Surgical syringe holder

Abstract

The present invention provides a medical device holder for holding a surgical device, such as a surgical syringe, in a relatively fixed position. In one embodiment, the device includes a hollow elongate member having a first end, a second end, and an inner lumen extending therebetween for receiving a medical device. First and second end cap members, each having a central opening formed therein for receiving a portion of the medical device, are removably mated to the first and second ends of the elongate member. In use, the end cap members are effective to retain the medical device within the hollow elongate member. In another embodiment, a medical device holder is provided having first and second members, each member including at least one grasping member for engaging and support a medical device disposed therebetween.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to medical device holders, and more particularly to devices for positioning and holding medical instruments, such as surgical syringes.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Surgical syringes are commonly used by physicians, nurses, and other hospital personnel for a variety of purposes. In certain surgical procedures, syringes are used to deliver fluids gradually and/or intermittently over a period of time via a single puncture wound in a patient. Such procedures typically require the surgeon or other staff member to maintain the position of the surgical syringe. However, it is undesirable to manually hold a syringe, as it can be difficult to maintain a steady hand. Unnecessary movement can result in displacement of the needle, or can cause injury to the patient. In addition, it is desirable to free-up the surgeon's, or other staff member's, hands to allow them to perform other functions during the time between injections.

[0003] Accordingly, there is a need for a surgical syringe holder that is effective to maintain a syringe in a relatively fixed position over a period of time.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0004] The present invention provides a medical device holder for holding a surgical device, such as a surgical syringe, in a relatively fixed position. In one embodiment, the device includes a hollow elongate member having a first end, a second end, and an inner lumen extending therebetween for receiving a medical device. At least one end cap member is removably mated to at least one of the first and second ends of the elongate member, and includes a central opening formed therein. The central opening in at least one of the end cap members has a size configured to assist in retaining at least a portion of a medical device within the inner lumen of the elongate member.

[0005] In one embodiment, the medical device holder includes a first, distal end cap member removably mated to the first, distal end of the elongate member, and a second, proximal end cap member removably mated to the second, proximal end of the elongate member. A variety of mating elements can be provided for removably mating the first and second end cap members to the elongate member. By way of non-limiting example, each end cap member can include at least one threaded member formed on an inner surface thereof, and the first and second ends of the elongate member can include at least one corresponding threaded member. Alternatively, the first and second end cap members can be mated to the elongate member by an interference fit, or a positive mechanical engagement.

[0006] In other aspects, the medical device is a surgical syringe having a barrel, a needle extending distally from the barrel, and a plunger extending proximally from the barrel. The elongate member preferably has a generally cylindrical shape and is adapted to receive at least a portion of the barrel of the syringe. The central opening in the distal end cap member can have a diameter smaller than a diameter of the barrel of the syringe to prevent the barrel from extending through the distal end cap member. Conversely, the central opening in the proximal end cap member preferably has a diameter greater than the diameter of the barrel of the syringe to allow the barrel to extend therethrough. In an alternative embodiment, the central opening in the first, distal end cap member and the central opening in the second, proximal end cap member can each have substantially the same diameter, and the diameter is greater than a diameter of the barrel of the syringe.

[0007] In another embodiment, the medical device holder can include at least one gripping member, such as an o-ring, disposed between at least one of the first and second end cap members and the first and second ends of the hollow elongate member. The gripping member is effective to grip the barrel portion of the syringe to hinder movement of the syringe with respect to the elongate member.

[0008] A system for holding a medical device is also provided and includes a medical device holder having a hollow elongate member, proximal and distal end cap members removably mated to proximal and distal ends of the elongate member, and a medical device removably disposed within the inner lumen of the hollow elongate member. The proximal and distal end cap members each include a central opening extending therethrough, and at least one of the end cap members is effective to retain the medical device within the hollow elongate member.

[0009] In a preferred embodiment, the medical device is a surgical syringe having a barrel disposed within the inner lumen of the hollow elongate member and through the central opening in the proximal end cap member, a needle extending from the distal end of the barrel and through the central opening in the distal end cap member, and a plunger extending from the proximal end of the barrel. The central opening in the distal end cap member can have a diameter smaller than a diameter of the syringe barrel, and the central opening in the proximal end cap member can have a diameter greater than a diameter of the syringe barrel. In a preferred embodiment, the central opening in each of the proximal and distal end cap members are substantially the same, and the diameter is larger than a diameter of the syringe barrel.

[0010] In use, the second, distal end cap member is mated to the medical device holder. The syringe is then inserted through the proximal end of the elongate member to insert the needle through the central opening in the distal end cap member and position the distal end of the barrel against the inner surface of the distal end cap member. The first end cap member can then optionally be mated to the proximal end of the elongate member.

[0011] In other aspects, the medical device holder can be configured to either allow movement or limit movement of the surgical syringe with respect to the elongate member. In one embodiment, the surgical syringe is slidably disposed and movable within the inner lumen of the hollow elongate member such that the barrel portion of the syringe can slidably extend through the proximal end cap member. The device having this configuration, preferably includes a connector element adapted to mate to a rigid surgical retractor arm.

[0012] In another embodiment, the medical device holder can include a gripping member, such as an o-ring, effective to grip a portion of the medical device to hinder movement of the device with respect to the elongate member. The gripping member can be disposed within the elongate member, within one or both end cap members, or between one or both end cap members and the elongate member. The gripping member is preferably configured to extend into the lumen of the elongate member and/or end cap members to effectively limit the inside diameter of the lumen. In this configuration, the device preferably includes a connector element adapted to mate to a flexible surgical retractor arm.

[0013] In yet another embodiment, a medical device holder is provided having a substantially hollow elongate member having a distal end, a proximal end, and a lumen extending therebetween defined by an inner lumen wall. A compressible gripping member is disposed over at least a portion of the inner lumen wall, and is effective to effectively reduce an inner diameter of the lumen. The device further includes connector element disposed on at least a portion of an outer wall of the elongate member. The connector element is effective to mate the elongate member to a support member. The gripping member can be, for example, an o-ring or a compressible sleeve. In an exemplary embodiment, the gripping member is compressible between a first inner diameter when no medical device is disposed within the lumen of the elongate member, and a second, larger inner diameter when a medical device having an outer diameter greater than the first diameter is disposed within the inner lumen of the elongate member.

[0014] In another embodiment, the device includes first and second members, each having a generally elongate extension with first and second ends, an upper grasping member mated to the first end, and a lower grasping member mated to the second end. A mating element is formed on at least one of the first and second members for pivotally mating the first member with respect to the second member. In use, the first and second members are pivotally movably between a first, open position, and a second, closed position wherein the upper and lower grasping members of the first and second members are adapted to engage and support a medical device.

[0015] The first and second members of the medical device holder can include an actuating member for effecting movement of the first and second members with respect to each other. In one embodiment, the actuating member can be opposed first and second handles mated to the first and second members. A compressive force applied to bring the first and second handles in contact with each other causes opening of the first and second members. The device can optionally include a biasing element for biasing the first and second members to one of the open or closed positions. The device can also include a locking element effective to lock the first and second members in the open or, more preferably, in the closed position, wherein the upper and lower grasping members of the first and second members are adapted to engage and support a medical device.

[0016] The upper and lower grasping members of each of the first and second members can have a variety of configurations, but preferably each grasping member has a generally semi-cylindrical shape and is adapted to grasp a generally cylindrical medical device, such as the barrel of a surgical syringe. The grasping members can include a resilient surface disposed on an inner, gripping surface of each grasping member. Alternatively, or in addition, each grasping member can include a high friction surface disposed on the inner, gripping surface thereof.

[0017] The first and second members can be mated together using a variety of configurations, but preferably the generally elongate extension of each member includes an outwardly extending portion having a bore disposed therethrough. A pin member is removably disposed through each bore in the first and second members, thereby mating the members, yet allowing pivotal movement of the members with respect to each other. In one aspect, the pin member can include proximal and distal ends. The proximal end preferably has a diameter larger than a diameter of the bore in each of the first and second members to prevent the proximal end of the pin member from extending through each bore. The distal end of the pin member can be adapted to mate to a support member, and can, for example, include a groove formed therein and adapted to mate with a retaining ring to prevent the pin member from being removed from the bore formed in each of the first and second members. The distal end of the pin can also include a locking element effective to lock the first and second members in one of the open or closed positions. The locking element can be, for example, threads formed on the distal end of the pin member for mating with complementary threads formed on the support member.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018] The invention will be more fully understood from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0019] FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustration of a medical device holder according to one embodiment of the present invention;

[0020] FIG. 2 is a side view illustration of the medical device holder of FIG. 1 in the disassembled form;

[0021] FIG. 3 is cross-sectional view illustration of another embodiment of a medical device holder having a surgical syringe disposed therein;

[0022] FIG. 4 is a perspective view illustration of a medical device holder mated to a support member according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0023] FIG. 5 is a front view illustration of a medical device holder according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0024] FIG. 6 is a side view illustration of the medical device holder of FIG. 5;

[0025] FIG. 7 is a perspective view illustration of one component of the medical device holder of FIG. 5;

[0026] FIG. 8 is a perspective view illustration of another component of the medical device holder of FIG. 5;

[0027] FIG. 9 is a perspective view illustration of a mating element and a portion of a support member for use with a medical device holder of the present invention; and

[0028] FIG. 10 is a top view illustration of the medical device holder of FIG. 5.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0029] The present invention provides a medical device holder for positioning and holding a medical device in a relatively fixed position. The medical device holder is particularly useful for holding surgical syringes over a length of time, thereby allowing the surgeon and/or other medical personnel to perform other functions during the time between injections. A person having ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that, while the device is described for use as a surgical syringe holder, the device can be configured to hold a variety of medical instruments.

[0030] FIG. 1 illustrates one embodiment of a medical device holder 10. As shown, the device 10 generally includes a substantially hollow elongate member 12 having a proximal end 14, a distal end 16, and an inner lumen 18 formed therein. A first end cap member 20 is removably and replaceably disposed on the proximal end 14 of the elongate member 12, and a second end cap member 22 is removably and replaceably disposed on the distal end 16 of the elongate member 10. In use, one or both end cap members 20, 22 of the medical device holder 10 can be effective to assist in retaining at least a portion of a medical device within the inner lumen 18 of the hollow elongate member 12. For example, the distal end cap member 22 can be configured to retain a portion of a medical device within the inner lumen 18 of the hollow elongate member 12, while the proximal end cap member 20, on the other hand, can be configured to allow a medical device to be slidably disposed therethrough. In a preferred embodiment, both end cap members 20, 22 are configured to allow a medical device to be slidably disposed therethrough.

[0031] The hollow elongate member 12, as shown in more detail in FIG. 2, includes a proximal end 14, a distal end 16, and an inner lumen 18 extending therebetween. The outer wall of the elongate member 12 can be formed from a substantially solid structure, or it can optionally include one or more openings formed therein and extending into the inner lumen 18. By way of non-limiting example, the elongate member 12 can include at least one slot 13 extending along the length of the elongate member 12 to allow visual access to a medical device disposed within the inner lumen 18 of the elongate member 12.

[0032] The elongate member 12 can have virtually any shape and size, but preferably has a shape and size configured to hold a pre-selected medical device. As shown in FIGS. 1-3, the elongate member 12 has a generally cylindrical shape and is configured to receive a surgical syringe 50, or at least the barrel portion 52 of a surgical syringe 50. While FIGS. 1-3 illustrate a generally cylindrical shape, the elongate member 12 may have alternative shapes such as, for example, a square, rectangular, polygonal, or ovoid shape. Moreover, the elongate member 12 can include a variety of surface features, cut-out portions, indentations, or other features which define the shape.

[0033] The length l.sub.e and diameter d.sub.e of the elongate member 12 can also vary, but should be configured to receive at least a portion of a barrel of a surgical syringe 50. The diameter d.sub.e is preferably greater than the diameter of a surgical syringe barrel to allow the barrel to be slidably disposed within the inner lumen 18 of the elongate member 12. The diameter d.sub.e can, however, be configured to hinder rotational movement of a syringe 50 with respect to the elongate member 12. The length l.sub.e of the elongate member 10 is preferably less than the length of a barrel of a surgical syringe. In an exemplary embodiment, the elongate member 12 has a length l.sub.e in the range of about 1 and 10 inches, and a diameter d.sub.e in the range of about 0.1 and 100 mm.

[0034] The proximal and distal ends 14, 16 of the elongate member 12 are each adapted to mate with an end cap member 20, and thus can include a mating element 24a, 24b formed thereon. In one embodiment, the mating elements 24a, 24b may be formed from one or more threads disposed around an outer surface of the elongate member 12 adjacent the proximal and distal ends 14, 16. The threads 24a, 24b are configured to mate with corresponding threads 26a, 26b formed on each end cap member 20, 22. A person having ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that a variety of alternative mating elements can be used to connect the end cap members 20, 22 to the elongate member 12. For example, the proximal and distal ends 14, 16 of the elongate member 12 can include an annular flange or a groove formed thereon for mating with a corresponding groove or annular flange, respectively, formed on each end cap member 20, 22. Other suitable mating techniques include, but are not limited to, an interference fit and a positive mechanical engagement.

[0035] The medical device holder 10 can include one or more end cap members 20, 22, which are also shown in more detail in FIG. 2. The end cap members 20, 22 can have a variety of shapes and sizes, and preferably include a central opening 28a, 28b, or inner lumen, extending therethrough for receiving a at least a portion of a medical device disposed within the inner lumen 18 of the elongate member 12. The distal end cap member 22 can be formed integrally with the elongate member 12, or alternatively it can be removably and replaceably mated to the distal end 16 of the elongate member 12. The proximal end cap member 20 is optional depending on the intended use.

[0036] Preferably, each end cap member 20, 22 has a size and shape which allows each member 20, 22 to be removably and replaceably mated to the proximal and distal ends 14, 16 of the elongate member 12. In one embodiment, each end cap member 20, 22 has a generally cylindrical shape. The end cap members 20, 22 can also optionally include a knurled outer surface, as shown in FIG. 1, for facilitating gripping of the end cap members 20, 22. In use, the distal end cap member 22 can be adapted to assist in retaining a medical device within the inner lumen 18 of the elongate member 12.

[0037] In one embodiment, the central opening 28a, 28b in the proximal and distal end cap members 20, 22 each have an inner portion pp.sub.i, dp.sub.i, a middle portion pp.sub.m, dp.sub.m, and an outer portion pp.sub.o, dp.sub.o. The inner portion pp.sub.i, dp.sub.i of each end cap member 20, 22 can include a mating element 26a, 26b formed therein for mating with the proximal and distal ends 14, 16, respectively, of the elongate member 12. In an exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 2, the mating elements 26a, 26b are formed from at least one thread configured to engage corresponding threads 24a, 24b formed on the elongate member 12. As previously stated, a variety of mating techniques can be used to connect the end cap members 20, 22 to the elongate member 12. The middle portion pp.sub.m, dp.sub.m of each end cap member 20, 22 preferably has a diameter d.sub.m about the same as, or greater than, the diameter d.sub.e of the inner lumen 18 of the elongate member 12. Thus, when each end cap member 20, 22 is mated to the elongate member 12, the middle portion p.sub.m and the inner lumen 18 of the elongate member 12 form a substantially contiguous, smooth surface.

[0038] The outer portion pp.sub.o, dp.sub.o of each end cap member 20, 22 can vary depending on use. In one embodiment, the distal end cap member 22 can be configured to prevent at least a portion of a medical device from extending therethrough. For example, where the medical device is a surgical syringe 50 having a barrel 52 disposed within the elongate member 12, as shown in FIG. 3, the outer portion dp.sub.o of the distal end cap member 12 can have a size which allows a needle 54 extending distally from the barrel 52 of the syringe 50 to extend through the central opening 28b, yet prevents the barrel 52 of the syringe 50 from extending therethrough. As a result, the distal end cap member 22 is effective to assist in retaining the barrel 52 of the syringe 50 within the inner lumen 18 of the elongate member 12. The diameter dd.sub.o of the outer portion dp.sub.o is thus preferably smaller than the diameter dd.sub.m of the middle portion dp.sub.m and/or the diameter d.sub.e of the inner lumen 18 of the elongate member 12. The proximal end cap member 20, on the other hand, can have middle and outer portions pp.sub.m, pp.sub.o having diameters substantially the same as, greater than, or smaller than the diameter d.sub.e of the inner lumen 18 of the elongate member 12.

[0039] The medical device holder 10 can optionally include one or more gripping elements configured to hinder movement of a medical device with respect to the elongate member 12. The gripping element can be provided, in addition to or as an alternative to the end cap members 20, 22, to assist in retaining a portion of a syringe within the elongate member 12. The gripping element can be positioned anywhere within the medical device, and should be effective to grip a portion of a medical device disposed within the inner lumen 18 of the elongate member 12. In one embodiment, the gripping element can be fixedly or removably disposed within the elongate member 12, disposed within the end cap members 20, 22, or disposed between the end cap members 20, 22 and the elongate member 12.

[0040] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 3, the gripping element is an o-ring 34 disposed between the end cap members 20, 22 and the elongate member 12. In an exemplary embodiment, the o-ring is disposed within the middle portion p.sub.m of one or each end cap member 20, 22. The o-ring can have a variety of shapes and sizes, and can be formed from a variety of high friction and/or compressible materials. Preferably, at least a portion of the o-ring extends into the space defined by the lumen 18 of the elongate member 12 and/or the end cap members 20, 22 to effectively limit the inside diameter of the lumen 18 or end cap members 20, 22. As a result, the o-ring is effective to grip the barrel portion 52 of the surgical syringe 50 to hinder or prevent movement of the syringe 50 with respect to the elongate member 12.

[0041] A person having ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the medical device holder 10 can alternatively or additionally include a variety of other gripping elements or similar type of frictional elements disposed within the inner lumen 18 of the elongate member 12, or within the end cap members 20, 22, for preventing or hindering movement of a syringe with respect to the elongate member 12. For example, one or more high friction strips can be placed along the length, or around the circumference of the inner surface 18 of the elongate member 12. Alternatively, or in addition, the elongate member 12 can include surface features that are adapted to engage the surgical syringe, or a compressible sleeve disposed over at least a portion of the inner lumen wall 18 and compressible between a first inner diameter when no medical device is disposed within the lumen 18 of the elongate member 12, and a second inner diameter when a medical device having an outer diameter greater than the first diameter is disposed within the inner lumen 18 of the elongate member 12. In another embodiment, a compressible gasket can be placed within lumen 18, extending along all or a portion thereof.

[0042] In use, the medical device holder 10 is preferably assembled by attaching the distal end cap member 22 to the distal end 16 of the elongate member 12. An o-ring can optionally be placed between the distal end cap member 22 and the elongate member 12 prior to mating the two members. A syringe, or other medical device, is then inserted into the proximal end 14 and the inner lumen 18 of the elongate member 12. The needle of the syringe 54 extends through the central opening 28b in the distal end cap member 22. Depending on the diameter dd.sub.o of the opening 28b in the distal end cap member 22, a distal end surface of the barrel 52 can abuts the distal end cap member 22. The device 10 can be utilized in this configuration.

[0043] Alternatively, or in addition, the proximal end cap member 20 can be mated to the proximal end of the elongate member 12. As shown in FIG. 3, the barrel of the syringe 52 can extend through the central opening 28a in the proximal end cap member 20, and thus is slidably movably with respect to the elongate member 12. An o-ring member 34 can optionally be positioned between the proximal end cap member 20 and the elongate member 12 prior to mating the end cap member 20 to the elongate member 12.

[0044] As shown in FIG. 4, the medical device holder 10 is preferably configured to mate with a surgical support member, such as a surgical retractor arm 70, for maintaining the position of the medical device holder 10 with respect to a patient. Thus, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the device holder 10 can include at least one connector 42, 44 for mating with a complementary connector 72 (FIG. 4) formed on a support member 70. A person having ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that virtually any type of connector can be used to mate the medical device holder 10 to virtually any type of surgical support member, such as a table support or a retractor arm.

[0045] In an exemplary embodiment, the medical device holder 10 is configured to mate with either a rigid retractor arm (not shown) or a flexible retractor arm 70. In certain surgical procedures where a syringe is inserted at a single puncture wound over an extended period, it can be desirous to allow the syringe to move in conjunction with the patient's breathing. Thus, where a rigid surgical retractor arm is employed, the medical device holder 10 is preferably configured to allow the syringe 50 to move with respect to the elongate member 12. Alternatively, where a flexible surgical retractor arm is employed, the medical device holder 10 is preferably configured to prevent movement of the syringe 50 with respect to the elongate member 12. As a result of either configuration, the syringe 50, or alternatively the flexible retractor arm, is allowed to move in conjunction with the patient's breathing.

[0046] FIGS. 5-10 illustrate another embodiment of a medical device holder 100. As shown in FIG. 5, the medical device holder 100 generally includes opposed first and second members 102a, 102b, each having a generally elongate extension 104a, 104b, and at least one grasping member 106a, 106b, 108a, 108b. A mating element 110, shown in FIG. 6, is formed on, or disposed between, the first and second members 102a, 102b for pivotally mating the first and second members 102a, 102b. In use, the first and second members 102a, 102b are movable between a first, open position (not shown), and a second closed position in which the grasping members 106a, 106b, 108a, 108b are adapted to engage and support a medical device, such as a surgical syringe 150. The first and second members 102a, 102b can also each include an actuating member 112a, 112b for effecting movement of the first and second members 102a, 102b with respect to each other.

[0047] While FIG. 5 illustrates medical device holder 100 engaging and supporting a surgical syringe 150, a person having ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the medical device holder 100 can be used to support a variety of medical devices.

[0048] The first and second members 102a, 102b are each shown in more detail in FIGS. 7 and 8, respectively. As shown, each member 102a, 102b includes a generally elongate extension 104a, 104b having a first, proximal end 104a.sub.1, 104b.sub.1, and a second, distal end 104a.sub.2, 104b.sub.2. An upper grasping member 106a is mated to the proximal end 104a.sub.1 of the elongate extension 104a of the first member 102a, and an opposed, upper grasping member 106b is mated to the proximal end 104b.sub.1 of the elongate extension 104b of the second member 102b. Likewise, the medical device holder 100 can include a lower grasping member 108a mated to the distal end 104a.sub.2 of the elongate extension 104a of the first member 102a, and an opposed, lower grasping member 108b mated to the distal end 104b.sub.2 of the elongate extension 104b of the second member 102b. In use, the upper and lower grasping members 106a, 106b, 108a, 108b are adapted to engage and support a medical device 150 disposed therebetween.

[0049] The elongate extensions 104a, 104b can have virtually any shape and size, but should be configured to support the grasping members 106a, 106b, 108a, 108b in a position in which the grasping members 106a, 106b, 108a, 108b are effective to engage and support a medical device 150. A person having ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the first and second members 102a, 102b of the medical device holder 100 can be constructed without an elongate extension 104a, 104b. Moreover, each member 102a, 102b can include one or more grasping members mated thereto or formed thereon.

[0050] Each grasping member 106a, 106b, 108a, 108b can have a variety of shapes and sizes, but preferably each member 106a, 106b, 108a, 108b has a shape and size configured to engage a medical device, such as a surgical syringe 150. The grasping members 106a, 106b, 108a, 108b can be formed integrally with the elongate extension 104a, 104b or some other portion of the first and second members 102a, 102b, or alternatively can be mated thereto using a variety of techniques known in the art. Moreover, the grasping members 106a, 106b, 108a, 108b can be adjustably mated to the medical device holder 100 to allow each grasping member 106a, 106b, 108a, 108b to be positioned properly to facilitate engagement and support of a medical device. In an exemplary embodiment shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, each grasping member 106a, 106b. 108a, 108b has a generally semi-circular shape and includes an inner, concave gripping surface 106a.sub.i, 106b.sub.i, 108a.sub.i, 108b.sub.i, and an outer convex surface 106a.sub.o, 106b.sub.o, 108a.sub.o, 108b.sub.o,. The inner, gripping surface 106a.sub.i, 106b.sub.i, 108a.sub.i, 108b.sub.i of each grasping member 106a, 106b, 108a, 108b can optionally including a resilient, compressible, and/or high friction surface disposed thereon for facilitating engagement of the medical device disposed therebetween.

[0051] Still referring to FIGS. 7 and 8, the proximal end 104a.sub.1, 104b.sub.1 , of each elongate extension 104a, 104b can optionally include a transverse portion 118a, 118b configured to receive a mating element 110 for pivotally mating the first member with respect to the second member. The transverse portion 11 8a, 11 8b can have a variety of shapes and sizes, but preferably each transverse portion 11 8a, 11 8b has an L-shaped, generally planar configuration. The transverse portions 118a, 118b are configured to overlap one another when the first and second members 102a, 102b are mated, and can include a bore 114a, 114b extending therethrough for receiving a mating element 110. As shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the first and second members 102a, 102b can also optionally include a cylindrical member 116a, 116b disposed around the bore 114a, 114b for receiving and support the mating element 110. When mated, the cylindrical member 116a, 116b of each of the first and second members 102a, 102b is aligned to form a single, elongate bore extending therethrough.

[0052] FIGS. 6 and 9 illustrate a mating element 110 which can be removably disposed through the bore 114a, 114b in each of the first and second members 102a, 102b for pivotally mating the first and second members 102a, 102b. The mating element 110 allows the first and second members 102a, 102b to move between a first, open position (not shown), and a second, closed position (FIGS. 5 and 6) in which the grasping members 106a, 106b, 108a, 108b are adapted to engage and support a medical device. The mating element 110 can have a variety of configurations and can be formed integrally with, or mated to, the first and second members 102a, 102b.

[0053] In an exemplary embodiment, the mating element 110 is a pin member having a proximal end 122 and a distal end 124, as shown in FIG. 9. The proximal end 122 is preferably adapted to prevent the pin member 110 from extending entirely through the bore 114a, 114b in the transverse portion 118a, 118b of each of the first and second members 102a, 102b. More preferably, the proximal end 122 of the pin member 110 has a diameter d.sub.p larger than a diameter d.sub.d of the distal end 124 of the mating element 110, and larger than the diameter d.sub.b of the bore in the transverse portion 118a, 118b of each of the first and second members 102a, 102b.

[0054] While the mating element 110 can have a variety of configurations, the proximal end 122 can optionally include a gripping surface, or knurled surface 126, formed thereon for facilitating gripping of the pin member 110, and the distal end 124 can include a threaded surface 128 for mating with corresponding threads (not shown) formed in the bore 114a, 114b in the transverse portion 118a, 118b of each of the first and second members 102a, 102b. The distal end 124 can also optionally include a locking element formed thereon for preventing the pin member 110 from being removed from the bore 114a, 114b formed in each of the first and second members 102a, 102b. The locking element can be, for example, a groove 132 formed around the distal end 124 of the pin member 110, and a retainer ring (not shown) adapted to be disposed around the groove 132 after the pin member 110 is inserted through the bore 114a, 114b formed in each of the first and second members 102a, 102b.

[0055] The medical device holder 100 can also optionally include an actuating member 112a, 112b formed on one or both of the first and second members 102a, 102b. As shown in FIGS. 5-8 and 10, the medical device holder 100 includes first and second opposed actuating members 112a, 112b mated to, or formed integrally with, the first and second members 102a, 102b. The actuating members 112a, 112b are effective to move the first and second members 102a, 102b between the open and closed positions. In an exemplary embodiment, shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the actuating members 112a, 112b are mated to the transverse member 104a, 104b of each of the first and second members 102a, 102b. Each actuating member 112a, 112b can have a variety of configurations, but preferably each member 112a, 112b includes a handle portion, or similar structure, for facilitating gripping of the actuating members 112a, 112b.

[0056] In use, the actuating members 112a, 112b are movable between a first, open position, in which the grasping members 106a, 106b, 108a, 108b of each of the first and second members 102a, 102b are positioned in the closed position, and a second, closed position, in which the actuating members 112a, 112b are moved toward one another and the grasping members 106a, 106b, 108a, 108b of each of the first and second members 102a, 102b are positioned in the open position.

[0057] The medical device holder 100 can also optionally include a biasing element 134 for biasing the first and second members 102a, 102b to one of the open or closed positions, and preferably to the closed position, in which the grasping members 106a, 106b, 108a, 108b are adapted to engage and support a medical device. The biasing element 134 can have a variety of configurations. In an exemplary embodiment, shown in FIG. 10, the biasing element 134 is a spring-like member mated to the first and second members 102a, 102b. The biasing element 134 can be disposed around one of the cylindrical members 116a, 116b on the first and second members 102a, 102b. Alternatively, the biasing element 134 can be mated to, or formed integrally with, some other portion of the first and second members 102a, 102b, such as the elongate extension 104a, 104b of each member 102a, 102b.

[0058] In use, the biasing element 134 applies a force to maintain the first and second members 102a, 102b in one of the open or closed positions, preferably the closed position wherein the first and second members 102a, 102b engage and support a medical device 150. The force of the biasing element 134 can be overcome by grasping the actuating members 112a, 112b causing the members 112a, 112b to contact each other and thereby move the first and second members 102a, 102b from the closed position, as shown in FIGS. 5-6, 8, and 10, to the open position (not shown).

[0059] The medical device holder 100 can further be adapted to mate to a support member 136, such as a retractor or similar type of medical device. In one embodiment, shown in FIG. 9, the distal end 124 of the mating element 110 is configured to be disposed within a bore 138 formed in a support member 136. A variety of mating techniques can be utilized to mate the distal end 124 of the mating element 110 to the support member 136 including, but not limited to, a threaded engagement, an interference fit, a positive mechanical engagement, or a similar mating technique for removably securing the mating element 110 to a support 136. In use, the mating element 110 extends through the bore 114a, 114b in each of the first and second members 102a, 102b, and into a bore 138 formed in the support member 136. As a result, the support member 136 is effective to maintain the position of the medical device holder 100.

[0060] The medical device holders of the present invention may be constructed from a variety of materials that are suitable for medical applications. Preferred materials from which the medical device holders can be made include metals, such as stainless steel, plastics, and rubbers, such as silicone.

[0061] One of ordinary skill in the art will further appreciate further features and advantages of the invention based on the embodiments described above. All references referred to herein are expressly incorporated by reference in their entirety.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A medical device holder, comprising: a substantially hollow elongate member having a first, distal end, a second, proximal end, and an inner lumen extending therebetween for receiving a medical device; at least one end cap member removably mated to at least one of the proximal and distal ends of the hollow elongate member and having a central opening formed therein having a size configured to assist in retaining at least a portion of the medical device within the inner lumen of the elongate member.

2. The medical device holder of claim 1, further comprising a first, distal end cap member removably mated to the first, distal end of the elongate member, and a second, proximal end cap member removably mated to the second, proximal end of the elongate member.

3. The medical device holder of claim 2, wherein the medical device is a surgical syringe and the hollow elongate member is generally cylindrical and is adapted to receive a barrel of the syringe.

4. The medical device holder of claim 3, wherein the central opening in the first, distal end cap member has a diameter smaller than a diameter of the barrel of the syringe, and the central opening in the second, proximal end cap member has a diameter greater than a diameter of the syringe barrel.

5. The medical device holder of claim 3, wherein the central opening in the first, distal end cap member and the central opening in the second, proximal end cap member each have substantially the same diameter, and wherein the diameter is greater than a diameter of the barrel of the syringe.

6. The medical device holder of claim 3, further comprising a gripping member disposed between at least one of the first and second end cap members and the first and second ends of the hollow elongate member, the gripping member being effective to grip a portion of the barrel of the syringe to hinder movement of the syringe with respect to the hollow elongate member.

7. The medical device holder of claim 6, wherein the gripping member comprises an o-ring.

8. The medical device holder of claim 2, wherein the device further includes a mating element for removably mating the first and second end cap members to the hollow elongate member.

9. The medical device holder of claim 8, wherein the mating element comprises at least one threaded member formed on an inner surface of the first and second end cap members, and at least one corresponding threaded member formed on an outer surface of the first and second ends of the hollow elongate member.

10. The medical device holder of claim 8, wherein the first and second end cap members are removably mated to the hollow elongate member by an interference fit.

11. The medical device holder of claim 8, wherein the first and second end cap members are removably mated to the hollow elongate member by a positive mechanical engagement.

12. The medical device holder of claim 1, wherein the hollow elongate member includes a connecting element adapted to mate to a surgical supporting device.

13. A medical device holding system, comprising: a medical device holder having a substantially hollow elongate member having a proximal end, a distal end, and an inner lumen extending therebetween; proximal and distal end cap members removably mated to the proximal and distal ends of the hollow elongate member, the distal end cap member being effective to retain a portion of a medical device within the hollow elongate member; and a medical device removably disposed within the inner lumen of the hollow elongate member.

14. The system of claim 13, wherein the proximal and distal end cap members each include a central opening extending therethrough for receiving a portion of the medical instrument.

15. The system of claim 14, wherein the hollow elongate member has a generally cylindrical shape.

16. The system of claim 14, wherein the medical device comprises a surgical syringe having a barrel disposed within the inner lumen of the hollow elongate member and through the central opening in the proximal end cap member, a needle extending from a distal end of the barrel and through the central opening in the distal end cap member, and a plunger extending from the proximal end of the barrel.

17. The system of claim 16, wherein the central opening in the distal end cap member has a diameter smaller than a diameter of the syringe barrel, and wherein the central opening in the proximal end cap member has a diameter greater than a diameter of the syringe barrel.

18. The system of claim 16, wherein the central opening in the distal end cap member and the central opening in the proximal end cap member each have substantially the same diameter, and wherein the diameter is greater than a diameter of the syringe barrel.

19. The system of claim 17, wherein the hollow elongate member has a length extending between the proximal and distal ends that is less than a length of the barrel of the surgical syringe such that the syringe is slidably disposed and movable within the inner lumen of the hollow elongate member.

20. The system of claim 19, wherein the hollow elongate member includes a connector element adapted to mate to a rigid surgical retractor arm.

21. The system of claim 17, further comprising at least one compressible member disposed between at least one of the proximal and distal end cap members and the proximal and distal ends of the hollow elongate member, the at least one compressible member being adapted to grip the barrel of the surgical syringe and hinder movement thereof within the inner lumen of the hollow elongate member.

22. The system of claim 21, wherein the hollow elongate member includes a connector element adapted to mate to a flexible surgical retractor arm.

23. A medical device holder, comprising: a substantially hollow elongate member having a distal end, a proximal end, and a lumen extending therebetween defined by an inner lumen wall; a compressible gripping member disposed over at least a portion of the inner lumen wall, the gripping member being effective to effectively reduce an inner diameter of the lumen; and is a connector element disposed on at least a portion of an outer wall of the elongate member, the connector element being effective to mate the elongate member to a support member.

24. The medical device holder of claim 23, wherein the gripping member comprises an o-ring.

25. The medical device holder of claim 23, wherein the gripping member comprises a compressible sleeve.

26. The medical device holder of claim 23, wherein the gripping member is compressible between a first inner diameter when no medical device is disposed within the lumen of the elongate member, and a second, larger inner diameter when a medical device having an outer diameter greater than the first diameter is disposed within the inner lumen of the elongate member.

27. A medical device holder, comprising: a first member having a generally elongate extension having first and second ends, and at least one grasping member mated to the generally elongate extension; a second member opposed to the first member and having a generally elongate extension having first and second ends, and at least one grasping member mated to the generally elongate extension; and a mating element formed on at least one of the first and second members for pivotally mating the first member with respect to the second member such that the first and second members are pivotally movable between a first, open position and a second, closed position in which the at least one grasping member of the first and second members are adapted to engage and support a medical device.

28. The medical device holder of claim 27, wherein the generally elongate extension of each of the first and second members include an upper grasping member mated to the first end of the elongate extension and a lower grasping member mated to the second end of the elongate extension.

29. The medical device holder of claim 27, wherein at least one of the first and second members includes an actuating member for effecting movement of the first and second members with respect to each other.

30. The medical device holder of claim 29, wherein the actuating member comprises opposed first and second handles mated to the first and second members, and wherein a compressive force applied to bring the first and second handles in contact with each other causes opening of the first and second members.

31. The medical device holder of claim 27, wherein the mating element further includes a biasing element for biasing the first and second members to one of the open or closed positions.

32. The medical device holder of claim 31, wherein the first and second members are biased to the second, closed position.

33. The medical device holder of claim 27, wherein the device further includes a locking element effective to lock the first and second members in one of the open or closed positions.

34. The medical device holder of claim 28, wherein each of the upper and lower grasping members of each of the first and second members comprise a generally semi-cylindrical member adapted to grasp a generally cylindrical medical device.

35. The medical device holder of claim 34, wherein the upper and lower grasping members of each of the first and second members further include a resilient surface disposed on an inner, gripping surface of the grasping members.

36. The medical device holder of claim 34, wherein the upper and lower grasping members of each of the first and second members further include a high friction surface disposed on an inner, gripping surface of the grasping members.

37. The medical device holder of claim 27, wherein each generally elongate extension of the first and second members includes an outwardly extending portion having a bore disposed therethrough, and wherein the mating element comprises a pin member removably disposed through each bore in the first and second members.

38. The medical device holder of claim 37, wherein the pin member includes a proximal end and a distal end, the proximal end having a diameter larger than a diameter of the bore of each of the first and second members to prevent the proximal end of the pin member from extending through each bore.

39. The medical device holder of claim 38, wherein the distal end of the pin member is adapted to mate to a support member.

40. The medical device holder of claim 38, wherein the distal end of the pin member includes a groove formed therein and adapted to mate with a retaining ring to prevent the pin member from being removed from the bore formed in each of the first and second members.

41. The medical device of claim 39, wherein the distal end of the pin member includes a locking element effective to lock the first and second members in one of the open or closed positions.

42. The medical device holder of claim 41, wherein the locking element comprises at least one thread formed on an outer surface of the distal end of the pin member, the at least one thread being configured to mate with at least one complementary thread formed on an inner surface of a bore formed in the support member.