Abstract: A connector valve for selectively permitting the transfer of fluids therethrough is described. Multiple-way valve means communicates with a plurality of conduits and selectively permits and prevents flow between the conduits. The multiple-way valve means comprises outer walls made of a substantially ultraviolet-transmissive material, with the outer walls of the multiple-way valve means preferably enclosing an elastomeric seal member defining rotatable channel means for communication with differing conduits at differing rotational positions, and also providing a rotatable seal against inner surfaces of the outer walls to maintain an antimicrobial seal of said conduits. The channel means is exposed along its entire length to an inner surface of an outer wall, to facilitate the antimicrobial effect of ultraviolet radiation. Also, a novel method of practicing continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis, and an ultraviolet light applicator, is disclosed.

Abstract: The ends of bundles of microporous tubing may be potted in otherwise conventional manner for assembly as a diffusion device for oxygenation of blood, blood plasmapheresis, or the like. In accordance with this invention, prior to impregnating the bundle ends in sealant, the micropores of the capillary tubing are filled with a liquid capable of entering the micropores, with the result that air in the bores of the tubing cannot migrate outwardly through the micropores as the sealant impregnates the bundle ends. This, in turn, prevents the sealant from advancing into the bores of the tubing to the level occupied by the sealant outside of the bores of the tubing, so that the ends of the potted bundle may be transversely cut within the block of cured sealant to expose open bores of the tubing.

Abstract: A device for suspension of a solution container in both an infusion and drain position, easily foldable or rollable for storage or carrying. The device comprises an elongated, flexible, foldable strap (10) attached at one end to a bracket (12), the bracket adapted to be secured to an elevated surface. There is an adjusting means, preferably a bolt (18) integral with the bracket to enable attachment and detachment of the bracket to an elevated surface. Finally, there are support means (24, 30) for suspension of the solution container, the support means being adjustably engagable with the strap at any desired location on the strap. Although primarily intended for use by patients practicing the medical procedure of continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD), the device is readily usable for suspension of other container types.

Abstract: Hydrophobic diffusion membranes such as porous polypropylene may be rendered hydrophilic at their surfaces, without losing their valuable characteristics as diffusion membranes, by subjection to a corona discharge or other ionizing condition, preferably in air or a similar oxygen-containing atmosphere.

Abstract: An improved proportioning dialysis machine is disclosed herein. The machine includes an improved degassing system, dialysis solution flow rate and pressure control system, and sterilization system.The degassing system includes a degassing chamber, a first pump for applying a negative pressure to said chamber and a second pump for drawing degassed water from the chamber. The dialysis solution flow rate and pressure control system includes a restriction upstream of a dialyzer, a restriction placed downstream of the dialyzer, and a pump positioned downstream of the downstream restriction. The two restrictions can be adjusted in relation to the pump so as to control the flow rate and pressure within the dialyzer. The sterilization system includes a heater and controls and a valve for recirculating heated water through the proportioning machine so as to sterilize the interior thereof.

Abstract: A luer cap for use on ports of medical devices such as cardiotomy reservoirs and blood sets. The cap comprises an outer wall (10) having a generally circular cross-sectional shape. An inner wall (12) and end wall (20) define an internal port receiving cavity (13). The inner wall (12) is threaded to mate with threads or a flange on a female luer port. The mating surfaces of the luer cap and the luer port can be sterilized through a hollow tubular portion (18), end wall (20), and outer wall (10) of the luer cap.

Abstract: The oxygenator is used for arterializing blood during open heart surgery. The oxygenator is factory-assembled and sterilized and is of economic and efficient design so that it can serve as a throwaway unit. Blood from the patient is oxygenated as it passes through the center of a tubular sparger with porous walls which supplies oxygen bubbles of the optimum size. The foaming blood is delivered to the top of the main oxygenator body where it is distributed by gravity flow downward across the heat exchanger tubing. The heat exchanger is wound as a flat coil with all connections outside of the oxygenator body. A silicone-coated sponge is located below the heat exchanger so that downwardly flowing foaming blood is defoamed as it passes through the sponge. Carbon dioxide and other gases are vented, and liquid blood gravitates into a tapered arterial reservoir.

Abstract: There is disclosed herein a dialysis machine: (a) to which a negative pressure dialyzer can be connected; and (b) which can be operated so as to drain the dialysis solution from the dialyzer through the lower of the dialysis solution inlet and outlet ports. This apparatus and method permit a dialyzer to be drained of dialysis solution at the end of the dialysis treatment session in such a manner as to prevent spillage and leakage associated with the removal of the dialyzer from the machine.

Abstract: There is disclosed herein a dialysis machine adapted for operation with a negative-pressure-type dialyzer. The machine includes a flow system having a negative pressure pump for drawing fresh dialysis solution through a dialyzer under a controllable negative pressure and for discharging spent dialysis solution to a drain.A flow reversing valve system is positioned in the flow system for cooperation with the dialyzer to selectively control the direction of dialysis solution flow within the dialyzer in either a first direction or a second reverse direction. The flow reversing valve system is operative in a first mode to control direction of flow to and from the dialyzer in a first direction and in a second mode to reverse the direction of flow.