Instrument and method for delivery of anaesthetic drug

DETAILED DESCRIPTION In accordance with the present invention, a catheter system is provided comprising: (a) a needle; (b) a catheter provided with an electrically conductive wire; and (c) a multipurpose connector provided with a structure able to make electrical contact with the conductive wire contained in the catheter.
The needle has a distal end and a proximal end.
The distal end of the needle terminates in a beveled aperture having a sharp tip adapted for insertion into a nerve sheath of a patient so as to abut the nerve plexus.
Contained in the needle and co-terminus therewith at the distal end is a removable stylet utilized in easing insertion of the needle into the patient.
The proximal end of the needle is provided with a hub portion used for gripping the needle as well as for accessing the central bore of the needle.
The needle, being of metal construction, is electrically conductive along its entire length.
A non-conductive material may be used to coat the outer surface of the needle, leaving exposed portions of the proximal and distal ends of the needle, such that electrical voltage is not expended in unnecessary places.
The catheter is adapted for insertion through the hub portion and within and through the needle, with the distal end of the catheter capable of protruding out of the needle's distal end.
The catheter is formed primarily of a thermoplastic or related material which covers a tightly wound helical wire.
The helical wire extends beyond the sheath material of the catheter at both the proximal and distal ends thereof.
The helix formed by the wire leaves the center of the catheter structure available as a conduit.
This central conduit of the catheter allows for administration of anaesthetic to the proximal end of the catheter.
The multipurpose connector allows the proximal end of the catheter to be inserted therein.
Once inserted therein, the multipurpose connector may be manipulated to rigidly capture the proximal end of the catheter.
The structure of the multipurpose connector allows the proximal end of the catheter to be accessed by a syringe or other apparatus for injecting fluid through the catheter