Patent ID: 7442199
Filing Date: 2008-10-28
Classification: A61H

Abstract:
1. A clip in combination with an elongated acupuncture needle encased longitudinally within a guide tube for eventual release, and to facilitate needle insertion, comprising: a first enclosure sized to secure the acupuncture needle; a second enclosure wider than the first enclosure, and sized to allow the acupuncture needle to pass longitudinally therethrough; and a bridge that provides for the second enclosure; wherein: the first enclosure is shaped by a first bend; the second enclosure is shaped by a second bend; the bridge connects with the second bend; a first window is provided in the guide tube through which the first bend of the clip extends, and the second bend of the clip is wider than the said first window so that the clip remains in the guide tube after the acupuncture needle is released from the clip, such first bend having at least one selective curved end to prevent the clip from pulling inside the tube; a second window is provided in the guide tube through which the second bend of the clip extends; the acupuncture needle is secured in the said first bend prior to use; whereby: one hand can perform the functions of holding the guide tube, releasing the needle from the clip, and longitudinally launching the acupuncture needle; and a finger can be used to push the clip into the guide tube to move the acupuncture needle from the first bend to the second bend to dispense the acupuncture needle from the guide tube.