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A spinal needle system that signals entry into the epidural space
and stabilizes the dura mater. The system includes a cannula having
at a distal tip an annular surface surrounding a terminal port and
at least one barb projecting at an angle from the annular surface
of the cannula for grasping and controlling the tissue. Each barb
is formed having a sharp edge configured to grasp the tissue as
the tubular member is rotated about its longitudinal axis. One implementation
of the system includes a plurality of unidirectional barbs spaced
around the annular surface of the cannula. The system includes an
indicator mechanism that gives a visual and a tactile indication
of when the cannula encounters and penetrates tissue. The system
facilitates the appropriate placement of an epidural or subdural
catheter or patch of any kind.
The present invention is directed toward an improved spinal needle.
A needle hub is disposed about a proximate end of a hollow needle.
The needle hub side port indicators provide visual and tactual verification
by a user of the orientation of the side port on the needle. The
needle hub also includes a window with a magnified view. The invention
provides a stylet cap disposed about a proximate end of a stylet
that freely slides inside the hollow needle and needle hub. The
stylet cap forms a pressure fit with the needle hub, and can be
engaged in the pressure fit from any axial orientation.
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