A method and apparatus for safer and more effective deep trans-cervical
intra-uterine artificial insemination (AI) is provided. Such a deep AI
catheter causes minimal discomfort and risk of trauma, and does not
require the services of a highly trained AI professional. First, a
catheter is inserted into the cervical tract of the animal. A membrane,
initially positioned inside a tube section of the catheter, is then
extended from an opening in the tube and into the tract under pressure.
The membrane extends into the tract without friction thereby reducing the
discomfort and the risk of trauma or injury to the animal. When the
membrane is fully extended into the tract, pressure causes the tip of the
membrane to open thereby releasing the AI fluid and depositing the genetic
material suspended in the fluid into the reproductive tract. Deployment of
the membrane is facilitated by tapering its wall thickness towards its
tip. In addition to AI and embryo transplant, other applications for the
pathway include therapeutic, diagnostic, or other procedures such as
introducing fluoroscopic cameras, instruments, and drug delivery.
