Ralph L. Huber, DMD: forgotten inventor of the "Tuohy" needle.

The hypodermic needle popularized by Edward Tuohy, MD for use in his method of continuous spinal anesthesia has been incorrectly called the "Tuohy needle" since he first popularized it in 1945. It was recently determined that Ralph L. Huber, a Seattle dentist, was the inventor of this widely used needle. However, very little is known about Huber. There is no mention of him in the medical literature, and until recently, he was forgotten. Through the location of various primary sources, including the original needle point invented by Dr. Huber, this essay introduces the fascinating life of Dr. Huber, and also his personal notes about his inventions. Not only was he a prominent Seattle dentist, but also a prolific inventor.