Patent ID: 6189538
Filing Date: 2001-02-20
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
A method for treating deep vein thrombosis, comprising the steps of:placing an intravenous needle in a vein in an area to be treated;determining a pattern of venous blood flow in said area to be treated;securing a tourniquet around said area to be treated, said tourniquet comprising: a band, said band having a width and a length, and a first end and a second end, wherein said first end and said second end have means for adjustably connecting to one another, wherein said band is flexible along the length of said band, and wherein said band is adapted to encircle an appendage; and a disc, wherein said disc is comprised of a substantially hard, non-compressible material, wherein said disc comprises a surface for contacting the appendage, an entirety of said disc being cylindrically shaped and said disc is adjustably connected to said band, wherein said band is adapted to be secured around the appendage such that the disc applies sufficient area pressure to restrict and redirect sub-surface venous blood flow and an intravenously-administered thrombolytic agent, thereby promoting thrombolysis, thereby alleviating deep vein thrombosis in the appendage; wherein said disc of said tourniquet is positioned over said vein so as to apply pressure to said vein;checking re-direction of blood flow through said area to be treated;infusing said vein through said needle;releasing said tourniquet after an appropriate period of time; andre-securing said tourniquet after an appropriate period of time.