Patent · US Expired

Devices and methods to identify ductal orifices during nipple aspiration

US6328709A · kind A · utility

54Cited by
14References
18Claims
0Family size

Assignee

Inventors

Key dates

Filing dateNov 12, 1999
Grant dateDec 11, 2001
Priority date
Expiry dateNov 12, 2019

Classification

  • Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
  • CPC primaryA61M2205/585
  • WIPO fieldMedical technology
  • WIPO sectorInstruments

Abstract

Devices, methods and kits for identifying a breast milk duct orifice capable of yielding fluid or releasing a keratin plug under a vacuum are described and claimed. The devices include a magnification lens integral to a nipple aspiration device or a nipple aspiration device having an attachment element for attaching a magnification tool to aid the practitioner to better observe a nipple surface under a vacuum. The devices also can include one or more access ports for such purposes as accessing the duct, marking the duct, or collecting fluid from the duct. The methods of nipple aspiration comprise identifying a duct that yields fluid or releases a keratin plug under a vacuum. The kits can comprise a device of the invention, a container for the kit contents, and instructions.

Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.