Coupling Or Connector Structure Patents (Class 604/533)
  • Patent number: 9023011
    Abstract: A medical device including a shaft having an elongated inner member and an elongated tubular reinforcing member disposed over at least a portion of the inner member. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the outer surface of the inner member is spaced from the inner surface of the reinforcing member, defining a space substantially free of any other structures of the device. In some embodiments, the shaft can include a tip structure disposed on a distal portion of the inner member. In some such embodiments, the reinforcing member has a distal end, and the tip structure is disposed on the distal portion of the inner member adjacent the distal end of the reinforcing member. Additionally, in some embodiments, the reinforcing member can include a plurality of apertures defined therein, for example, to enhance the flexibility or other such characteristics of all or portions of the reinforcing member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2015
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.
    Inventors: Stephen A. Griffin, Elaine Lim, Gregory E. Mirigian
  • Publication number: 20150119855
    Abstract: A catheter connector and method of use is disclosed. The catheter connector includes a body, a proximal end port, and a seal. The body has a proximal end and a distal end. Further, the body defines a hollow interior from the proximal end to the distal end. The hollow interior is configured to receive a catheter at least partially therethrough. The proximal end port includes a cavity and is configured with the proximal end of the body for mating communication with a fluid delivery device, such as a pump, reservoir, syringe, or the like. This port may have any conventional configuration, such as a Luer-lock fitting. The seal is configured within the interior of the body and includes a passage configured for receipt of the catheter. In addition, at least a portion of the seal is configured within the cavity of the proximal end port. Further, the seal is configured to compress around the catheter so as to axially secure the catheter within the body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 29, 2013
    Publication date: April 30, 2015
    Applicant: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventor: Steve Saeed Khalaj
  • Publication number: 20150105749
    Abstract: The invention inter alia relates to a dispense interface for an ejection device. The dispense interface comprises at least two inlets, at least one outlet and a part having a body portion and a cover portion; wherein the body portion and the cover portion are connected by a living hinge such that the body portion and the cover portion are foldable towards each other; wherein the body portion and the cover portion are configured to form a fluid channel arrangement between surfaces of the body portion and the cover portion facing each other when the body portion and the cover portion are folded towards each other; wherein the living hinge is arranged next to the facing surfaces; and wherein the fluid channel arrangement is configured to provide fluid communication between the at least two inlets and the at least one outlet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 16, 2013
    Publication date: April 16, 2015
    Inventors: Frederic Laugere, Cristian Popa, Ben Impey, Andrew Macleod
  • Publication number: 20150105752
    Abstract: Apparatus and techniques for securing a medical device with hemostasis valve are described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2014
    Publication date: April 16, 2015
    Applicant: RADUX DEVICES, LLC
    Inventors: Gregory Gordon, Ryan Balko, Anders Olmanson, Travis White
  • Patent number: 8998840
    Abstract: A delivery system for delivering fluidic media to a user having a second housing portion configured to be selectively operatively engaged with and disengaged from a first housing portion, the first housing portion and the second housing portion configured to be slidable relative to each other to operatively engage each other; and a fluid connector supported by one the housing portions in a position to engage a reservoir supported by an other of the housing portions in a case where the first housing portion and the second housing portion are slid relative to each other to operatively engage each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2015
    Assignee: Medtronic Minimed, Inc.
    Inventors: Ian B. Hanson, Paul F. Bente, IV
  • Publication number: 20150094694
    Abstract: A device for disinfecting and protection of a catheter thread end. The device consists of a main body with a inner sealing member and a outer cap that defines a cavity for the containment of a disinfecting agent. The disinfecting agent will be dispensed to cleanse the patient catheter threads when the catheter disinfecting cap is threaded to full engagement of the patient catheter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 1, 2013
    Publication date: April 2, 2015
    Inventors: James W. Stone, Steven G. Richter
  • Patent number: 8992508
    Abstract: A coupling device for connecting two ends of respective tubular members, allow the opening and the closing of a first tubular member and the simultaneous engagement of the two tubular members, as to prevent pollution, includes: a first case housing a first end of a respective first tubular member, comprising closing means of said first end; a second case, wherein a flexible terminal section of a respective second tubular member is received, comprising means for driving a second end of said second tubular member from a retracted position to a engagement position into said first end and vice versa; and means for reversibly connecting said first and second cases at a respective coupling port thereof, defining a single sealed environment; wherein the engagement and the disengagement of said second end and the automatic mechanical activation and deactivation of said closing means for opening and closing said first end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: Glomeria Therapeutics SRL.
    Inventors: Arduino Arduini, Paolo Cerasoli, Fabio Arrizza
  • Patent number: 8992507
    Abstract: A connection including a first closure component including a first adapter and a fitting element which is able to move relative to the first adapter and an elastic or resilient element which couples the first adapter to the fitting element and/or is disposed between them.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: Roche Diagnostics International AG
    Inventors: Reto Aeschlimann, Michael Weibel
  • Publication number: 20150088091
    Abstract: A system by which resource information relating to an insertable medical device, such as an intravascular catheter, can be identified by its source so as to be accessed by a practitioner, caregiver, or patient, is disclosed. In particular, a resource information key is included at a predetermined key location on or proximate to the medical device, wherein the key indicates the source of the resource information. In one example embodiment, therefore, an insertable medical device for establishing intravascular access to a patient, such as a peripherally inserted central catheter (“PICC”), is disclosed and comprises: an internal portion, and a portion external to the patient that includes a resource information key indicating a website where a user can acquire resource information relating to the medical device. In other embodiments indicia are provided as quick response (“QR”) codes, and as various markings to indicate compatibility of the medical device with ethanol.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2013
    Publication date: March 26, 2015
    Inventor: C. R. Bard, Inc.
  • Patent number: 8979804
    Abstract: A needleless connector includes a hollow connector, a spring, and a switch assembly. The inner perimeter of the hollow connector forms a first annular wall and a second annular wall. The spring is disposed in the hollow connector. The switch assembly has a stop member and a guide tube connected to the stop member, the stop member being pressed between the annular block and the spring, the guide tube being disposed in the hollow connector, the external perimeter of the stop member forming a first annular portion against the first annular wall and a second annular portion against the second annular wall, a groove being disposed between the first annular portion and the second annular portion of the stop member, the groove being connected to the guide tube. Thus, the integral structure stability and good closing performance are achieved such that the outside air cannot leak into the connector structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Assignee: Pacific Hospital Supply Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Shih-Chi Ho, Ming-Chung Chen
  • Patent number: 8979736
    Abstract: A treatment endoscope includes that a body cavity insertion portion which includes a main body distal hard portion, and a main body curving portion provided to a proximal side of the main body distal hard portion, one or more treatment arm/arms projecting to a distal side from the main body distal hard portion, each of the treatment arm/arms including a curving mechanism, an operation portion provided to the proximal side of the body cavity insertion portion, and an observation section configured to image a field of view in a body cavity, the observation section including an imaging section provided within the main body distal hard portion. The treatment endoscope includes that an operation portion attaching/detaching mechanism configured to removably attach the operation portion to the body cavity insertion portion, and an observation section attaching/detaching mechanism configured to removably attach the observation section to the body cavity insertion portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Assignee: Olympus Corporation
    Inventors: Masayuki Kawaura, Yoshiaki Ito, Hirokazu Tanaka, Hideya Kitagawa, Hajime Tamura
  • Publication number: 20150073392
    Abstract: An intravenous infusion system that shows infusion flow rate, volume of medication infused, and alarming during malfunction. User intervention to adjust flow rates deviation is possible, using the data already stored in the system prior to the onset of making the adjustment. The system detects flow rate by measuring temperature dynamics in a section of the fluid path, unlike other systems that measures the electromechanical output of the pumping source if the counting of drops is not possible. This fundamental difference allows the invention to be used in any system that has a pumping source that provides a continuous fluid path as it measures actual flow of fluid in a segment of the fluid path, independent of pumping mechanism design.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 10, 2012
    Publication date: March 12, 2015
    Inventor: Freddie Eng Hwee Lee
  • Patent number: 8974425
    Abstract: A male member (1) includes a tubular member (10) and a cover (20) covering at least a tip (11) of the tubular member. A lateral hole (14) that communicates with a flow path (13) is formed in an outer peripheral surface of the tubular member. The cover includes an outer peripheral wall (21) that can be deformed elastically by compression and a head part (23) that is provided at one end of the outer peripheral wall. The head part includes an interior cavity (24) into which the tubular member is inserted, and a slit (25) is formed in an innermost part (24a) of the interior cavity. In a state where the outer peripheral wall is not deformed by compression, an inner peripheral surface of the interior cavity contacts closely with the outer peripheral surface of the tubular member so as to block the lateral hole, and the tip of the tubular member and the innermost part of the interior cavity are spaced apart from each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2015
    Assignee: JMS Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hitoshi Tachizaki, Tadashi Okiyama
  • Patent number: 8974437
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2015
    Assignee: Applied Medical Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Derek M. Williams, Grant W. Phillips
  • Patent number: 8967461
    Abstract: There is provided a tube connector for connecting between a fluid sampling tube and a fluid analyzer, the tube connector includes an end face adapted to identify the tube connector, said end face comprising a reflecting surface having one or more reflective regions adapted to reflect light at a predetermined range of wavelengths.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Assignee: Oridion Medical (1987) Ltd.
    Inventors: Joshua Lewis Colman, Zion Botesazan, Gal Itzhak
  • Patent number: 8968271
    Abstract: A connector for medical infusion lines, transfusion lines, and the like, includes a tubular body having at one end a male connector including an inner tubular element and an outer hollow element, which is internally threaded and can be coupled by screwing to a complementary female connector. The line connector further includes an outer maneuvering sleeve coupled in unidirectional rotation to the body in the direction corresponding to screwing of the male connector with respect to the complementary female connector and free to turn in the opposite direction, formed by two parts coupled together on the body of the connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Assignee: Industrie Borla S.p.A.
    Inventor: Gianni Guala
  • Patent number: 8968261
    Abstract: A medical valve has an open mode that permits fluid flow, and a closed mode that prevents fluid flow. To that end, the medical valve has a housing with an inlet portion and an outlet portion, a rotating member having a protruding member, and a resilient member with a complimentary surface that mates with the protruding member. The inlet portion and outlet portion of the housing compress the protruding member into the resilient member to bias the valve to the closed mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Assignee: NP Medical Inc.
    Inventors: Ian Kimball, Todd S. Vangsness, Jeffrey F. Kane
  • Patent number: 8961475
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2015
    Assignee: Catheter Connections, Inc.
    Inventors: Donald D. Solomon, Steven Bandis, James V. Mercer, Michael W. Howlett, Robert Hitchcock, James Paul Kennedy, Richard Lasher
  • Publication number: 20150051587
    Abstract: A method for manufacturing an elongated element (200) is provided. The method comprises arranging a molding cavity (101), defined by a mold (103) and a mold insert (104), said mold insert (104) comprising a mold core (105) and a displaceable mold cavity wall (106), said displaceable mold cavity wall (106) being arranged between the mold (103) and the mold core (105), such that the molding cavity has a start volume in a start position of the displaceable mold cavity wall (106). Then a liquid material is injected into a proximal end (102) of the molding cavity (101), where after the displaceable mold cavity wall (106) is displaced in relation to and along with the mold (103) and the mold core (105), distally during said injection, to increase the molding cavity volume from the start volume into an end volume at an end position of the displaceable mold cavity wall (106), wherein the molding cavity (101) in said end position of the displaceable mold cavity wall (106) corresponds to the elongated element (200).
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2013
    Publication date: February 19, 2015
    Inventors: Erik Rolsted, Jakob Øelund, Preben Luther, Kim Bager
  • Publication number: 20150051572
    Abstract: For a person who has a percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (“PEG”) tube and an esophagus stoma, an ostomy pouch is provided, where the pouch forms an inlet connected to the esophagus stoma and an outlet connected to one end of a interconnecting tube. An opposing end of the interconnecting tube is connected to the PEG tube, so that when the person consumes matter by mouth, the matter flows out the stoma, through the ostomy pouch, the interconnecting tube and the PEG rube, and into the stomach.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 13, 2013
    Publication date: February 19, 2015
    Applicant: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventor: Karl A. Thomason
  • Patent number: 8951229
    Abstract: A catheter includes a pressure actuated seal within a manifold. A catheter body is coupled with the manifold, and a manifold lumen and a catheter lumen are configured to receive pressurized fluids. The pressure actuated seal includes a pressure actuated seal element having a seal element lumen. The seal element lumen is in communication with the manifold and catheter lumens. The pressure actuated seal element is deformable between an open configuration and a sealed configuration. In the sealed configuration, the pressurized fluids in the manifold press on the pressure actuated seal element along a first seal face. The pressure actuated seal element compresses inwardly around the seal element lumen according to a pressure of the pressurized fluids. In the open configuration, the pressure actuated seal element relaxes in an absence of the pressurized fluids, and the seal element lumen is open and configured to allow passage of an instrument.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2015
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Limited
    Inventors: Michael J. Bonnette, Eric J. Thor, Stephen E. Weisel, Arthur E. Uber, III, Leif E. Leirfallom, Laszlo T. Farago
  • Patent number: 8945091
    Abstract: A breakaway coupling assembly includes a male coupling and a female coupling. The male coupling includes ribs that flex portions of the female coupling as an insert of the male coupling is positioned within the female coupling. Once the insert of male coupling is positioned into the female coupling a predefined distance, the ribs snap into a circumferential retention groove of the female coupling to secure the male coupling to the female coupling and form a fluid seal. The male coupling is decoupled from the female coupling by pinching the female coupling to release the ribs from the retention groove.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2015
    Assignee: Colder Products Company
    Inventors: Randall Scott Williams, Patrick Thomas Gerst
  • Patent number: 8945042
    Abstract: A medical fluid system including: fluid containers and a tube extending from same, each tube including a cap; a pumping cassette including port spikes; a medical fluid machine including: occluders; a shuttle configured to receive the tubes, wherein each tube is associated with one of the occluders; a driving mechanism translating the shuttle; a cap removal device between the cassette and the shuttle; and a control unit programmed to cause: (i) the occluders to pinch their tubes, (ii) cause the driving mechanism to translate the shuttle towards the fluid pumping cassette, the cap removal device engaging the tube caps, (iii) the driving mechanism to translate the shuttle away from the fluid pumping cassette and cap removal device, pulling the tube caps off of the tubes, and (iv) the driving mechanism to translate the shuttle back towards the fluid pumping cassette for the port spikes to spike the occluded tubes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2015
    Assignees: Baxter International Inc., Baxter Healthcare S.A.
    Inventors: Patrick Lee, John Biewer, Robert W. Childers, Mark W. Foohey, Richard R. Gilbert, II, Andrey Kopychev, Randy Murphey, Austin J. Orand, Douglas Reitz, Rodolfo Roger, John E. Steck
  • Patent number: 8945024
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a medical wire with an intracorporeally indwelling member connected to the leading end part of a conductive wire through a thermally-fusible connecting member, wherein the contact of the leading end part of the conductive wire with the intracorporeally indwelling member can be surely prevented even when the connecting member is deformed. The medical wire comprises a conductive wire and an intracorporeally indwelling member connected to the leading end part of the conductive wire through a thermally-fusible connecting member, in which the connecting member is heated and fused by a high-frequency current supplied through the conductive wire, thereby releasing the intracorporeally indwelling member, wherein a non-conductive spacer for preventing the contact of the intracorporeally indwelling member with the conductive wire is provided between them.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2015
    Assignees: Kaneka Medix Corporation, Kaneka Corporation
    Inventors: Hironori Takata, Jiro Ishida, Atsushi Ogawa
  • Patent number: 8945092
    Abstract: Systems and methods for accessing body tissue are disclosed. The systems and methods can include an introducer assembly for percutaneous access to a body lumen. The assembly can include a needle and an over-the-needle guidewire. The needle and the guidewire can be inserted into body tissue and the guidewire advanced into the body tissue relative to the needle. The needle can be removed after advancing the guidewire.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2015
    Assignee: Arizona Medical Systems, LLC
    Inventors: Aaron M. Call, Kelvin Ning
  • Patent number: 8945087
    Abstract: An access port for the introduction of a needle cannula tip into an IV tube set includes a rigid tubular housing and a resilient member disposed adjacent an inlet of the housing. The resilient member includes an axial perforation extending through the resilient member, and is normally closed by a resilient character of the resilient member. A depression is defined in a proximal face of the resilient member, and includes sidewalls extending between the proximal face and the axial perforation to guide the needle cannula tip toward the axial perforation as a needle cannula associated with the needle cannula tip is introduced into the access port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2015
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventors: Eugene E. Weilbacher, Gregory A. Steube
  • Publication number: 20150018799
    Abstract: Fluid storage apparatus for medical use is described that includes a length of tubing having a first end and a second end. A first sealable connector portion is provided at the first end and a second sealable connector portion is provided at the second end. The volume of fluid that can be stored within the apparatus is known and an infusate or therapeutic agent is contained within the apparatus. In this manner, a known volume of therapeutic agent can be infused to a patient. The use in neurosurgical applications is described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2013
    Publication date: January 15, 2015
    Inventors: Trefor Owen Lewis, Charles Irving, Maxwell Roy Woolley, Steven Streatfield Gill
  • Patent number: 8926588
    Abstract: A steerable delivery catheter includes an outer sheath with a housing disposed at a distal end thereof to define a chamber for a medical device, the chamber having an open distal end and a proximal inner shelf. An inner shaft is slidably disposed within the sheath and has an abutment attached to the distal end of the shaft, the abutment being slidably contained within the chamber. During navigation of the catheter, when the inner shaft is tensioned the abutment engages the shelf to apply a compressive force to the sheath to selectively deflect a distal region of the catheter. When the catheter has been navigated to the deployment site the sheath is withdrawn while the abutment maintains the medical device in place as it is deployed. A delivery method also is disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2015
    Assignee: Medtronic Vascular, Inc.
    Inventors: William Berthiaume, Don Tran, Maria Valdovinos, Brent Locsin
  • Patent number: 8926582
    Abstract: A sealing cap for a body fluid container, and a body fluid collection device and system are disclosed. The sealing cap includes an inner cap placeable on an opening in the body fluid container forming a mouth, the inner cap has a shielding member which seals the mouth of the body fluid container, an outer cap resting on the inner cap, the outer cap being movable relative to the inner cap, and a channel member, wherein by a rotational movement the outer cap is movable between an first position in which the channel member is located separated from the shielding member and a second position in which the channel member extends through the shielding member, thereby establishing an open state of the shielding member, and wherein the shielding member returns to a closed state when the outer cap is moved back from the second position to the first position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2015
    Assignee: Roche Diagnostics Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: Hans-Peter Wahl, Rolf Schneebeli, Renato Belz
  • Patent number: 8926571
    Abstract: A hemodialysis catheter assembly with a flexible catheter lead that can control blood flow at a hemodialysis access site even under high blood pressures encountered at such sites. Flexible tubing extends through the hollow interior of a housing having opposite, open ends. The assembly includes components to alternately occlude or not occlude the lumen of the flexible tubing. In a first embodiment, spring clips press against the tubing, but insertion of a hollow sleeve into the lumen thereof retracts the clips and provides a flow path. In a second embodiment, a pinch bar can be manually moved into and out of engagement with the flexible tubing to occlude or open a flow path. In a third embodiment, the housing has a screw cap. A spring-loaded pinch bar presses against, and occludes the lumen of, the collapsible tubing when the screw cap is screwed into a threaded cutout in the housing, and provides a flow path through the tubing when the screw cap is removed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2015
    Inventor: Clifford A. Keith
  • Patent number: 8926549
    Abstract: A handle for a medical instrument having a handle housing that can be closed by a cover and having at least one drainage or irrigation hose in the handle housing that can be connected to a hose connection support. To create a handle that is of a simple construction and ensures a reliable fluid-proof insulated connection of the at least one hose and the hose connection support while protecting a material of the at least one hose, it is proposed that each drainage or irrigation hose should be connectable by an adaptor to the hose connection support and that the adaptor upon closing the handle housing can be pressed against the hose connection support by a stop positioned on the cover or on a base portion of the handle housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2015
    Assignee: Karl Storz GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Martin Blocher, Dominik Volkmer, Uwe Bacher
  • Publication number: 20140378901
    Abstract: The present invention includes systems, devices and methods for mechanically interfacing between a pump and an infusion kit or conduit, and methods and materials for producing same. According to some embodiments of the present invention, there may be provided a mechanical pump-tube interface unit adapted to detachably connect to a pump. The mechanical pump-tube interface unit may be adapted to hold a fluid conduit/tube positioned such that when the interface is attached to a pump the pumping mechanism of the pump acts upon the fluid in the tube. A mechanical pump-tube interface unit may include physical adaptations designed to prevent longitudinal and/or rotational movement, in relation to the unit, of a fluid conduit/tube held by or attached to the interface unit. According to further embodiments, a segment of conduit/tube may be attached/connected to a mechanical tube-interface during the assembly of the interface unit, to form one integral unit including the conduit/tube segment secured/trapped within.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 23, 2013
    Publication date: December 25, 2014
    Applicant: Q-CORE MEDICAL LTD.
    Inventors: Shachar Rotem, Omer Havron
  • Publication number: 20140378894
    Abstract: An apparatus 100 for use in tube feeding comprises a cylindrical body 110 provided with a first opening 120 and a second opening 130 connected by a flow channel 140. The body 110 comprises reagent 111, for determining a characteristic of fluid disposed in the body and a transparent window 112 through which the reagent 111 is visible. In use, a first end of an internal feeding tube releasably engages with the first opening 120. The second, distal end of said feeding tube is disposed inside a patient to be fed. A second feeding tube engages with the second opening 130. The second feeding tube connects the apparatus 100 to a bi-directional pump operable: to pump internal fluid from a reservoir, through the apparatus and into the internal feeding tube; and to pump fluid from the patient into the body 110 of the apparatus 100. This allows a user to pump fluid from the patient into the body 110 of the apparatus 100 to react with the reagent 111.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 5, 2013
    Publication date: December 25, 2014
    Inventors: Stephen Thorpe, Anat Barak
  • Patent number: 8915890
    Abstract: Medical device assemblies having a connection mechanism for securely connecting a hub to fluid storage containers in a luer slip relationship are described. An exemplary medical device includes a hub forming a cavity, a second indicating element disposed within the cavity that engages the hub. Additional features of the medical device include a second indicating element contoured to form a line contact with the hub. In a specific configuration, the hub includes a first indicating element attached to the hub and extending proximally into the cavity having a protrusion. In a more specific configuration, the medical device includes a fluid storage container that has an indication system for visually indicating optimal fluid-tight engagement of the hub and the fluid storage container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2014
    Assignee: Becton, Dickinson and Company
    Inventors: Chee L. Lum, Waheed Abid, Peter Douglas, Ivan Zivkovic
  • Patent number: 8910919
    Abstract: The various embodiments include a tubular member having an outlet. A sealing member provides a selective seal over the outlet. When the male connector is connected to a female connector, the tubular member establishes fluid communication between the connectors. In certain embodiments, fluid communication between the connectors may be interrupted even while the connectors are still connected. When the male connector is disconnected from the female connector, the sealing member reestablishes a seal over the outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2014
    Assignee: B. Braun Melsungen AG
    Inventors: Olivier Bonnal, Juergen Fuchs, Andreas Katerkamp
  • Patent number: 8905998
    Abstract: A catheter tunneling adapter including a generally elongated body having a proximal end, a distal end and a through passageway. The proximal end of the adapter is connectable both to a proximal hub of a stylet and subsequently to the distal end of a tunneler. The distal end of the adapter comprises a connector for connecting a plurality of proximal catheter tubes thereto, wherein the proximal end of one tube is affixed within the passageway at the adapter's distal end and the proximal end of the second tube is plugged by a plug extending distally from a free end of an elongate flexible arm that also extends distally of the adapter's distal end, such that the plug is offset laterally therefrom. The flexible arm and the affixed second tube end are deflectable toward the first tube to reduce the profile of the assembly during tunneling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Assignee: Medical Components, Inc.
    Inventor: John Stephens
  • Publication number: 20140358120
    Abstract: A medical system for connecting a multiple lumen medical catheter to associated medical instrumentation includes a connector member defining a longitudinal axis and having a first end for releasable coupling to the medical catheter and a second end for coupling to medical instrumentation. A mounting segment is adjacent the first end of the connector member. The mounting segment includes first and second mounting elements extending in a general longitudinal direction and arranged in spaced relation, and being adapted for reception within respective lumens of the catheter. The first and second mounting elements define inner opposing surfaces. At least one of the opposing surfaces may have an irregular surface portion dimensioned to engage the septum wall of the catheter to facilitate gripping engagement with the septum wall to assist in coupling of the connector member with the catheter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 3, 2013
    Publication date: December 4, 2014
    Inventors: Brett Haarala, Richard Braga
  • Patent number: 8900207
    Abstract: Each arterial bifurcation lesion has a fingerprint-like pattern related to varying amounts of plaque and degree of obstruction in the main vessel proximal to, within the bifurcation itself, and the distal limbs of the main branch and side branch(es) and related to the angle of the bifurcation. A new device and with it a new technique is described to optimize treatment of bifurcation (and trifurcation) lesions. The invention and related method use a catheter capable of delivering two or more guide wires exiting at the distal end of the catheter allowing treatment of lesions more safely and efficaciously. Safety is increased by allowing both guide wires to remain in place throughout the entire procedure. Efficacy is increased, particularly in the long-term, by providing a result that maximizes vessel coverage and normal flow dynamics in the entire bifurcation area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2014
    Inventor: Barry F. Uretsky
  • Publication number: 20140350485
    Abstract: An infusion set system, including a base and a fluid connector removably coupleable thereto is disclosed. The fluid connector includes a fluid path portion and at least one connector latch displaceably connected to the fluid path portion and displaceable to a latching position in which at least a portion of the connector latch extends into the fluid path portion, which includes a cannula extending from a top interior surface thereof, and a plurality of internal sidewalls corresponding to at least two of a plurality of flat side surfaces of at least one of a base section and a base latch, thereby facilitating connection between the base and the fluid connector in a plurality of discrete rotational connecting positions. When the fluid connector is locked to the base, the at least one connector latch engages a base latching portion of the base and restricts proximal displacement of the fluid connector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 7, 2012
    Publication date: November 27, 2014
    Applicant: BECTON, DICKINSON AND COMPANY
    Inventors: Ralph Sonderegger, Ronald Marsh, Charles Hwang, Stephen Richards, Victor Politis, Joshua Horvath, Benjamin Glace, James Sullivan, Ryan Lambert, Gregory Venditto, Eric Bené
  • Patent number: 8894629
    Abstract: Valves for regulating fluid flows through medical devices are provided. In some embodiments, the valves are adapted for use in high flow applications and multiple valve elements disposed across a plurality of fluid flow paths branching from and into one or more inlets and outlets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2014
    Assignee: Navilyst Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Raymond J. Lareau, Benjamin D. Bell
  • Patent number: 8888758
    Abstract: A medical connector for minimizing leakage of fluids during connection and disconnection is described. The medical connector includes a body having an inlet port, at least one outlet port adjacent to a male luer portion of the body, and a fluid path between the inlet port and the at least one outlet ports. A retractable seal adjacent to the male luer portion of the body and blocks the outlet ports of the body when the male luer portion of the medical connect is in a disconnected state. The retractable seal is positioned on the body such that it is moved away from the outlet ports upon insertion of the male luer portion of the medical connector into a medical access device thereby unblocking the outlet ports and creating a fluid path through the medical connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2014
    Assignee: Carefusion 303, Inc.
    Inventors: George Michel Mansour, Tim L. Truitt, Matthew P. Fried
  • Patent number: 8882744
    Abstract: An outflow conduit for a cardiac assist pump has a connector at one end comprised of a main sleeve configured to mate with a pump outlet port. A plurality of prongs extend from the sleeve. Each prong has a distal end with a claw and is bendable so that its respective claw expands over a lip and enters the groove of the outlet port. A lock nut is movable between a retracted position and a locking position. In the retracted position, a soft interconnect is obtained. In the locking position, the claws are prevented from escaping over the lip and a hard interconnect is obtained.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2014
    Assignee: Thoratec Corporation
    Inventors: Christopher P. Dormanen, Sunil K. Dasara, Takeshi Tsubouchi
  • Patent number: 8876798
    Abstract: A clam shell shaped adapter for retaining a catheter to establish a fluid path between the catheter and a fluid device or line has first and second shells integrally connected by a living hinge. The first shell has a luer end and a catheter end. A flexible tubing at an inner surface of the first shell connects the luer end to the catheter end. The catheter is inserted through the catheter end to extend along the flexible tubing. A retainer structure is provided at an inner surface of the second shell so that when the first and second shells close upon each other, the retainer structure presses against the flexible tubing to fixedly retain the catheter in a fluidly sealing manner. Respective latch mechanisms provided at the shells lockingly couple the first and second shells to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Assignee: Smiths Medical ASD, Inc.
    Inventors: Geoff Clark, Christian Schlerf
  • Publication number: 20140324014
    Abstract: A safety fluid connector for exchange of fluid with the human body of a substantially non-flexible polymer material has a first open end and a second open end connected by a fluid passage and comprises a predetermined breaking point designed to fracture unintentionally at a predetermined breaking force of from 1N to 20 N. Also disclosed is a medical tubing comprising the connector, a method of fluid exchange with the human body and the use of the tubing in the method.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2012
    Publication date: October 30, 2014
    Inventors: Dan Lundgren, Rickard Nyman
  • Patent number: 8870849
    Abstract: A catheter hub includes a distal assembly including a distal hub member adapted to be fixedly attached to an outer catheter and a proximal assembly including a proximal hub member adapted to be fixedly attached to an inner catheter disposed through the outer catheter. An elongate member connects the proximal and distal assemblies such that the proximal and distal assemblies can translate longitudinally relative to one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Assignee: BiO2 Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey N. Steinmetz, Joseph H. Taber
  • Patent number: 8870238
    Abstract: A female connector for medical infusion systems has a main body that has two curved wings that extend from the outer circumferential surface of the body. The respective front ends of the wings are joined integrally to a substantially circumferential partition that also extends circumferentially from the outer circumferential surface of the fitting. The connector of the fitting has a non-conventional configuration with at least two protuberances offset at an angle. The non-conventional configuration of the connector allows the fitting to only mate with a counterpart connector that has a complementary non-conventional configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Assignee: Smiths Medical ASD, Inc.
    Inventors: Renee Robert, Chad Amborn, Geoff Clark
  • Patent number: 8870850
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Assignee: ICU Medical, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas F. Fangrow, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8864725
    Abstract: A system is provided for use and handling a medical liquid (e.g. hazardous drugs) that includes a transfer adapter having a port rotatably interconnectable to a male luer fitting of a needleless syringe or infusion tubing line port, and a patient connector having a port rotatable interconnectable to a female luer fitting of an intravascular catheter access port. Ports of the transfer adapter and patient connector are interconnectable to automatically define a closed fluid passageway. A vial adapter and/or a reservoir adapter may be provided for selective interconnection to the transfer adapter wherein a second closed fluid passageway and/or a third closed fluid passageway are automatically defined upon interconnection with the transfer adapter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Assignee: Baxter Corporation Englewood
    Inventors: Joseph V. Ranalletta, Randy Kent Hall, Brian William Ward, Caryl Lyn Wojcik
  • Patent number: 8858531
    Abstract: This connection assembly includes a tip defining a longitudinal axis and including a mounting area for mounting an adaptor thereon, and the adaptor including a mounting portion of thermoplastic material, forming a radial surface, which define a mounting opening for mounting the adaptor onto the tip. The mounting area includes at least one first portion having an outer surface which is located at a first distance from the longitudinal axis (A) and at least one second portion, adjacent to the first portion, having an outer surface which is located at a second distance from the longitudinal axis, the second distance being different from the first distance, the radial surface being located after assembly of the adaptor over the first portion and the second portion; The mounting opening and the at least one first portion and second portion are so dimensioned such that the radial surface of the mounting portion is in close contact with the outer surfaces of both the first portion and the second portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2014
    Assignee: Becton Dickinson France
    Inventor: Olivier Alvain
  • Patent number: 8858529
    Abstract: A catheter shaft with an improved manifold bond and methods for making and using the same. The catheter shaft may include a sleeve disposed, for example, near its proximal end. The sleeve may include a first layer that is attached to the catheter shaft and a second layer to which a hub or manifold may be attached.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2014
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.
    Inventors: Huey Quoc Chan, Ting Tina Ye, Lawrence Charles Alpert, Sean McFerran, Roland S. Mompar