Abstract: A balloon-retention catheter for insertion into a chamber of a living being. The catheter includes a length of catheter tubing having an inflatable balloon immediately behind the distal end. Within the tubing is a fluid lumen, a balloon inflation lumen, and a third lumen to accommodate an endoscope whose distal end projects beyond the distal end of the catheter tubing. Accommodation of an endoscope permits required longevity of use of the catheter without its removal and reintroduction each time a visual inspection is indicated.

Abstract: An endoscope has a fiber optic image bundle which is insertible into a separate sterile sleeve such that the fiber optic image bundle need not be sterilized prior to use. A window formed proximate the distal end of the sleeve facilitates viewing through the fiber optic image bundle. A contractile member urges the fiber optic image bundle into abutment with the window to facilitate proper optical alignment of the distal end of the fiber optic image bundle with the window.

Abstract: An endoscope has a fiber optic image bundle which is insertible into a separate sterile sleeve such that the fiber optic image bundle need not be sterilized prior to use. A window formed proximate the distal end of the sleeve facilitates viewing through the fiber optic image bundle. A biasing means urges the fiber optic image bundle into abutment with the window to facilitate proper optical alignment thereof.

Abstract: An optical apparatus functions as a laser catheter for removal, penetration or treatment of human tissue or other biotic material. The arrangement of the optical components, including the focal length of the lens and the spacing between the lens and the source of light is selected to yield an output beam having advantageous characteristics which are particularly suitable for medical laser treatment. Such characteristics include a relatively long beam throw, a long focal range, and a small output beam waist. A hollow tip, preferably conical in shape, is utilized to provide a tactile indicator as to the cutting action of the output beam.

Abstract: The present invention comprises a first interconnect assembly and a second interconnect assembly which detachably connects to the first interconnect assembly. One of the interconnect assemblies includes a shutter for blocking an optical path. The first and second assemblies have surfaces which mechanically co-act to drive the shutter away from the optical path. An optical fiber is connected to one of these assemblies. In the preferred embodiment, the first assembly forms a plug and the second assembly forms an adapter, such as a socket. The socket assembly includes a shutter which is spring-biased to a normally closed position. In this normally closed position, the shutter blocks passage of laser light of the optical fiber. The plug assembly includes an appendage having a camming surface which co-acts with a camming surface on the socket assembly so as to drive the shutter to an open position which permits transmission of laser light to the optical fiber.

Abstract: A catheter system in which a silicone rubber catheter tube may be secured to the cylindrically shaped relatively smooth stem of a rigid plastic fitting. A rigid plastic sleeve is adapted to extend over the tube when the latter is fitted onto the stem of the fitting to create a fluid tight seal between the tubing and the fitting. In another embodiment, a boot may first be disposed over a portion of the silicone rubber tubing and then extended over the connection of the rigid sleeve and rubber tubing and plastic fitting. In still a further embodiment a combination boot-sleeve may be employed and sealed to a fitting by means of an ultrasonic weld.

Abstract: A device including a valving mechanism which can be operated by one hand, the device includes a housing which surrounds a resilient block of material. The housing may be squeezed to depress and deform the resilient block. Passageways extend through the resilient block to conduct liquid therethrough. A first passage includes a solid valve positioned therein. Compression of the resilient block causes displacement of the valve and distortion of the block material to break the seal around the valve. Additional material is provided strategically in this first passage to insure against leaks from system overpressure. A second passage includes a capillary to allow continuous low volume flow not controlled by an operator.

Abstract: There is disclosed herein a dialysis machine for use with a negative-pressure-type dialyzer. The machine includes a flow system for drawing fresh dialysis solution, under a negative pressure, through the dialyzer and a system for determining, setting and controlling ultrafiltration rates in the dialyzer. The ultrafiltration system includes a branch for communication with the dialyzer when flow to and from the dialyzer is terminated. In the branch there is provided a pump for applying negative pressure to the dialyzer and drawing liquid therethrough, and a meter for measuring the flow rates. Means are also provided for measuring negative pressure and transmembrane pressure during operation of the ultrafiltration branch. Pressure controls are also provided so as to assure maintenance of the ultrafiltration rates.There is also disclosed herein a method for determining, setting and controlling the ultrafiltration rate.

Abstract: A device, which may be used in a dialysis system, is disclosed for separating low density material such as gas bubbles from a liquid by swirling the liquid, to cause the bubbles to migrate toward the center of the swirling liquid. A liquid storage chamber having side walls of generally circular cross-section of the longitudinal axis is provided. A port is provided for removing the bubbles or the like, positioned adjacent the longitudinal axis of the chamber. A liqud inlet passes into the chamber in such a position as to pass liquid into the chamber circumferentially about the side walls, to provide swirling of liquid passing into the chamber. In accordance with this invention, outlet means and pump means are provided for removing bubble-free liquid from the chamber at a point spaced from the inlet but adjacent the side wall.

Abstract: A conductivity monitoring system including a temperature sensing means for sensing the temperature of a fluid and also providing a temperature compensated conductivity signal. Electronic circuitry is provided for detecting and indicating the inoperability of the temperature sensor.

Abstract: A conductivity monitoring system which includes at least three electrodes disposed within a housing of a conductivity cell, into and through which a fluid to be monitored is caused to flow. One of the electrodes is a common electrode and is positioned closer to one of the other two electrodes. The conductivity is measured between the wide spaced pair of electrodes and between the closer spaced pair of electrodes, with the difference being taken as the actual conductivity. With this arrangement, changes in the conductivity as a result of foreign matter collecting on the electrodes and the housing over a period of time are compensated for, since the difference in the conductivity between the two pairs of electrodes remain the same, even though the conductivity between each respective pair may change.