Method for placing a feeding tube inside a gastro-intestinal tract
US6322495A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 15, 1999 |
| Grant date | Nov 27, 2001 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 15, 2019 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61B1/00082
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An optical feeding tube includes an elongated sheath having a first lumen for delivering nutrients to a gastrointestinal tract and an imaging device disposed in a second lumen. The imaging device provides visualization of an area adjacent a distal end of the elongated sheath. The imaging device can be an optical fiber extending from a proximal end to a distal end of the elongated sheath. The optical feeding tube can also include a retention device. The method for placing the feeding tube involves passing the feeding tube through an opening in the abdominal wall and into a gastro-intestinal tract while observing a passageway ahead of the feeding tube.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.