Abstract: A connector and method of medical tubing is disclosed. The connector defines a fluid passageway, and the connector includes a first end, a first intermediate portion, a middle portion, a second intermediate portion, and a second end. The middle portion is located between the first intermediate portion and the second intermediate portion, and the first end is adapted to fit inside a proximal connector-receiving portion, and the second end is adapted to fit inside a distal connector-receiving portion. The connector includes at least a first protrusion and a second protrusion projecting from the connector, wherein a first protrusion is located between the first end and the first intermediate portion, and the second protrusion is located between the second intermediate portion and the second end.

Abstract: Systems for coupling a catheter to a medical device port and methods for relieving stress on a catheter coupled to a medical device port. Exemplary systems may include both a seal attached at or near a proximal end of the catheter, and a tubular restraint. The restraint may include a first interlocking surface formed on the interior surface at or near the proximal end that engages a second interlocking surface associated with the port. The system may also include a locking sleeve to secure the restraint in the desired position. Exemplary methods may include: coupling the port to the proximal end of the catheter and associated seal; sliding the restraint over the seal; and engaging the first and second interlocking surfaces.

Abstract: Catheter systems including one or more flow restrictors are disclosed. The catheter systems may include two or more delivery branches. The delivery branches may be connected to a supply catheter section using a branching catheter connector that may include one or more flow restrictors. The flow restrictors may include a restrictor body located within a lumen with a channel located between the restrictor body and interior surface of the lumen, the channel restricting flow through the lumen past the flow restrictor. The channel may be defined by a groove formed in the restrictor body and/or the interior surface of the lumen. Methods of providing pressure relief by flowing fluid past a flow restrictor are also disclosed.

Abstract: Catheter systems including one or more flow restrictors are disclosed. The catheter systems may include two or more delivery branches. The delivery branches may be connected to a supply catheter section using a branching catheter connector that may include one or more flow restrictors. The flow restrictors may include a restrictor body located within a lumen with a channel located between the restrictor body and interior surface of the lumen, the channel restricting flow through the lumen past the flow restrictor. The channel may be defined by a groove formed in the restrictor body and/or the interior surface of the lumen. Methods of providing pressure relief by flowing fluid past a flow restrictor are also disclosed.

Abstract: Sutureless pump connectors are discussed. The sutureless pump connectors include a restraint and a lock. The restraint has a proximal portion capable of engaging a portion of an implantable pump, such as a port. The restraint also has a distal portion capable of engaging a catheter. The lock is configured to secure the restraint to secured position relative to the pump and the catheter. The restraint may have a tab configured to secure the lock on the restraint. The tabs may be configured to releasably secure the lock.

Abstract: An in-vitro model apparatus of a human spine and methods for detecting and analyzing substance distribution patterns therein. In one embodiment, the model apparatus includes a column body defining a passageway that substantially mimics the size, shape, and structure of an adult human spinal canal. Also included is a cord structure that may be located and anchored within the passageway. The cord structure substantially mimics the size, shape, and structure of an adult human spinal cord. For example, the cord structure may include connecting elements that resemble nerve roots, dentate ligaments, and the septum posticum of a human spine. The passageway of the model apparatus may be filled with a first fluid that simulates cerebro-spinal fluid (CSF), and a second fluid containing a drug (or simulated drug) may be introduced into the passageway, after which the drug's distribution within the passageway may be analyzed.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an implantable medical device that is used to deliver drugs or other therapeutic agents into a patient. More specifically, the present invention is for a drug infusion device which features a bulkhead having integrated subsystems. The bulkhead is the main structural component of the implantable medical device. The integrated bulkhead of the present invention has all or portions of subassemblies, such as a pump, motor and gear train, electronics, drug fill port, catheter access port, fluid pathways, filter and overpressure mechanism, built into the bulkhead. Integrating the subsystems of the bulkhead simplifies the assembly process and reduces the overall cost of manufacture by reducing the number of components to assemble and reducing the number of manufacturing steps. Additionally, integrating the subassemblies into the bulkhead allows for increased accuracy in controlling the connections between the subsystems, which allows for improved delivery of drugs to the patient.