초록 ▼

An apparatus and method for percutaneously placing gastrostomy tubes. The method enables percutaneous placement through an existing penetration, as well as placement where no penetration exists. The apparatus comprises a gastrostomy tube having an internal bolster which can be manipulated such that

An apparatus and method for percutaneously placing gastrostomy tubes. The method enables percutaneous placement through an existing penetration, as well as placement where no penetration exists. The apparatus comprises a gastrostomy tube having an internal bolster which can be manipulated such that it has a reduced lateral extent; an axially-extending hollow sleeve which can surround the bolster to hold it in a position of reduced lateral extent; and a rip-cord capable of tearing the sheath. In a preferred embodiment, the internal bolster is folded to have a smaller diameter, the sleeve is placed over the bolster and shrunk down to a smaller diameter. The rip-cord runs distally along the outside of the tube, between the sleeve and the internal bolster, wraps over the distal end of the sleeve and runs proximally along the length of the tube. The replacement tube can then be pushed through a stoma. Once in place, the rip cord is pulled to tear away the sleeve, thereby allowing the bolster to revert to its original lateral extent.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A gastrostomy tube placement assembly comprising:a gastrostomy tube having proximal and distal ends, and an internal bolster at its distal end which can be manipulated to have a reduced lateral extent; andan axially extending hollow sleeve having a proximal end, an inner

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A gastrostomy tube placement assembly comprising:a gastrostomy tube having proximal and distal ends, and an internal bolster at its distal end which can be manipulated to have a reduced lateral extent; andan axially extending hollow sleeve having a proximal end, an inner surface and an outer surface, wherein said hollow sleeve can surround the internal bolster and hold the bolster in a position of reduced lateral extent; anda rip-cord which can be pulled, thereby ripping the sleeve and allowing the bolster to assume a position of increased lateral extent.