Abstract: A colostomy bag with a vent and a method for venting gas collected in the colostomy bag. A dual vent and cap assembly attached to a colostomy bag vents gas trapped in the bag either continuously or as periodically desired by a user. A method for venting gas collected in the colostomy bag provides that replacement and/or cleaning of the colostomy bag is reduced. Also, a method of using a disposable sleeve in combination with a clip may be used to hygienically clean the colostomy bag.

Abstract: This invention relates to an automatic sample collector for liquids which are discharged from a chromatographic column, a dialysis apparatus, or a reaction container, for example, and are consecutively collected at a give volume division, a method for collecting samples of a liquid in a predefined chronological sequence, and uses of the inventive sample collector. The volume is divided by assigning one or several gas-permeable liquid barriers (4, 5) to each collection container (3). The sample collector can be produced as one piece which is for single use and is made of polypropylene, Teflon, or other suitable materials. The inventive sample collector has the advantage that it requires no source of energy and can be autoclaved and miniaturized, among other things. The design of the inventive sample collector makes it possible to keep the content of the collection containers free from oxygen or immediately freeze the liquid flowing into the collection containers.

Abstract: A universal valve for the Foley type urinary catheter has structure which permits its use as a patient controlled drainage valve, as an interface from which to take sterile samples, and as a connection to a day or night collection bag all without removal of the universal valve from the Foley type urinary catheter. The universal valve may be open or closed by the use of a squeeze mechanism for patient control, or by movement of the threaded connection between the universal valve and a collection bag so that the universal valve is continuously open for drainage into the urine collection bag.

Abstract: A urine collection and disposal system and method applies subatmospheric pressure to a receptacle open to atmospheric pressure which has a urine outlet in fluid communication with a source of subatmospheric pressure. The receptacle receives urine in the receptacle from a urine donor and removes the urine from the receptacle, transporting the removed urine to a reservoir under the force of a pressure differential between atmospheric pressure at the receptacle and subatmospheric pressure at the reservoir. The reservoir urine is discharged at atmospheric pressure, for disposal, from the reservoir while maintaining the reservoir at subatmospheric pressure. A plurality of the receptacles allows simultaneously providing urine to the reservoir from more than one of the receptacles. Sanitizing fluid may be supplied intermediate the receptacle and the reservoir for transport to the reservoir under the force of the pressure differential between atmospheric and subatmospheric.

Abstract: A container having a security closure is described, of the type comprising a hollow body (9) with a mouth or neck (10) defining an opening to the interior of the body, the mouth having an outer screw thread and also a first series of ratchet elements (2). A closure (3) adaptable to the mouth of the container so as to close the opening in the body has a closed end and an outer skirt, the outer skirt (18) being formed with an inner screw thread that co-operates with the outer screw thread on the mouth. The closure is also formed with a second series of ratchet elements (21) so that, on screwing the closure onto the mouth, the co-operation between the ratchet elements (12, 21) of the first and second series permits closure of the container, but prevents unscrewing if the closure.

Abstract: An apparatus for monitoring the intra-abdominal pressure of a patient includes a urinary catheter (102) connected to a urine valve (250) providing selectable communication between a discharge end of the urinary catheter (102) and either a drain (224) or a fluid source (104). Preferably, the urine valve (250) is adapted for remote actuation and has a housing adapted to resist patient discomfort from leg-valve (250) contact. Plumbing structure desirably maintains fluid supply (225) and drain (223) conduits in a substantially parallel arrangement to assist routing those conduits (225, 223) between a patient's legs. When the urine valve (250) is oriented to permit communication with the fluid source (104), an infusion pump (116?) may be used to infuse a known quantity of fluid through the urine valve (250) and into the patient's bladder (216). A pressure transducer (218) desirably is connected in-circuit to indicate the fluid's pressure and avoid pressure fluctuations induced by system components.

Abstract: A collection bag includes opposing panels heat-sealed together to form upper and lower chambers separated by apertures to allow for gravitational separation of collected urinal and fecal matter. Markings facilitate measurement of the collected matter. A clamp allows one-hand release of an opening in lower chamber, and then the clamp can be re-clamped with a single hand for waste containment and bag disposal. A drawstring facilitates attachment of the bag in the commode, and further allows the bag once removed to be closed at its top. For disposal, the bag can be folded using the clamp as a grip, with the excess length of the drawstring used to tie the bag closed. If desired, a rubber band can be used to hold the drawstring and bag in a permanent folded condition. A related method is also disclosed.

Abstract: A urine collection and disposal system and method applies subatmospheric pressure to a receptacle open to atmospheric pressure which has a urine outlet in fluid communication with a source of subatmospheric pressure. The receptacle receives urine in the receptacle from a urine donor and removes the urine from the receptacle, transporting the removed urine to a reservoir under the force of a pressure differential between atmospheric pressure at the receptacle and subatmospheric pressure at the reservoir. The reservoir urine is discharged at atmospheric pressure, for disposal, from the reservoir while maintaining the reservoir at subatmospheric pressure. A plurality of the receptacles allows simultaneously providing urine to the reservoir from more than one of the receptacles. Sanitizing fluid may be supplied intermediate the receptacle and the reservoir for transport to the reservoir under the force of the pressure differential between atmospheric and subatmospheric.

Abstract: The present invention provides a novel construction for a catheter that includes backflow prevention in the form of a check valve, which keeps the flow of drained fluid material from reentering the patient. The catheter construction of the present invention provides a standard single or multiple lumen tube assembly that extends rearwardly from the insertion end of the catheter to the contact end wherein on the discharge lumen a one way check valve is provided. It is an important feature of the present invention that the check valve is provided as close to the terminal end of the contact end as possible without interfering with the necessary accessory attachment that is typically made thereto. Further, an interlock mechanism may be provided at the terminal end of the catheter for connecting accessories in a positive locking manner. The combination of the valve and the interlock mechanism provides a notable safety and performance improvement that has been previously unknown in the prior art.

Abstract: The invention provides a drainage system that includes a ventricular catheter, a drainage catheter, and a positive displacement pump that can function to actively drain CSF from the ventricles of the brain of a patient. Methods of using a drainage system in accordance with the invention are also provided, as well as kits.

Abstract: A drainage chamber for collecting body fluids, in particular liquor, includes a collecting area limited by an outer wall for collecting the body fluid, an inlet connection linked to the collecting area for linking to a drainage catheter (an intraventricular catheter), an outlet connection and a ventilation connection linked to the environment. The drainage chamber has a spring-loaded first closing element, biased in the direction of a first closing position, which in its closing position closes both the inlet connection and the ventilation connection and which is displaceable against the spring tension by means of an actuating mechanism into an open position, in which it releases the inlet connection and the ventilation connection.

Abstract: A suction limiting device with variable control for use in a surgical system includes a main vent body having a fluid carrying bore extending therethrough and a variable vent mechanism having a main vent opening in selective fluid communication with the fluid carrying bore so as to permit introduction of atmospheric air into the fluid carrying bore. The vent mechanism being adjustable so that the degree of airflow into the fluid carrying bore is variable between a fully open position to a fully closed position where atmospheric air is prevented from entering the fluid carrying bore. The suction limiting device also includes a valve disposed within the main vent body and positionable between an open position when negative pressure and a closed position when positive pressure exists in the main vent body.

Abstract: An accessory is connected between a leg bag and a urinary catheter to prevent microorganisms migrating from the leg bag up through the catheter. The accessory has a sleeve, connectors to connect the sleeve to the leg bag and to the urinary catheter, a filter positioned within the sleeve that can be coated with an antimicrobial composition, and a valve to prevent fluid from moving from the leg bag to the catheter. The antimicrobial coated sleeve can be used with or with out the filter. The filter is made by compounding a polymeric resin powder with an antimicrobial composition.

Abstract: A system for collecting and disposing of liquid medical waste includes a fluid collection cart and a draining and cleaning station. The fluid collection cart includes a pair of containers, each of which includes a draining port and a cap. Liquid level detectors also communicate with each container. The cart also includes a regulator so a low vacuum level may be pulled on one of the containers while a full vacuum level is pulled on the other container. Fluids are collected in the containers via suction tubes connected to the patient ports. The flushing and drain ports of the containers are connected to corresponding flushing and drain connectors on the station when the containers are full so that they may be drained and flushed. The cart liquid level detectors communicate with the station microprocessor so that the draining and flushing cycles may be properly sequenced.

Abstract: A convenient urology undergarment pant system for collecting urine discharge comprising of an undergarment that extends from around the waist and down the thighs. The undergarment can be used with urine collection devices from the urethra area (male condom-like coupling or female external receiving device), from the bladder by means of an ileoconduit system, and from the kidney(s) by means of a nephrostomy system. The undergarment includes a sewn inner pouch formed from an additional piece of fabric that holds the leg bag in place without the need for leg straps. There is an opening in the crotch area of the undergarment that provides means for placing the leg bag inside the inner pouch. The undergarment also includes a lower opening to accommodate the release valve of the leg bag.

Abstract: A flow control valve (22) such as for a catheter (10) allows discharge of urine from a bladder (12) by manual actuation. The valve (22) may be a double-duckbill valve (22) with a single slit (62) at one apex (60a) thereof. An elastomeric band (66) is positioned in a groove (68) of the valve member (22). An isolation member such as a stem (72) spaces the valve (22) from the walls (34, 36) of the valve housing (32). Crush limiting structure, such as a tube (76) or blade (82), is provided within valve member (22), or stop elements (86 or 92) are positioned external to valve member (22).

Abstract: A low cost suction regulator is disclosed in conjunction with a fluid drainage system that includes a suction chamber and a collection chamber. The suction regulator is comprised of an atmospheric chamber and a suction chamber separated by a divider. An opening in the divider has a variably biased closing member associated therewith for opening or closing the opening according to operator selected pressure differentials between the chambers. The closing member is movable along an axis that differs from the direction of airflow, thus eliminating the need for damping the forces applied to the closing member. The dividing means and its closing member will operate over the full range of angles from the vertical to horizontal axis. One embodiment of the drainage system further includes devices for measuring patient airflow, patient negativity and imposed suction.

Abstract: An apparatus designed to empty a urinary drain bag having a battery powered wireless remote transmitter that activates a wireless remote controlled receiv r relay connected to a battery powered solenoid operated pinch valve that is attached to a flexible drain tube, attached to an outlet of a urine drain bag to an “on” position, allowing the bag to drain for a designated period of time after which time the solenoid returns to a closed or “off” position, stopping the draining of the bag.

Abstract: A solidifier for a liquid, the solidifier comprising a mixture of absorbents having different apparent densities whereby at least one absorbent is negatively buoyant and at least one absorbent is positively buoyant relative to the liquid sought to be solidified. Packaging for the solidifier is disclosed for effecting selective dispersal of the solidifier within the liquid sought to be solidified.

Abstract: A thoracic vent kit has a reservoir and an introducing port and a catheter port. A removable cannula is small enough to fit in the catheter, but has an internal diameter that can accommodate a flexible guide wire. The cannula has a beveled tip and a luer threaded cap at the opposite end. A removable plug has a chamfer that can be used to seal the luer passage.

Abstract: An adjustable fluid flow resistor cassette 10 for use in ophthalmic surgery, includes a housing 12. A set of path restrictors 24 are disposed within the housing 12, and the restrictors 24 cooperate to vary a fluid flow path length from an inlet 16 to an outlet 18.

Abstract: A device for collecting urine includes a container kept at vacuum, an interface locatable at the urethral opening of a person and a pump operable to create a vacuum within the container. A sensor senses the presence of urine at the interface and opens a valve to allow the pumping of urine from the interface to the container.

Abstract: A valve has a flow restrictor positioned outside of a lumen of a tube, which transitions between an open configuration and a closed configuration. The valve further contains a closing mechanism that automatically positions the flow restrictor to the closed configuration when a pressure in a fluid within the lumen is below a low threshold pressure, and an opening mechanism that automatically positions the first flow restrictor to the open configuration when the pressure in the fluid within the lumen is above a high threshold pressure that is higher than the low threshold pressure. The flow restrictor is preferably positioned outside the tube, although it may be positioned inside the wall of the tube, or even within the lumen of the tube. There may also be a second, downstream flow restrictor. The opening and closing mechanisms advantageously comprise a magnet or solenoid. The tube may comprise a catheter, and especially a urinary catheter.

Abstract: A drain assembly for a fluid collection container includes a housing attached to the container and defining a cavity therewithin. A stop is located within the cavity and is fixed relative to the housing. A switch having a closure member formed thereon is mounted within the cavity for rotary movement relative to the housing. In a disclosed embodiment the switch has a tab extending through the housing to facilitate rotation of the switch from outside the housing. A flexible, resilient tube in fluid communication with the interior of the fluid collection container has a portion disposed within the cavity and extending between the stop and the closure member of the switch. The tube is configured so that fluid discharged from the lower end of the tube is discharged through an opening in a lower portion of the housing. When the switch is rotated in one direction, the tube is compressed between the stop and the closure member, thereby preventing fluid flow through the tube.

Abstract: An anti-reflux valve for restricting flow in one direction through a catheter toward a collection reservoir. The valve includes a check valve positioned within a segment of the catheter. The valve includes a proximal end bonded to an inside periphery of an interior of the catheter. The valve includes a pliable side wall that reduces in diameter to a distal end having an opening that is collapsible upon itself. Fluid flow is allowed through the catheter segment having the check valve therein, with flow only permitted from the proximal end and through the distal end for release into a collection reservoir. The distal end opening collapses upon itself to negate the counter-current flow of fluid through the distal end. A plurality of check valves are aligned in series to reduce the possibility of reflux flow of fluids. A method of utilization of the anti-reflux valve is also disclosed.

Abstract: A male incontinence device includes a receptacle formed of a shape-retaining material, and having a first open end adapted for receiving the penis of a user and a second end defining a urine discharge port. The discharge port is adapted for being located forward of the penis. A back flow chamber is formed with an interior of the receptacle, and is adapted for capturing urine flowing backward towards the user and away from the discharge port. A collection bag has a mouth communicating with the discharge port for collecting urine discharged through the receptacle. A support harness is adapted for being worn by the user to support the receptacle in an operative position during use.

Abstract: A system for the collection of physiological fluids includes a vacuum source (14) that is controlled to provide low vacuum as a function of whether fluids are entering the system. The suction wand and associated tubing are made of thin flexible materials, and the pressures employed do little damage to the collected fluids.

Abstract: A system for disposing of body fluids collected during surgery comprises a canister and an apparatus for emptying and cleaning the canister. The canister has a lid having an inlet port to receive body fluids during surgery and for insertion of a cleaning fluid sprayer during servicing, an outlet port with a suction tube extending into the canister for removal of fluids therefrom, and a vacuum port for the application of vacuum to the canister. The servicing unit is an appliance having a receiving compartment in which the canister is placed. A connector head in the servicing unit connects the canister to a source of cleaning fluid and to a conduit for evacuating the fluids in the canister through the suction tube and to a decontamination chamber, where they are brought into contact with a disinfecting fluid, and subsequently to a drain.

Abstract: The invention concerns an outlet valve system for a collection bag for urine from urine-incontinent or urostomy operated humans. Collection bags for urine are well known and typically consist of plastic sheets which are joined by welding along their peripheries to form a cavity between the sheets in which the urine is collected. When out of bed the user normally carry the bag by the lower part of the leg and in order to discharge urine from the bag, the bag is supplied with an outlet valve system at its lowermost part. The valve system comprises a base member which is secured to the collection bag and a movable member which is sealingly fixed to the base member; the base member has an open conduct leading into the cavity of the collection bag and conducting liquid to the movable member. The movable member has a discharge tube which is rotatably displaceable with respect to the base member and which is rotated out of the plane defined by the outer surface of the collection bag.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are disclosed whereby the initial flow of blood during blood collection is diverted to a sample pouch to trap the skin plug and to allow samples to be taken during subsequent blood collection to a normal blood bag. This is effected by connecting the needle line (106), the sample line (118) to the sample pouch (116) and the bag line (114) to the blood bag to a multi-port valve (110) that includes an actuator (120). During the procedure, the valve (110) may be attached to the arm (100) of the donor by means of a wrist-strap (112).

Abstract: The object of this invention is to provide a float for a liquid waste disposal apparatus having a simple structure for enabling the content inside a container to be easily visually recognizable and allowing a faster and steadier solidification of an absorbed liquid waste. A water-absorptive material 6 is retained inside a spherical float 5 in a manner where a water-absorptive material 6 is wrapped by a water permeable sheet 22 inside a hemispherical primary structural portion 5a and a secondary structural portion 5b capable of being separated into two portions, and thus structured, a circle shaped hole 5c or a square shaped hole 5d of the float 5 serving as a flow path for flowing downward a liquid waste 21 absorbed from an upper portion into a lying member L is formed at the surface of the float 5. The float 5 is contained inside the lying member L in a floatable manner permitted to revolve in a vertical direction.

Abstract: A device for preventing post occlusion flow surges during eye surgery includes an enclosure defining an inlet and an outlet. The enclosure further defines a flow passage between the inlet and the outlet. A restriction is positioned in the flow passage. Structure preferring a filtering function is placed upstream of the restriction for permitting fluid passage through the device. The enclosure further defines a storage area for collecting material restrained by the filter structure. In the preferred embodiment, the device is constructing from a suitable plastic or other molded material, and is intended for disposable use.

Abstract: A container for receiving and containing emesis is provided. The container is compact, easily transported, and disposable. The container includes a hollow body member having an open neck and a closed base, a mouthpiece for receiving and directing the flow of emesis into the body member, and a local restriction to prevent spillage or splash back. The containers are collapsible along a central axis for compact storage. An emesis collection system utilizes the collection container, a storage box for holding a plurality of containers, and a holder.

Abstract: A portable aspiration device using suction to clear a breathing obstacle or the like in conjunction with a commercially available flow-control member providing opposing operating mode objectives of progressively diminishing porosity in response to fluid contact and progressively increasing the volume of aspirated fluid in a reservoir so that ideally suction is cut off when the reservoir is full to avoid overflow, but in which assumed positions during use inadvertently cause splashing contact of fluid against the flow-control member and premature suction cut off by an unfilled reservoir to interrupt treatment. As a solution, a baffle in size and shape is disposed about the flow-control member and adjacent facing surfaces bound therebetween a compartment of such nominal width that splashing does not occur therein.

Abstract: A thoracic drainage system for removing liquid from the thoracic cavity of a patient. The system includes a reusable thoracic vacuum regulator and a standard disposable collection container. A disposable water seal chamber is also provided that can be disposed of after each patient and is a separable, independent component. There is also a combination thoracic vacuum regulator having a water seal chamber removable affixed thereto to enable the water seal chamber to be readily removed from the thoracic vacuum chamber in order to carry the water seal chamber along with the patient as that patient is transported.

Abstract: The vacuum desiccator low pressure vacuum pump and trap and is transportable upon a user's person. The device is especially useful to remove excess fluids from wounds and incisions as they heal. The device includes a desiccator cartridge containing a fluid trapping agent. The desiccator cartridge is connected to a vacuum pump member providing a low vacuum pressure to the interior chamber of the desiccator cartridge. A small battery powered, electric motor drives the pump member. An electrical control circuit, including the battery power source, controls the operation of the electric motor. A single passage, one-way, gas/liquid flow pathway connects the inlet port of the desiccator cartridge to an occlusive dressing covering the wound to be drained. The control circuit includes one or more ancillary circuits for controlling operation of the device, such as: a power circuit, a moisture sensor, a timer circuit, a vacuum pressure sensor, and a pressure differential sensor.

Abstract: A container for the collection and disposal of emesis comprises a rigid frame and a flexible bag. The frame and the bag are typically stored as separate parts prior to use and assembled just prior to or in anticipation of a use. Subsequent to use the bag is dissembled from the frame and sealed and disposed of, with the frame optionally reused or disposed of. Optionally the frame and bag are disposed of as a unit without subsequent disassembly. Frames, bags, and other ancillary parts of the unit are inexpensively manufactured of molded polymers or plastics, and are inexpensive enough for single use as warranted.

Abstract: A container for receiving and containing emesis is provided. The container is compact, easily transported, and disposable. The container includes a hollow body member having an open neck and a closed base, a mouthpiece for receiving and directing the flow of emesis into the body member, and a local restriction to prevent spillage or splash back. The containers are collapsible along a central axis for compact storage. An emesis collection system utilizes the collection container, a storage box for holding a plurality of containers, and a holder.

Abstract: The object of this invention of a float for liquid waste disposal apparatus enables the content inside a container to be easily visually recognizable and allows a faster and steadier solidification of an absorbed liquid waste.

Abstract: A kit for draining fluids from the body of a patient is provided. The kit eliminates the problem of having to obtain a distinct liquid source and a means for delivering the liquid into a chamber of a chest drain. The kit includes an apparatus configured to receive fluids from the body of the patient. The apparatus defines a chamber to contain a predetermined volume of liquid. The apparatus includes an inlet through which liquid is deliverable to the chamber of the apparatus from an exterior of the apparatus. The kit also includes a container packaged with or attached to the apparatus. The container is prefilled and sealed to contain at least the predetermined volume of liquid. The container includes an outlet configured to deliver at least the predetermined volume of liquid to the chamber of the apparatus through the inlet of the apparatus.

Abstract: Featured is a pressure control regulator including a housing, a sealing member disposed within the housing, a flexible member and a biasing mechanism. The housing includes at least one inlet aperture and at least one outlet aperture, each inlet aperture being fluidly coupled to a first pressure source and each outlet aperture being fluidly coupled to a second pressure source, the first and second pressure sources being at different pressures. The flexible member extends between the sealing member outside surface and the housing inner surface so as to form a pressure boundary therebetween and to divide the housing interior into first and second compartments. The biasing mechanism, being responsive to pressure within the second compartment, acts on the sealing member so the sealing member is in one of an open position, when the second compartment is greater than a predetermined pressure value, or a closed position, when the second compartment pressure is at or below the predetermined pressure value.

Abstract: An apparatus designed to empty a urinary drain bag having a battery powered wireless remote transmitter that activates a wireless remote controlled receiver relay connected to a battery powered solenoid operated pinch valve that is attached to a flexible drain tube, attached to an outlet of a urine drain bag to an “on” position, allowing the bag to drain for a designated period of time after which time the solenoid returns to a closed or “off” position, stopping the draining of the bag.

Abstract: A sampling port having a mechanical valve for a drainage apparatus is disclosed which permits a practitioner to directly access a collection chamber of the drainage apparatus using a needle-less syringe for withdrawing a sample of fluid therefrom. The sampling port comprises a port in direct communication with the collection chamber and a mechanical valve partially disposed inside the port. The mechanical valve comprises a generally tubular body containing a spring loaded valve that is normally closed to fluid flow communication and operable using a needle-less tip syringe to actuate the valve. In operation, a practitioner engages the needle-less tip syringe to the valve which places the valve in an open position and permits fluid flow into the syringe as the practitioner draws back on the plunger of the syringe.

Abstract: An improved outlet tube device for a urinary drainage bag is disclosed wherein an outlet valve mechanism is contained with a rigid housing fixed securely to the drainage bag, rather than just being clamped to the outlet tubing, and thus cannot become separated from the bag. The outlet valve can be opened only by positive action on the part of the medical care personnel, thereby assuring that urine will be discharged only in a controlled manner. Further, because the valve mechanism does not require that a substantial length of tubing with a freely movable end be used in conjunction with the outlet port, there is no need to engage the free end of the tubing with a keeper. Thus the possibility of the tubing springing back to its straight configuration and flicking residual urine on the attending medical personnel is eliminated. In one embodiment the outlet tube device comprises a pinchcock-type valve which is fixedly mounted to the bag and which is normally operative to clamp off the outlet tube.

Abstract: A collection device (100) suitable for use in collecting urine from animals, the device (100) including a collection tube component (300) for collecting urine from an animal and a main chamber component (200) for storing urine collected with the collection tube component (300). Engagement means (342) for operatively connecting the collection tube component (300) and the main chamber component (200) are provided so that the collection tube component (300) and the main chamber component (200) are both releasably engagable. In use, the collection device (100) is positioned to collect urine from an animal, and the engagement means (342) is able to operatively connect the main chamber component (200) and the collection tube component (300) for allowing urine to pass from the collection tube component (300) to the main chamber component (200).

Abstract: The urine collection device of the present invention is an open collection system designed to collect and transfer a liquid urine specimen into a non-evacuated tube through a valve. The device is designed to be user friendly and has a finger placement platform so that one can hold the container without risk of contaminating the inside of the container or becoming exposed to the specimen. The specimen is transferred into the non-evacuated tube when the tube is connected to the valve port. A blunt cannula is used on the collection tube to transfer the specimen thereby avoiding exposure to sharps. The collection tube is attached to the urine collection device at an oblique angle. Gravity allows the specimen to be transferred into the tube and automatically stop at a pre-determined volume based on the oblique angle. The urine collection device with the tube attached may be placed on a flat surface without tipping over.

Abstract: An improved drainage apparatus for use in pleural aspiration of patients during thoracic surgery. The Apparatus includes three tubes mounted in parallel and connected to one another. A first tube acts as a vacuum input tube; the second tube is a flow monitor tube, while the third tube is filled with water and keeps the vacuum system isolated from the atmosphere.

Abstract: A system for the collection of physiological fluids includes a vacuum source (14) that is controlled to provide low vacuum as a function of whether fluids are entering the system. The suction wand and associated tubing are made of thin flexible materials, and the pressures employed do little damage to the collected fluids.

Abstract: A disposable thoracic drainage device connectable to an aspiration unit, comprising a container body internally forming at least one chamber for collecting the drainage liquid which is connected to an inlet for connection to a patient and to a water-head suction adjustment valve. The water-head suction adjustment valve has a first water head section and a second water head section which are side by side and mutually series-connected by a connecting duct.

Abstract: An improved anti-reflux valve is formed as a folded flap of two sheets that are heat sealed along their side edges, folded along their top edges, and free at their lower edges to make a distal opening of the valve. The anti-reflux valve has a channel extending between a point below a valve entry port in one of the sheets down to the distal opening. The ratio of the length of the channel to the width or diameter of the distal opening is 3 to 1, which is an effective ratio to virtually eliminate back flow. The improved anti-reflux valve may be used in a first wall of a urine collection bag to prevent back flow of urine through the valve entry port and into the drainage tube and the bladder.