Patent Abstract:
Various apparatuses to attach a first medical device to a second medical device are described that allow the physician to grasp only a single device while the other device remains securely attached to the one being grasped. The apparatuses, once they are attached to the first medical device, are designed to be easily and quickly attached and detached to a second medical device, normally only requiring the use of one hand. Furthermore, the apparatuses oftentimes include a base that can easily couple and decouple from the portion that is attached to the second medical device so that if the need arises to separately use the second medical device, it can be decoupled from the first medical device without completely removing the apparatus from the second medical device.

Full Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION 
     This application is a continuation of copending U.S. application Ser. No. 12/526,469, filed Jan. 18, 2011, which is a National Stage of PCT/US2008/053313, filed Feb. 7, 2008, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/888,713, filed on Feb. 7, 2007, incorporated herein expressly by reference. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND 
     More than one medical device is often required to be used together during the same medical procedure. For example, in the performance of minimally-invasive types of procedures using an endoscope, a second medical device is sometimes inserted through the working channel of the endoscope. Either the endoscope or the second medical device can provide illumination and imaging capability while the other may perform a distinct or specialized function. Having to hold two instruments is burdensome for the physician. 
     SUMMARY 
     Various apparatuses to attach a first medical device to a second medical device are described that allow the physician to grasp only a single device while the other device remains securely attached to the one being grasped. Embodiments of the apparatus may include one or more of the following devices or a type of holding portion including clamps, jaws, pincers, latches, toggle joints, hooks, straps, fasteners, buckles and the like that are modified for use in holding the second medical device securely onto the first medical device. Additionally or alternatively, any of the devices or holding portions can have surfaces covered by means to enhance the gripping strength between the holding portion and the medical device. For example, the clamps, jaws, pincers, latches, joints, hooks, straps, fasteners, and buckles can have surfaces that enhance gripping including a soft material, a sticky or tacky material such as a releasable adhesive, magnets, keyed features (i.e., components that fit within other slots or notches), VELCRO® enhancements at any surface, surface roughening, and/or additional material wrapped around the catheter. The apparatuses, once they are attached to the first medical device, are designed to be easily and quickly attached and detached to a second medical device, normally only requiring the use of one hand. Furthermore, the apparatuses oftentimes include a base attached to the first medical device that can easily couple and decouple from the portion that is attached to the second medical device so that if the second medical device needs to be operated by a different user, the second medical device can be decoupled from the first medical device without completely removing the apparatus from the second medical device. 
     While the apparatuses are described as being used with a first medical device and a second medical device, the apparatuses are thereby not limited solely to use in a medical setting. The description with reference to medical devices is done solely for the purpose of illustrating a representative use. The apparatuses herein disclosed may be used, for example, to hold any two tools to each other where the job or task requires that two tools be used. Such tools may include tools of a mechanic, plumber, electrician, or any other trade. 
     This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form, concepts that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This summary is not intended to identify key features of the claimed subject matter nor is it intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter. 
    
    
     
       DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The foregoing aspects and many of the attendant advantages of this invention will become more readily appreciated as the same become better understood by reference to the following detailed description, when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein: 
         FIGS. 1A-1E  are diagrammatical illustrations of an apparatus to attach a first medical device to a second medical device in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIGS. 2A-2B  are diagrammatical illustrations of an apparatus to attach a first medical device to a second medical device in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIGS. 3A-3B  are diagrammatical illustrations of an apparatus to attach a first medical device to a second medical device in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIGS. 4A-4C  are diagrammatical illustrations of an apparatus to attach a first medical device to a second medical device in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIGS. 5A-5D  are diagrammatical illustrations of an apparatus to attach a first medical device to a second medical device in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIGS. 6A-6C  are diagrammatical illustrations of an apparatus to attach a first medical device to a second medical device in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIGS. 7A-7D  are diagrammatical illustrations of an apparatus to attach a first medical device to a second medical device in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIGS. 8A-8B  are diagrammatical illustrations of an apparatus to attach a first medical device to a second medical device in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 9  is a diagrammatical illustration of an apparatus to attach a first medical device to a second medical device in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 10  is a diagrammatical illustration of an apparatus to attach a first medical device to a second medical device in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIGS. 11A-11C  are diagrammatical illustrations of an apparatus to attach a first medical device to a second medical device in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIGS. 12A-12B  are diagrammatical illustrations of an apparatus to attach a first medical device to a second medical device in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 13  is a diagrammatical illustration of an apparatus to attach a first medical device to a second medical device in accordance with another embodiment or the present invention; 
         FIGS. 14A-14D  are diagrammatical illustrations of an apparatus to attach a first medical device to a second medical device in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 15  is a diagrammatical illustration of an apparatus to attach a first medical device to a second medical device in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention; and 
         FIG. 16  is a diagrammatical illustration of an apparatus to attach a first medical device to a second medical device in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Referring to  FIG. 1A , a medical device  100  may include an apparatus  102  for attaching the first medical device to a second medical device (not shown). Medical device  100  and the second medical device that is not shown may be an endoscope, a catheter, a minimally invasive device, and the like. Medical devices preferably may have a circular cross-sectional configuration at least along some portion of their length. 
     Referring to  FIG. 1B , the apparatus  102  may include a clamp  103  portion and a base  114  portion that attach to the medical device  100 . The clamp base  114  may attach to the medical device  100  by any sort of mechanical or adhesive means such as fasteners, pins, etc. For example, in one embodiment, the clamp base  114  may include tabs  113  that engage in corresponding slots  115  on the medical device  100 . In one embodiment, the clamp base  114  may include an outwardly extending beam  116  to which the clamp  103  is attached. Beam  116  projects perpendicular to the front surface of the base  114 . Beam  116  supports the clamp  103 , which may be constructed from a first jaw  104  and a second jaw  106 . “Jaws,” as used herein, may be any holding portion or portions that have opposed mating surfaces between which an instrument or device is held. In one embodiment, the jaws may have an arcuate shape such that when placed in a position opposed to one another, the jaws define an open center holding area and have free ends that flare radially outward, creating a guide for leading the second medical device to the center holding area. The jaws  104 ,  106  may be made from a semi-rigid material that can deform by allowing the jaws to separate at the free ends to allow the second medical device to enter the holding area. The beam  116  may be positioned on one side of the base  114  and may be connected to one side of the clamp  103 . In other embodiments, a first jaw and a second jaw may be pivoted to swing in the center and biased closed with a spring such as a coil spring, leaf spring, or other resilient material. 
     As best seen in  FIG. 1B , an L-shaped hook  122  extends from the back of the jaw  106  towards the base  114  on the side opposite to the beam  116 . The L-shaped hook  122  has a tab projecting parallel to the front surface of the base  114  that can move into and out of a catch  120  secured to the clamp base  114 . In one embodiment, the catch  122  is an arcuate member having a pair of legs secured to the base  114  and an opening therein into which the tab of the hook  122  can fit. In a static condition, the tab of the hook  122  fits within the opening of the catch  122  so that the tab is at least partially covered by the catch  120 . 
     The tab of the hook  122  is movable to a second position where the tab is disengaged from the catch  120 . The tab of the hook  122  moves from beneath the catch  120  when the jaw  106  is deflected. For example, when a second medical device is forced through the ends of the jaws  104  and  106 , the width at the entrance increases, which causes the jaw  106  to be deflected outward and the tab of the hook  122  to move out from under the catch  120 . When the second medical device passes the narrower entrance between jaws  104  and  106  and into the holding area of the clamp, the jaw  106  returns to its undeflected position and the tab of the hook  122  returns to lying underneath or being positioned within the catch  120 . 
     In the embodiment shown, the clamp  103  also includes a locking mechanism  126  that may comprise a barrel  108 , a lever  110 , and a pawl  118 . The pawl  118  is positioned at the distal end of the barrel  108  and on the flat surface that is perpendicular to the long axis of the barrel  108 . The lever  110  may extend outwardly from the opposite end of the barrel  108  so that movement of the lever  110  causes the barrel  108  to rotate about its longitudinal axis. The locking mechanism  126  is rotatably positioned within a hole  124  in the base  114  so that the pawl  118  protrudes past the surface of the base  114  and is able to reach to the hook  122 . The pawl  118  may include a ridge and a ramp placed orthogonal to the ridge. The base  114  retains the barrel  108  within the hole  124  when the base  114  is connected to the medical device  100 . In another embodiment, the lever  110  may be replaced by a dial that may be rotated to adjust the tension with which the device is held between the jaws. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 1C-1E , the second medical device  101  is pressed against the ends of the jaws  104  and  106  that cause the jaws to flex. In  FIG. 1C , the pawl  118  is positioned so as not to interfere with the hook  122  movement as the jaw  106  flexes. In  FIG. 1D , as the width at the opening increases, the hook  122  moves away from under the catch  120  as the jaws  104  and  106  flex outward. In  FIG. 1E , the second medical device  101  is fully captured by jaws  104  and  106 , and the hook  122  returns to within catch  120 . The lever  110  can be pressed to rotate the barrel  108  and cause the pawl  118  to engage the hook  122 . The pawl  118  first engages the back of the hook  122  with the ramp to apply pressure that presses the hook  122  upward so that the pawl  118  will push the hook  122  against the catch  120 . Continued rotation of the barrel eventually pushes the hook up and above the top surface of the pawl  118  onto the ridge. This action will pinch the second medical device  101  tighter within clamp  102 . With the ramp touching the hook  122  and keeping the hook  122  in the catch  120 , the jaws  104  and  106  are prevented from flexing, thus, retaining the second medical device  101  within the clamp  103 . 
     The inside surfaces of the jaws  104  and  106  may be covered by means to enhance the gripping strength between the jaws and the medical device. For example, the surfaces can have means to enhance gripping, including a soft, pliable material, a sticky or tacky material such as a releasable adhesive, magnets, keyed features (i.e., components that fit within other slots or notches), VELCRO®, surface roughening, and/or additional material wrapped around the catheter. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 2A-2B , another embodiment of an apparatus for attaching a first medical device  100  to a second medical device is illustrated. The apparatus may include a base component  202  and a detachable pincer component  200 . The medical device  100  may have structure that attaches to the base component  202 . The base  202  may be attached to the medical device  100  via any mechanical fastener or may be integrated with other components of the medical device  100 . In the illustrated embodiment, the base component  202  may be attached to the medical device  100  via screws that are threaded from one side of the base  202 . The base  202  includes an aperture  216  that extends vertically from top to bottom and faces away from the medical device  100 . The aperture  216  extends into a slot  217  that also extends vertically on the front surface of the base  202 . The pincer component  200  includes a post  214  that slides into the aperture  216  of the base  202  from below. The pincer component  200  includes a web  215  that connects the post  214  to the pincer component  200 . The web  215  slides within the slot  217 , while the post  214  slides into the aperture  216  to allow the pincer component  200  to be easily detached from the first medical device  100 . The apparatus, once it is attached to the first medical device  100 , is designed to be easily and quickly attached and detached to a second medical device, normally only requiring the use of one hand. Furthermore, the base  202  and post  214  allows the second medical device to be easily coupled and decoupled from the first medical device  100  if the need arises for the second medical device to be operated by a different user without having to disengage the second medical device from the jaws  204  and  206 . This may be accomplished by simply inserting the post  214  into the base  202  and reversing the process to remove the second medical device. 
     Referring to  FIG. 2B , the pincer  200  is shown in an exploded illustration to more clearly describe the components. The pincer  200  includes a hinge  208 . The hinge  208  has a first and a second ear disposed parallel to one another and joined to each other by an upstanding wall so that the first and second ears are spaced vertically from each other, creating a gap. The post  214  may be attached to the rear of the upstanding wall via the web  215 . The first and second ears have apertures in alignment with each other to allow a pivoting pin (not shown) to be inserted there through from the top ear to the bottom ear. The pincer  200  may include a first jaw  204  and a second jaw  206 . Each jaw has an arcuate portion defining half of the pincer  200  and a lever handle joined to the jaw via a fulcrum structure. The fulcrum is therefore interposed between the jaw and the lever handle. Jaw  204  has lever handle  218  joined to the fulcrum comprising lower ear  222  and upper ear  224 . Ears  222  and  224  have apertures similar in size to the apertures in the ears of hinge  208 . Jaw  206  has lever handle  220  joined to the fulcrum comprising lower ear  226  and upper ear  228 . Ears  226  and  228  have apertures similar in size to the apertures in the ears of hinge  208 . Ears  222  and  224  of jaw  204  are spaced wide enough apart from each other to accept ears  226  and  228  of jaw  206 , which are spaced closer to each other. The ears  226  and  228  provide a gap vertically between them. The pincer  200  is constructed by joining jaws  204  and  206  together with the hinge  208  and positioning the coil spring  212  coaxially with the apertures on the hinge  208 . Alternate embodiments may eliminate the coil spring  212  and have flat leaf springs or resilient, but flexible, materials to serve as the biasing device biasing the jaws  204  and  206  together. The spring  212  can fit between lower ear  226  and upper ear  228  of jaw  206 . The retaining pin (not shown) may pass through the apertures in the hinge  208  and the apertures  222 ,  224 ,  226  and  228  of jaws  204  and  206 . The spring  212  may have straight runs at both ends so that the ends can be placed to press against the inside of the lever handles  218  and  220  so that the spring  212  biases the lever handles  218  and  220  outward. Therefore, due to the action of the fulcrums, the jaws  204  and  206  are biased by spring  212  inwardly to close. By pressing on the lever handles  218  and  220 , the jaws  204  and  206  are forced open against the action of the spring  212 , thus allowing the pincer  200  to be attached to a second medical device. 
     In other embodiments, the first and second jaws can be joined to each other via a flexible, but resilient hinge material to eliminate the need for a spring and pivoting pin. Such embodiments may resemble the jaw structure illustrated in  FIG. 1A . The inside surfaces of the jaws  204  and  206  may be covered by means to enhance the gripping strength between the jaws and the medical device. For example, the surfaces can have means to enhance gripping, including a soft, pliable material, a sticky or tacky material such as a releasable adhesive, magnets, keyed features (i.e., components that fit within other slots or notches), VELCRO®, surface roughening, and/or additional material wrapped around the catheter. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 3A and 3B , an alternate embodiment of an apparatus for attaching a first medical device to a second medical device is illustrated. The apparatus  300  has a spring loaded pincer. The apparatus  300  may include a rack type joint  302  to enable the detachment of the pincer  303  from the medical device  100 . The rack type joint  302  may be a box-like structure having two vertical walls and two horizontal walls and a stout rear wall that can be attached to the medical device  100  via mechanical fasteners. The medical device  100 , in turn, may have structure to mate with the rack type joint  302  on one side thereof. At the opposite side from the medical device  100 , the rack type joint  302  may include means on the top and bottom horizontal walls for detaching the pincer  303  that may include a first tab  306  and a second tab  308  that are flexible to permit deflection in a downward (or upward) motion while hinged at the rear to cause disengagement. The tabs  306  and  308  may have ends with serrations pointing, respectively, up and down, and a button placed at about the middle of the tab. The button may be used as the location to depress the tab. 
     An intermediate housing  304  that supports the pincer  303  is constructed so as to join to the rack type joint  302 . The housing  304  may also be a box-like structure that fits partially over the two vertical and horizontal walls of the rack-type joint. The housing  304  is inserted into the rack-type joint until the walls of the housing  304  hit up against a lip surrounding the rack-type joint. The ends of the tabs  306  and  308  having serrations, therefore, are inserted immediately next to the interior surface of the housing  304  at the top and bottom. The housing  304  has internal mating serrations that engage the serrations of tabs  306  and  308 . The button  310  and the second button that is opposite and connected to tab  308 , which is not shown, are used to depress tabs  306  and  308  inwardly so as to disengage the housing  304  from the rack-type joint  302 . The apparatus once it is attached to the first medical device  100  is designed to be easily and quickly attached and detached to a second medical device, normally only requiring the use of one hand. Furthermore, the button  310  and the one not shown allows the second medical device to be easily coupled and decoupled from the first medical device  100  if the need arises for the second medical device to be operated by a different user without having to disengage the second medical device from the jaws of the clamp. This is accomplished by snapping the housing  304  to the rack-type joint  302  to attach the second medical device and then pressing the buttons to release the second medical device. The rack-type joint  302  may further include a box  309  in the interior thereof. The box  309  may have a first rod  311  and a second rod  313  rotatably placed on the opposite sides of the box  309  and at the front of the box  309 , the function of which will be described below. 
     The housing  304  supports the pincer device  303  on one side thereof. The housing  304  includes the aperture  330  on the top wall of the housing and aperture  331  on the bottom wall of the housing  304 . Both apertures are in vertical alignment to accept a retaining pin (not shown) that acts as a pivot for a first jaw  312  and a second jaw  314 . A handle for manually applying pressure may be connected to each jaw. Jaw  312  has handle  330 . Jaw  314  has handle  332 . Each jaw may have structure to act as a fulcrum comprising an upper and lower ear with an aperture. Each jaw may also possess an extension behind the fulcrum to act as a lever. Jaw  312  has lower ear  320  and upper ear  322  connecting the arcuate portion to the extension  333 . Extension  333  and handle  330  are on the opposite side of the fulcrum ears  320  and  322  to be able to apply leverage to the jaw  312 . Jaw  314  has lower ear  328  and upper ear  326  connecting the arcuate portion to the extension  329 . Extension  329  and handle  332  are on the opposite side of fulcrum ears  326  and  328  to be able to apply leverage to the jaw  314 . Ears  326  and  328  are alternately engaged with the corresponding ears  320  and  322  of jaw  312 . Apertures are provided in each of the ears  320  and  322  of jaw  312  and the ears  326  and  328  of jaw  314  so that a retaining pin can be positioned within them to further engage with the apertures  330  and  331  of the housing  304 , thus allowing jaws  312  and  314  to pivot at the retaining pin. The upper ear  326  of jaw  314  includes a skirt having a raised circumference, and the lower ear  320  of jaw  312  includes a similar skirt so as to allow coil spring  318  to be placed within skirt of ear  326  and coil spring  316  within skirt of ear  320 . Alternate embodiments may eliminate the coil springs  316  and  318  and have flat leaf springs or resilient, but flexible, materials to serve as the biasing device biasing the jaws  312  and  314  together. Springs  316  and  318  have straight runs at the ends at about right angles to each other. Skirts of ears  326  and  320  include a slit  327  made in the skirt so as to anchor one end of the spring. The other end of the spring extends over and outside the skirt and is placed against structure on the inside of housing  304 . For example, spring  318  fits within skirt of ear  326 , and a straight end of spring  318  fits into slit  327 , and the other end of spring  318  extends above the skirt and abuts against the inside of the housing  304  at a suitable place to act as an anchor for the spring  318 . Spring  316  is likewise placed in jaw  312 . Thus, springs  316  and  318  maintain jaws  312  and  314  normally closed. Depressing handles  330  and  332  counteracts the spring forces, allowing jaws  312  and  314  to be opened to allow a second medical device to be placed therein. When housing  304  with pincer  303  is slid onto rack-type joint  302 , the extension  333  passes on the outside of the rod  311  of box  309  and the extension  329  passes on the outside of the rod  313  so as housing  304  is pressed against the rack-type joint  302 , the extensions  333  and  329  are spread apart or at least are forced apart to close jaws  312  and  314  more securely. 
     In other embodiments, the first and second jaws can be joined to each other via a flexible, but resilient hinge material to eliminate the need for springs and pivoting pins. Such embodiment may resemble the jaw structure illustrated in  FIG. 1A . The inside surfaces of the jaws  312  and  314  may be covered by means to enhance the gripping strength between the jaws and the medical device. For example, the surfaces can have means to enhance gripping, including a soft, pliable material, a sticky or tacky material such as a releasable adhesive, magnets, keyed features (i.e., components that fit within other slots or notches), VELCRO®, surface roughening, and/or additional material wrapped around the catheter. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 4A-4B , another embodiment of an apparatus  400  is illustrated for attaching a first medical device to a second medical device. The apparatus  400  may include a base component  402  and a wire tie component  400 . The base  402  is illustrated being attached to the medical device  100 . Attachment of base  402  to medical device  100  may be via mechanical fasteners, for example. Base  402  may comprise an aperture  406  disposed vertically on the base  402  and centrally located between the sides of the base  402 . The aperture  406  may be connected to a slot  407  also extending vertically on the base  402  and on the side of the base  402  that is opposite to the medical device  100 . 
     The wire tie component  400  may include a buckle  401 . The buckle  401  may be a box-like structure having a top and bottom wall, a back wall, and a front wall that extends beyond the top and bottom walls. The buckle  401  includes first  408  and second  410  walls placed at an angle on the front wall to support the second medical device. Finally, the buckle  401  has a side wall, but the opposite side of the buckle  401  is generally open, the purpose of which will be described below. The back wall of the buckle  401  may support an upwardly-pointing post  404  attached via web  405  that fits within the aperture  406  and slot  407  on the base  402 . The buckle  401  may include a flexible strap  412  that is connected on one side wall of the buckle  401 . The strap  412  may be flexible such that the strap  412  can be bent around from one side of the buckle  401  to the other to hold a second medical device to the buckle  401 . The strap  412  may include a tip  414  having serrations  416  on the end opposite to the end of the strap  412  that is attached to the buckle  401 . The tip  414  may be placed at a right angle to the remainder of the strap  412 . The strap  412  includes a button  424  that may be placed by the tip  414  and may be integrally molded to the strap  412 . The strap  412  may loop around the second medical device, so that the tip  414  of the strap  412  may be inserted into the buckle  401  on the side of the buckle  401  that is generally open but includes a receiving guide  418  to guide the tip  414  into the buckle  401  in a desired location. 
     Referring specifically to the cross-sectional illustration of  FIG. 4C , the strap  412  (also shown in phantom) may be looped around so that the tip  414  is inserted within the receiving guide  418  of the buckle  401  on the open side of the buckle  401 . A tab  420  is supported by a wall also supporting the fixed end of the strap  412 . The connection between the tab  420  and the wall is flexible and acts as a hinge  422  that allows the tab  420  to reciprocate up and down as serrations on the tip  414  slide by. The tab  420  includes serrations that face in the opposite direction as the serrations of the tip  414 . Thus, the tip  414  can be locked in position with the tab  420 . The tip  414  may be released by application of pressure against a lever handle attached to the tab  420 , which causes the serrations of the tab  420  to disengage with the serrations of the tip  414  and allows the strap  412  to disengage from the buckle  401  and release the second medical device. 
     In other embodiments, instead of the strap  412  having serrations at the tip  414 , the strap  412  may have other joining members, such as a hook and loop fastener, snap buttons, or the like. The inside surface of the strap  412  may be covered by means to enhance the gripping strength between the strap and the medical device. For example, the surface can have means to enhance gripping, including a soft, pliable material, a sticky or tacky material such as a releasable adhesive, magnets, keyed features (i.e., components that fit within other slots or notches), VELCRO®, surface roughening, and/or additional material wrapped around the catheter. 
     The apparatus once it is attached to the first medical device  100  is designed to be easily and quickly attached and detached to a second medical device, normally only requiring the use of one hand. Furthermore, the base  402  and post  404  allows the second medical device to be easily coupled and decoupled from the first medical device  100  if the need arises for the second medical device to be operated by a different user without having to disengage the second medical device from the strap  412 . This may be accomplished by simply inserting the post  404  onto the base  402  and reversing the process to remove the second medical device. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 5A-5D , an apparatus  500  for attaching a first medical device to a second medical device is illustrated. The apparatus  500  may include a base component  502  that may be attachable to a first medical device, such as medical device  100 , and a clamp component  504 . The base  502  may include a top plate  503  positioned orthogonal to the base  502 . The top plate  503  may include a rectangular slot  506  at the distal side. Slot  506  acts as an anchor for a corresponding peg of the clamp component  504 . The base  502  may include a spring  508 . The spring  508  may include a flat strip of material formed as an S-curve of adequate width to accommodate a second slot  512  on the bottom leg of the S-curve of equal length as the slot  506  on the top plate  503 . The upper leg of the S-curve may be attached perpendicular to the flat front surface of base  502  opposite to the side which is attached to the first medical device. The bottom leg of the S-curve is connected to a handle  510 . The handle  510  can be depressed, thus, compressing the bottom leg of the S-curve and decreasing the distance between the first slot  506  and the second slot  512 . 
     The clamp component  504  may include a bracket to removably secure the clamp to the first medical device. The bracket may include a top peg  514  attached to a sideways arm and a second bottom peg  516  attached to a sideways arm, each peg may be sized to enter into the respective first top slot  506  and the second bottom slot  512 . Both arms that hold pegs  514  and  516  may extend sideways before turning up at the ends. The upper peg is pointed up and the bottom peg has a ramp and a ledge behind the ramp at the end of the peg. The upper peg  514  may be first engaged with the slot  506  from below the slot  506 . The clamp component  504  pivots around the first top peg  514  so that the ramp at the end of the lower peg  516  strikes a ramp of opposite slope on the end of the bottom leg of the S-curve. Continued application of force causes the bottom leg of the S-curve to deform slightly upwards to allow the peg  516  to engage the slot  512 . When the handle  510  is pushed up, the reduced distance releases the bottom peg  516  from slot  512 , and thus, the clamp component  504  can be removed from the base  502 . The apparatus once it is attached to the first medical device  100  is designed to be easily and quickly attached and detached to a second medical device, normally only requiring the use of one hand. Furthermore, the pegs  514  and  516  may allow the second medical device to be easily coupled and decoupled from the first medical device  100  if the need arises for the second medical device to be operated by a different user without having to disengage the second medical device from the jaws of the clamp  504  by simply operating the handle  510 . 
     The clamp component  504  may include a first  518  and a second  520  jaw. The second jaw  520  supports the first and the second pegs described above. Each jaw has an arcuate portion followed by a straight portion. The first jaw  518  is connected to the second jaw  520  via a living hinge  522  after the arcuate portions and at the straight portions. Living hinge  522  may be a flexible strip of material that is narrower at the center to allow flexing of the jaws  518  and  520  to open or close. Jaws  518  and  520  continue as extensions  528  and  530  on the opposite side of the living hinge  522 . First jaw  518  and second jaw  520  form a pincer device where living hinge  522  acts as a fulcrum and extensions  528  and  530  of jaws  518  and  520  behind the living hinge  522  act as levers that can be pressed nearer to each other to open the jaws or spread apart to close the jaws. For example, pressing the extensions  528  and  530  nearer to one another causes jaws  518  and  520  to open wider, while pushing extensions  528  and  530  apart closes the jaws  518  and  520 . A locking mechanism includes a toggle joint. 
     A toggle joint acts to push extensions  528  and  530  apart and thus, to close the jaws. The toggle joint may be made from a first leg  526  and a second leg  528  joined to each other at about midway of the living hinge  522 , resembling a knee  525 . The combined length of leg  524  and leg  526  when straightened is greater than the length of the living hinge  522 . When a force is applied to straighten the knee  525 , the opposite ends of the legs  526  and  528  apply an outward force or push against the extensions  528  and  530  and close the jaws  518  and  520 . The inner surfaces of the extensions  528  and  530  include a groove or socket, as best seen in  FIGS. 5C and 5D . The sockets of the extensions  528  and  530  are each engaged with one leg of the toggle joint. The first leg  526  is pivotally attached to the inner surface of extension  528 . The second leg  524  is pivotally attached to the inner surface of the extension  530 . Both legs  526  and  524  are pivotally attached to each other at the knee  525 . Leg  524  is connected to a lever  530  attached perpendicular to leg  524 . Referring specifically to  FIG. 5C , in a first position, the knee  525  juts outward and bends away from the hinge  522 . This is the no-load configuration that allows the living hinge  522  to flex. When the knee  525  juts outward or bends away, there is no compressive force on legs  524  and  526  because there is no resistance against the jaws  518  and  520  opening. The inside surfaces of jaws  518  and  520  are shown slightly open and not fully pressing against the second medical device  101 . 
     As seen in  FIG. 5D , moving the lever  530  to the opposite side forces the knee  525  to straighten, which causes the extensions  528  and  530  to be spread further apart, eventually reaching the point where the knee  525  bends inwards and towards the hinge  522 . This has the effect of closing the jaws  518 ,  520  around the second medical device  101 . Resistance to moving the lever  530  will be felt when the jaws  518 ,  520  touch the second medical device  101 . Continued movement of the lever  530  to the opposite side continually increases the separation distance between extensions  528  and  530  up to the point when the knee  525  is straight. Past this point, the knee  525  will jut inwards or bend towards the hinge  522  and release some of the pressure that is applied to the extensions  528  and  530 . It is at this point that the knee  525  can be prevented from moving further as just after the knee  525  juts inward or bends towards the hinge  522 , the toggle joint may apply close to the maximum pressure on the jaws  518 ,  520 . This is the loaded configuration because the jaws  518  and  520  not being able to close further around the second medical device  101  places the legs  524  and  526  under tension that prevents the knee  525  from returning to the outward jutting configuration. Thus, the second medical device  101  is secured within jaws  518  and  520 . The medical device  101  can be released by returning the lever  530  to the original position, as illustrated in  FIG. 5C . 
     In alternate embodiments, the first and second jaws may be replaced by any of the jaw structures as illustrated in  FIG. 1A ,  2 B, or  3 B. The inside surfaces of the jaws  518  and  520  may be covered by means to enhance the gripping strength between the jaws and the medical device. For example, the surfaces can have means to enhance gripping, including a soft, pliable material, a sticky or tacky material such as a releasable adhesive, magnets, keyed features (i.e., components that fit within other slots or notches), VELCRO®, surface roughening, and/or additional material wrapped around the catheter. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 6A-6C , an alternate embodiment of an apparatus  600  for attaching a first medical device to a second medical device is illustrated. The apparatus  600  may include a base  610  that can be mechanically connected to a first medical device. The base  610  may have a flat surface  611  on the side opposite from the mechanical connection to the medical device. The apparatus  600  may include a first jaw  602  and a second jaw  604  connected to one another via a joining wall  612 . The jaws  602  and  604  extend behind the wall  612  into beams  614  and  616  that are rigidly connected to the surface  611  of the base  610 . Each jaw  602  and  604  may be curved or bowed so that the placement of the jaws  602  and  604  with the bowed portions facing each other define a wide center area for accepting a second medical device and a narrow opening defined at or close to the ends of the jaws  602  and  604 . A sliding ring  606  is supported within slots created in jaws  602  and  604  that allow the sliding ring  606  to be rotated in relation to the jaws  602  and  604 . For example, the end of jaw  602  includes a slot through which the end of the sliding ring  606  is passed. The jaw  604  includes a slot that allows the opposite end of the sliding ring  606  to pass through. The sliding ring  606  includes a handle  608  on the end that allows rotating the sliding ring  606  within the slots of the jaws  602  and  604 . As best seen in the cross-sectional illustrations of  FIGS. 6B and 6C , the sliding ring  606  defines less than a complete circumference of a circle. The sliding ring  606  has a gap in its circumference that is generally proportionate to the opening between the first jaw  602  and the second jaw  604 . As illustrated in  FIG. 6B , the gap in the sliding ring  606  can be aligned with the opening between the jaws  602  and  604  to allow a medical device  101  to pass by the opening and be placed within the interior of the first and the second jaws  602  and  604 . In  FIG. 6C , the sliding ring  606  is illustrated being rotated via the handle  608 . Thus, the end of the sliding ring  606  may close the opening between jaws  602  and  604 , thereby retaining the second medical device within the jaws  602  and  604 . The forward end of the sliding ring  606  may engage with the jaw  604  under pressure so that the jaws  602  and  604  apply a squeezing force on the medical device  101 . To release the medical device  101 , the handle  608  may be moved to the position shown in  FIG. 6B , thus creating the opening between the jaws  602  and  604  once again to release the second medical device  101 . 
     The inside surfaces of the jaws  602  and  604  and the sliding ring  606  may be covered by means to enhance the gripping strength between the jaws and the medical device. For example, the surfaces can have means to enhance gripping, including a soft, pliable material, a sticky or tacky material such as a releasable adhesive, magnets, keyed features (i.e., components that fit within other slots or notches), VELCRO®, surface roughening, and/or additional material wrapped around the catheter. For example, in one embodiment, the sliding ring  606  may have a smaller inside diameter than the inside diameter defined by the jaws  602  and  604 . The sliding ring  606  may then engage with a corresponding groove or notch around the outer circumference of the medical device  101 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 7A-7D , an embodiment of an apparatus  700  for attaching a first medical device to a second medical device is illustrated. The apparatus  700  may include a clamp attached to a base  702 . The base  702  may be attachable to a first medical device via any mechanical or adhesive means. The apparatus  700  may include a first jaw  704  and a second jaw  706  connected to each other via a flexible transverse wall  712 . The interior surfaces of the jaw  704 , wall  712 , and jaw  706  combine to form an arcuate shape, such as a portion of a circle. The jaw  704  extends behind the wall  712  and forms a beam  714  that is connected to the surface of the base  702  on one side of the base  702 . As appreciated from  FIG. 7B , the first jaw  704 , the second jaw  706 , and the intermediate wall  712  are joined to the base  702  via the beam  714  that extends from jaw  704 . The opposite jaw  706  extends past the wall  712  and forms a block  716  having at least a straight edge facing inward. As depicted in  FIG. 7B , when a second medical device is pressed against the opening defined by the ends of the jaws  704  and  706 , jaws  704  and  706  will spread apart, allowing the second medical device to be captured within the jaws  704  and  706 . Jaw  706  may experience most of the movement as intermediate wall  712  may flex to allow jaw  706  to open. Once within jaws  704  and  706 , the medical device can be locked in position by a locking mechanism. 
     A locking mechanism may include a disk  722  that is rotationally attached to the base  702 . The disk  722  is positioned between the base  702  and the intermediate wall  712  and attached to the base  702  at its center via a pivot pin to allow rotation of the disk  722 . The disk  722  defines a caming surface on the side of the disk  722  and formed from the outer circumference of the disk  722 . The earning surface may include a first cut-out  724  and a second cut-out  726  formed from reduced thickness areas of the disk  722 . The first cut-out  724  may define a straight edge that cuts the disk  722  along a chord of a circle close to the circumference of the disk  722 . The second cut-out  726  may define a second straight edge that cuts the disk  722  along a chord of a circle that is farther away from the circumference of the disk  722 . The straight edge of cut-out  724  and the straight edge of cut-out  726  may be positioned at right angles to each other, and a transition between them may comprise a rounded corner. The cam surface therefore includes an edge of varying thickness along the perimeter of the disk  722  and on the side of the disk  722 . 
     Referring to the cross-sectional illustration of  FIG. 7C , the block  716  is shown in position within the cut-out  726  so that the straight edge of the block  714  may be generally parallel to the straight edge of the cut-out  726 . There may be a gap between the edge of the block  716  and the edge of the cut-out  726  and, thus, allows the jaw  706  to which block  716  is attached to be flexed as described above. Referring to  FIG. 7D , the handle  720  attached to the disk  722  may be moved to rotate the disk  722  so that the edge of the cut-out  724  lies generally parallel and touching or very nearly touching the straight edge of the block  716 , and may even have pressed against the block  724  with a slight force so as to put pressure on the jaw  706 . As can be appreciated, the block  716  has little to no room to flex to the side because of the nearness of the straight edge of the cut-out  724  against the block  716 . Thus, in the configuration shown in  FIG. 7D , the jaw  706  is prevented from opening. Therefore, the second medical device is securely held within jaws  704  and  706  illustrated in  FIG. 7D . 
     The inside surfaces of the jaws  704  and  706  may be covered by means to enhance the gripping strength between the jaws and the medical device. For example, the surfaces can have means to enhance gripping, including a soft, pliable material, a sticky or tacky material such as a releasable adhesive, magnets, keyed features (i.e., components that fit within other slots or notches), VELCRO®, surface roughening, and/or additional material wrapped around the catheter. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 8A and 8B , an embodiment of an apparatus for attaching a first medical device to a second medical device is illustrated. The first medical device  100  may include a flexible strap  800  attached on one side of the medical device  100 . Next to the strap  800  is a receptacle  808  for receiving a second medical device. Receptacle  808  can be an indentation that conforms to the shape of the second medical device. The medical device  100  may include structure  802  having a slot  808  that is provided on the side of the medical device that is opposite to the side on which the strap  800  is attached. Slot  808  extends from a forward opening to a rear opening to allow strap  800  to pass therethrough from front to back. A cylindrical cam  804  positioned on one side in the path through the slot  808  has a pivoting pin  806  placed off-center in the cam  804  so that upon rotation of the cam  804 , the cam  804  will cause a narrowing or constriction of the slot  808  between the cam&#39;s  804  surface and the opposite side of the slot  808 . The strap  800  can be wrapped around a second medical device  101 , as best seen in  FIG. 8B . The strap  800  has a free end which is inserted through the slot  808  between the first medical device  100  and the off-center cam  804 . The cam  804  can have serrations or pyramid-like projections on the surface to “bite” against the strap  800 . Thus, when the end of the strap  800  is inserted within the slot  808 , the end of the strap  800  pivots the cam  804  to align the narrow portion of the cam  804  next to the slot  808  to have adequate width for passage of the strap  800  through the slot  808 . When the direction of the strap  800  is reversed, such as when the strap  800  is pulled, the cam  804  pivots so that the wider part of the cam  804  is turned to face the slot  808 , thus narrowing the width of the slot  808  next to the cam  804  that causes the cam  804  to wedge itself against the strap  800 . In use, the strap  800  may first be pulled tight against the second medical device  101 . When the strap  800  is released, the cam  804  bites against the strap  800 , thus preventing the strap  800  from releasing. As alternatives to an off-center cam, the cam can have an eccentric lobe or the cam can travel along a widening guide where the slot is widest when the cam travels down the guide and the slot is narrowest when the can is closest to the front of the guide. 
     The inside surface of the strap  800  may be covered by means to enhance the gripping strength between the strap and the medical device. For example, the surface can have means to enhance gripping, including a soft, pliable material, a sticky or tacky material such as a releasable adhesive, magnets, keyed features (i.e., components that fit within other slots or notches), VELCRO®, surface roughening, and/or additional material wrapped around the catheter. 
     Referring to  FIG. 9 , an embodiment of an apparatus for attaching a first medical device to a second medical device is illustrated. The medical device  100  may include a flexible strap  900  attached to one side of the medical device. A receptacle  906  in the first medical device may be positioned adjacent to the strap  900  to accommodate a second medical device. Receptacle  906  may be an indentation that conforms to the shape of the second medical device. The strap  900  may have a free end that includes either the loop or hook portion of a hook-and-loop fastener. The corresponding portion of the hook-and-loop fastener may be attached to the side of the medical device  100  that is opposite to the side on which the strap  900  is attached. A second medical device may be placed within the receptacle  906 . A length of the strap  900  is wrapped around the second medical device and the free end of the strap  900  is secured to the opposite side of the first medical device. For example, the free end of the strap  900  may have the hook portion of the hook-and-loop fastener  902 , which is engaged to the loop portion  904  of the hook-and-loop fastener on the opposite side of medical device  100 , thereby attaching the first medical device  100  to the second medical device (not shown). 
     The inside surface of the strap  900  may be covered by means to enhance the gripping strength between the strap and the medical device. For example, the surface can have means to enhance gripping, including a soft, pliable material, a sticky or tacky material such as a releasable adhesive, magnets, keyed features (i.e., components that fit within other slots or notches), VELCRO®, surface roughening, and/or additional material wrapped around the catheter. 
     Referring to  FIG. 10 , an embodiment of an apparatus for attaching a first medical device to a second medical device is illustrated. The medical device  100  includes a flexible strap  1000  attached on one side of the medical device  100 . A receptacle  1002  may be placed adjacent to the strap  1000  to receive a second medical device (not shown). Receptacle  1002  may be an indentation that conforms to the shape of the second medical device. The strap  1000  may include a free end having serrations  1004  on one side of the strap  1000 . The free end of the strap  1000  is inserted into a ratchet and pawl mechanism, which can be used to tighten a length of the strap  1000  around the second medical device. The ratchet  1006  may have serrations that engage with the serrations on the strap  1000 , while the pawl  1008  prevents the strap  1000  from reversing direction. Application of pressure to the opposite side of the pawl  1008  releases the pawl  1008  from the strap  1000 . 
     The inside surface of the strap  1000  may be covered by means to enhance the gripping strength between the strap and the medical device. For example, the surface can have means to enhance gripping, including a soft, pliable material, a sticky or tacky material such as a releasable adhesive, magnets, keyed features (i.e., components that fit within other slots or notches), VELCRO®, surface roughening, and/or additional material wrapped around the catheter. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 11A-11C , an embodiment of an apparatus for attaching a first medical device to a second medical device is illustrated. The apparatus may include an over-center clamp  1100  and a base  1102  that may be mechanically fastened on one side to a first medical device. The base  1102  has a surface provided opposite to the medical device to support a first jaw  1102  and a second jaw  1104 . The jaw  1102  is supported by and pivots on hinge  1106 . The jaw  1104  is supported by and pivots on hinge  1104 . The jaw  1102  extends past the hinge  1106  into a boss  1112 . The jaw  1104  extends past the hinge  1108  into a boss  1114 . The bosses  1112  and  1114  are arranged to create over-center action to lock the second medical device  101  in place. As best seen in  FIG. 11B , when the jaws  1102  and  1104  are opened, the bosses  1112  and  1114  are not touching each other. As a medical device  101  is being pushed against the rear of the jaws  1102  and  1104  and bosses  1112  and  1114 , the jaws  1102  and  1104  begin to close and the bosses  1112  and  1114  approach one another and may eventually touch. After the bosses  1112  and  1114  make contact with one another, resistance may be felt to further pushing of the medical device. However, increasing the application of pressure on the medical device  101  overcomes the resistance. When the bosses  1112  and  1114  cross the point where, because of the pivoting nature of the bosses, the bosses are no longer being pushed against each other and have crossed the center and are beginning to separate from one another, the bosses gradually release some of the stored tension, and it is at this point that because of the reversal of forces and the separation of the bosses  1112  and  1114 , the jaws  1102  and  1104  are forced against the medical device  101  so that the jaws  1102  and  1104  hold the medical device  101  in place. Removal of the medical device  101  is effected by overcoming the resistance to pushing the bosses  1112  and  1114  closer to each other over the center, but in the opposite direction, until and because of the pivoting nature, the bosses will begin to separate and release the medical device  101 . 
     The inside surfaces of the jaws  1102  and  1104  may be covered by means to enhance the gripping strength between the jaws and the medical device. For example, the surfaces can have means to enhance gripping, including a soft, pliable material, a sticky or tacky material such as a releasable adhesive, magnets, keyed features (i.e., components that fit within other slots or notches), VELCRO®, surface roughening, and/or additional material wrapped around the catheter. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 12A and 12B , an embodiment of an apparatus  1200  for attaching a first medical device to a second medical device is illustrated. The apparatus may include a funnel shaped clamp  1200  and friction to hold a medical device. The clamp  1200  includes a base  1201  that can be mechanically connected to a first medical device. The funnel shaped clamp  1200  may include a first jaw  1202  and a second jaw  1204 . Both jaws are connected to an intermediate wall  1210  that is then attached to the surface of the base  1202 . The jaws  1202  and  1204  terminate at an opening  1208 . A cross-sectional profile taken of either of the jaws  1202  and  1204  along any of the length of the jaw will reveal an angled profile, as best seen in  FIG. 12B . Thus, the radius of curvature of the jaws  1202  and  1204  is greatest at the highest elevation, and diminishes as the elevation decreases. Jaws  1202  and  1204  are formed from a semi-rigid material that may generally be stiff, but can give and flex. As best seen in  FIG. 12B , a second medical device  101  is inserted between the first jaw  1202  and the second jaw  1204 . Opening  1208  defined by the ends of the jaws  1202  and  1204  allows a narrow portion of the second medical device, such as an elongated shaft to squeeze through the opening  1208 , while the handle of the second medical device  101 , being formed as a gradually increasing circular object to closely match the angled profile of the jaws, is received between the jaws  1202  and  1204 . The second medical device  101  is lowered and may be pressed downwardly, thereby applying pressure to the interior surfaces of the jaws  1202  and  1204 , which may give a little by expanding outward. Friction and the force of the jaws  1202  and  1204  pressing against the second medical device  101  may prevent the medical device  101  from inadvertently being detached from the clamp  1200  and the first medical device. 
     The inside surfaces of the jaws  1202  and  1204  may be covered by means to enhance the gripping strength between the jaws and the medical device. For example, the surfaces can have means to enhance gripping, including a soft, pliable material, a sticky or tacky material such as a releasable adhesive, magnets, keyed features (i.e., components that fit within other slots or notches), VELCRO®, surface roughening, and/or additional material wrapped around the catheter. 
     Referring to  FIG. 13 , an apparatus  1300  for attaching a first medical device to a second medical device is illustrated. The apparatus  1300  may include a base  1302  that is mechanically or otherwise connected to a first medical device. The base  1302  may extend lengthwise along the medical device to accommodate at least two alternately positioned hooks  1304  and  1306  that may be placed on the base at different elevations such that the ends of the hooks face inwardly but, are not in alignment with respect to elevation. Hook  1304  is higher in elevation on the base  1302  compared to hook  1306 . Hooks  1304  and  1306  may be rigidly attached to the surface of the base  1302 . Hooks  1304  and  1306  may be formed from a semi-rigid material that may be generally stiff, but can give and flex. The base  1302  includes a latch mechanism  1308  that may be placed at a lower elevation than either of hooks  1304  and  1306 . Latch mechanism  1308  may travel laterally with respect to the alignment of the base  1302  and within a guide  1310  on the base  1302 . Latch mechanism  1308  may include an arcuate surface  1312  having a radius of curvature similar to hooks  1306  and  1304 . The arcuate surface  1312  is directed inward and faces toward the lower hook  1306  so that the latch is aligned in the same direction as hook  1304 . Latch mechanism  1308  acts as a third hook, similar to hook  1304 , when latch mechanism  1308  is moved forward, thereby locking the second medical device  101  from opposite sides within the grasp of the first and second hooks  1304  and  1306  and further held by the latch mechanism  1308 . Latch mechanism  1308  can then be moved to the rear, thus releasing the second medical device  101 . 
     Any number of hooks can be positioned so as to face toward the inside, but placed on opposite sides with respect to an imaginary line along the center of the base. Furthermore, the latch can be located above, below or in between an upper and lower hook. The inside surfaces of the hooks  1304  and  1306  and of the latch  1308  may be covered by means to enhance the gripping strength between the hooks and latch and the medical device. For example, the surfaces can have means to enhance gripping, including a soft, pliable material, a sticky or tacky material such as a releasable adhesive, magnets, keyed features (i.e., components that fit within other slots or notches), VELCRO®, surface roughening, and/or additional material wrapped around the catheter. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 14A-14D , an apparatus  1402  for attaching a first medical device  1404  to a second medical device  1401  is illustrated. The attachment of the apparatus  1402  to the medical device  1404  can be via any mechanical fastener or an adhesive. The apparatus  1402  includes a base  1450  which is attached to the medical device  1404 . From the base  1450 , one or more support beams  1428  extend away and generally perpendicular to the long axis of the medical device  1404 . Support beams can be defined as upper lateral, upper medial, lower lateral, and lower medial. Each pair of support beams on either the lateral or medial side includes a first upper and a second lower support beam, which define a slot therebetween the first upper support beam and the second lower support beam. The upper lateral and medial support beams have an arcuate shape facing inwardly toward each other. The lower lateral and medial support beams have an arcuate shape facing inwardly toward each other. An elastomeric material  1408  is provided within the inner perimeter of the support beams, the function of which is to “hug” the second medical device  1401 . As best seen in  FIG. 14D , the elastomeric material  1408  includes two opposite, but similar holders  1414  and  1416 . The apparatus  1402  may include a first set of upper holders  1414  and  1416  and a second set of holders that are not shown in  FIG. 14D , but are beneath the holders  1414  and  1416 . In  FIG. 14C , the bottom set of holders is illustrated. Each elastomeric holder can correspond to a support beam such that the slot between support beams is preserved. As viewed from above in  FIG. 14D , each holder  1414  and  1416  is the mirror image of each other with respect to a central axis. Each holder  1414  and  1416  and the bottom set of holders has an inside arcuate shape, which comes to a narrow constriction and which then turn outward to receive the second medical device  1401 . The set of holders  1414  and  1416  defines a funnel leading to a narrowing point or constriction, which then leads to the inside of the apparatus  1402 . Both sets of elastomeric holders are extensions of an elastomeric hugger. The elastomeric hugger  1408  is supported by the support beams. The elastomeric hugger  1408  forms a pad within the inside perimeter of the support beams. The elastomeric hugger  1408  formed from elastomeric material provides a soft contact with the second medical device  1401  to which it is attached and, in addition, ensures a wide range of compatibility with medical devices due to the deformable and compliant material of construction. The elastomeric hugger  1408  can deform to fit medical devices of varying diameters. The apparatus  1402  further includes a ratcheting clip  1410 . The ratcheting clip  1410  may be comprised of two pieces or, alternatively, the ratcheting clip  1410  can be a single piece with two opposing members with interlocking means. As best seen in  FIG. 14D , the ratcheting clip  1410  includes a first interlocking arm  1411  and a second interlocking arm  1413 . The interlocking arms  1411  and  1413  may be connected to one another similar to what is illustrated in  FIG. 15  or, alternatively, each interlocking arm may be attached individually to the apparatus  1402 . The interlocking arms  1411  and  1413  are flexible to wrap around a medical device being held within the elastic hugger  1408 . To this end, the interlocking arms  1411  and  1413  can be made from a thin, flexible material at those sections where the interlocking arms wrap around the medical device. The ratcheting arms  1411  and  1413  wrap outside the elastomeric hugger  1408  and within the slots provided by each set of lateral and medial support beams and each set of lateral and medial elastomeric holders. Extending further out from the apparatus  1042  and beyond the thin, flexible sections, the interlocking arm  1411  extends outward, forming a comparatively rigid ear  1418 . Generally perpendicular to the ear  1418 , an extension  1420  with inside ratcheting teeth  1422  is provided. The extension  1420  generally defines an arcuate shape on the interior to match with a medical device. Opposite from the ratcheting arm  1411 , a second ratcheting arm  1413  is provided. The ratcheting arm  1413  similarly includes a comparatively rigid ear  1415  extending from the thin section of ratcheting arm  1413 . Generally perpendicular to ear  1415 , an extension  1426  with outside ratcheting teeth  1428  is provided. As can be appreciated, the ratcheting teeth  1422  of extension  1420  and the ratcheting teeth  1428  of extension  1426  are made to interlock with one another, thereby providing a secure clamping action. The second extension  1426  is generally also provided as having an arcuate shape on the interior. Generally perpendicular to ear  1415 , a second extension  1424  is provided on the ratcheting arm  1413 . The second extension  1424  is a pressure foot. The pressure foot  1424  and the extension  1426  define a slot therebetween into which extension  1420  fits. The inside surface of the pressure foot  1424  applies a downward force on the extension  1420 , which causes the ratcheting teeth  1422  to be more securely engaged with the ratcheting teeth  1428 . 
     By placing a medical device  1401  within the interior of elastomeric hugger  1408 , then wrapping both ratcheting arms  1411  and  1413  around the medical device  1401  such that the extension  1420  is inserted between the extensions  1426  and  1424  so as to engage inside ratcheting teeth  1422  with outside ratcheting teeth  1428  will provide a secure attachment between the medical device  1404  and the medical device  1401 . 
     For example, in one representative embodiment, the first medical device to which the apparatus  1402  is attached can be an endoscope, and the second medical device  1401  can be a duodenal scope. This applies to all embodiments herein disclosed. The pressure foot  1424  keeps pressure on the interlocking ratcheting teeth  1422  and  1428  to prevent accidental disengagement. Once engaged to the medical device  1401 , the ratcheting clip  1410  can be disengaged by applying a force against the inside of the ear  1415 , which causes the pressure foot  1424  to lift, allowing the memory of the material to cause the extension  1420  to return to non-stressed condition and disengage the ratcheting teeth  1422  from the ratcheting teeth  1428 . The ears  1418  and  1415  are used to apply pressure to bring the ratcheting arms  1411  and  1413  into engagement with one another and close around the medical device  1401 . As pressure is applied on the ears  1418  and  1415 , the elastomeric hugger  1408  may be deformed, thus securely holding the medical device  1401  to the medical device  1404 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 15 , another embodiment of a ratcheting clip for attaching a first medical device to a second medical device is illustrated. The apparatus  1502  includes a central attachment point  1522  for securely attaching the apparatus  1502  to a first medical device (not shown). A similar attachment point may be provided for the embodiment illustrated in  FIGS. 14A-14D . The attachment point  1522  is generally a solid, rigid structure that can withstand the forces being applied on the apparatus  1502 . The apparatus is formed from two opposing ratcheting arms  1512  and  1514 . The ratcheting arms  1512  and  1514  include sections closest to the connection point  1522  formed from a thin, flexible material. The ratcheting arms  1512  and  1514  are connected to one another at the connection point  1522 . The ratcheting arms  1512  and  1514  further extend into ears  1504  and  1516 , respectively, placed at the termination of the thin, flexible material sections. The ears  1504  and  1516  are generally positioned perpendicular to the length of the thin, flexible arms  1512  and  1514 . The ears  1504  and  1516  may be generally rigid. The ratcheting arms  1512  and  1514  further comprise extension  1506  with inside ratcheting teeth  1508  and extension  1518  with outside ratcheting teeth  1520  such that when brought into engagement with one another, ratcheting teeth  1508  may interlock with ratcheting teeth  1520 . In this embodiment, a pressure foot may not be necessary when the material is of a generally greater rigidity. The ratcheting arm  1512  further includes a pull tab  1510  connected to the end and outside surface of the extension  1506 . Ratcheting arms  1512  and  1514  can wrap around a medical device  1501  by application of pressure on ears  1504  and  1516 . Once engaged with each other, ratcheting teeth  1508  may be disengaged from ratcheting teeth  1520  by application of a pulling force on the pull tab  1510 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 16 , an apparatus  1604  for attaching a first medical device  1602  to a second medical device  1601  is illustrated. The apparatus includes a base  1604  on a first medical device  1602  and a band or strap  1608  on a second medical device  1601 . In this embodiment, the band or strap  1608  may be secured to the second medical device  1601  similar to the ratcheting clips disclosed above in connection with  FIGS. 14 and 15 . Alternatively, any means for securing a band or strap can be used, such as, but not limited to, adhesives, mechanical interlocking means, hook and loop fasteners (VELCRO®), adhesives, or mechanical fasteners. Furthermore, it is not necessary to have a band or strap. This embodiment relies on having flanged studs  1606  project outward from a location on the medical device  1601 . A flanged stud may have a small diameter post extending from the support and the top of the post is fitted a flange of a larger perimeter than the post. One or any number of flanged studs  1606  may be provided on the exterior of the medical device  1601 . The flanged studs are preferably, but not necessarily, in linear alignment with each other. The base  1604  on the medical device  1602  includes corresponding keyhole slots  1610  for each one of the flanged studs  1606  on the second medical device  1601 . To attach medical device  1602  to medical device  1601 , the base  1604  is pushed against the medical device  1601  such that the keyhole slots  1610  correspond to the flanged studs  1606  and are slid down to lock in place on the studs  1606 . Further, a catch may be provided to further prevent the medical devices from accidentally disengaging. For removal, the slots  1610  are aligned with the flanges  1606 , then the medical device  1602  is lifted up and pulled off from the flanged studs  1606 . 
     One embodiment of the invention is of an apparatus for selectively securing a first medical device to a second medical device. The apparatus includes a clamp positioned on the first medical device including a first and second holding portion that open to receive the second medical device between the first and second holding portions and a locking mechanism that is selectively positioned to prevent the first and second holding portions from opening. The apparatus may have one of the first or second holding portions include a hook with a tab that is selectively positioned in a catch and the locking mechanism includes a pawl that secures the tab in the catch. The apparatus may have one of the holding portions being fixed to a clamp base and the other holding portion moving with respect to the clamp base and wherein the hook is secured to the holding portion that moves. The apparatus may have the pawl mounted on a rotating barrel. The apparatus may have the barrel being rotatable between a first position where the pawl does not prevent the tab from being removed from the catch and a second position where the pawl does prevent the tab from being removed from the catch. The first and second holding portions may be first and second jaws of a clamp, for example. 
     Another embodiment of the invention is of an apparatus for releasably securing a first medical device to a second medical device. The apparatus includes a pincer device including a first holding portion and a second holding portion that open and close around the second medical device by pivoting around a common pivot point. The apparatus includes a first handle and a second handle attached to the first holding portion and the second holding portion respectively and extending away from the common pivot point to open the pincer device by depressing the corresponding handles. The apparatus includes a spring that biases the first holding portion and the second holding portion towards a closed position. The apparatus may have a single spring that biases the first holding portion and the second holding portion. The apparatus may have a first spring that biases the first holding portion and a second spring that biases the second holding portion. The apparatus may have means for securing the pincer device to the first medical device. The apparatus may have the pincer being incorporated into a housing, and the means for securing the pincer device to the first medical device includes a pair of spring-biased tabs having serrations thereon that engage corresponding serrations in the housing. The apparatus may have spring biased tabs that can be disengaged from the serrations on the housing to allow the pincer to be removed from the first medical device. The first and the second holding portions may be first and second jaws. 
     Another embodiment of the invention is of an apparatus for releasably securing a first medical device to a second medical device. The apparatus includes a holding portion including a flexible strap secured thereto that has length that extends around the second medical device and a locking mechanism that secures an end of the strap in the holding portion. The apparatus may have the holding portion and the first medical device include first and second cooperating members that secure the holding portion to the first medical device. The apparatus may have the first and second members include a post and an aperture that receives the post. The apparatus may have the locking mechanism in the holding portion include a flexible tab having serrations that engage the serrations of the strap and a lever handle connected to the tab that disengages the serrations of the tab from the serrations on the strap. The holding portion may be a buckle, for example. 
     Another embodiment of the invention is of an apparatus for releasably securing a first medical device to a second medical device. The apparatus includes a first holding portion and a second holding portion connected to one another through a hinge that opens to allow the second medical device to fit between the holding portions, wherein the first holding portion includes a first extension that extends from the hinge and the second holding portion includes a second extension that extends from the hinge. The apparatus may have a locking mechanism that creates an over-center action that is connected between the first and the second extensions to secure the first and second extensions together and prevent the holding portions from opening. The apparatus may have the locking mechanism include a toggle joint having a first and a second leg rotatably coupled to the first and second extensions and joined to one another at a knee. The apparatus may have the knee being positionable so that the knee bends away from the hinge to allow the holding portions to open and the knee being positionable so that the knee bends toward the hinge to prevent the holding portions from opening. The apparatus may have the length of the hinge being less than the combined length of the first leg and the second leg. The apparatus may have one of the first or second legs include a lever that bends the knee towards or away from the hinge that joins the holding portions. The apparatus may be removably secured to the first medical device with a bracket. The apparatus may have the bracket include a pair of spaced arms that engage corresponding slots and an S-curve spring secured to a slot to disengage an arm from the slot. The first and second holding portions may be a first and a second jaw, for example. 
     Another embodiment is of an apparatus for attaching a first medical device to a second medical device. The apparatus includes a base supporting a clamp having a first and a second holding portion, each holding portion defining a curvature along the length of the holding portion, wherein the first and the second holding portions define an opening between the first holding portion and the second holding portion and the first holding portion has at least a first slot and the second holding portion has at least a second slot. The apparatus may have a sliding ring positioned within the first and the second slots so that the sliding ring is allowed to rotate in the holding portions to close the opening defined by the holding portions. The first and second holding portions may be a first and a second jaw, for example. 
     Another embodiment of the invention is of an apparatus for attaching a first medical device to a second medical device, wherein the apparatus is fastened to the first medical device and the apparatus is attachable and detachable to the second medical device. The apparatus includes a base supporting a clamp having a first holding portion and a second holding portion, wherein the first holding portion of the clamp is fixed in relation to the base and the other holding portion is moveable with respect to the base to allow the clamp to open. The apparatus may have a cam positioned between the base and the clamp, wherein the cam has an edge of varying thickness that is rotatable between the base and the second holding portion to engage the second holding portion and prevent the clamp from opening. The apparatus may have the cam on a disk that is rotatably secured to the base. The apparatus may have the disk include a handle that is moved by a user to rotate the cam. The first and second holding portions may be a first and a second jaw, for example. 
     Another embodiment of the invention is of an apparatus for attaching a first medical device to a second medical device. The apparatus includes a strap connected to the first medical device having a length that extends around the second medical device. The apparatus includes a slot on the first medical device for receiving an end of the strap. The apparatus includes a cam in the slot that allows the strap to be advanced into the slot and resists the strap from being withdrawn from the slot. The apparatus may have the cam that upon pivoting on an axis creates a wide passage that allows insertion of the strap through the slot, and the cam upon pivoting on an axis creates a narrow passage that prevents the strap from being withdrawn from the slot. The apparatus may have the cam having an eccentric lobe that creates the narrow passage through the slot. The apparatus may have the cam having an off center axis. The apparatus may have the cam having a textured surface to engage the surface of the strap. 
     Another embodiment of the invention is of an apparatus for attaching a first medical device to a second medical device. The apparatus includes a strap connected to the first medical device having a length that extends around the second medical device, wherein at or near the end of the strap, the strap has either the hook or the loop portion of a hook and loop fastener. The apparatus includes a corresponding hook or loop portion of the hook and loop fastener being placed on the first medical device to secure the strap when placed around the second medical device. 
     Another embodiment of the invention is of an apparatus for attaching a first medical device to a second medical device. The apparatus includes a strap connected to the first medical device and having a length that extends around the second medical device and including a number of serrations. The apparatus includes a ratcheting mechanism that receives an end of the strap, the ratcheting mechanism having a lever with serrations that engage the serrations on the strap and a pawl to prevent the strap from releasing after ratcheting. 
     Another embodiment of the invention is of an apparatus for attaching a first medical device to a second medical device. The apparatus includes a base having a first and a second hinge. The apparatus includes a first holding portion connected to the first hinge and a second holding portion connected to the second hinge, wherein the first holding portion and the second holding portion open to receive the second medical device, wherein each holding portion includes a boss that engages as the holding portions are closed and applies pressure to the holding portions to keep them in a closed position. The first and the second holding portions create an over-center action that secures the medical device in the apparatus. The first and second holding portions may be a first and a second jaw, for example. 
     Another embodiment of the invention is of an apparatus for attaching a first medical device to a second medical device. The apparatus includes a base having a clamp including a first holding portion and a second holding portion each holding portion defining a curvature along the length of the holding portion, wherein the holding portions are semi-rigid and permit some flexing when placed under pressure, wherein the holding portions further define an upper radius of curvature along the upper edge and a lower radius of curvature along the lower edge so that the upper radius of curvature is greater than the lower radius of curvature. The apparatus may have the first and the second holding portions together define a funnel shape. The first and the second holding portions may be a first and a second jaw, for example. 
     Another embodiment of the invention is of an apparatus for attaching a first medical device to a second medical device. The apparatus includes a base attachable to the first medical device. The apparatus includes a first hook positioned on the base at a first elevation near the top of the base. The apparatus includes a second hook positioned on the base at a second elevation below the first hook so that the hooks are both facing in from opposite directions, the hooks being arranged to engage opposite sides of the second medical device. The apparatus includes a sliding latch on the base that is aligned in the same direction as the first hook that slides to secure a second medical device that is placed in contact with the first and second hooks. 
     Another embodiment of the invention is of an apparatus for attaching a first medical device to a second medical device. The apparatus includes a first and a second ratcheting arm, which are both attachable to a first medical device. Each ratcheting arm may be formed from a thin, flexible, and elongated strip of material that flexes to wrap around a second medical device. The ratcheting arms may be connected to one another at the center or may be independently attached to the first medical device. The ratcheting arms each include an extension with ratcheting teeth formed on a surface thereof. One ratcheting arm comprises ratcheting teeth on the lower surface, where the opposite ratcheting arm comprises ratcheting teeth on the upper surface. Each ratcheting arm may further include an ear which is a projection extending generally perpendicular to the thin, flexible material. The ears are used for opening and closing the ratcheting arms around a second medical device. One ratcheting arm further includes a pressure foot. The pressure foot is placed alongside the ratcheting teeth on one ratcheting arm so the ratcheting teeth of the second ratcheting arm are engaged between the ratcheting teeth and the pressure foot of the first ratcheting arm. 
     Another embodiment of the invention is of an apparatus, such as a ratcheting clip, for attaching a first medical device to a second medical device. The apparatus includes a first and a second ratcheting arm, which are both attachable to a first medical device. Each ratcheting arm may be formed from a thin, flexible, and elongated strip of material that flexes to wrap around a second medical device. The ratcheting anus may be connected to one another at the center or may be independently attached to the first medical device. The ratcheting arms each include an extension with ratcheting teeth formed on a surface thereof. One ratcheting arm comprises ratcheting teeth on an inside surface, where the opposite ratcheting arm comprises ratcheting teeth on the outside surface. Each ratcheting arm may further include an ear which is a projection extending generally perpendicular to the thin, flexible material. The ears are used for opening and closing the ratcheting arms around a second medical device. One ratcheting arm further includes a pressure foot. The pressure foot is placed alongside the ratcheting teeth on one ratcheting arm so the ratcheting teeth of the second ratcheting arm are engaged between the ratcheting teeth and the pressure foot of the first ratcheting arm. Embodiments that do not have a pressure foot can include a pull tab that can be used to disengage one ratcheting arm from the other ratcheting arm. Embodiments of ratcheting clips can further have a deformable or elastomeric hugger within the inside perimeter of the ratcheting arms. 
     Another embodiment of the invention is of an apparatus for attaching a first medical device to a second medical device. The first medical device can include a base with one or more keyhole slots. The second medical device can include one or more flanged studs for each of the keyhole slots on the first medical device. The flanged studs may be attached to a band or strap which wraps around the circumference of a second medical device. 
     In all of the embodiments disclosed above, the apparatuses are attachable to devices including medical devices such as, but not limited to, endoscopes, duodenal scopes, as well as any other medical device, and including devices having illumination or imaging means. 
     While illustrative embodiments have been illustrated and described, it will be appreciated that various changes can be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Technology Classification (CPC): 5