Abstract: A stand-alone control module for use in closed-wound drainage systems is described. The control module transforms a variable high-vacuum source into a constant low-vacuum source. The control module also provides a one-way check valve to prevent return of air to a patient when draining such air from the pleural cavity of the patient. The control module is a water-based control module. It includes a first-suction control chamber for transforming a variable high-vacuum into a constant low-vacuum. The first chamber contains a first column of fluid at a first pre-determined level. The module also includes a second water seal chamber that contains a second column of fluid at a second pre-determined level. The height of the second column of fluid is less than the height of the first column of fluid. Tubes are placed in each chamber that have one end of each tube located below the columns of fluid.

Abstract: A tray is described for storing and transporting a module. The tray includes a slot which can be used to hold the module in an upright position to allow the module to be filled with water.

Abstract: A system is described for the collection and re-infusion of fluids from a patient. The system includes a non-disposable rigid cannister and a disposable flexible liner that is placed in the cannister. Fluids are collected from a patient in the cannister liner. The liner is then removed from the cannister and the contents are re-infused back into a patient. The system is unique in that it provides a stand along vacuum means for continuously providing a relatively high vacuum to the cannister and a relatively low vacuum inside the liner to cause the liner to expand against the walls of the cannister. The stand alone vacuum means also provides a consistent relatively low vacuum to a patient's cavity for collecting fluids from the patient without damaging the patient's internal organs.

Abstract: A chest drainage apparatus for draining fluid from a patient includes a collection chamber for collecting the fluid. An inlet port is in fluid communication with the collection chamber for receiving the fluid. A one-way valve is in fluid communication with the collection chamber for preventing air from entering the patient from the inlet port. A vacuum control chamber has a lower end and an upper end in fluid communication with the one-way valve. A flexible conduit has a first end fluid communication with the exterior of the apparatus and a second end movably positioned within the vacuum control chamber. Elevation adjustment apparatus connected to the flexible conduit is provided for moving the second end of the flexible conduit upwardly and downwardly to various positions within the vacuum control chamber and is activatable from the exterior of the chest drainage apparatus. A suction outlet port for communicating with a source of vacuum is in fluid communication with the vacuum control chamber.