Abstract: One aspect of the present invention is an implantable patient access port which provides a percutaneous route for access using an external filament such as an external catheter, needle, wire or optical fiber. The access port incorporates an internal reservoir for the retention of an antibacterial fluid and further includes a means for refilling the fluid chamber. Refilling is accomplished through providing a separate fluid reservoir within the housing and further through the provision of a barrier which can be penetrated using a needle. Another aspect of the invention is the provision of a blood check device which prevents migration of red blood cells from a percutaneously placed accessed catheter outside of the patient. The device includes a filter media element and connector for permitting in-line placement of the blood check in the access catheter.

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.