Abstract: A lubrication system is disclosed which minimizes friction and that is useful for application on the surface of a flexible portion of a medical device. Such a lubrication system includes a lubricant that is able to move when the flexible portion of the medical device flexes and is biocompatible and is not degraded by the application of alcohol or other conventional medical sterilizing and cleaning agents. The lubricant is bonded to the surface of the flexible portion of the medical device. The lubrication system may be used on an elastomeric septum, such as a silicone rubber elastomer. The lubricant coating may be any type of coating that can be chemically bonded to the elastomer, such as di-paraxylene, poly-(p-xylene), polytetrafluoroethylene, or polyvinylpyrrolidone.

Abstract: Various single-part catheter assemblies, multi-part integrated catheter assemblies, and methods and apparatus for making the same are disclosed. The single-part catheter assemblies include a catheter hub integrally formed with a catheter tube for insertion into the bloodstream of a patient. The multi-part integrated catheter assemblies include a catheter hub integrally formed to a catheter tube for insertion into the bloodstream of a patient. The catheter assemblies of the invention may be injection molded in a single step or in multiple steps by injecting flows of molten plastic into a cavity of molds provided herein such that the flows converge into an even distribution about the circumference of the sleeve. The mold may have a core pin designed to fit into the cavity. Through the use of the even distribution of flows, the core pin may be seated within the cavity in an untensioned manner. The catheter assemblies of the invention may be produced of a single material or of multiple materials.

Abstract: A lubrication system is disclosed which minimizes friction and that is useful for application on the surface of a flexible portion of a medical device. Such a lubrication system includes a lubricant that is able to move when the flexible portion of the medical device flexes and is biocompatible and is not degraded by the application of alcohol or other conventional medical sterilizing and cleaning agents. The lubricant is bonded to the surface of the flexible portion of the medical device. The lubrication system may be used on an elastomeric septum, such as a silicone rubber elastomer. The lubricant coating may be any type of coating that can be chemically bonded to the elastomer, such as di-paraxylene, poly-(p-xylene), polytetrafluoroethylene, or polyvinylpyrrolidone.

Abstract: Improved articles having reduced thrombogenicity when in contact with blood products containing albumin and methods of their preparation and use are provided. The articles comprise at the surface of blood contact a water insoluble polymeric substrate material having covalently attached thereon aliphatic extension of 12 to 22 carbon atoms. When exposed to blood, the aliphatic chain extensions provide a hydrophobic binding site for albumin. The articles when implemented with whole blood or blood products selectively enhance albumin affinity binding to the exclusion of other blood components, and subsequently minimize thrombus formation as well as other biocompatibility parameters, such as foreign body immune responses.

Abstract: Improved articles having reduced thrombogenicity when in contact with blood products containing albumin and methods of their preparation and use are provided. The articles comprise at the surface of blood contact a water insoluble polymeric substrate material having covalently attached thereon aliphatic extension of 12 to 22 carbon atoms. When exposed to blood, the aliphatic chain extensions provide a hydrophobic binding site for albumin. The articles when implemented with whole blood or blood products selectively enhance albumin affinity binding to the exclusion of other blood components, and subsequently minimize thrombus formation as well as other biocompatibility parameters, such as foreign body immune responses.