EPIDURAL DEVICE FOR DETECTION OF AND NEEDLE PLACEMENT IN EPIDURAL SPACE

摘要

Provided is an epidural device configured to inhibit or substantially or completely prevent further progression of an epidural needle upon entry of the needle into the epidural space. When the needle is inserted into the ligamentum of the patient's back, the device may be pressurized with fluid using the resistance of the dense ligament to maintain pressure. This pressurization may lock a pushing mechanism in place relative to the needle such that the pushing mechanism can be used to advance the needle. Once the epidural space is reached, the fluid (e.g., saline or air) enters the epidural space, and the release of pressure may cause the trigger mechanism to disengage from the sliding pusher, allowing the pusher to slide along the body of the construct. The device thus may provide the ability to detect the epidural space using pressure loss while preventing the needle from advancing into the dura once the space is reached. In a preferred aspect, the device may prevent premature triggering when there is a slow flow of fluid from the epidural needle into the surrounding tissue.