Abstract: A gland member within a medical valve is configured to have a substantially consistent or enlarging internal volume as the valve transitions from a closed mode to an open mode. The valve has a housing forming an interior containing a flow path, and a stationary post member within the interior. The post member has a lumen that is a part of the flow path. The lumen has an opening to the interior of the housing. The valve further includes a gland member circumscribing the post member to produce a variable volume region formed at least in part between the gland member itself and the post member. The variable volume region is a part of the flow path, while the gland member occludes the post lumen opening when in the closed mode. The variable volume region has an open volume that is no less than its closed volume.

Abstract: A medical connector providing connection between medical devices comprising a female end connectable with a male end of a first medical device, a generally circular covering portion attached to the female end that is substantially wider than the transverse cross-section of the female end, a second end configured to connect with a second medical device, a housing extending between the female end and the second end comprising a region adjacent the covering portion that is wider than an outer diameter of the covering portion. In a first stage, the female end is configured to remain stationary with respect to the housing while the male end of the first medical device is rotated onto the female end. In a second stage, the female end is configured to rotate with respect to the housing to inhibit disconnection of the male end of the first medical device.

Abstract: Caps can be used to cover and disinfect medical connectors. Some caps can create a seal with the medical connectors to prevent antiseptic from entering a fluid paths defined by a connector. Support members can aid in creating or maintaining the seal.

Abstract: A tearaway sheath assembly (100) having a splittable sheath tube (102) a splittable hub (110), a split valve (150,250) and a split cap (180). The valve (150,250) has a slit (158,258) at least partially across the transverse distal section (154) such that transverse distal section may be displaced laterally during insertion through the slit (158,258), of a dilator (200) or a catheter. The valve (150,250) is formed in two separate halves (152A,152B;252) that are fused or adhered to each other to form a sealed weak bond (154) that is easily broken during splitting of the sheath; each valve half is mechanically affixed in a proximal valve-receiving recess (130) of the hub such as by anchor posts (136) extending through apertures (166A,166B) in ears (164A,164B) of each valve half. A two-part cap (180) is affixed to the hub proximal end (120) and traps the valve between itself and the hub.

Abstract: Caps can be used to cover and disinfect a male protrusion portion of a medical connector. Some caps can create a seal with the male protrusion to prevent antiseptic from entering a lumen the protrusion. A biasing element can aid in creating or maintaining the seal.

Abstract: Some embodiments disclosed herein relate to a medical connector having a backflow resistance module configured to prevent fluid from being drawn into the connector when a backflow inducing event occurs. In some embodiments, the backflow resistance module can include a variable-volume chamber configured to change in volume in response to a backflow-inducing event and a check valve configured to resist backflow. In some embodiments, the medical connector can include a fluid diverter configured to direct fluid flowing through the medical connector into the variable volume chamber to prevent fluid stagnation therein. In some embodiments, the medical connector includes a body member, a base member, a seal member, a support member, and a valve member.

Abstract: A self-cleaning suction device has a user's suction end that self-sanitizes externally and internally before and after use, as well as self-sanitizes internally during use. A cover opens to reveal the user's suction end within a containment unit. As the cover opens, the suction end travels from a lower chamber, proceeds through a middle chamber of a sanitizing agent, and is presented for use. After suction is complete, the suction end retracts through an upper chamber with, a scraping feature that removes debris from the outer surface of the mouthpiece, and proceeds down through the middle chamber of a sanitizing agent and a scraping feature that removes debris and the sanitizing agent from the outer surface of the user's suction end. Upon the sealing closure of the cover, the upper and middle chambers are flushed with a sanitizing agent, which is suctioned away along with any collected debris.

Abstract: A septum is disclosed that can be utilized in a catheter assembly to selectively seal an opening in the catheter assembly. The septum has a tube portion and a plug portion. The plug portion has a slit extending through it. The septum can transition from a non-collapsed state to a collapsed state. When the septum is in a non-collapsed state, the plug portion is offset from the tube portion such that some of the length of the slit extends outward from the distal end of the tube portion. When the septum transitions to the collapsed state, the plug portion is moved inward into the internal cavity such that some of the length of the slit may or may not extend outward from the distal end of the tube portion.

Abstract: A medical device includes an antimicrobial layer. A method of depositing an antimicrobial agent on or in the body of a medical device includes inserting a high temperature resistant tube having multiple holes through its surface into a vascular access device and coating, or delivering an antimicrobial agent to, and interior surface of the device.

Abstract: A surgical apparatus includes a hub, a closure valve, an internal seal member, and a spring. The hub defines an internal chamber. The closure valve is disposed within the internal chamber and defines an internal bore extending therethrough. The closure valve is movable relative to the hub between a first position, substantially sealing the internal chamber, and a second position, establishing a fluid passage extending completely through the hub. The internal seal member is disposed within the internal bore of the closure valve and is movable relative to the closure valve between a closed position, substantially sealing the internal bore, and an open position, establishing an internal passage, different from the fluid passage, extending completely through the closure valve. The spring is disposed within the internal chamber and is configured to bias the internal seal member towards the closed position, thereby biasing the closure valve towards the first position.

Abstract: Medical device system comprising a catheter including an elongate tubular member having an inner wall surface defining a lumen extending longitudinally through at least a portion of the tubular member. The medical device also includes an inner stop extending inwardly from the inner wall surface of the tubular member at a distal end section of the catheter and a pusher device insertable into the lumen. The pusher device has a contact surface to abut the inner stop of the tubular member.

Abstract: A blunt cannula includes a distal portion and a proximal portion. The proximal portion has a non-circular, such as oval, cross-section. A slit septum of a medical site is oriented to receive the proximal portion of the blunt cannula.

Abstract: A tube clamping system includes a Bowden cable with an inner member and an outer casing. A first jaw element has a first tube abutment surface, a passage, and a first sliding latch portion. The inner member passes through the passage. A second jaw element has a second tube abutment surface, a cable guide, and a second sliding latch portion. The inner member has a first end held in the mated sliding latch portions so that sliding of the inner member results in selectably positioning the first and second tube abutment surfaces together or spaced apart. An actuator coupled to a second end of the outer casing and a second end of the inner member applies a force to slide the inner member within the outer casing, the passage, and the cable guide. The Bowden cable substantially isolates the tube being clamped from the weight of the actuator.

Abstract: A female enteral feeding connector includes a body having a hollow interior and an opening extending into the hollow interior for receiving a tip of a preselected male enteral feeding connector. A deformable retainer is mounted in the hollow interior adjacent the opening. A guard is mounted in the hollow interior and spaced from the retainer. A stop is positioned in the hollow interior for obstructing the opening in the body. The stop is moveable through the deformable retainer by application of a manual force on the preselected male enteral feeding connector from an obstructing position in which the stop obstructs the opening in the body from receiving the tip of the preselected male enteral feeding connector, to a non-obstructing position in which the stop permits the opening in the body to receive the tip of the preselected male enteral feeding connector.

Abstract: An apparatus for removing body fluids from a body cavity by suction, such as a thorax, gastric or any other human body cavity or a wound, comprises means (9) to increase the pressure difference between a pressure in a drainage lumen (3) and a pressure in the atmosphere when an auxiliary lumen (5) is open. The apparatus enables removal of clots or other plugs of the catheter and drainage tube in an efficient and not patient disturbing way.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides a cannula useful for introducing a thermally responsive polymer in situ. In embodiments, the cannula possesses more than one cannula, with the thermally responsive polymer introduced in one cannula, and a material such as a coolant in a second cannula which prevents premature gelling of the thermally responsive polymer.

Abstract: An improved luer lock receiving septum having a configuration which provides rapid and tight resealing and yet allows penetration of the septum by the luer tip with a low penetration force. The elongated septum includes an upper portion of enlarged diameter having a target surface, a central slit, and a central, lower septum extension projecting about the slit below the upper portion and into a housing so that following luer insertion there is provided sufficient room for both the laterally displaced extension of the septum, the luer taper, and the housing to be received into a conventional luer lock connector. The septum is further preferably configured to minimize or eliminate the negative pressure deflection normally associated with the withdrawal of the large diameter luer cannula from an enclosed fluid filled lumen or chamber, by substantially isolating the lumen or chamber from the septum material displacement resultant from luer insertion.

Abstract: A medical instrument has a cannula, a seal disposed in the cannula. An expansion device serves for expanding the opening in the seal for guiding shafts of other instruments of greater diameter in a sealed manner through the expanded opening. The expansion device has an expansion cone with a plurality of slats mounted pivotably on an annular body at a first end thereof, a second end of the slats, being connected to the seal in an area of the opening. The slats can either be connected at its first ends to the annular body via spherical heads engaged into corresponding openings in the annular body or the slats are connected at their ends via film hinges to the annular body.

Abstract: An activator attachment that can be attached to the proximal end of a catheter adapter and can activate a blood control valve within the catheter adapter.

Abstract: The current invention relates to infusion devices, specifically to peripheral intravenous (IV) catheters. In particular, the invention relates to peripheral IV catheter assemblies having features to enable selective and reversible activation of fluid flow through the catheter assembly. Some implementations of the present invention include various configurations of septum valves having a barrier surface that is stressed to bias the barrier surface and provide a pathway through the septum valve.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide swallowable devices, preparations and methods for delivering drugs and other therapeutic agents within the GI tract. Particular embodiments provide a swallowable device such as a capsule for delivering drugs into the intestinal wall or other GI lumen. Embodiments also provide various drug preparations that are configured to be contained within the capsule, advanced from the capsule into the intestinal wall and degrade within the wall to release the drug to produce a therapeutic effect. The preparation can be coupled to a delivery mechanism having one or more balloons or other expandable devices which are expandable responsive to a condition in the small intestine or other GI lumen to advance the preparation out of the capsule into the intestinal wall. Embodiments of the invention are particularly useful for the delivery of drugs which are poorly absorbed, tolerated and/or degraded within the GI tract.

Abstract: A luer connector comprising a housing with a hollow bore having first and second ends, a male luer tip, and a tapering interior surface. The luer connector also comprises a rigid valve member having a first opened end and a second closed end, a passageway therein, and an outwardly extending flange near the second end adapted to seal the hollow bore at the second end of the housing when in contact with an interior surface of the housing. The valve member further comprises an opening near the closed end of the valve member extending outward from the passageway through the valve member and at least one strut attached to the valve member. The luer connector also comprises a retaining member configured to couple the valve member and the housing and a sealing element disposed within the housing to inhibit fluid communication through the hollow bore of the housing.

Abstract: The magnetically sealed intravenous access valve is an implantable port and valve for vascular access. The magnetically sealed intravenous access valve includes a housing and a pair of hollow tubes provided for interconnection and communication with the patient's blood vessel. Each tube is partially slidably received within a lower portion of the housing. A hollow key is used to selectively open and close the valve and also to inject medication into the patient's blood vessel. The hollow key is removably received within channels formed through a retainer and a rotatable obturator so that the lower end of the hollow key releasably engages the obturator. Selective rotation thereof allows eccentric spout formed in the obturator to align with an eccentric aperture formed in a valve plate. Fluids flow through the hollow key, the aligned spout and plate opening, the lower portion of the housing, and the opposing tubes for fluid transfer.

Abstract: A check valve in the three-way stopcock unit includes: a first housing having a valve seat in which an opening is provided; a second housing inserted into the first housing; and a valve element held between the valve seat of the first housing and an opening end portion of the second housing. The valve element has a substantially U-shaped cut line formed outside of an outer rim portion of the opening provided in the valve seat of the first housing, and inside of an inner rim portion of the second housing. A portion inside of the cut line is used as a switching valve, and the valve seat of the first housing and the opening end portion of the second housing are closed in a liquid-tight state at a portion outside of the cut line.

Abstract: A valve for selectively permitting a fluid flow between first and second medical implements is disclosed. The valve has a housing with an interface suitable for receiving a connector portion of a first medical device such as a catheter, and a seal made of a flexible material. The seal has a first end in fluid communication with the interface, a second end suitable for receiving the second medical device, and at least one slit in fluid communication with the first end and the second end. The slit defines a restricted fluid flow path and a relatively small interior volume when in an undisturbed state, defines an expanded fluid flow path and a larger interior volume upon the introduction of the second medical instrument into the slit, and retracts to define a restricted flow path and a small interior volume upon the withdrawal of the second medical device from the seal.

Abstract: A flow control system includes a drip chamber having lower and upper wall sections and a collapsible wall extending between the lower and upper wall sections, a downwardly depending valve seat attached to the lower wall section, and a valve member disposed in the drip chamber, attached to the upper wall section and having a valve surface engageable with the valve seat. The system also includes a driver rotatably engaged to the lower and upper wall sections. Upon rotation of the driver in a first direction, the collapsible wall of the drip chamber moves between a collapsed condition in which the valve seat is sealingly engaged with the valve surface and an extended condition in which the valve seat is sufficiently spaced from the valve surface to form a flow passageway between the valve surface and the valve seat and permit flow through the opening of the drip chamber.

Abstract: A device for dispensing fluid to a patient enabling either or both of a continuous flow, as well as successive, large-volume boluses. A first reservoir provides a source of fluid under pressure. A bolus flow path provides for the delivery of a bolus dose of fluid and an optional continuous flow path provides a continuous flow rate of fluid. Both flow paths are in fluid communication with the source of fluid. A bolus delivery system in fluid communication with the bolus flow path receives fluid from the first reservoir, expands to pressurize fluid, stores the pressurized fluid, and dispenses the pressurized fluid while avoiding bolus refill until enabled to expand in a subsequent delivery cycle. An actuator releases fluid from the bolus delivery system such that when actuated by the patient, fluid is permitted to flow out of the bolus reservoir to the patient without further action by the patient.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to a vascular access device having a septum positioned within a lumen of the device, the device further having a pusher for providing a fluid pathway through the septum. In particular, the present invention relates to systems and methods for improving flow of a fluid through the access device, while minimizing stagnation of fluids within the device. These systems and methods include various modified fluid pathways and interactions between the vascular access device body, the septum and the pusher.

Abstract: An anti-free-flow mechanism includes an occluder mechanism which is disposed along a segment of tubing. The occluder mechanism is normally in a biased closed position, but may be moved into an open position by moving an engagement member into engagement with the tubing segment to deform the tubing segment and open a flow channel. Unless force is applied to keep the engagement member in contact with the tubing segment, the tubing will return to the first, closed position.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a telescopic device comprising at least two sections, wherein an extraction force is needed to extend the device from a short telescope configuration to an extended configuration and securing the sections in extended configuration; a separation force is needed to pull the at least two sections apart; retention means coupling at least one of the two sections to at least one attachment point; and the uncoupling strength of the retention means is larger than the extraction force but smaller than the separation force. This allows the telescopic device to be properly extended into its extended configuration before the retention means uncouples the telescopic device from the at least one attachment point.

Abstract: A catheter assembly is presented which includes a catheter adapter having a blood control valve. A port is disposed in the catheter adapter for providing selective access to the interior of the catheter adapter. A port valve is disposed within the catheter adapter to control access between the interior of the catheter adapter and the port. The port valve includes a flexible tube, a portion of the flexible tube covering an opening between the port and the catheter adapter.

Abstract: Systems and methods for sealing and venting a septum of an intravenous catheter device. Implementations of the present invention include a compact, molded septum that is retained within an inner lumen of a catheter adapter such that slowed or stopped flow of air and/or a fluid is permitted to pass between the compact septum and an inner wall surface of the catheter adapter via one or more fluid pathways. In some instances, a snap ring is provided to secure the position of the compact septum within the catheter adapter, a fluid pathway being provided through the snap ring.

Abstract: A flushable catheter assembly having a deformable septum comprising one or more slits, wherein the septum is temporarily deformed by a septum actuator to open the one or more slits thereby enabling fluid and air to bypass the septum.

Abstract: An improved luer lock receiving septum having a configuration which provides rapid and tight resealing and yet allows penetration of the septum by the luer tip with a low penetration force. The elongated septum includes an upper portion of enlarged diameter having a target surface, a central slit, and a central, lower septum extension projecting about the slit below the upper portion and into a housing so that following luer insertion there is provided sufficient room for both the laterally displaced extension of the septum, the luer taper, and the housing to be received into a conventional luer lock connector. The septum is further preferably configured to minimize or eliminate the negative pressure deflection normally associated with the withdrawal of the large diameter luer cannula from an enclosed fluid filled lumen or chamber, by substantially isolating the lumen or chamber from the septum material displacement resultant from luer insertion.

Abstract: Devices, such as medical devices, are provided which include a body portion having at least one reservoir which has two or more openings, the two or more openings being defined in part by a reservoir cap support; reservoir contents, such as a drug formulation or sensor, disposed inside the reservoir; and a reservoir cap which closes off the two or more reservoir openings. The reservoir cap, which can be ruptured, controls release or exposure of the reservoir contents. In one embodiment, the device is an implantable medical device and provides for the controlled release of drug or exposure of a sensor.

Abstract: An implantable tissue-stimulating device, such as a cochlear implant, having a resiliently flexible elongate member (11) having a plurality of electrodes (12) positioned thereon. The elongate member (11) provides a means of delivering at least one bio-active substance to the implantee following implantation of the elongate member (11). The delivery means can comprise a lumen 21 containing the bio-active substance in a liquid form. The bio-active substance can comprise a steroid or can perform a function of reducing the resting neuron potential of neurons within the cochlea.

Abstract: A valve is disclosed that has a body with an inlet, an outlet, and a needleless access port coupled to the body. The access port has an interior space and is configured to be actuated by a needleless connector. The inlet is selectively coupled to the outlet through the interior space such that fluid entering the inlet entirely flows through the interior space to the outlet.

Abstract: A tearaway sheath assembly (100) having a splittable sheath tube (102) a splittable hub (110), a split valve (150,250) and a split cap (180). The valve (150,250) has a slit (158,258) at least partially across the transverse distal section (154) such that transverse distal section may be displaced laterally during insertion through the slit (158,258), of a dilator (200) or a catheter. The valve (150,250) is formed in two separate halves (152A,152B;252) that are fused or adhered to each other to form a sealed weak bond (154) that is easily broken during splitting of the sheath; each valve half is mechanically affixed in a proximal valve-receiving recess (130) of the hub such as by anchor posts (136) extending through apertures (166A,166B) in ears (164A,164B) of each valve half. A two-part cap (180) is affixed to the hub proximal end (120) and traps the valve between itself and the hub.

Abstract: A sealing assembly is utilized for a fluid infusion device that cooperates with a fluid reservoir having a reservoir port and a hollow fluid reservoir needle at least partially located within the reservoir port. The sealing assembly has a reservoir port receptacle with a proximal end, a distal end extending from the proximal end, and a needle opening formed in the distal end to receive the hollow fluid reservoir needle. The sealing assembly also has a fluid chamber located at least partially in the reservoir port receptacle, and a needle sealing element having a self-sealing needle opening formed therein. The needle sealing element is located within the reservoir port receptacle between the distal end and the fluid chamber. The the self-sealing needle opening accommodates the hollow fluid reservoir needle when the reservoir port engages the reservoir port receptacle.

Abstract: An enteral feeding apparatus has a pump system including a bearing surface, a platen and a retainer mounted on the platen. The retainer has a first engagement member. A feeding set includes a cassette and a lumen attached to the cassette. The lumen has a peristalsis loop for extending around the bearing surface and the cassette has a second engagement member adapted for engagement with the first engagement member of the retainer to thereby secure the cassette to the pump system. The lumen is in tension when the peristalsis loop is extended around the bearing surface and the first and second engagement members are engaged. The second engagement member of the cassette is biased into engagement with the first engagement member of the retainer by the tension on the lumen.

Abstract: A feeding set for a peristaltic pump system includes a cassette configured for releasable connection thereto. A deflectable lumen priming actuator is formed integrally with the cassette for conjoint connection to and disconnection from the pump system with the cassette as a single unit. The priming actuator includes an actuation pad and is moveable from a rest position to a deflected position. A substantially flexible lumen is coupled to the cassette. The lumen has an inlet, an outlet, and an extensible peristalsis loop. An inline valve is received within the lumen. The inline valve is arranged to obstruct fluid flow through the lumen. The actuation pad of the priming actuator is located proximate the inline valve in the rest position and is adapted to contact and apply a force to the lumen adjacent the inline valve when the priming actuator is moved to the deflected position. The force applied to the lumen is sufficient to establish at least one flow channel between the inline valve and the lumen.

Abstract: A drug delivery pump drive which uses a linear piezoelectric motor to advance a syringe piston to deliver a liquid drug and a method thereof are disclosed. The pump drive, provided in a drug delivery pump, provides silent operation and very low energy consumption compared to electric motor-based drives. The small size of the motor helps also to reduce overall size of the pump drive and the resulting drug deliver pump.

Abstract: The present invention is a splittable multi-piece hemostasis valve that is held together in an assembled condition via a binder formed about the assembled valve. The binder may be a sleeve of thin polymer material shrink-wrapped about the valve. When the valve needs to be split in order to clear a medical device such as a pacemaker lead, the sleeve is split and the valve is disassembled.

Abstract: An apparatus for performing phlebotomy through a peripheral intravenous line is described herein. The apparatus includes an introducer and a cannula and is configured to advance the cannula through a peripheral intravenous line. A y-adapter with a port of larger diameter is configured to receive the cannula to place the cannula in fluid communication with the peripheral intravenous line. When advanced, the cannula is configured to transport a bodily fluid to a volume outside of the body.

Abstract: Positive displacement using a connector with dual diaphragms is provided. For example, the connector includes a single fluid flow path, an air chamber and a valve. The single fluid flow path is configured for delivering fluid to a person and configured for receiving fluid from a person. The air chamber configured for expelling air from the air chamber when an actuator is inserted into the connector and for receiving air into the chamber when the actuator is removed from the connector. The valve plug comprises two diaphragms that separate the air chamber from the single fluid flow path. The valve plug is configured for creating positive displacement by returning the valve plug to its uncompressed state when the actuator is removed from the connector.

Abstract: Angiocatheter systems with anti-leak features for helping to prevent leaking or blood splashes that could possibly pose a health risk to the patient and/or practitioner. The systems may feature slidable anti-leak components that regulate opening and closing of the hub's hole, wherein the anti-leak components are moveable upon insertion or removal of a secondary device. The systems may feature a moveable inner wall or components on the inner wall that regulate opening of the hub's hole, wherein the wall or components of the wall are movable upon insertion or removal of a secondary device. The systems may feature compressible valves or twistable bases that regulate opening of the hub's hole, wherein the valves or bases are manipulated upon insertion or removable of a secondary device.

Abstract: A coupling apparatus includes a first component having a first non-mechanical valve, a second component having a second non-mechanical valve, and a third component having a first end for coupling with the first valve and a second end for coupling with the second valve. The third component has an elongated bore such that when the first end is coupled to the first valve and the second end is coupled to the second valve, a passageway is defined therethrough. The coupling apparatus includes a breakaway portion disposed between the third component and the second component and the first and second valves automatically close when the second and third components are separated from one another.

Abstract: Fluid delivery devices, systems and methods. The fluid delivery devices may be used to delivery fluid (e.g., insulin) to a user. The devices may have one or more inlets, and may be configured for use with an injection device, such as a syringe, and/or with a pump.

Abstract: A flow component for medical infusion/transfusion lines includes a tubular body having a side inlet connector, housed in a fluid-tight way in which is an elastic sealing element that can be traversed by a fluid introducer. The elastic sealing element has at least one axial cavity, which defines, for traversal by the fluid introducer, a diaphragm of small thickness.

Abstract: A skin seal or trocar stabilizer with an inflatable membrane disposed inside, whereby medical instruments may be passed through the skin seal into a endoscopic work space while the inflatable membrane is inflated, thereby allowing the use of normal short conventional open surgery instruments during endoscopic procedures and during insufflation.