Abstract: A catheter connector is described having a hydrophobic end cap or washer located around the end opening to the connector's lumen. The diameter and length of the lumen below the washer is sufficiently large enough to accommodate an absorbent tubular filter that changes color when exposed to fluid. The washer acts to limit the size of the water droplet that might adhere to the end of the catheter and help maintain surface tension on the droplet to prevent it from entering the lumen. The hydrophilic tubular filter absorbs any water that might pass by the washer and thus keeps the lumen hole open.

Abstract: A catheter connector has a hydrophobic end cap or washer located around the end opening to the connector's lumen. The diameter and length of the lumen below the washer is sufficiently large enough to accommodate an absorbent tubular filter that changes color when exposed to fluid. The washer acts to limit the size of the water droplet that might adhere to the end of the catheter and help maintain surface tension on the droplet to prevent it from entering the lumen. The hydrophilic tubular filter absorbs any water that might pass by the washer and thus keeps the lumen hole open.

Abstract: A catheter connector is described having a hydrophobic end cap or washer located around the end opening to the connector's lumen. The diameter and length of the lumen below the washer is sufficiently large enough to accommodate an absorbent tubular filter that changes color when exposed to fluid. The washer acts to limit the size of the water droplet that might adhere to the end of the catheter and help maintain surface tension on the droplet to prevent it from entering the lumen. The hydrophilic tubular filter absorbs any water that might pass by the washer and thus keeps the lumen hole open.

Abstract: A preferred embodiment includes an MRI compatible catheter that maintains a desired temperature during an MRI procedure. Specifically, the catheter includes a lumen containing sensor wire that is surrounded by an insulating material. This material limits the transfer of heat to the outside of the catheter as the sensor wire heats during an MRI procedure.

Abstract: The present invention describes a connector set that joins the lumen of an air column catheter to a transducer housing. When first joined, the connector set automatically injects into the bladder an amount of air required for proper function of the bladder. At the same time, the connector set disables the mechanism used to inject air into the bladder and thereby limits the catheter to single patient use. The catheter connector provides an air vent to the ambient environment. The vent is closed by a pierceable seal. The transducer housing connector contains a piercing element that penetrates the vent seal when the connectors are mated. Though pierced, the vent seal retains its ability to prevent loss of air through the vent for the expected operating life of the catheter. Once the catheters are separated, the seal is irreparable breached. Should a second use be attempted, the breached seal allows gas that would otherwise be injected into the bladder to escape to the atmosphere.