Importance

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Abstract

The invention relates to a technique and instrument comprising a relay rod for performing subcutaneous placement of silastic tubing or vascular grafts from incisions in different parts of the body, more particularly, peritoneovenous shunts or peripheral arterial bypass. The relay rod, which is of rigid non-toxic material, comprises a receptor bore near the tip of its head for threading through the end of the silastic tube or vascular graft. A pair of longitudinally-extended grooves, distal to the receptor bore, accommodate the end portions of the silastic tube or vascular graft, which are secured in place parallel to the rod axis by a pair of ties which rest in circumferential grooves near the upper and lower ends of the longitudinal grooves. The distal end-portion of the rod comprises a shaft and a striated handle to facilitate gripping. The relay rod, with the silastic tube or the vascular graft secured in place thereon, is passed subcutaneously between incisions in different parts of the body. When the traverse has been completed, the ties are removed, allowing the silastic tube or vascular graft to be removed from the relay rod, and the latter to be removed from the subcutaneous tunnel.

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First Claim