Abstract: An infusion device which permits transcutaneous access to an implanted catheter for use in introducing an external filament such as a optical fiber, external catheter, guide wire or rigid needle. In accordance with this invention the device includes a valve assembly including a first valve element defining an aperture with a sealing member which is normally to engage and seal against the aperture. The sealing element is made from a hard material such as a metal. Upon introduction of a rigid external introducer such as a needle, the needle directly contacts the sealing member plug unsealing it from the valve element aperture which then closes against the external element. The device enables repeated access using a sharp introduced element such as a needle without it contacting soft sealing elements which could be degraded by such repeated access.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
January 10, 1992
Date of Patent:
July 13, 1993
Assignees:
William D. Ensminger, James C. Andrews, James A. Knol
Inventors:
William D. Ensminger, James A. Knol, James C. Andrews, John J. Mastroeni