PERIPHERAL NERVE STIMULATION DEVICE FOR UNASSISTED NERVE BLOCKADE

摘要

The present invention is directed to an apparatus for locating and anesthetizing peripheral nerves. The apparatus of the present invention enables an operator to independently complete a nerve blockade procedure, without the need for an assistant. The apparatus includes a generator (12) which provides an electrical stimulus within a selected range. Adjustable control knobs (14) located on the generator enable an operator to designate the selected amperage range. The apparatus is adapted for accepting a syringe (16) for storing and administering anesthesia, and a tube (18) for carrying the anesthesia from the syringe to a disposable anesthesia needle (24). An electronic cable (28) connects the needle to the generator for delivering the electrical stimulus to the needle (24). The apparatus includes a remotely located foot pedal (44) connected to the generator (12) by a coupling cable (42), which enables the operator to control and modify the magnitude of the electrical stimulus. The addition of the pedal (44) leaves the operator's hands free for unassisted nerve blockage procedure under sterile conditions. The present invention also discloses a method for operating the apparatus.