Abstract: A nasal cannula for insufflating a patient with oxygen through one nare of the cannula and separately analyzing the exhaled gases from the patient by drawing the sampling of the exhaled gas from the other nare of the cannula into a conventional carbon dioxide analyzer. A further addition of holes or vents in the nares of the cannula are provided on both the interior and posterior of one or both nares in order to substantially reduce or eliminate the incidence of occlusion of the tip of the carbon dioxide sampling nare.

Abstract: An assembly provides multiple access ports to an intubated patient's respiratory system through a closed ventilating system. A manifold is configured for attachment to the patient's artificial airway and a conventional ventilating system. A movable adapter is provided at the proximal port of the manifold and includes at least two access ports defined in a movable member. The movable member can be moved into various positions to align any of the access ports with the proximal port of the manifold. Any manner of devices may be mated to the access ports, including devices to ventilate the lungs of the patient with gas or gasses, aspirate secretions from the lungs, oxygenate the lungs, visually inspect selected parts of the respiratory system, sample sputum and gasses, sense parameters such as flow rates, pressure, and temperature, flush the respiratory tract with washing solution, or administer medication, gasses, and/or lavage.

Abstract: A device, method and system are provided which simplify the self-administered peritoneal dialysis solution exchange procedure performed by a patient receiving continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD). The device, method and system reduce the training time required for each patient provided by medical personnel in the operation of the device and performance of the exchange procedure which reduces healthcare costs. A method of instructing a patient regarding the exchange procedure is also provided which can be utilized by any patient, including those visually impaired.

Abstract: A HME bypass system including a manually actuated bypass valve which is coupled into a respiratory air circuit, preferably upstream of the HME, to permit inspiratory air to be selectively passed through the HME, or to bypass the HME, depending upon the treatment desired by the healthcare provider.

Abstract: A support arm for use in a respiratory circuit is provided. The support arm includes a plurality of arm segments that are movably connected with one another such that the arm segments are adjustable with respect to another. At least one inflatable bladder is provided. The bladder is operably disposed at a point of connection between at least two of the arm segments. The arm segments are locked into position with respect to one another upon inflation of the bladder. The arm segments are released and positionable with respect to one another upon deflation of the bladder. Also, a respiratory support member is attached to one of the arm segments. The respiratory support member is configured for engaging the respiratory circuit to support the respiratory circuit.

Abstract: Interface apparatus for use by a patient having a patient airway and for use with a mechanical ventilator having inspiratory and expiratory tubing. An intrapulmonary percussive ventilator having an output and an injection device coupled to the output of the intrapulmonary percussive ventilator and having an output. The interface apparatus comprises a mixing device having a mixing chamber therein and having an outlet adapted to be connected to the patient airway. The body has fittings in communication with the mixing chamber adapted to be connected to the inspiratory tubing and to the expiratory tubing of the mechanical ventilator. The body also has an injection port in communication with the mixing chamber adapted to be connected to the output of the injection device.

Abstract: An oxygen connector system for coupling an oxygen source to an oxygen tube comprises a source of oxygen. The source has an output orifice through which source oxygen is adapted to pass. The orifice has an inner bore and an outer surface. A flexible cylindrical elastomeric tube has a first input end and a second output end. The first input end is adapted to make a flush abutment with the source at the orifice. A generally cylindrical rigid connector has an exterior surface with a first region and a second region. An intermediate tapered region is provided between the first and second regions. The connector has a central generally cylindrical bore extending through the first and second ends forming an interior surface. The second end has a diameter slightly greater than that of the tube. A pair of stoppers are provided adjacent to the input end of the tube.

Abstract: By interposing an adapter between the endotracheal or tracheal tube inserted to a patient and the ventilation and suction systems that are connected to the endotracheal tube, a medication catheter could be inserted via an input port built into the adapter so as to enable a medical personnel to provide medicaments to a patient without having to disconnect either one of the systems connected to the endotracheal tube. The adapter is configured to have a securing mechanism that allows the medical personnel to secure the medication catheter in place. A one way valve fitted to the apertured arm that forms the input port of the adapter prevents any back flow of fluid from the input port.

Abstract: A face mask includes a fan device for drawing air into the mask and for facilitating the breathing of the users. A holder is secured to the mask and has a chamber for receiving the fan device. A motor may be used for driving the fan device. A canister is disposed in front of the fan device for filtering air. The holder includes a conduit having a mouth engaged into the mask. A check valve is disposed in the mouth for preventing air from flowing backward from the mask to the conduit. A guard member is disposed in front of the fan device for protecting the fan device.

Abstract: An electrokinetic pump capable of producing high pressure is combined with a nozzle having a submicron orifice to provide a high pressure spray device. Because of its small size, the device can be contained within medical devices such as an endoscope for delivering biological materials such as DNA, chemo therapeutic agents, or vaccines to tissues and cells.

Abstract: A device for removing sputum from a tracheal catheter inserted into the trachea of a patient. The aim of the invention is to supplement existing tracheal catheters in such a way that sputum is automatically kept away from the air filter and is removed without any problems so that excruciating and painful choking attacks in patients can be prevented and the risk of death by asphyxia is eliminated. This is achieved by a housing (4) having a first orifice (1) that can be attached to the end of the tracheal catheter projecting from the trachea; a second orifice (2) for exhaled air-filtered fresh air exchange and a third orifice (3) for sputum outflow.

Abstract: An endotracheal tube cleaning apparatus to be used with an endotracheal tube, the cleaning apparatus having an elongate tubular member with a distal end that extends into the endotracheal tube and a channel defined therethrough and terminating at a distal end disposed in a vicinity of the distal end of the elongate tubular member. A cleaning assembly is provided at the distal end of the elongate tubular member so as to engage the interior wall structure of the endotracheal tube, as a result of a resilient material bladder, for cleaning thereof. A ventilator coupling is further provided and is connected to the endotracheal tube, a first inlet port of the ventilator coupling being coupled to a ventilator assembly to supply air to a patient, and a second inlet port of the ventilator coupling being structured to receive the elongate tubular member therethrough into the endotracheal tube.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods are disclosed by which a closed ventilating system accommodates multiple access to the respiratory system of an intubated medical patient without compromising the closed character of the system. Access to the respiratory system through one or more access sites of the closed system apparatus is provided at proximal adapter ports to ventilate the lungs of the patient with gas or gases, to aspirate secretions from the lungs, to oxygenate the lungs to eliminate or reduce residual co2 therefrom, to visually inspect selected parts of the respiratory system, to sample sputum and gases, to sense parameters such as flow rates, pressure, and temperature, to flush with washing solution, and/or to administer medication, gases, and/or lavage. A distal swivel fitting provides multiple sealing sites by which entry of atmosphere is prevented.

Abstract: A patient gas delivery apparatus includes a gas flow generator, a gas delivery conduit and a patient mask. Connected in series between the conduit and the mask is an assembly formed in at least two interengaging parts that may form a housing for an anti-asphyxia valve or flow sensor. The assembly further includes a mating portion for connection to the mask, the arrangement being such that connection of the assembly to the mask prevents disengagement of the interengaging connection between the two parts of the assembly.

Abstract: A universal oxygen connector for connecting an oxygen supply tubing or an oxygen supply hose between and an oxygen supply appliance and an oxygen mask or a nasal oxygen dispenser. Multiple and aligned and spaced hose or tubing connection bodies on a single universal oxygen connector accepts oxygen supply tubing or an oxygen supply hose for use as required.

Abstract: A speaking valve for a tracheostomy tube which is disposed in the first end of the tube protruding from the throat of the patient. The valve has guiding ribs and a retainer to retain a ball within the end of the tube. The flow of air around the ball is unrestricted to reduce the force required to move the ball when the patient inhales and exhales. A spherical chamber is formed in which the ball is disposed. The tracheostomy tube with the valve in the first end presents a low profile.

Abstract: A system and method in vivo sterilization of a respiratory circuit. A breathing tube has a proximal end, a distal end and a lumen extending between the proximal and distal ends; a respirator and a synchronization mechanism. One or more light sources capable of emitting ultraviolet radiation irradiates at least a portion of the respiratory circuit, such as the breathing tube, thereby sterilizing the respiratory circuit. The synchronization mechanism controls the light sources to synchronize the sterilization relative to the patient's breathing cycle. Several mechanisms to irradiate the respiratory circuit and control ultraviolet radiation are included.

Abstract: A respiratory mask having a flexible, mask seal portion for engagement with the face of a user, a gel forehead cushion and a rotatable elbow coupling having integral exhaust ports. The mask seal portion has a thin section which permits the mask to more easily adapt to the contour of the face of the user. The gel forehead cushion provides increased compliancy and resiliency to better adapt to multiple user physical profiles. The elbow coupling includes tapered through holes in a polycarbonate arc piece to provide a quiet passage of gas through the holes.

Abstract: A universal oxygen connector for connecting an oxygen supply tubing or an oxygen supply hose between and an oxygen supply appliance and an oxygen mask or a nasal oxygen dispenser. Multiple and aligned and spaced hose or tubing connection bodies on a single universal oxygen connector accepts oxygen supply tubing or an oxygen supply hose for use as required.

Abstract: A respirator comprise a breathing tube, such as an endotracheal tube, having a proximal end, a distal end, and a lumen extending between the proximal and distal end. The lumen defines at least a portion of the respirator circuit. A ventilator tube is in fluid communication with the proximal end of the breathing tube end and defines a portion of the respirator circuit. One or more light sources capable of emitting ultraviolet radiation irradiates at least a portion of the respirator circuit, thereby sterilizing the respiratory circuit.

Abstract: A method for providing assisted ventilation which avoids hypoxia and hypocapnia in which a predetermined dead space in an assisted ventilation system is provided external to the patient. The method may also be used to create normocapnia or moderate hypercapnia without causing hypoxia during assisted ventilation. Improved assisted ventilation devices, including an improved proximal terminal, improved tubular attachments and improved coaxial filters, are disclosed which are safer and less expensive to use than corresponding prior art unilimb assisted ventilation devices. Connector fittings and adapters to provide connector fittings on assisted ventilation devices are disclosed which provide positive indication of attachment of assisted ventilation devices and resist detachment of assisted ventilation devices. The devices of the present invention also reduce medical waste in comparison to prior art assisted ventilation devices.

Abstract: A connector for openly connecting conduits includes male and female parts adapted to couple by plug fit connection and structured to permit relative rotational displacement in coupled condition.

Abstract: A cartridge for use on a medical apparatus is provided and includes a body having a proximal chamber and a distal chamber. An antimicrobial agent is disposed in one of the distal or proximal chambers. A port is located on the body and communicates with the chamber in which the antimicrobial agent is disposed. In another embodiment, another port is located in the other chamber. Also, a respiratory suction apparatus is provided that is fitted with a cartridge mentioned above.

Abstract: A universal suction canister pour spout adaptor for use with suction canisters of various designs to fit onto the internal or external pour spout of various standard suction canisters so that such canisters can receive materials through their pour spouts during surgical procedures. The suction canister adaptor has a series of stepped external and internal diameters sized for engaging the various sized pour spouts of various suction canisters.

Abstract: A fastening structure is adapted for use with both tracheal and endo-tracheal assisted breathing device. The fastening structure provides a fastening ring and a fastening bracket. The fastening structures are adapted for connection to prior art assisted breathing components currently adopted in most medical facilities. In an endo-tracheal application, where the endo-tracheal tube passes through the patient's mouth, first and second fastening rings are attached to the auxiliary port and to the ventilator attachment port, respectively, of the ventilator adaptor. The U-shaped opening of a fastening bracket is passed over the endo-tracheal adapter which is attached to the ventilation adapter. First and second legs, extending from the fastening bracket, lock onto the first and second rings. The connection between the fastening bracket and the fastening rings prevents unwanted separation between the endo-tracheal adapter and the ventilation adapter.

Abstract: This invention relates to a feeding apparatus for breathing masks that allows food and drink intake when the mask is in use, does not reduce the wearer's field of vision, requires little space, and is protected from dirt and contamination.

Abstract: A multilumen unilimb conduit for providing respiratory gases to and receiving expiratory gases from a patient connected to a unilimb respiratory circuit. The conduit has unique fittings for connection to patient devices or assisted ventilation systems and components. In a preferred embodiment, the conduit has fasteners or blocking devices at either or both of its distal and proximal ends.

Abstract: A needless connector is provided which utilizes a resealable preslit septum valve. The valve is resiliently restrained relative to a housing with the valve and housing configured to accept a standard male luer lock having a luer tip which penetrates the valve through the opening to extend within the housing and a luer locking flange of the luer lock extending about the housing. The valve includes a disk shaped upper portion covering the opening, a lower portion spaced from the housing and extending downward from the disk shaped portion into a passageway defined by the housing, and an annular skirt to attach the septum to the housing. The connector exhibits satisfactory leak pressure after multiple connections and disconnects to the luer lock fitting and long periods of indwell of the luer tip.

Abstract: A hub assembly for a catheter tube having a lumen therethrough. The hub assembly includes a hub portion having a proximal end and a distal end, and an integral connector disposed at the proximal end. A lumen is defined through the hub portion extending from the proximal end to the distal end. The strain relief includes a proximal end and a distal end is disposed at the distal end of the hub portion. The proximal end of the strain relief can be integrally connected to the distal end of the hub portion. The strain relief is preferably more flexible than the hub portion. The strain relief defines a passage configured to receive the catheter such that a lumen through the hub portion is in fluid communication with the catheter tube lumen.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a sputum trap for an aspiration and respiratory support system which includes a manifold attachable to a specimen collection vial that is interposed between, and attached to, a suction control device and suction catheter device. The sputum trap allows for the collection of sputum directly from a patient through a suction catheter without causing a loss of Positive End Expiratory Pressure (PEEP) in the respiratory support system. The manifold includes a manifold body that has a first connector and a second connector for attachment to the suction control device and suction catheter, respectively, and an open port for secure attachment to the specimen collection vial. The manifold body further includes tethered first and second caps adapted for sealing the first and second connectors respectively from fluid flow communication once sufficient sputum has been collected in the specimen collection vial.

Abstract: A sterile cap assembly including first and second cap sections, the first cap section to be coupled to an opening of a first element and the second cap section to be coupled to an opening of a second element, upon the opening of the first element being separated from the opening of the second element. The first cap section includes a sterile engagement face exposed to an interior of the first element upon being coupled thereto and the second cap section including a sterile engagement face exposed to an interior of the second element upon being coupled thereto, the sterile engagement faces structured to be coupled with one another upon the opening of the first element being coupled to the opening of the second element, thereby maintaining the sterility of the sterile engagement faces.

Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus and a method for stabilizing at least one medical device such as a tracheal or gastric tube entering or covering at least one facial cavity such as the mouth and/or nose, taking advantage of a stabilization stent to secure to a patient's face the tracheal or gastric tube without the need to apply tape to the face, while maintaining visibility of tube markings, preventing kinking of the tube, and keeping the infant's face visible to parents and caregivers. In one form, the invention comprises a transverse stent comprising a superior border opposed to an inferior border, an inner surface and an outer surface. A first facial interface is attached to a first terminal end of the transverse stent, and positioned to adhesively adhere and mechanically clasp to a first side of a patient's face. A second facial interface is attached to a second terminal end of the transverse stent and positioned to adhesively adhere and mechanically clasp to a second side of a patient's face.

Abstract: This invention is a secretion, a suction device, and kit for intubated or tracheostomized patients including a suction valve (1) having a body (2) with a chamber (3) where a selective obstruction device (4) is assembled. The device further includes a spherical valve (45) which selectively opens or closes a passage for a probe (25) through a patient/ventilator connection (56). The kit allows for the correct positioning of the suction device, including a plastic sheathing (65), and a tube for disposal of the suction device.

Abstract: A portable anaesthetic machine allows dispensing of a liquid anaesthetic to a patient, which is sometimes desirable and may be hard to achieve, especially with portable equipment. This portable anaesthetic machine has a gas flow generator for generating a flow of gas at an adjustable pressure and/or flow rate, an inspiratory line and an expiratory line. The gas flow generator, inspiratory line and expiratory line constitute the gas flow pathways for the respirator. A membrane is arranged in the gas flow pathways, made of a self-sealing material. The membrane can be punctured by a syringe needle for dispensing the liquid anaesthetic into the gas flow pathways an optional number of times.

Abstract: A connector for attachment of a breathing tube to a respirator. The connector includes a first conduit and a transition conduit that form a connector body. A cantilevered snap latch extends from the connector body. A connector assembly including a recessed receiving structure on a respirator helmet adapted for receiving the connector.

Abstract: A tubular respiratory assistance device which forms the wall of a main channel and is intended to be connected by its distal end to a patient's airway, so that the main channel connects the patient's respiratory system to the outside, and which has at least one auxiliary channel which is associated with deflection means for injecting a respiratory gas jet which is deflected toward the interior of the main channel and is intended to ventilate the patient. The tubular respiratory assistance device also has an annular chamber arranged at the periphery of it, coaxially with it on its distal end, and a distal annular orifice, the annular chamber communicating with the patient's respiratory system by means of the distal annular orifice and being provided with means for connection to the outside. Also, a respiratory assistance mask intended to be fitted to a patient's face which has this tubular respiratory assistance device for inlet and outlet of respiratory gas.

Abstract: Tracheal gas insufflation (TGI) therapy is performed by a bypass valve and a controller which control a flow of TGI gas to a TGI catheter inserted into an endotracheal tube in the tracheal of a patient. The bypass valve is activated into a pass-through state to admit the TGI gas into the catheter and into a bypass state to divert the TGI gas from the TGI catheter. Potentially dangerous over-pressure may be sensed and the TGI gas flow terminated, but then quickly resumed after the over-pressure condition passes. Selectively applying and diverting the TGI gas allows phasic TGI therapy to be performed using heated and humidified gas and also allows the heat and humidity levels of the TGI gas to be maintained during continuous TGI therapy.

Abstract: A needless connector is provided which utilizes a resealable preslit septum valve. The valve is resiliently restrained relative to a housing with the valve and housing configured to accept a standard male luer lock having a luer tip which penetrates the valve through the opening to extend within the housing and a luer locking flange of the luer lock extending about the housing. The valve includes a disk shaped upper portion covering the opening, a lower portion spaced from the housing and extending downward from the disk shaped portion into a passageway defined by the housing, and an annular skirt to attach the septum to the housing. The connector exhibits satisfactory leak pressure after multiple connections and disconnects to the luer lock fitting and long periods of indwell of the luer tip.

Abstract: Compressible lock washers for use in catheter connectors. One such lock washer (60) includes a support ring (62) and tube engagement flanges (64) extending centrally therefrom, oblique to the ring and each extending from the same side thereof. The tube engagement flanges (64) define a tube receptacle (72) through which a catheter tube (58) may be inserted. Upon compression of the lock washer (60), the tube engagement flanges (64) are forced toward the ring (62), decreasing the diameter of the tube receptacle (72). Thus, during compression of the lock washer (60), the tube engagement flanges (64) engage the catheter tube (58) which runs through the tube receptacle (72), securing the catheter tube within the catheter connector (20) with which the lock washer is associated.

Abstract: An improved respiratory suction apparatus catheter includes a manifold for attachment to the distal hub of an endotracheal tube to form a ventilation circuit, a catheter tube which is displaceable through the manifold and into the endotracheal tube to suction secretions from the tube and lungs, and a valve mechanism disposed adjacent the ventilation circuit to minimize the draw of air from the ventilation circuit of a patient while the catheter is being cleaned. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the catheter is cleaned more thoroughly than in the prior art while simultaneously drawing little or no air from the patient's ventilation circuit.

Abstract: A gas insufflation and suction apparatus is provided for communication with a patient's trachea. The apparatus includes a gas catheter and a suction catheter. When supplying a suitable gas having a desired oxygen concentration to the patient, an output end of the gas catheter is moved past a Y-connector through a T-member into the patient's trachea. After removal of the gas catheter from the patient 's trachea, mucus or other substances can be removed from the patient using the suction catheter. With the gas catheter in its standby position, the suction catheter is moved past the Y-connector through the T-member and located in a desired position in the patient's trachea.

Abstract: A hub for connecting a medical catheter in fluid communication with a medical device, such as a syringe, includes a tubular shaped body member which has an outer surface that is formed with a plurality of grips. The hub also has a pair or diametrically opposed wings which extend from the outer surface of the body member and it has a proximal end which is formed as a female luer fitting for engagement with the medical device. The distal end of the hub is formed with a spiral strain relief element having a passageway which receives the proximal end of the medical catheter. In operation, the spiral relief element supports the medical catheter and prevents kinking of the catheter near the hub during flexure of the catheter by providing for a progressive transition from the relative rigidity of the hub to the flexure required by the catheter.

Abstract: Compressible lock washers for use in catheter connectors. One such lock washer (60) includes a support ring (62) and tube engagement flanges (64) extending centrally therefrom, oblique to the ring and each extending from the same side thereof. The tube engagement flanges (64) define a tube receptacle (72) through which a catheter tube (58) may be inserted. Upon compression of the lock washer (60), the tube engagement flanges (64) are forced toward the ring (62), decreasing the diameter of the tube receptacle (72). Thus, during compression of the lock washer (60), the tube engagement flanges (64) engage the catheter tube (58) which runs through the tube receptacle (72), securing the catheter tube within the catheter connector (20) with which the lock washer is associated.

Abstract: A catheter assembly comprising two elements each having a hub disposed at the proximal end thereof. The hubs are constructed so as to be complementary and rotatably engageable as the result of a plurality of threads disposed on the hubs of the two catheter introducer elements. When the threads of the hubs of the two catheter elements are engaged axial disengagement of the hubs is inhibited. The catheter assembly also comprising a means of securing against accidental rotational disengagement. The size and location of the threads and the rotational securement means permits the catheter assembly to have a lower profile because the distance to the hemostasis gasket is reduced thus permitting easier access to the hemostasis gasket.

Abstract: To ensure that the inner cannula is mated to the outer cannula of a tracheostomy tube, a pressure adjusting device is provided to the collar of the inner cannula so as to apply a biasing force against the tabs that extend from the hub of the outer cannula. The torque force that is required to assemble/disassemble the inner cannula to/from the outer cannula may be adjusted by increasing or decreasing the thickness of the pressure adjusting device which may be in the form of a spring ring which elasticity is adjustable by varying the thickness thereof. Ramps are provided within the collar of the inner cannula to guide the movement of the tabs relative to that of the collar. In addition, stops are provided within the collar for arresting any further movement of the tabs with respect to the collar. Indents are further provided within the collar whereat the tabs can rest.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a sound absorber for a respirator comprising a mask, breathing devices, a connecting tube and at least one carbon dioxide outlet. The sound absorber (16) essentially consists of an inner pipe (22) and an outer tube (24) extending at least partially over it. The inner tube (22) is provided with at least one essentially radially extending through channel (38) which runs into the annular channel (40) which extends axially between the inner pipe (22) and the outer pipe (24) and has a constant annular width. (FIG. 3).

Abstract: A method of connecting flexible first band structure to a tracheostomy neck plate, the neck plate having a first wing projecting laterally, the method including providing first anchoring structure including a clip on the wing, the band structure connectible to the anchoring structure; and providing first adjustable hook and pile connections for retaining the band structure adjustably connected relative to the anchoring structure.

Abstract: An insufflation system that includes a first tube that inserts into a patient's airway for providing a primary flow of breathing gas to such a patient. At least one insufflation catheter is provided in or within the first tube for delivering a flow of insufflation gas to the patient. In one embodiment, the flow of insufflation gas is delivered in a first direction generally toward the patient's lungs and in a second direction generally opposite the first direction so that the flow in the second direction creates a negative stagnation pressure that substantially cancels out the positive stagnation pressure generated by flow in the first direction. In second embodiment, an exhaust vent is provided in the first tube for exhausting a flow of gas from the first tube at a rate that is equivalent to the rate at which the flow of insufflation gas is being delivered to the patient's airway, thereby preventing over-inflation of the patient's respiratory system.

Abstract: A respiratory assistance device comprises a respiratory aid tube whose distal extremity, intended to be introduced into the windpipe of a patient, is provided with an inflatable ballonet and means for bringing the respiratory gas into the lungs of the patient by means of said tube. The device includes pressure sensors in the ballonet and at the distal end of the tube which provide signals to an electronic controller for controlling the feed of respiratory gas to the patient.

Abstract: A luer receiving medical valve for the sterile transfer of fluid from a luer-tapered male end having a surrounding female luer lock threaded end. The luer receiver includes a housing having an inlet and an outlet and a lumen extending from the inlet to the outlet. An elastomeric sealing member occludes the inlet and has a slit extending through it. In a preferred embodiment, a support is provided adjacent the housing inlet and adjacent the sealing member. The support includes opposing posts separated by slots, the slots permitting expansion of the sealing member when the male luer is inserted into the slit.