The University of Texas System

Howard M Wakeman

Daniel D Von Hoff

Paul W Leighton

John G Kuhn

An intramedullary catheter is provided which is attached to a bone to permit the infusion of drugs, fluids, or the like, directly into the bone marrow for subsequent dispersion to the vascular system. The present invention contemplates an intramedullary catheter, method of implanting such a catheter, and a method of fluid delivery to the vascular system through the bone marrow. The intramedullary catheter preferably includes a threaded conduit, a head attached to one end of the conduit, and a sealing membrane in the head overlying the conduit. The intramedullary catheter is implanted in a bone, such as the iliac crest, with the conduit threadingly engaging the bone and the surrounding skin closed over the head and membrane. Fluids are delivered by inserting a needle through the membrane into communication with the conduit for transport to the bone marrow. The present invention is particularly appropriate for patients who require long-term administration of medications as an alternative to intravenous delivery.

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Thiensdille, WI, United States of America

Howard M Wakeman