Abstract: A centrifugal blood pump driver comprises a motor housing and the housing contains a motor for rotationally driving the centrifugal blood pump and a controller operatively associated with the motor for controlling the rotational speed of the motor; a speed selector for generating a selected speed signal signifying a selected rotational speed for the motor; sensors operatively associated with the motor or controller for sensing the rotational speed of the motor and outputting a monitor signal signifying such rotational speed; program memory for storage of a program of microprocessor readable instructions; a microprocessor under program control, in electrical connection with the controller, the speed selector, the sensor and the program memory, for receiving the selected speed signal and generating a speed control signal to the controller signifying the selected speed for the controller, and for receiving the monitor signal and outputting a display signal; a display in electrical communication with the micropro

Abstract: The present invention concerns a pump provided with a control module and an attachable fluid reservoir cassette. The control module includes a pumping mechanism for pumping fluid from the fluid reservoir to the patient. The cassette is provided with appropriate indicia to identify differences between a plurality of cassettes. The control module further includes cassette indicia identification structure for identifying indicia on the cassette. One type of cassette identification system includes a projection extending from the cassette and structure associated with the control module which engages the projection. Another type of cassette identification system includes a light reflecting system which utilizes light from the control module and reflected off the cassette. Still other types of cassette identification systems utilize other non-contact switches or sensors to sense indicia on the cassette to identify the cassette from a plurality of cassettes.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for the power and computer assisted injection of local anesthetic into a patient in a virtually pain free manner, in which anesthetic pressure is automatically monitored as an input to the computer, in which the patient is able at any time to order the automatic reduction of anesthetic pressure and in which a simple single pole switch is the only control input to the computer required of the doctor administering the injection.

Abstract: A dual port syringe has an upper port for connection to a fluid reservoir and a lower port for delivery of the medical fluid under pressure to a patient. A first valve is connected between the fluid reservoir and the upper port, and second valve is connected between the lower port and the patient. During a fill operation, a piston is moved within the syringe to drawn fluid from the reservoir into the syringe through the upper port. During injection operation, the piston moves in an opposite direction to force fluid out of the syringe through the lower port.

Abstract: A blood transfusion device has at least one blood accelerating pump, a variable volume reservoir, at least one single-use blood supply bag, a platen, a blood reheater, a single-use blood reheater bag, a filtration system and a perfusion line. The variable volume reservoir varies in volume using an accordion-like bellows or a flexible pocket acted upon by the blood accelerating pump. The single-use blood supply bag contains concentrated corpuscles, plasma, or a solution of albumin. The blood supply bag is disposed between two plates precisely spaced apart. The platen is acted upon by the accordion-like bellows or the flexible pocket to slide in parallel to the two plates, and is disposed between the variable volume reservoir and the blood supply bag. The blood reheater includes an assembly of two double plates, each double plate having a preheating plate heated to a constant temperature slightly less than 38.degree.

Abstract: An intraparenchymal infusion catheter system for delivering drugs or other agents to selected sites in an organism, such as a human, includes a pump that may be implanted or disposed outside the organism. A catheter is coupled to the pump. The catheter comprises a flexible biocompatible tubular portion terminating in a free distal end. The distal end of the catheter bears a rounded tip, a portion of which is slidably disposed within the lumen of the tubular portion. The tip is porous for discharging an agent or drug to a selected site. The tip has a microporosity of less than or equal to 0.22 microns. The tubular portion is composed from a material that will expand from its nominal size when exposed to a stimulus such as heat or a solvent and return to its nominal size when the stimulus is withdrawn. By expanding the tubular portion, a physician can select the amount of the tip that is exposed to the organism, thereby customizing the catheter to the structural size of the selected site within the body.

Abstract: An elastomeric bladder stored energy type medicament delivery apparatus which can be filled with a medicinal fluid using a closed-end, vial-type fill container and after being filled, can efficiently deliver the medicinal fluid to the patient at a controlled rate. The closed-end, vial-type fill means can be readily connected to and disconnected from the novel fluid delivery component of the apparatus. The fluid delivery device can also be filled by means of a secondary reservoir fill means.

Abstract: There is disclosed a liquid medicine continuous infuser having a basic structure comprising a bag-shaped member that can apply a pressure to a liquid medicine accommodated inside the infuser, an inflow/outflow section for flowing in and flowing out the liquid medicine, and an area positioned inside the bag-shaped member and having a predetermined volume. The above pressure provides a predetermined characteristic curve in relation to the capacity of the bag-shaped member, and the area having the predetermined volume is for increasing the capacity of the bag-shaped member when the liquid medicine is accommodated inside the bag-shaped member. Further, the bag-shaped member is for applying a pressure to a liquid medicine accommodated inside the bag-shaped member along with the predetermined characteristic curve, with a pressure corresponding to the capacity increased by the area having the predetermined volume, when the liquid medicine is accommodated inside the bag-shaped member used, as an initial value.

Abstract: A compact fluid dispenser for use in controllably dispensing fluid medicaments and a cooperating reservoir fill assembly for controllably filling the fluid reservoir of the fluid dispenser. The fluid dispenser component includes a novel stored energy source in the form of an expandable, elastomeric member of unique construction that provides the force necessary to continuously and substantially uniformly expel fluid from the reservoir of the dispenser component. The fluid dispenser component further includes a fluid flow control assembly that filters and precisely controls the flow of the medicament solution from the reservoir of the dispenser container.

Abstract: A portable automatic syringe device having a configuration including a separable rotating shaft adapted to provide a drive force to a piston included in the automatic syringe device so that the rotating shaft can be separated, along with the piston, from a housing of the syringe device upon re-filling a syringe of the syringe device with a liquid medicine. A coupling member is coupled between the rotating shaft and power transmission means. The coupling member has a reduction gear engaging with an output gear of the power transmission means, and a cross groove. A horizontal engaging pin is fixed to a lower end of the rotating shaft in such a fashion that it is engaged in the cross groove when the rotating shaft is positioned in position in the syringe device, thereby causing the rotating shaft to be coupled to the coupling member.

Abstract: The Blood Infusion Control System of the present invention integrates components of rapid infusion systems with a computer controller designed to synchronize two infusion pumps in a manner that produces a pre-selected patient hematocrit (HCT*) while reporting the patient's estimated blood volume (BV.sub.E). In order to attain HCT*, the Blood Replacement Controller (BRC) drives a dual-pump assembly to deliver streams of asanguinous fluid and blood through flexible conduits into intravenous (IV) catheters to mix with the patient's blood volume having an initial hematocrit (HCT.sub.i). The BRC utilizes measured patient data as feedback input to control flowrates of the two-pump infusion assembly. The patient's estimated blood volume is extrapolated from hematocrit changes in response to the fluid and blood infusion.

Abstract: A fluid delivery apparatus for infusing medicinal fluids into a patient which is of a compact, low profile, laminate construction. The apparatus embodies a novel thermal expanding polymer material which uniquely functions as an internal energy source for expelling the medicinal fluids from the device. The apparatus can be used for subdermal, intradermal and intramuscular infusion of fluids and in one form of the invention, includes a novel delivery cannula having a body portion disposed within a circuitous channel formed within the base superstructure of the apparatus and a pierceable portion which extends outwardly from the base of the apparatus. By constructing the cannula in a circuitous configuration and dynamically connecting it to the base assembly, movement of the cannula relative to the base assembly is permitted thereby minimizing needle related tissue necrosis.

Abstract: A fluid delivery device having a self-contained stored energy membrane for expelling fluids at a precisely controlled rate which is of a compact, laminate construction. The device also includes a novel adapter which is usable to fill the reservoir of the device using a compatable filling syringe apparatus which is mateable with the adapter.

Abstract: A portable, ambulatory infusion pump for use with standard pre-filled infusion medicament containers is powered by a miniature compressed gas cylinder coupled to a mechanical pressure regulator which supplies regulated gas at a substantially constant pressure to an inflatable bladder. The bladder is positioned between a substantially rigid pressure surface and a moveable pressure transfer plate and pushes against the transfer plate when inflated. A pre-filled medicament container is positioned over the pressure transfer plate and is squeezed between the transfer plate and the pump housing cover as the plate is displaced in response to inflation of the flexible bladder. A safety interlock assembly is connected between the pressure regulator and the inflatable bladder and prevents inflation of the bladder unless the housing cover is completely closed. Upon inadvertent opening of the pump, the internal pressurization system is vented to atmosphere.

Abstract: A syringe driver device is able to effect the controlled, parenteral infusion of a medical fluid using an available disposable syringe. The driver device includes a frame heaving a movable carriage, which houses a force applying element, mounted thereto. A disposable syringe mounts upon the frame and a lengthy microbore tubing attaches to the outlet tip of the syringe. As a force is applied to the syringe plunger, fluid is expelled from the syringe, but its flow rate is dependent upon the diameter of the microbore tubing. The driver device enables the delivery of multiple, sequential doses of fluid.

Abstract: An apparatus for accurately infusing fluids into a patient at specific rates over an extended period of time. The apparatus is of a low profile, laminate or layered construction having a stored energy source in the form of a distendable membrane which, in cooperation with the base of the apparatus, defines one or more fluid reservoirs, each having a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet. The apparatus further includes, a novel, conformable ullage made of yieldable materials which uniquely conforms to the shape of the elastomeric membrane as the membrane returns to its less distended configuration. This arrangement will satisfy even the most stringent medicament delivery tolerance requirements and will elegantly overcome the limitations of materials selection encountered in devices embodying solely a rigid ullage construction.

Abstract: A fluid delivery device for infusing medicinal fluids having a self-contained stored energy membrane for expelling fluids at a precisely controlled rate. The device is of a compact, low profile, laminate construction so that it can conveniently be used for the fluids, such as insulin and the like, into an ambulatory patient at controlled rates over extended periods of time. Included within the device are various fluid flow control elements including a unique hydraulic fluid rate control system for ultra low flow delivery. Also included is a highly novel flow indictor for providing a positive indication of fluid flow from the device and for indicating at any given time the amount of fluid remaining in the device.

Abstract: An apparatus for accurately infusing fluids into a patient at specific rates over an extended period of time and the method for making same. The apparatus includes one or more dispensers of a low profile, laminate or layered construction each having a stored energy source in the form of a distendable membrane or an elastomeric cellular mass, which in cooperation with the base, defined a fluid chamber having a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet. The apparatus further includes, in lieu of a rigid ullage, a high novel, conformable ullage made of yieldable materials. The conformable ullage uniquely conforms to the shape of elastomeric membrane as the membrane returns to its less distended configuration. This arrangement will satisfy even the most stringent delivery tolerance requirements and will elegantly overcome the limitations of materials selection encountered in devices embodying the rigid ullage construction.

Abstract: A centrifugal blood pump driver comprises a motor housing and the housing contains a motor for rotationally driving the centrifugal blood pump and a controller operatively associated with the motor for controlling the rotational speed of the motor; a speed selector for generating a selected speed signal signifying a selected rotational speed for the motor; sensors operatively associated with the motor or controller for sensing the rotational speed of the motor and outputting a monitor signal signifying such rotational speed; program memory for storage of a program of microprocessor readable instructions; a microprocessor under program control, in electrical connection with the controller, the speed selector, the sensor and the program memory, for receiving the selected speed signal and generating a speed control signal to the controller signifying the selected speed for the controller, and for receiving the monitor signal and outputting a display signal; a display in electrical communication with the micropro

Abstract: An apparatus and method for delivering a fluid during a series of infusion intervals, consecutive infusion intervals being separated by a non-infusion interval, each infusion interval beginning at a predetermined time and having a first predetermined period, and each non-infusion interval beginning at a predetermined time and having a second predetermined period. The apparatus comprises a pump mechanism and circuitry operatively connected to the pump mechanism. The circuitry is configured so that, if the pump is disabled during one of the infusion intervals, the circuitry will determine the length of time the pump is disabled, interrupt the infusion interval while the pump is disabled, and delay the beginning of subsequent infusion and non-infusion intervals for a length of time approximately equal to the length of time the pump is disabled.

Abstract: A subcutaneous drug delivery means which comprises a holding reservoir (11), a pumping means (15), a delivery reservoir (18) and an outlet (21). The holding reservoir (11) is connected to the delivery reservoir (18) through the pump (15) which is operable manually to deliver fluid from the holding reservoir (11) to the delivery reservoir (18). The delivery reservoir (18) is resiliently expandable from a minimum volume to a maximum volume and is connected to the outlet (21) through a flow restriction means (23) which controls flow to the outlet.

Abstract: A medical infusion pump is disclosed which provides for greatly improved accuracy in the delivery of medicaments to a patient. Among the various features included in the instant invention is a pumping body which serves to deform and reform a tube so as to maintain the initial cross-section thereof and thereby preserve the output accuracy of the pump. Also disclosed with regard to the pumping body is a wholly mechanical synchronization of the pumping body and valves associated therewith and coactive with the aforementioned synchronization a mechanical linearization of output of the pumping body per each pumping cycle. Additionally, several features which serve to enhance the utility of the instant invention are also included therein among which is an associated assembly operative to automatically load or disload a tube or IV set into or out of the pumping body.

Abstract: This invention relates generally to the field of medical devices for delivering contrast media during medical diagnostic and therapeutic imaging procedures and more particularly, this invention relates to improved contrast media delivery systems and methods of use which allow adjustment of contrast media concentration and injection parameters either before or during an injection procedure.

Abstract: An apparatus for accurately infusing medicinal agents into an ambulatory patient at specific rates over extended periods of time. The apparatus is of a compact, low profile, laminate construction and includes an elastic distendable membrane, chamber having a fluid outlet. Disposed within the fluid chamber is a thin fluid permeable member which precisely controls the rate of fluid flow through the fluid outlet. The apparatus also includes a highly novel fluid flow indicator that provides a readily discernible visible indication of fluid flow through the apparatus. Additionally, the apparatus includes a fill assembly comprising a prefilled vial that can be used to fill the fluid reservoir of the device with a selected medicinal fluid.

Abstract: A disposable pumping cassette having an integral auxiliary flow control and pressure monitoring member is used for delivering a medicinal fluid to a patient. The pumping cassette includes an elastomeric member mounted in a rigid body having an inlet and an outlet. An inlet valve and an outlet valve on the cassette are opened, and the flow control is positioned to allow the medicinal fluid to flow freely through the cassette, priming it before the outlet is connected to the patient. The cassette is then coupled to an associated pump driver, closing the flow control to disable free fluid flow through the cassette, and the outlet to the cassette is coupled in fluid communication with the patient's body.

Abstract: PCA apparatus has a container with a movable piston dividing the container into a lower chamber for medication liquid and an upper, air-filled chamber. A manually-actuated air pump is connected to the upper chamber so that air can be supplied to the upper chamber to displace the piston and discharge the liquid through a catheter. The air pump has a cylinder containing a plunger with a capillary inlet, to limit the rate at which air can flow into the cylinder and hence be pumped to the upper chamber. The lower chamber is filled through a removable inlet spike connector by pulling up the piston with an actuating rod projecting from the upper end of the container. The rod is frangible so that it can be removed after filling the lower chamber.

Abstract: An apparatus for accurately infusing fluids into a patient at specific rates over an extended period of time. The apparatus is of a low profile, laminate or layered construction having a stored energy source in the form of a distendable membrane, which, in cooperation with the base of the apparatus, defines one or more fluid reservoirs, each having a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet. The apparatus further includes, a novel, conformable ullage made of yieldable materials which uniquely conforms to the shape of the elastomeric membrane as the membrane returns to its less distended configuration. This arrangement will satisfy even the most stringent medicament delivery tolerance requirements and will elegantly overcome the limitations of materials selection encountered in devices embodying solely a rigid ullage construction.

Abstract: An infusion system having a pumping mechanism with tube-engaging members for pumping fluid through a tube, a releasable pressure plate that can be attached and detached from the pumping mechanism having a releasable attachment mechanism for attaching an infusion tube to the pressure plate such that the infusion tube can be engaged by the tube-engaging members when the pressure plate is attached to the pumping mechanism, and an infusion tube for delivering fluid from a fluid source to a patient that is arranged and configured to be attached to the pressure plate by the attachment mechanism and used with the pumping mechanism. The infusion tube can be quickly replaced by detaching the infusion tube from the releasable attachment mechanism and attaching a new infusion tube to the pressure plate.

Abstract: An intravenous-line flow-control system for receiving a disposable cassette disposed in the intravenous line. The system prevents the free flow of intravenous fluid through the cassette when the cassette is removed from the system. The system includes a control unit having a door or similar structure for holding the cassette against a receiving surface. The control unit includes a stepper motor and a transmission member for turning a rotatable control valve on the cassette in order to restrict variably the flow of fluid through the cassette. When the door is being opened but while the cassette is still held against the receiving surface, a motor-disengagement mechanism moves at least the transmission member, and preferably the stepper motor as well, from a first position, from which the control valve may be engaged by the transmission member, to a second position, in which the transmission member is disengaged from the control valve.

Abstract: A method for the enhanced accuracy in dispensing from a fluid roller dispensing pump, wherein a keyed one way insertable cassette with pump compressible tubing is utilized with the fluid dispensing pump. The cassette holds and maintains a compressible plastic tube adjacent a roller pump, whereby the rollers of the pump compress the tubing to draw and accurately dispense predetermined exact amounts of liquids into vials, hypodermics and the like for accurate medical and/or laboratory use, and wherein slightly improper placement still provides dispensing but with not always detectable inaccuracies. The cassette is provided with positive proper position indicator elements to ensure both proper orientation and complete locking engagement to ensure accurate pumping and dispensing. In a preferred embodiment the pump embodies current use sensors which determine if the cassette, which causes the pump to use more current, is present. A keyed one-way cassette fitting prevents improper placement.

Abstract: A fluid flow control system includes a disposable cartridge which is receivable in a shifting carrier body portion of a control module. The disposable cartridge houses a disposable pump and a pressure transducer element which are fluidly interconnected by an internal fluid flow circuit formed in part by an elastomeric separating sheet within the cartridge. Following loading of the cartridge, shifting of the carrier body portion automatically results in a drive connection to the pump, the positioning of various flow control valves within the cartridge and the seating of the pressure transducer element to the control module. External flow lines are readily placed in fluid communication with the internal fluid flow circuit through exterior connection ports provided on the cartridge.

Abstract: An injectable medicament dispenser for use in controllably dispensing fluid medicaments such as insulin, antibiotics, oncolytics and the like from a prefilled container at a uniform rate. The dispenser includes a unique stored energy source in the form of a compressively deformable, polymeric elastomeric member that provides the force necessary to controllably discharge the medicament from the prefilled container which is housed within the body of the device. After having been deformed, the polymeric, elastomeric member will return to its starting configuration in a highly predictable manner.

Abstract: A closed-loop drug delivery system uses patient response and rule based decision making methods to achieve operator specified responses for diagnostic purposes. In the preferred embodiment, cardiac diagnosis is performed by pharmacologically stressing the heart by administration of an exercise simulating agent drug. In the preferred method, a protocol is defined, which preferably includes a target for a physiologic variable, such as heart rate, and a plan to achieve that target value. Preferably, the plan includes a specification of the desired rate of increase in that variable, such as the rate of increase in the heart rate per minute. The plan comprises the desired changes in the physiologic variable as a function of time. While any desired function may be used, the more common modes include RAMP, HOLD, LEVEL and TARGET mode. In one aspect of this invention, the protocol may be varied by the operator after drug administration has begun.

Abstract: A syringe driver device is able to effect the controlled, parenteral infusion of a medical fluid using an available disposable syringe. The driver device includes a frame heaving a movable carriage, which houses a force applying element, mounted thereto. A disposable syringe mounts upon the frame and a lengthy microbore tubing attaches to the outlet tip of the syringe. As a force is applied to the syringe plunger, fluid is expelled from the syringe, but its flow rate is dependent upon the diameter of the microbore tubing. The driver device enables the delivery of multiple, sequential doses of fluid.

Abstract: Apparatus for carrying out peritoneal dialysis. The apparatus comprises a weighing device (37) provided with a case (50) for forming an airtight space. A heat bag (38) and, optionally, a discharge bag (42) are positioned in the space, said bags being connected with a catheter for the patient, who is to perform peritoneal dialysis. The apparatus comprises a pump arrangement (57) connected with the case (50) for producing overpressure and underpressure, respectively, in the space inside the case. Valve arrangements (39, 44) are adapted to connect either the discharge bag (42) or the heat bag (38) with the patient's catheter. By providing an underpressure in the case (50). fresh dialysis solution is provided to the heat bag (38) from supply bags, whereupon used dialysis fluid is extracted from a patient to the discharge bag (42).

Abstract: An extra-corporal blood pump comprises a support means equipped with a pumping means and a driving means.

Abstract: An apparatus for accurately infusing fluids into a patient at specific rates over an extended period of time. The apparatus is of a low profile, laminate construction having a stored energy source in the form of a distendable membrane, which in cooperation with the base of the apparatus defines one or more fluid reservoirs each having a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet. The apparatus further includes a novel, conformable ullage made of formable materials. The conformable ullage uniquely conforms to the shape of elastomeric membrane as the membrane returns to its less distend configuration and in so doing can move between a central chamber and a toroidal chamber formed in the cover of the apparatus. This arrangement will satisfy even the most stringent medicament delivery tolerance requirements and will elegantly overcome the limitations of materials selection encountered in devices embodying solely rigid ullage construction.

Abstract: An implantable access device suitable for delivering a liquid medication to a site remote from the site of port implantation is disclosed, which contains a filter assembly for removing particulate material from fluid injected into the port. The filter assembly of the invention contains a first reservoir chamber having cutouts, recesses, and/or sharp corners in which particulate material may be trapped, and additionally having a first wall forming a filter barrier capable of 360.degree. of fluid flow therethrough. The implantable access device may also include an infusion pump apparatus coupled to the access device. A filter assembly for insertion into an implantable treatment material device is also described.

Abstract: Safety connector for infusion therapy for supplying several lines and having a casing (1) in which there is a chamber (4) that is bordered by an essentially cylindrical inside wall (5) of the casing into which several connecting channels (2) for joining infusion lines open and which has an outlet channel (9) for attaching an outlet line. The cylindrical outside wall of an elastic ring-shaped valve body is in contact with the inside wall (5) of casing (1) that surrounds chamber (4). The safety connector is simple and inexpensive and has an uncomplicated design. The cylindrical contact surfaces between the ring-shaped valve body and the cylindrical inside wall (5) surrounding chamber (4) result in a good seal for the non-return valves even at a low contact pressure. The sealing force can be determined even down to a very low pressure. Thus, for the first time a safety connector suitable for gravity infusion systems is available.

Abstract: Method for the controlled injection of a liquid in a tube by means of a peristaltic type pump actuated by a rotary d.c. motor (12) controlled by a control unit (10) such as a microprocessor, wherein an optical encoder (18) sends pulses to said control unit (10) during the intermittent operation of the motor. The method comprises operating the motor for period corresponding to a number of pulses equal to a set value. For each operating phase of the motor (12), equal to a predetermined number of pulses, the set value is reduced by the number of pulses transmitted during the preceding deceleration phase when the power supply is interrupted. The resulting error in the level of the volume of liquid to be injected thus remains approximately constant for the entire length of the injection period. The method according to the invention may be advantageously used in a programmable portable infusion system.

Abstract: An apparatus for accurately infusing fluids into a patient at specific rates over an extended period of time. The apparatus is of a low profile, laminate or layered construction having a stored energy source in the form of a distendable membrane, which, in cooperation with the base of the apparatus, defines one or more fluid reservoirs, each having a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet. The apparatus further includes, a high novel, conformable ullage made of yieldable materials. The conformable ullage uniquely conforms to the shape of elastomeric membrane as the membrane returns to its less distended configuration. Additionally, the infusion cannula of the apparatus is connected to the base in a novel manner which permits expeditious subdermal delivery to the patient via a cannula which extends generally perpendicularly relative to the base.

Abstract: An apparatus for accurately infusing medicinal agents into an ambulatory patient at specific rates over extended periods of time. The apparatus is of a compact, low profile, laminate construction and includes either an elastic distendable membrane, or a thin barrier member which, in cooperation with a thin planar base defines a fluid chamber having a fluid outlet. The apparatus includes an internal stored energy source which functions to controllably expel the medicinal agents from the apparatus. The stored energy source may comprise either a distendable elastomeric membrane of an expandable sponge like cellular mass.

Abstract: A pressure plate for use with a peristaltic pump having a base with a plurality of ribs attached to one surface of the base, each rib having a bottom surface, a top surface and an angled surface extending at an angle from the bottom to the top surface. Each rib being attached to the base such that the angled surface of each rib is oppositely disposed from the angled surface of another rib so that a channel is formed between each pair of oppositely disposed ribs. A securing mechanism is attached to the pressure plate to secure a compressible tube and an attachment mechanism is provided for attaching a pump mechanism to the pressure plate. One securing mechanism includes two clamps at opposite ends of the pressure plate with spaced apart retaining lips. Adhesive attachment of the tube to the pressure plate is also provided.

Abstract: The present invention relates to systems and methods for operating ambulatory medical devices, such as drug delivery devices. The pump includes the pump control system for activating a pumping mechanism wherein the pump control system includes a processor, a flash memory electrically interconnected to the processor for storing pump operation information, and a communications port electrically interconnected to the flash memory to permit transfer of the pump information into the flash memory from outside the pump. Communication with the pump can be through a computer system located locally or remotely with respect to the pump. The flash memory is utilized to initially program the pump electronically, or to reprogram the pump to change operation of the pump.

Abstract: An apparatus for accurately infusing fluids into a patient at specific rates over an extended period of time and the method for making same. The apparatus includes one or more dispensers, of a low profile, laminate or layered construction each having a stored energy source in the form of a distendable membrane or an elastomeric cellular mass, which in cooperation with the base, defined a fluid chamber having a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet. The apparatus further includes, in lieu of a rigid ullage, a high novel, conformable ullage made of yieldable materials. The conformable ullage uniquely conforms to the shape of elastomeric membrane as the membrane returns to its less distended configuration. This arrangement will satisfy even the most stringent delivery tolerance requirements and will elegantly overcome the limitations of materials selection encountered in devices embodying the rigid ullage construction.

Abstract: An method and apparatus for determining a degree of occlusion in the tubing loop disposed in the raceway of a peristaltic pump. An electrical circuit is formed in tubing loop by filling the loop with an electrically conductive fluid, such as blood, and electrically connecting the inlet portion to the outlet portion of the tubing loop. An excitation coil, which encircles a portion of the tubing loop, induces an alternating current in the tubing fluid. A sensing coil, also encircling a portion of the tubing loop, senses the induced current. The degree if occlusion in the tubing loop is correlated to the magnitude of the sensed current. The degree of occlusion may be adjusted, in response to the determined occlusion, while the pump is in operation using an occlusion adjuster.

Abstract: An apparatus for accurately infusing medicinal agents into an ambulatory patient at specific rates over extended periods of time. The apparatus is of a compact, low profile, laminate construction and includes an elastic distendable membrane, which, in cooperation with a thin planar base defines a fluid chamber having a fluid outlet. Disposed within the fluid chamber is a thin fluid permeable member which precisely controls the rate of fluid flow through the fluid outlet. The apparatus also includes a highly novel fluid flow indicator that provides a readily discernible visual indication of fluid flow through the apparatus.

Abstract: A system of infusing fluids in a patient includes an infusion pump for infusing fluids into a patient in accordance with instructions to carry out a desired course of infusion therapy. The system includes a physiological sensor for sensing conditions of the patient during the course of the infusion and a remote infusion controlling system for monitoring the course of the infusion and generating suggested adapted instructions.

Abstract: Pumping mechanisms for performing peritoneal dialysis and the like employ a pumping mechanism comprising a diaphragm that operate in response to applied fluid pressure. Flexible tubing is attached to the pumping mechanism for carrying liquid to and from the patient's peritoneal cavity. An actuating station for pumping mechanism receives the pumping mechanism and attached tubing. A pressure transfer element conveys fluid pressure to the diaphragm for moving liquid through the cassette. An occluder element contacts and crimps closed the tubing attached to the cassette. A first reservoir inflates with positive fluid pressure for contacting the pressure transfer element to hold it in operative contact against the diaphragm. A second reservoir inflates with positive fluid pressure for contacting the occluding element to hold it away from crimping contact with the tubing. At least one of the first and second reservoirs also transports fluid pressure to the pressure transfer element for conveyance to the diaphragm.

Abstract: An infusion system for administering multiple infusates at individually programmable rates, volumes, and sequences in any order from any one or more of plural fluid input ports through a patient output port and into the circulatory system of a patient. Infusates may be either continuously or time sequentially administered, and infusates may be either intermittently administered at selectively regular intervals or in time overlap to administer a dilution. Various error conditions are automatically detected and alarms generated in the event of conflicts between infusates, to identify times of no infusions, and to identify system malfunctions. The system is selectively operable, among others, in a priming mode, a maintenance mode, a normal-on mode, and a manual override mode. The system is operative to adapt actual to desired flow rates in normal operation. All fluids flow through a unitary disposable cassette without making any other system contact.