Guidewire connection guide and method of use

Abstract

A guidewire connection guide includes a back member having a top surface extending between opposing sidewalls. An open-topped channel is positioned on the top surface and extends linearly through and between each of the opposing sidewalls. A restraining member having a planar top surface is hingedly attached to the back member. The restraining member is selectively folded over to compress against the end of an extension guidewire positioned within the first end of the channel. An enclosing member also has a planar top surface and is hingedly connected to the back member adjacent to the restraining member. The enclosing member can be selectively biased against the top surface of the back member to cover a portion of the channel. The portion of the channel covered by the enclosing member defines a substantially enclosed alignment passageway. The alignment passageway has a first end with the end of the extension guidewire received therein and an opposing second end. The alignment passageway has a transverse cross section substantially complementary to the cross section of the guidewires. By positioning the tapered end of a guidewire within the second end of the alignment passageway, the guidewire can be selectively advanced therein so as to be self-guided into a coupling socket formed in the end of the extension guidewire.