Abstract: A system includes (i) a needle for insertion into a port of an implantable infusion device, and (ii) a receiver apparatus having a port location signal receiver module capable of receiving a signal from the implantable infusion device regarding spatial orientation of the port. The system further includes a processor operably coupled to the receiver apparatus and capable of determining the orientation of the needle relative to the port based on the received signal. The system also includes a display operably coupled to the processor. The processor is configured to cause the display to graphically render trajectory of the needle relative to the port. The port is graphically rendered as a target structure having a reference area. The needle is graphically rendered as an object moveable relative to the target structure. Occupation of the reference area by the object indicates trajectory alignment of the port and the needle.

Abstract: The present invention includes systems and methods for detecting fluid flow into or out of a port chamber or a reservoir of an implantable medical device utilizing a pressure sensor. The system detects characteristic pressure profiles associated with fluid flowing into the medical device, out of the medical device, and also whether one or both of the port chamber or reservoir are substantially empty or substantially full. In addition, the present invention may generate a sensory cue to a clinician to indicate the fluid status.

Abstract: An implantable medical device system includes an implantable device and an external locator device for percutaneously locating detecting port opening of the implantable device. The implantable device includes a port chamber forming the port opening, a septum sealing the port chamber relative to an exterior of the device, and a coil positioned at a known location relative to the port opening. The locator device includes a controller, at least one X-loop electrically coupled to the controller and oriented along a first major axis, and at least one Y-loop electrically coupled to the controller and oriented along a second major axis differing from the first major axis. The system is configured such that when the locator is spatially proximate the coil, an induced voltage in at least the Y-loop(s) is read by the controller to indicate a location of the coil relative to the locator device.

Abstract: Systems for detecting needle insertion into a port chamber of an implantable medical device include a pressure sensor. The system detects characteristic pressure profiles associated with needle insertion into the port chamber through a septum and may generate a sensory cue to a clinician that proper needle placement has been achieved. Methods for detecting needle insertion into a port chamber of an implantable medical device includes detecting characteristic pressure profiles associated with needle insertion into the port chamber through a septum.