Abstract: Multipurpose fluid applicators, particularly suitable for surgical purposes, are disclosed. The applicators are specifically designed for dispensing various combinations of sterile pressurized gas, suction, irrigation and sealant agents, including a mixed liquid sealant agent. Preferred embodiments employ a dual-acting valve selectively to control the flow of gas or suction which valve is capable of simultaneously varying flow from a source and the venting of that flow to atmosphere.

Abstract: The invention provides a handheld, manually operable fluid applicator, particularly suited to the needs of surgeons, for dispensing a multi-component fluid applicator, for example fibrin and thrombin components of a tissue adhesive. The sealant components undergo turbulent mixing in a mixing chamber which causes a sharp change of at least 60 degrees in the direction of flow of each sealant component, to provide effective mixing and a quality sealant product. The mixing chamber has an increased cross-sectional area over the combined areas of the component supply passages and the fluid flows are directly opposed to impinge on each other in the mixing chamber. The mixing chamber is incorporated in a novel one-piece flexible and resilient manifold. Dual nozzle spray applicators with poppet valves are also disclosed.

Abstract: The invention provides a handheld, manually operable fluid applicator, particularly suited to the needs of surgeons, which can dispense multiple medically useful fluids, for example fibrin and thrombin components of a tissue adhesive, and which has a smooth feel and action. The applicator has a novel actuator mechanism providing a comparatively higher mechanical advantage in a commencement phase of the actuator stroke and a comparatively lower mechanical advantage in a completion phase of the actuator stroke.

Abstract: A medical fluid suctioning device for selectively applying varied levels of suction pressure at a device-tissue interface includes a direct "trumpet"-type control mechanism in conjunction with a "venturi"-type control. A valve manifold is adapted to couple a vent pathway and a suction pathway simultaneously to the vacuum conduit adapted for connection to a vacuum source. The amount of resistance to flow due to vacuum pressure is adjusted simultaneously in both the vent pathway and the suction pathway in order to achieve controlled, selected levels of suction. Similarly shaped valve apertures are provided in inverse and reciprocal orientation along an axis of motion of a valve manifold. The apertures translate across ports to the suction and venting pathways simultaneously to vary applied suction to those pathways inversely.