Catheter system for implanting embryos
US6610005B1 · kind B1 · utility
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 3, 2000 |
| Grant date | Aug 26, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 3, 2020 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61M2210/145
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Described is a catheter system for implanting embryos into a woman's uterus. The catheter system utilizes a protective catheter sleeve for introducing a catheter into the uterus without mucus contamination of an inner catheter. Once the sleeve containing the inner catheter is introduced into the uterus, the protected inner catheter, carrying the embryos, is pushed through a swivelable distal end cap on the sleeve to a desired implanting location. The distal end of the inner catheter has a protective cap and a side opening for embryo release. Also, stiffness and indicia features of the outer sleeve and inner catheter assist in the physician's handling of the catheter system and in ensuring a desired uterus location for implanting.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.