Abstract: A flow control valve is described comprised of first and second rigid members and a resilient single or multi stage valve element disposed between the rigid members. A fluid flow path is defined through the rigid members and through or around the valve element to provide a continuous flow path through the valve. The rigid members are movable relative to each other between a first position and a second position. The valve element is sufficiently compressed by the rigid members when they are in the first position so as to close the flow path through or around the valve element. The valve element is sufficiently relaxed when the rigid members are in the second position to allow fluid flow through the flow path through or around the valve element.

Abstract: A blood containment, visualization and tactile confirmation device is provided for use with a vascular entry needle. The device includes a visualization channel and/or a complaint outer wall portion which indicates whether a needle connected to the device has entered a selected blood vessel. The visualization channel is vented to the outside to allow displaced air to escape, but has a gas permeable member to prevent blood from escaping. The visualization channel may have one, two, or more stages, with a first stage chamber which indicates initial penetration of a selected blood vessel, and a second stage chamber which fills more slowly and indicates that the needle remains positioned within the blood vessel. A third stage chamber with entrapped air which compresses slightly due to the heartbeat may also be used. Preferably, a compliant outer wall portion pulses with changes in blood pressure, thereby providing a tactile indication that the needle tip is properly positioned.

Abstract: Briefly stated, the present invention comprises a resuscitation mask for administering artificial respiration to a patient. The respiration mask has a container for defining an interior region between the container and the face of the patient. Two conduits are provided through the container wall in order to define two air flow passageways which are in fluid communication with the internal region. A valve is disposed in one air flow passageway for permitting air flow into the internal region and preventing air flow from the internal region. A vent is provided to reduce pressure within the internal region in response to an increase in pressure within the internal region. The container is generally cup-shaped and, in the preferred embodiment, it is formed with a cylindrical member coupled to the one-way air flow conduit. The other airflow passageway is adapted to be detachably coupled to an oxygen source.

Abstract: A fluid control valve assembly including a first tube member, a second tube member and a cylindrical valve element. The first tube member has a narrower diameter passageway connected by a transitional surface to a wider diameter passageway. The narrower passageway acts as a secondary valve sealing surface and the transitional surface acts as a primary valve sealing surface. The valve element includes a primary valve sealing shoulder which forms a seal when in contact with the primary sealing surface of the first tube member; at least one secondary sealing flange which deformingly engages the wall of the narrower passageway; and a plurality of elastomeric bands extending from the base of the valve element. The bands are looped around posts extending upward from the inner wall of the second tube member when the valve assembly is assembled. The elastic bands maintain the valve element in a compressively engaged sealing relationship with the transitional surface of the first tube member.

Abstract: A wound treating device is disclosed which is adapted to treat wounds, and particularly to enhance clotting of wounds in blood vessels. The wound treating device includes an elongated tube with proximal and distal end portions and comprising at least two lumens extending therebetween. One of the lumens is attached to receive a flow control device partially positioned within the blood vessel for providing local flow control at the wound site. Inflatable means, such as a flexible membrane, is carried generally adjacent to the distal end portion and is movable between inflated and retracted positions.

Abstract: A plastic stent for a prosthetic trileaflet heart valve consisting of a cylindrical body portion terminating at one end in three apical, spaced commissure posts, and at the other end, in a skirt comprising three arcuate extensions, each extension being provided with an interrupted channel adjacent the outer edge thereof. An optional metal ring may be mounted over the skirt adjacent the body portion. A cloth cover is secured to the stent by stitching directly through the skirt in the area of reduced thickness resulting from the interrupted channel.

Abstract: A plastic band is secured around the outside of a prosthetic heart valve adjacent the sewing cushion to protect the valve leaflet material against inadvertent needle punctures and tears while sutures are being placed through the sewing cushion. The band is held in place by a single retention suture which passes through the band and sewing cushion of the valve and extends across the valve orifice. The protector is especially desirable for use with pericardial tissue valves having the tissue mounted on the outside of the valve stent where the tissue is particularly exposed and susceptible to needle damage.

Abstract: A plastic stent for a prosthetic trileaflet heart valve consisting of a cylindrical body section terminating at one end in three apical, commissure posts, and at the other end, in an outward-extending flange. The flange is provided with an interrupted channel encircling the base of the cylindrical section. An optional metal ring may be mounted adjacent the flange and spaced from the base of the cylindrical section. A cloth cover is secured to the stent by stitching directly through the flange in the area of reduced thickness resulting from the interrupted channel.