to overlap one another when the first andsecond members102a,102bare mated, and can include abore114a,114bextending therethrough for receiving amating element110. As shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the first andsecond members102a,102bcan also optionally include acylindrical member116a,116bdisposed around thebore114a,114bfor receiving and support themating element110. When mated, thecylindrical member116a,116bof each of the first andsecond members102a,102bis aligned to form a single, elongate bore extending therethrough.
• FIGS. 6 and 9 illustrate a[0052]mating element110 which can be removably disposed through thebore114a,114bin each of the first andsecond members102a,102bfor pivotally mating the first andsecond members102a,102b. Themating element110 allows the first andsecond members102a,102bto move between a first, open position (not shown), and a second, closed position (FIGS. 5 and 6) in which the graspingmembers106a,106b,108a,108bare adapted to engage and support a medical device. Themating element110 can have a variety of configurations and can be formed integrally with, or mated to, the first andsecond members102a,102b.
• In an exemplary embodiment, the[0053]mating element110 is a pin member having aproximal end122 and adistal end124, as shown in FIG. 9. Theproximal end122 is preferably adapted to prevent thepin member110 from extending entirely through thebore114a,114bin thetransverse portion118a,118bof each of the first andsecond members102a,102b. More preferably, theproximal end122 of thepin member110 has a diameter d_plarger than a diameter d_dof thedistal end124 of themating element110, and larger than the diameter d_bof the bore in thetransverse portion118a,118bof each of the first andsecond members102a,102b.
• While the[0054]mating element110 can have a variety of configurations, theproximal end122 can optionally include a gripping surface, orknurled surface126, formed thereon for facilitating gripping of thepin member110, and thedistal end124 can include a threadedsurface128 for mating with corresponding threads (not shown) formed in thebore114a,114bin thetransverse portion118a,118bof each of the first andsecond members102a,102b. Thedistal end124 can also optionally include a locking element formed thereon for preventing thepin member110 from being removed from thebore114a,114bformed in each of the first andsecond members102a,102b. The locking element can be, for example, agroove132 formed around thedistal end124 of thepin member110, and a retainer ring (not shown) adapted to be disposed around thegroove132 after thepin member110 is inserted through thebore114a,114bformed in each of the first andsecond members102a,102b.
• The[0055]medical device holder100 can also optionally include an actuatingmember112a,112bformed on one or both of the first andsecond members102a,102b. As shown in FIGS.5-8 and10, themedical device holder100 includes first and second opposed actuatingmembers112a,112bmated to, or formed integrally with, the first andsecond members102a,102b. The actuatingmembers112a,112bare effective to move the first andsecond members102a,102bbetween the open and closed positions. In an exemplary embodiment, shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the actuatingmembers112a,112bare mated to thetransverse member104a,104bof each of the first andsecond members102a,102b. Each actuatingmember112a,112bcan have a variety of configurations, but preferably eachmember112a,112bincludes a handle portion, or similar structure, for facilitating gripping of theactuating members112a,112b.
• In use, the actuating[0056]members112a,112bare movable between a first, open position, in which the graspingmembers106a,106b,108a,108bof each of the first andsecond members102a,102bare positioned in the closed position, and a second, closed position, in which theactuating members112a,112bare moved toward one another and the graspingmembers106a,106b,108a,108bof each of the first andsecond members102a,102bare positioned in the open position.
• The[0057]medical device holder100 can also optionally include abiasing element134 for biasing the first andsecond members102a,102bto one of the open or closed positions, and preferably to the closed position, in which the graspingmembers106a,106b,108a,108bare adapted to engage and support a medical device. The biasingelement134 can have a variety of configurations. In an exemplary embodiment, shown in FIG. 10, the biasingelement134 is a spring-like member mated to the first andsecond members102a,102b. The biasingelement134 can be disposed around one of thecylindrical members116a,116bon the first andsecond members102a,102b. Alternatively, the biasingelement134 can be mated to, or formed integrally with, some other portion of the first andsecond members102a,102b, such as theelongate extension104a,104bof eachmember102a,102b.
• In use, the biasing[0058]element134 applies a force to maintain the first andsecond members102a,102bin one of the open or closed positions, preferably the closed position wherein the first andsecond members102a,102bengage and support amedical device150. The force of the biasingelement134 can be overcome by grasping theactuating members112a,112bcausing themembers112a,112bto contact each other and thereby move the first andsecond members102a,102bfrom the closed position, as shown in FIGS.5-6,8, and10, to the open position (not shown).
• The[0059]medical device holder100 can further be adapted to mate to asupport member136, such as a retractor or similar type of medical device. In one embodiment, shown in FIG. 9, thedistal end124 of themating element110 is configured to be disposed within abore138 formed in asupport member136. A variety of mating techniques can be utilized to mate thedistal end124 of themating element110 to thesupport member136 including, but not limited to, a threaded engagement, an interference fit, a positive mechanical engagement, or a similar mating technique for removably securing themating element110 to asupport136. In use, themating element110 extends through thebore114a,114bin each of the first andsecond members102a,102b, and into abore138 formed in thesupport member136. As a result, thesupport member136 is effective to maintain the position of themedical device holder100.
• The medical device holders of the present invention may be constructed from a variety of materials that are suitable for medical applications. Preferred materials from which the medical device holders can be made include metals, such as stainless steel, plastics, and rubbers, such as silicone.[0060]
• One of ordinary skill in the art will further appreciate further features and advantages of the invention based on the embodiments described above. All references referred to herein are expressly incorporated by reference in their entirety.[0061]

Claims (42)

What is claimed is:

1. A medical device holder, comprising:

a substantially hollow elongate member having a first, distal end, a second, proximal end, and an inner lumen extending therebetween for receiving a medical device;

at least one end cap member removably mated to at least one of the proximal and distal ends of the hollow elongate member and having a central opening formed therein having a size configured to assist in retaining at least a portion of the medical device within the inner lumen of the elongate member.

2. The medical device holder ofclaim 1, further comprising a first, distal end cap member removably mated to the first, distal end of the elongate member, and a second, proximal end cap member removably mated to the second, proximal end of the elongate member.

3. The medical device holder ofclaim 2, wherein the medical device is a surgical syringe and the hollow elongate member is generally cylindrical and is adapted to receive a barrel of the syringe.

4. The medical device holder ofclaim 3, wherein the central opening in the first, distal end cap member has a diameter smaller than a diameter of the barrel of the syringe, and the central opening in the second, proximal end cap member has a diameter greater than a diameter of the syringe barrel.

5. The medical device holder ofclaim 3, wherein the central opening in the first, distal end cap member and the central opening in the second, proximal end cap member each have substantially the same diameter, and wherein the diameter is greater than a diameter of the barrel of the syringe.

6. The medical device holder ofclaim 3, further comprising a gripping member disposed between at least one of the first and second end cap members and the first and second ends of the hollow elongate member, the gripping member being effective to grip a portion of the barrel of the syringe to hinder movement of the syringe with respect to the hollow elongate member.

7. The medical device holder ofclaim 6, wherein the gripping member comprises an o-ring.

8. The medical device holder ofclaim 2, wherein the device further includes a mating element for removably mating the first and second end cap members to the hollow elongate member.

9. The medical device holder ofclaim 8, wherein the mating element comprises at least one threaded member formed on an inner surface of the first and second end cap members, and at least one corresponding threaded member formed on an outer surface of the first and second ends of the hollow elongate member.

10. The medical device holder ofclaim 8, wherein the first and second end cap members are removably mated to the hollow elongate member by an interference fit.

11. The medical device holder ofclaim 8, wherein the first and second end cap members are removably mated to the hollow elongate member by a positive mechanical engagement.

12. The medical device holder ofclaim 1, wherein the hollow elongate member includes a connecting element adapted to mate to a surgical supporting device.

13. A medical device holding system, comprising:

a medical device holder having

a substantially hollow elongate member having a proximal end, a distal end, and an inner lumen extending therebetween;

proximal and distal end cap members removably mated to the proximal and distal ends of the hollow elongate member, the distal end cap member being effective to retain a portion of a medical device within the hollow elongate member; and

a medical device removably disposed within the inner lumen of the hollow elongate member.

14. The system ofclaim 13, wherein the proximal and distal end cap members each include a central opening extending therethrough for receiving a portion of the medical instrument.

15. The system ofclaim 14, wherein the hollow elongate member has a generally cylindrical shape.

16. The system ofclaim 14, wherein the medical device comprises a surgical syringe having a barrel disposed within the inner lumen of the hollow elongate member and through the central opening in the proximal end cap member, a needle extending from a distal end of the barrel and through the central opening in the distal end cap member, and a plunger extending from the proximal end of the barrel.

17. The system ofclaim 16, wherein the central opening in the distal end cap member has a diameter smaller than a diameter of the syringe barrel, and wherein the central opening in the proximal end cap member has a diameter greater than a diameter of the syringe barrel.

18. The system ofclaim 16, wherein the central opening in the distal end cap member and the central opening in the proximal end cap member each have substantially the same diameter, and wherein the diameter is greater than a diameter of the syringe barrel.

19. The system ofclaim 17, wherein the hollow elongate member has a length extending between the proximal and distal ends that is less than a length of the barrel of the surgical syringe such that the syringe is slidably disposed and movable within the inner lumen of the hollow elongate member.

20. The system ofclaim 19, wherein the hollow elongate member includes a connector element adapted to mate to a rigid surgical retractor arm.

21. The system ofclaim 17, further comprising at least one compressible member disposed between at least one of the proximal and distal end cap members and the proximal and distal ends of the hollow elongate member, the at least one compressible member being adapted to grip the barrel of the surgical syringe and hinder movement thereof within the inner lumen of the hollow elongate member.

22. The system ofclaim 21, wherein the hollow elongate member includes a connector element adapted to mate to a flexible surgical retractor arm.

23. A medical device holder, comprising:

a substantially hollow elongate member having a distal end, a proximal end, and a lumen extending therebetween defined by an inner lumen wall;

a compressible gripping member disposed over at least a portion of the inner lumen wall, the gripping member being effective to effectively reduce an inner diameter of the lumen; and

is a connector element disposed on at least a portion of an outer wall of the elongate member, the connector element being effective to mate the elongate member to a support member.

24. The medical device holder ofclaim 23, wherein the gripping member comprises an o-ring.

25. The medical device holder ofclaim 23, wherein the gripping member comprises a compressible sleeve.

26. The medical device holder ofclaim 23, wherein the gripping member is compressible between a first inner diameter when no medical device is disposed within the lumen of the elongate member, and a second, larger inner diameter when a medical device having an outer diameter greater than the first diameter is disposed within the inner lumen of the elongate member.

27. A medical device holder, comprising:

a first member having a generally elongate extension having first and second ends, and at least one grasping member mated to the generally elongate extension;

a second member opposed to the first member and having a generally elongate extension having first and second ends, and at least one grasping member mated to the generally elongate extension; and

a mating element formed on at least one of the first and second members for pivotally mating the first member with respect to the second member such that the first and second members are pivotally movable between a first, open position and a second, closed position in which the at least one grasping member of the first and second members are adapted to engage and support a medical device.

28. The medical device holder ofclaim 27, wherein the generally elongate extension of each of the first and second members include an upper grasping member mated to the first end of the elongate extension and a lower grasping member mated to the second end of the elongate extension.

29. The medical device holder ofclaim 27, wherein at least one of the first and second members includes an actuating member for effecting movement of the first and second members with respect to each other.

30. The medical device holder ofclaim 29, wherein the actuating member comprises opposed first and second handles mated to the first and second members, and wherein a compressive force applied to bring the first and second handles in contact with each other causes opening of the first and second members.

31. The medical device holder ofclaim 27, wherein the mating element further includes a biasing element for biasing the first and second members to one of the open or closed positions.

32. The medical device holder ofclaim 31, wherein the first and second members are biased to the second, closed position.

33. The medical device holder ofclaim 27, wherein the device further includes a locking element effective to lock the first and second members in one of the open or closed positions.

34. The medical device holder ofclaim 28, wherein each of the upper and lower grasping members of each of the first and second members comprise a generally semi-cylindrical member adapted to grasp a generally cylindrical medical device.

35. The medical device holder ofclaim 34, wherein the upper and lower grasping members of each of the first and second members further include a resilient surface disposed on an inner, gripping surface of the grasping members.

36. The medical device holder ofclaim 34, wherein the upper and lower grasping members of each of the first and second members further include a high friction surface disposed on an inner, gripping surface of the grasping members.

37. The medical device holder ofclaim 27, wherein each generally elongate extension of the first and second members includes an outwardly extending portion having a bore disposed therethrough, and wherein the mating element comprises a pin member removably disposed through each bore in the first and second members.

38. The medical device holder ofclaim 37, wherein the pin member includes a proximal end and a distal end, the proximal end having a diameter larger than a diameter of the bore of each of the first and second members to prevent the proximal end of the pin member from extending through each bore.

39. The medical device holder ofclaim 38, wherein the distal end of the pin member is adapted to mate to a support member.

40. The medical device holder ofclaim 38, wherein the distal end of the pin member includes a groove formed therein and adapted to mate with a retaining ring to prevent the pin member from being removed from the bore formed in each of the first and second members.

41. The medical device ofclaim 39, wherein the distal end of the pin member includes a locking element effective to lock the first and second members in one of the open or closed positions.

42. The medical device holder ofclaim 41, wherein the locking element comprises at least one thread formed on an outer surface of the distal end of the pin member, the at least one thread being configured to mate with at least one complementary thread formed on an inner surface of a bore formed in the support member.

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