Transdermal anesthetizing solution and method and apparatus for anesthetizing the ear canal and tympanic membrane
US6358231B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 23, 1999 |
| Grant date | Mar 19, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 23, 2019 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61M2210/0662
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A topical anesthetic solution includes a tetracaine base dissolved in a solvent, such as isopropyl alcohol. A method for anesthetizing the ear canal and tympanic membrane using the anesthetic solution includes providing a dry, expandable applicator which expands as it absorbs a fluid and inserting the applicator, dry or partially wetted, into the ear canal and advancing the applicator into the ear canal to the vicinity of the tympanic membrane. The applicator is then fully wetted with the anesthetic solution, causing the applicator to fully expand within the ear canal, and is left in the ear canal for a period sufficient to effect anesthesia of the ear canal and tympanic membrane. An apparatus for applying a topical anesthetic to the ear canal and tympanic membrane includes an expandable, absorbent applicator that expands when soaked with a liquid, an applicator withdrawal tether attached to the applicator, and an applicator inserting and soaking device. The inserting and soaking device includes an elongated portion constructed and arranged to insert the applicator, releasably secured to the end thereof, into the ear canal, a fluid conduit defined within the inserting device, a flu…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.