Patent ID: 7097633
Filing Date: 2006-08-29
Classification: A61B,A61M

Abstract:
1. A medical device, comprising: a hollow housing; a needle having a sharpened tip, the needle being operable between extended and retracted positions, wherein the sharpened tip projects forwardly from the housing in the extended position and the sharpened tip is enclosed within the housing in the retracted position; a biasing element biasing the needle toward the retracted position; an actuator for actuating a needle retainer to release the needle so that the biasing element propels the needle toward the retracted position; a rearward stop connected with the needle, operable to retain the needle against continued rearward displacement after the needle is retracted; a forward stop connected with the needle, operable to retain the needle against forward displacement after the needle is retracted; a flexible conduit in fluid communication with the needle; an expandible reservoir in fluid communication with the flexible conduit; and a pierceable seal forming a fluid-tight seal over the forward end of the housing after the needle is displaced into the retracted position.