Patent ID: 7662133
Filing Date: 2010-02-16
Classification: A61B,A61M

Abstract:
1. A fluid introduction system, comprising: an introducer configured to introduce fluid into a spine of a patient, the introducer having a flow-rate dependent impedance opposing the introduction of the fluid and comprising a movable element disposed within the introducer, the movable element including a pressure transducer secured with respect to the movable element such that the pressure transducer is in direct contact with fluid in the introducer; an operator configured to actuate the introducer to introduce fluid into the spine of the patient at a constant flow rate that is not controlled by feedback based on a fluid introduction parameter and configured to determine impedance data indicative of the flow rate-dependent impedance based upon pressure and volume of fluid dispensed during an actuation of the introducer prior to insertion of the introducer into the spine; a computer readable medium having code that, when executed by a computer, receives: