Having Means For Varying, Regulating, Indicating, Or Limiting Injection Pressure Or Aspirating Suction Patents (Class 604/118)
  • Patent number: 7670330
    Abstract: A method for operating a surgical system including a control unit having a vacuum sensor and/or a flow rate sensor, the method including placing a handpiece in an operative relationship with an eye for a surgical procedure and thereafter supplying irrigation fluid to the handpiece while applying a vacuum to the handpiece to aspirate the irrigation fluid from the eye through the handpiece. During fluid aspiration, a vacuum level and/or flow rate is sensed which corresponds to an occlusion of the handpiece and from the sensed vacuum level and/or flow rate, a duration of the occlusion is determined. In response to the determined duration of occlusion, at least one of the handpiece parameters is varied.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2010
    Assignee: Abbott Medical Optics Inc.
    Inventors: Michael J. Claus, Wayne S. Wong, Carina R. Reisin, Stephen H. Jang
  • Patent number: 7625354
    Abstract: A handpiece assembly is provided that is adapted for use with a medication infusion system that applies pressure to the handpiece assembly for delivering medication to a body. The handpiece assembly includes a cartridge holder that is configured for disposal of a medication cartridge. A tubing is provided having a first end, which is sealed with the cartridge holder such that the cartridge holder facilitates communication between the tubing and the medication cartridge. A handpiece is sealed with a needle and the second end of the tubing so that the tubing and the needle are in communication. One of the cartridge holder, the tubing, the needle or the handpiece is configured for a selective structural failure at a predetermined pressure threshold applied to the handpiece assembly from the medication infusion system. The cartridge holder may be designed to facilitate aspiration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2009
    Assignee: Milestone Scientific, Inc.
    Inventor: Mark Hochman
  • Patent number: 7621898
    Abstract: A waste collection and disposal system for use in health care facilities is provided. The system includes a mobile waste collection unit for moving between use areas in the health care facility to collect waste material generated during medical procedures including body fluids, body tissues, saline, etc. The waste collection unit includes stacked upper and lower waste containers for receiving the waste material. During use, the upper waste container can be emptied into the lower waste container for temporary storage. In addition, different vacuum levels can be provided in the waste containers during complex procedures. Once a user desires to empty the waste collection unit, the waste collection unit is wheeled to a docking station. At the docking station, the waste material is off-loaded to a waste drain and the waste collection unit is cleaned and rinsed for further use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2009
    Assignee: Stryker Corporation
    Inventors: Brent S. Lalomia, Stephen J. Reasoner, Stephen P. Isham, Chamara Gamhewage, Mark A. Wasserman, Glen D. Rocque, Troy E. Durnell, Grant T. Westphal, Brian MacLachlan
  • Publication number: 20090254034
    Abstract: An improved safety occluder and method of use provides an occluder for an infusion set having a first, occluding position, a second, non-occluding position which returns to the first, occluding position when the occluder's plunger is released, and a third, non-occluding position which retains the plunger in a configuration which allows fluid flow through the infusion set. The occluder may also include a locking mechanism to prevent accidental movement of the plunger out of the first, occluding position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2009
    Publication date: October 8, 2009
    Inventors: Kent Beck, Philip Eggers, Jeff Juretich, Ryan Federspiel
  • Patent number: 7563242
    Abstract: An ultrasonic surgery apparatus capable of setting surgical conditions properly in accordance with hardness of a nucleus lentis and performing surgery with efficiency is disclosed. The ultrasonic surgery apparatus includes an ultrasonic vibration inducing unit, having an ultrasonic chip which induces ultrasonic vibrations to fragment and emulsify a nucleus lentis, an input unit which inputs a judgment result of hardness of the nucleus lentis, and a setting unit which sets a condition of the ultrasonic vibrations thereafter based on the inputted judgment result.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2009
    Assignee: Nidek Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Shigeo Yaguchi, Hidenori Kanda
  • Publication number: 20090157001
    Abstract: A flow measurement device 100 is provided that includes an electrode terminal chamber 102 with an inlet 104 in communication with a flow channel 108 for receiving fluid and viscoelastic material aspirated from a surgical site, and an outlet 106 that tapers into a flow channel 108. The outlet 108 has a taper angle that is sufficient to smooth flow and cause viscoelastic material entering the electrode terminal chamber 102 to flow substantially within a center portion of the chamber and through the outlet 106. The electrode terminal chamber 102 further includes first and second electrode terminals 130 and 140 disposed on generally opposite sides of the electrode terminal chamber 102 in a spaced-apart manner. The first and second electrode terminals 130 and 140 are positioned a distance from the center of the chamber 102 that is sufficient to substantially avoid contact between the terminals and viscoelastic materials flowing through the chamber 102.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2007
    Publication date: June 18, 2009
    Inventors: Ross Peter Jones, Mark Ian Lutwyche, David Martin Pooley
  • Publication number: 20090124974
    Abstract: A needleless fluid delivery system allowing for selective control of amounts of therapeutic fluids that are administered to treatment sites within a patient. The fluid delivery system includes an injector source and an access device. The fluid delivery system generally includes an adjustable volume control system for selectively metering the amount of therapeutic fluid to be delivered to the treatment location. The adjustable volume control system generally includes a mechanical stop system with a plunger member and a stop member, wherein the plunger member and stop member physically interact to restrict a plunger insertion length which simultaneously controls an amount of therapeutic fluid expelled by said plunger.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 9, 2007
    Publication date: May 14, 2009
    Inventors: Justin M. Crank, Sidney F. Hauschild
  • Patent number: 7524299
    Abstract: A microsurgical system capable of controlling aspiration via a vacuum control mode, a suction control mode, or a flow control mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2009
    Assignee: Alcon, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark A. Hopkins, Shawn X. Gao
  • Patent number: 7481791
    Abstract: A surgical fluid flow handpiece provides a range of relatively low flow rates with relatively fine manual control in selecting a flow rate in such relatively low range, and also provides for manual selection of a relatively high flow rate namely a flow rate well above such range. The handpiece is shaped to complement the shape of a user's hand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2009
    Assignee: Stryker Corporation
    Inventors: Reid Cover, Thomas Martin Keast, Anthony Chikuo Lee, Sean Barry Cahill
  • Publication number: 20080319451
    Abstract: A post-occlusion chamber collapse canceling system for a surgical apparatus that detects the breaking of occlusions by tissue fragments in the distal end of the aspiration path and produces a response consisting in a transitory blockage of the distal end the aspiration path to terminate the chamber collapse and a transitory venting of the aspiration line to relieve the vacuum, in a way that post-occlusion chamber collapses are cancelled.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2007
    Publication date: December 25, 2008
    Inventor: JAIME ZACHARIAS
  • Publication number: 20080287870
    Abstract: A reservoir unit (200) is provided comprising a housing (201) in which a reservoir (250) with a transparent portion (251) is arranged, the housing comprising a window (203) allowing a portion of the reservoir to be inspected. The reservoir unit is adapted to be moved from a first “cold” condition to a second “warm” condition with no visible water condensing on the interior surface of the window portion. Further, a vent (210, 211) is adapted to provide pressure equalization between the interior of the housing and the exterior. In this way it is possible to perform visual inspection of the reservoir at all times without being confused by dew or condensed water drops, e.g. when a prefilled reservoir unit containing a drug which requires storage at a given low temperature, as is the case for insulin-containing drugs, is taken out in ambient temperature.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2006
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Applicant: Nov Nordisk A/S
    Inventors: Karsten Kallesoe Nielsen, Lars Aagaard
  • Publication number: 20080287871
    Abstract: A device for delivering a substance into the skin of a patient includes a body and a skin penetrating device having at least one skin penetrating member, such as a microneedle. The body includes an internal cavity and a device for indicating the delivery of a sufficient amount of the substance to the patient and for producing a dispensing pressure to dispense and deliver the substance from the cavity. The indicating device is visible from the exterior of the delivery device. In some embodiments, the indicating device is an elastic expandable diaphragm which, when the cavity is filled with a substance, creates the dispensing pressure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 3, 2008
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Inventors: Bradley M. Wilkinson, Mark Newby
  • Publication number: 20080269678
    Abstract: An automatic pump relay system includes controllers coupled to drivers for sequentially discharging fluid from a plurality of medication containers into a coupler having a reflux barrier from which fluid is administered to a patient. The internal fluid pressure of the coupler is determined by a pressure sensing device or devices that provide signals to the controllers that, based at least on the sensor signals, cause the drivers to operate in reverse and forward directions so as to rapidly decrease and raise the fluid pressure within the coupler during a relay from an empty syringe to a filled syringe, thereby avoiding bolus formation and an interruption in infusion therapy. Independently operable syringes pumps are contemplated to be connected in relay fashion to form a modular system. An associated method is also disclosed wherein a fluid administration pressure is stored for use as a reference during a syringe changeover.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2008
    Publication date: October 30, 2008
    Inventor: Pierre REBOURS
  • Publication number: 20080262425
    Abstract: A medical reservoir (1) for a front loaded infusion device (100) comprising a housing (101), a chamber (104) inside said housing for receiving said reservoir and a drive member (102). Said reservoir comprises a first end (2); an outlet (6) disposed at said first end, said outlet having closable dispensing means; a second open end (3); an elongate body portion (4) disposed between said first and second ends; and a piston (30) slideable arranged within said elongate body portion and being connectable to said drive member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 11, 2005
    Publication date: October 23, 2008
    Inventor: Lasse W. Mogensen
  • Publication number: 20080208122
    Abstract: Means to control the retraction of an auto-retractable safety syringe to minimise splashback or splatter is disclosed. The end of a hollow plunger (11) is covered by a sealing member (14) that, upon retraction, is dislodged so that the needle assembly and seal enters the hollow plunger. Three methods by which the auto-retraction is controlled are disclosed. Firstly there is provided a taper within the inside of the hollow plunger which creates varying resistance of movement to the sealing member. Secondly there is provided a bleed hole (15) at the upper end of the plunger, whereby the air is allowed to escape. Thirdly, there is provided on or more grooves (16) in the periphery of the plunger seal so that air is allowed to be released, thereby reducing the pressure in the plunger and hence the possibility of splashback.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2006
    Publication date: August 28, 2008
    Applicant: GLOBAL MEDISAFE HOLDINGS LIMITED
    Inventors: Graeme Francis Walton, Allan Walsh
  • Publication number: 20080125699
    Abstract: A surgical system with irrigation and aspiration lines having different compliance or stiffness, with the irrigation line having a higher compliance than the aspiration line.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 2, 2006
    Publication date: May 29, 2008
    Inventors: Sherman G. Davis, Michael D. Morgan, Gary P. Sorensen
  • Publication number: 20080114300
    Abstract: An eye treatment cassette includes a handpiece, a vacuum source, a holding tank, a collection bag, and a displacement-based pump. The handpiece is configured to aspirate fluids from a patient's eye. The vacuum source communicates with the handpiece. The holding tank is interposed between the handpiece and the vacuum source, and is configured to hold the aspirated fluids. The collection bag is connected to the holding tank for collecting the aspirated fluids. The pump is coupled to the holding tank and is configured to operate while the vacuum source continues to aspirate fluids via the handpiece to drain the aspirated fluids from the holding tank.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2007
    Publication date: May 15, 2008
    Applicant: Advanced Medical Optics, Inc.
    Inventors: John I. Muri, Craig Edwards
  • Publication number: 20080108942
    Abstract: Systems and methods of use for continuous analyte measurement of a host's vascular system are provided. In some embodiments, a continuous glucose measurement system includes a vascular access device, a sensor and sensor electronics, the system being configured for insertion into communication with a host's circulatory system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2007
    Publication date: May 8, 2008
    Applicant: DexCom, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark Brister, Vance Swanson, James R. Petisce, Sean Saint, David K. Wong, Kum Ming Woo
  • Patent number: 7306577
    Abstract: The present invention is concerned with a vacuum release suction device for regulating and controlling suction in an aspiration line, and which may be included in aspirators such as for example dentistry, surgery, or cosmetic tools. When operated, such tools generally generate noise which may become harmful to the tool user or for the patient on which the tool is used. More specifically, the suction device of the present invention includes a body having an inlet port and an outlet port defining a chamber in the body and a bypass inlet intersecting the chamber at an acute angle with respect to the longitudinal axis of the chamber, such that a main fluid stream is generated with minimized occurrences of flow separation, turbulence and therefore minimized generated aerodynamic noise.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2007
    Inventors: Patrick D. Lemoine, Maxime Bolduc, Martin Brouillette, Jean-Sébastien Plante
  • Patent number: 7255683
    Abstract: A system and method for determining whether the pressure in a fluid line upstream of an infusion pump is becoming lower as pumping draws fluid from the fluid line and fluid container due to a lack of proper venting. An initial pressure is sensed by an upstream pressure sensor at the start of an infusion. After a period of time, which may be determined either by monitoring infusion time or the number of pump cycles completed, a second pressure is sampled and compared to the initial pressure. Various analytical methods may be applied to the sensed pressures to determine upstream pressures or trends. Where an upstream pressure reading indicates a lack of proper venting, an alert signal is provided. Continuous monitoring may occur in which succeeding samples are compared to preceding samples to determine upstream pressures or trends.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2007
    Assignee: Cardinal Health 303, Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy W. Vanderveen, Robert D. Butterfield
  • Patent number: 7238171
    Abstract: A system for controlling pressurized infusion and temperature of intravenous fluids according to the present invention includes a housing, a heating assembly and a flexible cover. The heating assembly is recessed within the housing and includes a generally U-shaped configuration to surround and uniformly heat fluid within a fluid container placed thereon. The cover wraps around a portion of the fluid container to secure the fluid container against the heating assembly. The cover includes a pressurization member to apply a desired pressure to the fluid container to achieve a desired flow rate of intravenous fluid from the fluid container to an infusion site on a patient. The system further includes a controller to control the heating assembly and pressure within the pressurization member in accordance with desired temperature and pressure information entered into the controller for system operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Assignee: Medical Solutions, Inc.
    Inventors: Durward I. Faries, Jr., Bruce R. Heymann, Calvin Blankenship, David Hendrix
  • Patent number: 7217257
    Abstract: An aspiration flow resistor 10 includes an inlet 12 and an outlet 14. A housing 16 is connected to the inlet 12 and outlet 14. A series of spaced walls 18 are disposed between the inlet 12 and the outlet 14. The walls 18 and the inlet 12 and the outlet 14 together with the housing 16 define a plurality of aspiration flow chambers 22. As aspirant flows from the inlet 12 to the outlet 14, a pressure decrease in the aspirant flow occurs at each wall 18 to provide resistance to aspirant flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2007
    Assignee: Bausch & Lomb Incorporated
    Inventors: Laurence J. Cull, James T. Perkins, Matthew J. Fitzgerald
  • Patent number: 7169123
    Abstract: Phacoemulsification apparatus includes a phacoemulsification handpiece having a needle and an electrical circuitry for ultrasonic vibrating the needle. A power source provides pulsed electrical power to the handpiece electrical circuitry and an input is provided for enabling a surgeon to select an amplitude of dislighted pulses and a pulse width. A control system and pulse duty cycle is provided for controlling the off duty cycle to insure heat dissipation before a subsequent pulse is activated, including a foot pedal switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2007
    Assignee: Advanced Medical Optics, Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth E. Kadziauskas, Paul Rockley
  • Patent number: 7070575
    Abstract: A feeding set adaptor and related system for delivering solutions utilize a feeding set adaptor which engages a pump engaging portion of an infusion set and the feeding set adaptor structure to provide monitoring portions for detecting pressures within the infusion set, a sample cell for determining the presence of air within an infusion set, and an anti-freeflow device for selectively preventing freeflow through the infusion set. The feeding set adaptor is configured for mounting on an infusion pump which moves solution through the infusion set for delivery to a patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2006
    Assignee: Zevex, Inc.
    Inventors: Kent F. Beck, James A. Malmstrom, Scott D. Miles
  • Patent number: 7066903
    Abstract: The present invention provides a coupling device for attaching a sleeve (40) to a surgical aspirator tip (10) that allows airflow between the external environment and the interior of the sleeve (40). The coupling device includes a male member (26) attached to the tip (10) and a female member (42) formed in the proximal end of the sleeve (40). The male member (26) includes at least one longitudinal groove (100). When the male member (26) is received into the female member (42), at least one venting channel (80) is defined between at least one longitudinal groove of the male member (26) and the inner surface of the female member (42). Venting channel (80) permits airflow between the external environment and the interior of the sleeve (40).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2006
    Assignee: Surgimark, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard J. Yarger
  • Patent number: 7063688
    Abstract: A portable aspirator has a canister, a housing that removably receives the canister, and a rigid catheter directly connected to the canister. Preferably, the canister and the catheter are molded or otherwise formed in a one piece construction. An inlet port on the housing and an outlet chamber from the canister are provided with seals to form an air tight connection between the housing and the canister. The canister is constructed to form a labyrinthine path from the catheter to the outlet chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2006
    Assignee: Say Family Trust
    Inventor: Samuel L. Say
  • Patent number: 7059840
    Abstract: An apparatus for pumping fluid through tubing comprising a stop platen is disclosed. The stop platen is operatively arranged to depress a wall of the tubing along a section of a longitudinal axis of the tubing. The stop platen is narrower than the tubing along a transverse axis of the tubing. The invention further comprises a cabinet containing the stop platen, a door rotatably fixed to the cabinet, and locking means for preventing rotation of the door. The locking means are operatively arranged to be unlocked by a tubing occluder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2006
    Assignee: SIGMA International
    Inventors: Kenneth J. Corwin, Roger L. Hungerford, Yuriy Shvetsov, Michael H. Wollowitz
  • Patent number: 7001359
    Abstract: A medical device known as an implantable therapeutic substance delivery device is configured for implanting in humans to deliver a therapeutic substance such as pharmaceutical compositions, genetic materials, and biologics to treat a variety of medical conditions such as pain, spastisity, cancer, and many other conditions. The infusion device embodiment has active longevity projection that more accurately predicts an elective replacement period for the infusion device to increase the infusion device's effective life, reduce the need for a clinician to perform static longevity forecasts for therapy changes, facilitate elective replacement scheduling for the convenience of the patient and clinician, and many other improvements. The infusion device has a housing, a power source, a therapeutic substance reservoir, a therapeutic substance pump, and electronics. Many embodiments of the therapeutic substance delivery device with active longevity projection and its methods of operation are possible.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2006
    Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.
    Inventor: Charles R. Rogers
  • Patent number: 6981960
    Abstract: In a cosed-loop process, a controller uses a flow sensor to monitor the flow of a medicinal fluid being infused into a patient, to achieve a desired rate of flow. A relatively inexpensive peristaltic pump or electronically controlled valve can be used to vary the flow of the medicinal fluid through a fluid line. A Y site within the fluid line includes an integral flow sensor having an orifice. The flow sensor includes proximal and distal pressure sensors disposed on opposite sides of the orifice to monitor the distal and proximal pressure, producing a signal indicative of the rate of flow of the medicinal fluid through the fluid line. A signal produced by the controller is input to a motor driving the pump or to the valve to vary the rate of flow as required to achieve the desired infusion rate of the medicinal fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2006
    Assignee: Hospira, Inc.
    Inventors: Steve T. Cho, Gene E. Clark
  • Patent number: 6976977
    Abstract: A drainage device comprising an improved vacuum regulator assembly is disclosed which includes an adjustable knob for indicating the degree of vacuum being applied to the device from a number of incident viewing angles. Similarly, a vacuum indicator assembly is provided for indicating the presence or absence of vacuum being applied to drainage device. The indicator assembly provides an indication of vacuum inside drainage device from many viewing angles and includes a base defining a recess having a slanted surface with a vacuum symbol which is selectively masked by a collapsible thimble when vacuum is applied or removed from the drainage device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2005
    Assignee: Sherwood Services AG
    Inventor: Jacky Yam
  • Patent number: 6974438
    Abstract: Described is an accurate, easy to use and inexpensive device and method for substantially immediate detection and indication of malfunction in an intravenous delivery system. The two piece device includes a disposable conduit body interconnected with the tubing of an intravenous delivery system and a reusable clamp apparatus that is deployed around the conduit body. The conduit body is highly sensitive to pressure changes inside the tubing. The clamp apparatus contains a sensing mechanism that discerns the responses of the conduit body to the change in line pressure from below to above atmospheric pressure. Also located in the clamp apparatus is an indication system that indicates if that change in pressure has occurred.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2005
    Assignee: L.G. Med Ltd.
    Inventor: Avraham Shekalim
  • Patent number: 6966893
    Abstract: An over pressurization relief apparatus having a manual over pressurization selector which allows a user to manually select from at least a first and second over pressurization limit. The over pressurization relief apparatus includes a pressurization chamber, a pressure relief mechanism, a seal, and a manual over pressurization selector. The pressurization of the pressurization chamber corresponds with the pressurization of the pressure infusion bag. The pressure relief mechanism prevents additional pressurization of the pressure infusion bag once the over pressurization limit has been reached. The seal is positioned between the pressurization chamber and the pressure relief mechanism to prevent the loss of pressurization from the pressure infusion bag when the pressurization in the pressurization chamber is less than the over pressurization limit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2005
    Assignee: Merit Medical Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Troy Holtby, Greg McArthur, Tom Stout, Arlin Dale Nelson
  • Patent number: 6958050
    Abstract: A multi-purpose medical suctioning device, comprising a first tubular body portion, a second tubular portion operatively connected to said first tubular body portion, said second tubular portion having a flexible tip portion which has an entrance of reduced area, there being a side inlet associated with at least one of said first and second portion, to be manually blocked and unblocked to control suctioning of fluid from said tip portion entrance and through said second and first tubular portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2005
    Assignee: Neotech Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Pradip V. Choski, Thomas R. Thornbury, Craig McCrary
  • Patent number: 6955664
    Abstract: A low cost suction regulator is disclosed in conjunction with a fluid drainage system that includes a suction chamber and a collection chamber. The suction regulator is comprised of an atmospheric chamber and a suction chamber separated by a divider. An opening in the divider has a variably biased closing member associated therewith for opening or closing the opening according to operator selected pressure differentials between the chambers. The closing member is movable along an axis that differs from the direction of airflow, thus eliminating the need for damping the forces applied to the closing member. The dividing means and its closing member will operate over the full range of angles from the vertical to horizontal axis. One embodiment of the drainage system further includes devices for measuring patient airflow, patient negativity and imposed suction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2005
    Assignee: D'Antonio Consultants International, Inc.
    Inventor: Nicholas F. D'Antonio
  • Patent number: 6918902
    Abstract: The in-line hand operated valve controls the flow of at least the irrigation fluid or suction to a surgical site. First and second sources provide fluid and suction to the valve. Valve body source ports communicate with the source lines and a delivery port communicates with a delivery line. The valve includes collapsible internal fluid carrying channels linking these ports. Each valve mechanism includes an operator control surface, a stem, and a compressor member acting on and closing and opening the collapsible channels. A biasing element keeps the stem and compressor either open or closed. A two position interlocking mechanical switch, coupled to the stem, is extended in the ON valve position and withdrawn in the OFF position. The method of providing a valve control utilizes these shape and click open and click close systems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2005
    Assignee: ConMed Corp.
    Inventors: C. Kenneth French, Garrett L. Barker, Stephen Chakoff, Melvin E. Levinson
  • Patent number: 6918764
    Abstract: An oral cavity device wherein a pump is driven with a cleaning head introduced in the oral cavity to suck residual matter in the oral cavity and to drain it into a waste liquid tank in order to clean the oral cavity, and wherein a water feed port of a water feed tube is provided in a waste flow passage of from an end of the cleaning head to a suction port of the waste liquid tank to increase negative pressure in the waste flow passage by feeding water through the water feed tube and, then, to suck the residual matter, at a breath with the increased negative pressure by no longer feeding the water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2005
    Assignee: Ricoh Elemex Corporation
    Inventors: Kazumasa Ito, Shin Yamazaki
  • Patent number: 6908451
    Abstract: A surgical system having a cassette with an aspirant collection chamber and an aspiration exhaust line that drains into the aspirant collection chamber. A fluid line containing a valve allowing fluid from the irrigation fluid container to be vented into the aspirant collection chamber. A source of pressurized air is connected to the irrigation fluid container and is used to pressurize the fluid container. When the pressure within the fluid container needs to be increased, pressurized air from the pressurized air source is allowed to enter the fluid container. When the pressure within the fluid container needs to be decreased, irrigation fluid is allowed to be bled out of the fluid container and inter the collection chamber. In this manner, a direct fluidic connection with the gas contained within the fluid container does not need to be maintained.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2005
    Assignee: Alcon, Inc.
    Inventors: George Brody, Gary P. Sorensen
  • Patent number: 6899696
    Abstract: A method is disclosed for noninvasively obtaining intraductal fluid. The method includes the use of an intraductal fluid sampling device to contact the patient, provide compression, and deliver heat thereto according to predetermined cycle characteristics. The cycle characteristics, such as compression cycle times and compression rates, may be varied and controlled by a control circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2005
    Assignee: Neomatrix, LLC
    Inventors: Kevin B. Morton, Rex O. Bare, Jeffrey C. Smith, Timothy J. Payne, Paul Gleason
  • Patent number: 6892755
    Abstract: An improved ambulatory infusion device for dispensing a fluid into a patient includes a flexible bladder enclosure having a first open end a closed second end. The closed second end of the sheath is free to conform to the body of the patient so that the device is comfortable when worn. In other aspects, a pressure regulator of the device is adapted to maintain the outlet pressure within a predetermined range of pressures so that the fluid flow rate is substantially constant during fluid flow. A flow restrictor of the device is formed of flexible tubing. An ambulatory infusion device for dispensing a fluid at a predetermined fluid flow rate includes an elastic bladder having an interior volume for storing the fluid under pressure and an opening for dispensing the fluid. A pressure regulator is in fluid communication with the opening of the bladder and includes an inlet for receiving fluid from the bladder at an inlet pressure and an outlet for discharging the fluid at a predetermined outlet pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2005
    Assignee: Baxter International Inc.
    Inventor: Larry Black
  • Patent number: 6875198
    Abstract: A suction regulator valve adapted to be installed between a suction pump or other vacuum source and a suction tube or catheter, the valve comprising a hollow valve body having an outer surface with a generally transverse or circumferential opening therethrough, and a valve member slidably mounted on the valve body for generally transverse or circumferential movement thereon. The valve member is movable between an open position wherein the opening is uncovered and a closed position wherein the valve member covers and closes the opening. The valve member is positioned for engagement by the thumb or other finger of a user to enable the movement of the valve member to cover or uncover all or a portion of the opening. The suction regulator valve may be a separate member, may have a handle portion or may be formed integrally with a suction wand or other suction device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2005
    Inventor: Kevin T. Foley
  • Patent number: 6866994
    Abstract: Disclosed is a method and apparatus for accomplishing a noninvasive screen for breast disease markers, including breast cancer markers and cytologically abnormal cells. Intraductal fluid is noninvasively aspirated using compression, heating and suction cycles. The removed sample is thereafter assayed for the presence of cytologically abnormal cells and/or one or more breast disease markers. Sample size and intraductal mobility of breast disease markers may be enhanced by retrograde introduction of a carrier. Devices and assays are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2005
    Assignee: NeoMatrix, LLC
    Inventor: Kevin Morton
  • Patent number: 6860870
    Abstract: A gas powered spraying device that can be used for single or multi-part reactive medical polymer compositions is provided. A fluid or one or more reactive solutions are sprayed independently at a tissue surface, and the spraying of each solution of multi-component embodiments is controlled by a separate valve. Each solution is provided with a separate spray outlet, and each spray outlet is surrounded by an annular sheath of flowing gas. Gas flow is provided at two or more flow levels, including a high level flow for active spraying and a low level bypass flow to remove drips and prevent clogging, which can improve device reliability. Gas pressure can be used to drive fluid to its spray outlet, as well as to spray the fluid from the outlet to the tissue surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2005
    Assignee: Focal, Inc.
    Inventors: Dean M. Pichon, David J. Nedder, John R. Sousa, J. Jeffrey Kablik, Albert H. Linder
  • Patent number: 6852094
    Abstract: A feeding set adaptor and related system for delivering solutions utilize a feeding set adaptor which engages a pump engaging portion of an infusion set and the feeding set adaptor structure to provide monitoring portions for detecting pressures within the infusion set, a sample cell for determining the presence of air within an infusion set, and an anti-freeflow device for selectively preventing freeflow through the infusion set. The feeding set adaptor is configured for mounting on an infusion pump which moves solution through the infusion set for delivery to a patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2005
    Assignee: ZEVEX, Inc.
    Inventors: Kent F. Beck, James A. Malmstrom, Scott D. Miles
  • Publication number: 20040186430
    Abstract: The invention provides devices and methods for identification of an epidural space. The invention also provides for visually determining when a needle enters the epidural space.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 20, 2003
    Publication date: September 23, 2004
    Applicant: North West London Hospitals NHS Trust
    Inventors: Maan Hasan, Jim Roberts
  • Publication number: 20040168530
    Abstract: The invention relates to a pressure dome for connecting a transducer with a fluid system comprising an inlet channel and an outflow channel as well as a measuring chamber in which a fluid is able to circulate and which has a measuring membrane. To improve fluid circulation and simplify handling, the measuring chamber ceiling is configured in the shape of a calotte and the pressure dome is removably coupled to the transducer housing by means of a snap connection.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 11, 2004
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Applicant: MEMSCAP AS
    Inventors: Manfred Adolfs, Raymond Glocker
  • Publication number: 20040170409
    Abstract: A system for controlling the temperature of intravenous fluids according to the present invention includes a heating cabinet and a power supply cabinet. The heating cabinet includes a housing, a flexible cover and a heating plate with a generally curved configuration to uniformly heat a solution container. The cover wraps around the fluid container to secure the solution container against the heating cabinet. The heating cabinet further includes a heating controller to maintain the solution at a desired temperature. The power supply cabinet provides power to the heating cabinet and includes a display for indicating a solution temperature. A secondary power supply may be provided in the heating cabinet to facilitate heating controller operation when the heating cabinet is disengaged from the power supply cabinet. The system further monitors and provides reports of fluid temperature history.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 14, 2003
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventors: Durward I. Faries, Bruce R. Heymann, David Hendrix
  • Patent number: 6780166
    Abstract: An irrigation/aspiration apparatus for ophthalmic surgery, includes: an irrigation fluid supplying unit, which supplies irrigation fluid into a patient eye; an aspiration unit provided with a hand piece having an aspiration hole, which aspirates through the aspiration hole a removed tissue along with the irrigation fluid supplied into the patient eye; a pressure sensor which detects vacuum pressure caused by the aspiration unit; and a control unit connected to the irrigation fluid supplying unit and the pressure sensor, which varies at least one of irrigation rate and irrigation pressure by controlling the irrigation fluid supplying unit based on the detected vacuum pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2004
    Assignee: Nidek Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hidenori Kanda, Hideyuki Matsuda
  • Publication number: 20040158203
    Abstract: A surgical fluid flow handpiece provides a range of relatively low flow rates with relatively fine manual control in selecting a flow rate in such relatively low range, and also provides for manual selection of a relatively high flow rate namely a flow rate well above such range. The handpiece is shaped to complement the shape of a user's hand.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 14, 2003
    Publication date: August 12, 2004
    Applicant: Stryker Corporation
    Inventors: Reid Cover, Thomas Martin Keast, Anthony Chikuo Lee, Sean Barry Cahill
  • Patent number: 6773417
    Abstract: An epidural space locating device for locating an epidural space, the device comprising a body section having a first end and a second end and a longitudinal passageway extending therethrough, the first end of which is coupleable to a luer assembly; and a collapsible bellows chamber having one end coupled to the second end of the body section and the other end exposed so as to permit pressure to be exerted thereon by one or more digits of a hand, wherein positive pressure within the bellows chamber maintains the integrity of the shape of the bellows chamber and wherein negative or zero pressure within the bellows chamber facilitates the collapsing of the shape of the bellows chamber thus indicating the locating of the epidural space by a needle that is coupled to the luer assembly; wherein the loss of pressure within the bellows chamber is sensed by the one or more digits of the hand as the shape of the bellows chamber collapses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2004
    Assignee: ISPG, Inc.
    Inventors: James F. Fitzgibbons, Christopher S. Young
  • Publication number: 20040138615
    Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided for regulating pressure applied during a medical procedure, including an inelastic housing enclosing an inner volume, a housing having a first and second end; an aperture in the housing, the aperture for coupling to an element for applying a pressure during a medical procedure, the element having an inner volume communicated with the inner volume of the housing; and a pressure-operated valve coupled to the housing for providing access to the inner volume of the housing when pressure in the housing is above a threshold, whereby the valve releases pressure from within the inner volume of the housing. The method and apparatus are particularly useful in preparation of conduits such as veins and arteries during grafting procedures.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 5, 2004
    Publication date: July 15, 2004
    Inventor: Pierluca Lombardi