Coupling Or Connector Structure Patents (Class 604/533)
  • Patent number: 8613738
    Abstract: A high-flow luer lock connector system is disclosed. A high-flow luer lock connector system comprises a male luer lock connector and a female luer lock connected configured to mate with the male luer lock connector. The male luer lock connector and the female luer lock connector each include a tapered extended passageway that is configured to allow a substance to flow through the respective luer lock connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 24, 2013
    Assignee: Northgate Technologies Inc.
    Inventor: Robert R. Mantell
  • Patent number: 8613739
    Abstract: A medical tubing connector pair includes a female tubing connector, and a male tubing connector. The female tubing connector has an external thread and the male tubing connector has an internal thread, the external and internal threads threadingly engaged to secure the female and male tubing connectors together. The internal thread is made from a flexible material to permit the female and male tubing connectors to be connected to or disconnected from each other without rotation of the tubing connectors relative to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 24, 2013
    Assignees: Baxter International Inc., Baxter Healthcare SA
    Inventor: Katsuyoshi Sobue
  • Patent number: 8613723
    Abstract: A heat exchanger has a multi-lumen tubing having one end connected to a supply fitting and another end connected to a return fitting. The tubing has a central lumen, a middle lumen that surrounds the central lumen and an outer lumen that surrounds the middle lumen. When infusate traverses along the heat exchanger, it is heated by the heating fluid that flows along the central lumen, and also by the rerouted heating fluid that flows along the outer lumen of the tubing. The heat exchanger is fluidly coupled to a heater by its inlet and outlet so that the temperature of the heating fluid for warming the infusate is maintained at a predetermined temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 24, 2013
    Assignee: Smiths Medical ASD, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Johnson, Gregory Hughes
  • Publication number: 20130338607
    Abstract: An anti-flashback needle adapter inhibits the uncontrolled jetting of blood upon the insertion of an arterial access needle into a blood vessel. An inner wall defines at least one inner port and an outer wall defines at least one outer port in fluid communication with the inner port. As blood enters the device from the arterial access needle, it is diverted first through the inner port and then through the outer port, which diversion has a baffle effect and dissipates the energy of the blood flow. This prevents the jetting of blood and potential contamination of nearby people and objects. A funnel member allows for the insertion of a guide wire into the arterial access needle while maintaining the blood flow dissipation properties of the device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 14, 2013
    Publication date: December 19, 2013
    Inventor: Philip Alexander Paspa
  • Publication number: 20130338642
    Abstract: A feeding tube clip has a first tube clasp. The tube clasp has a truncated cone shape with an opening along a length of the truncated cone shape. A frame has a first end and a second end. A clip end connector is attached to the second end of the frame. The clip end connector forms a groove perpendicular to a length of the frame. A clip end has a second tube clasp perpendicular to a mating slot. The mating slot mates to the clip end connector. The mating slot has an opening that aligns with the hole of the clip end connector. In addition a stop clip may be used to engage the clip end. The stop clip has a peg that inserts into the hole of the clip end connector and the aligned opening of the clip end. The stop clip ensures a very strong secure connection.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 19, 2011
    Publication date: December 19, 2013
    Inventor: Randall J. Maulin
  • Publication number: 20130338643
    Abstract: A microcatheter comprising an elongate flexible tubular body, a tip body and a coupling is disclosed. The elongate flexible tubular body has a proximal end, a distal end and at least one lumen extending axially therethrough. The tip body has a proximal end and a distal end and a lumen extending axially therethrough. The coupling covers a portion of both the tubular body and tip body and is made from a first material and a second material, where the first material is different from the second material. The first material is compatible with an outermost layer of the tubular body and an outermost layer of the tip body, and the second material is configured to form a detachable bond with at least one of the tubular body and the tip body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 19, 2012
    Publication date: December 19, 2013
    Applicant: TYCO HEALTHCARE GROUP LP
    Inventor: Praveen De Silva
  • Patent number: 8608728
    Abstract: A connector and method of connecting are described for connecting a first and second catheter at an overlap area where the first catheter fits within the second catheter. The connector includes a collar that surrounds a portion of the overlap area and a clamp that applies a radially inward force to the collar and encircles a portion of the overlap area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2013
    Assignee: Smiths Medical ASD, Inc.
    Inventors: Lester D Michels, William L Beling, Kristin Finberg, Ronald G Travis
  • Patent number: 8608727
    Abstract: A connector and method of connecting are described for connecting a first and second catheter at an overlap area where the first catheter fits within the second catheter. The connector includes a collar that surrounds a portion of the overlap area and a clamp that applies a radially inward force to the collar and encircles a portion of the overlap area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2013
    Assignee: Smiths Medical ASD, Inc.
    Inventors: Lester D. Michels, William L. Beling, Kristin Finberg, Ronald G. Travis
  • Publication number: 20130331692
    Abstract: A medical connector and method of using the medical connector are provided. In one form, the medical connector includes an elongate main body having a longitudinal axis and a lumen extending axially therethrough, proximal and distal end portions of the elongate main body with the distal end portion being configured to be connected to a first tubular medical device, an auxiliary connection device having a port for being connected to a second tubular medical device, and an adjustable connection between the auxiliary connection device and the elongate main body that allows positioning of the port of the auxiliary connection device relative to the elongate main body to be adjustably selected by a user for ease in connecting the second tubular medical device to the auxiliary connection device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 12, 2013
    Publication date: December 12, 2013
    Applicant: Terumo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Takayuki Mouri
  • Patent number: 8603072
    Abstract: The male connector of the present disclosure allows for the flow of fluids therethrough and includes a movable blunt needle having a shoulder projecting radially outwards from the movable blunt needle. The male connector also includes an outer cylinder body formed around the movable blunt needle and disposed in coaxial alignment to the movable blunt needle, a blunt needle retainer which retains the movable blunt needle so that the movable blunt needle can move in an axial direction, and a valve which opens as a result of the movable blunt needle moving in the axial direction when the posterior end presses against the valve. This occurs when the movable blunt needle is inserted into a corresponding connection site, such as a female connector, and the shoulder presses against the connection site to force the movable blunt needle in the axial direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventor: Susumu Miyasaka
  • Publication number: 20130324974
    Abstract: A tube connector includes a flexible member that engages an inserted length of tubing. The flexible member is configured to adhere to the tubing in the presence of an applied solvent, thereby forming a hermetic seal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2013
    Publication date: December 5, 2013
    Applicant: FENWAL, INC.
    Inventors: Terry Chung, Kwang Suk Kim, James Darren Roxas, David Shao Ling
  • Patent number: 8597230
    Abstract: A dialysis system is disclosed including an autoconnection mechanism. The autoconnection mechanism in an embodiment is configured such that (i) a tip protector remover is translated in a first direction towards a plurality of supply line connectors, (ii) the tip protector remover is locked to each of a plurality of supply line tip protectors connected to the plurality of supply line connectors, (iii) the tip protector remover is translated in a second direction away from the plurality of supply line connectors to remove the plurality of supply line tip protectors from the supply line connectors, the tip protector remover is translated in a third direction different from the first and second directions, and (v) solution line connectors are translated towards the supply line connectors to connect each of the solution line connectors to one of the supply line connectors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignees: Baxter International Inc., Baxter Healthcare S.A.
    Inventors: Robert W. Childers, Kurt Holmquist, Peter A. Hopping
  • Patent number: 8597277
    Abstract: Disclosed is an expandable transluminal sheath, for introduction into the body while in a first, low cross-sectional area configuration, and subsequent expansion of at least a part of the distal end of the sheath to a second, enlarged cross-sectional configuration. The distal end of the sheath is maintained in the first, low cross-sectional configuration and expanded using a radial dilatation device. In an exemplary application, the sheath is utilized to provide access for diagnostic or therapeutic procedures such as ureteroscopy, cardiac electrophysiology, gastroenterology, and spinal access.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignee: Onset Medical Corporation
    Inventors: Jay Lenker, Onnik Tchulluian, Edward J. Nance
  • Publication number: 20130310807
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for a connection interface between a reservoir or syringe, infusion set tubing, and an infusion pump is provided. A base is provided which is adapted to receive a reservoir. The base has a base engagement member, such as a detent, projecting therefrom. A cap is provided which is adapted to receive the base. The cap includes a first cap engagement member, such as a detent opening, which is adapted to removably engage the base detent. The cap further includes a second cap detent opening which is adapted to removably engage the base detent. A piercing member, such as a needle, is disposed in the interior of the cap in such a manner that the needle is separated from the reservoir septum when the base detent is in the first cap detent opening, and the needle pierces the reservoir septum when the base detent is in the second cap detent opening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2013
    Publication date: November 21, 2013
    Applicant: MEDTRONIC MINIMED, INC.
    Inventors: Randy W. Adair, Sheldon B. Moberg, Chalirmkiert Srisathapat
  • Patent number: 8585858
    Abstract: A medical catheter for inserting into a body includes a bump tubing section with proximal and distal ends, wherein the proximal end is configured to mate with a hub. The bump tubing section has an intermediate portion extending away from the proximal end with a substantially constant outer diameter and thickness, and a taper portion adjacent the distal end with generally decreasing inside and outside diameters to provide a gradually increasing flexibility toward the distal end of the bump tubing section. The bump tubing section is comprised of a polymer having a predetermined flexural modulus. A tip section is disposed distally of the distal end of the bump tubing section comprising a distal liner and a distal cover such that at least a majority of the tip section has a substantially constant stiffness and a flexural modulus substantially equal to or greater than the predetermined flexural modulus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Inventors: Alex M. Kronfeld, Derek L. Norton, Robin M. Young
  • Patent number: 8585096
    Abstract: A restraining device for a tubing connector assembly can include a resilient member having a generally U-shape with forked ends that curve toward each other. Each forked end can have a recess between tines thereof. Each recess can have a blind end. The resilient member can have a bend provided with an engagement bump. The engagement bump and forked ends can be aligned such that the engagement bump coincides with a line joining the blind ends. When a cylindrical connector assembly tube is placed in the recesses, the engagement bump is urged against a side of the connector assembly to thereby prevent inadvertent disconnection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Assignee: NxStage Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: William J. Schnell, James M. Brugger
  • Patent number: 8585681
    Abstract: A device for use in dialysis includes an elongated tubular body having a first end, a second end, and a lumen extending between the first end and the second end, and a first UV source coupled to the elongated tubular body at the second end, wherein the first UV source is configured to direct UV light for sterilizing at least a part of the elongated tubular body, wherein the second end of the elongated tubular body includes an opening in fluid communication with the lumen of the elongated tubular body, and a cover, the cover positionable at a first location to close the opening and at a second location to unblock the opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Assignee: PuraCath Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: William Boenig, Andy Katz-Mayfield, Zaafir Kherani, Julia Rasooly, Danielle Weiss
  • Publication number: 20130304039
    Abstract: A connector for a fluid handling system includes a body defining a plurality of internal passages that connect single-lumen tubes to lumens of a multi-lumen tube. Openings located along an internal edge of connector provide fluid communication between the internal passages and openings located along a curved outer surface of the multi-lumen tube.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2013
    Publication date: November 14, 2013
    Applicant: FENWAL, INC.
    Inventor: Terry Chung
  • Patent number: 8579871
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a process for the sterile transfer of fluids, be they liquids or gases. It uses a presterilized device comprised of a body having a bore formed through at least a portion of its interior. Contained within the bore is a movable plunger. The body has a first and a second end. The first end contains a face designed to be attached to the upstream component. The second end is connected to a downstream component such as a filter, pipeline, sample bag and the like. The plunger has corresponding first and second ends. The first end of the plunger when it the closed position is in alignment with the face of the body which combined form a steamable surface and a sterile barrier against the environment to the rest of the interior of the body, the plunger and downstream components. The device is attached to an upstream component and the face and the first end of the plunger are steam sterilized in place.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2013
    Assignee: EMD Millipore Corporation
    Inventors: Stephen Proulx, Joseph Almasian, Naren Renganath, Stephen Tingley, Martin Morrissey
  • Patent number: 8574203
    Abstract: A flushable catheter assembly having features to enable selective activation of fluid flow through the catheter assembly is disclosed herein. A septum is placed within the catheter adapter of the catheter assembly and includes a pathway that is closed prior to being biased open via a septum activator also positioned within the catheter adapter. A plurality of air vent channels is interposed between the septum and the inner surface of the catheter adapter to permit “flashback” of blood during insertion of the catheter into a patient. The septum activator is advanced through the pathway of the septum as a coupler is attached to a proximal opening of the catheter adapter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Assignee: Becton, Dickinson and Company
    Inventors: Marty L. Stout, Weston F. Harding, S. Ray Isaacson, Jonathan K. Burkholz, Austin Jason McKinnon
  • Patent number: 8562572
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a sterile sample collection device for fluids and a method of using the same. It is comprised of a transfer device having a body with a bore formed through at least a portion of its interior. Contained within the bore is a movable plunger. The body has a first and a second end. The first end contains a face designed to be attached to the upstream component. The second end is connected to tube which is then connected to a collection bag. The plunger has corresponding first and second ends. The first end of the plunger when in the closed position is in alignment with the face of the body which combined form a steamable surface and a sterile barrier against the environment to the rest of the interior of the body, the plunger and downstream components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2013
    Assignee: EMD Millipore Corporation
    Inventors: Stephen Proulx, Joseph Almasian, Naren Renganath, Stephen Tingley, Martin Morrissey
  • Patent number: 8551059
    Abstract: A spinal cannula with a needle hub having a transparent area for observing the liquor flowing through a hollow cavity of the needle hub. A structure for refracting or reflecting rays of light is provided in or at the transparent area of the needle hub. The structure for refracting or reflecting rays of light may be formed as one or more prisms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Assignee: B. Braun Melsungen AG
    Inventors: Andreas Katerkamp, Volker Schumacher, Robert Klug, Martin Sippel
  • Patent number: 8545479
    Abstract: Certain embodiments of the present invention include a male luer connector having a valve arrangement for keeping a passage that extends through the male luer connector closed when the male luer connector is not attached to a corresponding female luer connector. This passage of the male luer connector may be opened by connecting the male luer connector to a female luer connector. The valve arrangement of the male luer connector may include a movable sealing element arranged around a central fluid conduit. In some embodiments, the male luer connector may include a filter that is permeable to gas, but substantially impermeable to liquid, thus allowing gas to be purged from the male luer connector while substantially preventing liquid from leaking from the connector at least when the male luer connector is not connected to a female luer connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2013
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventors: Ichiro Kitani, Shigeaki Funamura, Kazuhiro Abe
  • Patent number: 8540685
    Abstract: A pressure activated two-way slit valve assembly is designed to be used in combination with, but not limited to, a high flow rate catheter to prevent accidental ingestion of air or loss of blood if the closure cap comes off during non-use of the catheter. In addition, the potential for occlusion of the catheter due to blood clots in the catheter and catheter related infection is substantially reduced. The pressure activated two-way slit valve assembly includes a first end, a second end, a wall defining a dumbbell shaped channel, and a flexible, thin disk having a slit and positioned within the pressure activated two-way slit valve assembly to reside within the dumbbell shaped channel. The slit and the dumbbell shaped channel are sized to enable the slit to deform in response to a predetermined pressure differential across the slit to allow fluid to pass therethrough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2013
    Assignee: Navilyst Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Harvey Robert Moorehead, Brian J. Bergeron
  • Patent number: 8540698
    Abstract: A fluid path for use in a fluid delivery system is described. The fluid path may have a connecter member having a lumen, a luer member connected to the lumen, and an annular member around the luer member. The fluid path may further have a check valve in the lumen to limit fluid flow in one direction. The check valve may have a deformable stopper element and a retaining sleeve disposed in the lumen of the connecter member. The retaining sleeve may have a central bore and a distal end against which the stopper element sits to prevent fluid flow through the lumen until a sufficient fluid pressure is present to deform the stopper element and unseat the stopper from the retaining sleeve. One or more grooves may be present in the receiving cavity. The fluid path may further have a drip chamber, a second tubing section, and a spike.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2013
    Assignee: Medrad, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael A. Spohn, James M. Gimbel, John A. Haury, James A. Dedig, Jared A. Sunday
  • Patent number: 8540682
    Abstract: A plunger activated capping system is disclosed which includes a syringe body defining a fluid reservoir, a plunger assembly including a plunger rod and a sealing member supported on the plunger rod, and a luer cap releasably secured to a distal end of the syringe body. The luer cap includes a luer-type connector member and a fluid outlet. A luer cap plug is releasably supported on a distal end of the plunger rod at a location distally of the sealing member. The luer cap plug is movable into engagement with the luer cap to seal the fluid outlet of the luer cap upon advancement of the plunger assembly from a retracted position to an advanced position. The plunger assembly is configured to effect disengagement of the luer cap from the distal end of the syringe body when the plunger assembly is moved to the advanced position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2013
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventor: James L. Carlyon
  • Patent number: 8529544
    Abstract: A hemodialysis catheter assembly adapted for use in a subcutaneous tunneling procedure incorporates a mechanism for securing the catheter hub member to the elongated catheter, and to provide the requisite fluid communication between fluid passages within the hub and the catheter lumens within the catheter. The catheter hub member may be connected to the elongated catheter after implantation of the catheter via a subcutaneous tunneling procedure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2013
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventors: Brett Haarala, Richard Braga, Robert Frechette
  • Patent number: 8529523
    Abstract: A valve for controlling material flow through a catheter, comprises a first flexible member including a first moveable element, wherein, when the first moveable element is in the open position, material may flow past the first flexible member through a first lumen of the catheter and, when the first moveable element is in the closed position, flow through the first lumen is prevented and a first biasing member coupled to the first flexible member for biasing the first moveable member toward the closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2013
    Assignee: Navilyst Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Karla Weaver, Jim Culhane
  • Patent number: 8523826
    Abstract: Embodiments of luer-type needle-free valve devices are disclosed. One of the novel aspects of the invention is its ability to transform from an open state to a closed state. The open position eliminates the potential for a differential pressure to exist between the volume connected to the inlet and outlet of the valve fitting. The closed position enables the device to maintain a differential pressure between the volume connected to the inlet and outlet of the valve fitting. The invention is useful in manufacturing sterile medical devices by allowing all surfaces to communicate with the sterilizing agent when the valve is in an open configuration when it is in a closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignee: Cytyc Corporation
    Inventor: Russell K. Layton, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8523830
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignees: Catheter Connections
    Inventors: Donald D. Solomon, F. Mark Ferguson, Robert Hitchcock, Steven Bandis, James Mercer, Michael W. Howlett
  • Patent number: 8523831
    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: November 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignees: Catheter Connections, Inc., The University of Utah Research Foundation
    Inventors: Donald D. Solomon, Steven Bandis, James Mercer, Michael Howlett, Robert Hitchcock, James Kennedy, Richard Lasher
  • Publication number: 20130226151
    Abstract: A flexible tube for medical instrument includes tubular bodies, one of the tubular bodies relatively turnably connected to an adjacent one of the tubular bodies by a hinge structure. Each of the tubular bodies includes a pivotal section provided at a connecting-directionally first end edge forming the hinge structure, a turning support section provided at a connecting-directionally second end edge and supporting the pivotal section of the one of tubular bodies connected to the adjacent one of tubular bodies, a projection which is provided at either one of the first and second end edges, and is projected in the connecting direction from a position different from the position of the pivotal section or the turning support section, and a recess provided at the other of the first and second end edges and engaged with the projection of the one of tubular bodies connected to the adjacent one of tubular bodies.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2013
    Publication date: August 29, 2013
    Applicant: TERUMO KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: TERUMO KABUSHIKI KAISHA
  • Patent number: 8517998
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a process for the sterile transfer of fluids, be they liquids or gases. It uses a presterilized device comprised of a body having a bore formed through at least a portion of its interior. Contained within the bore is a movable plunger. The body has a first and a second end. The first end contains a face designed to be attached to the upstream component. The second end is connected to a downstream component such as a filter, pipeline, sample bag and the like. The plunger has corresponding first and second ends. The first end of the plunger when it the closed position is in alignment with the face of the body which combined form a steamable surface and a sterile barrier against the environment to the rest of the interior of the body, the plunger and downstream components. The device is attached to an upstream component and the face and the first end of the plunger are steam sterilized in place.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: EMD Millipore Corporation
    Inventors: Stephen Proulx, Joseph Almasian, Naren Renganath, Stephen Tingley, Martin Morrissey
  • Patent number: 8512275
    Abstract: A medical fluid autoconnection method includes: enabling acceptance a pierceable connector that is capable of fluidly communicating with a source of medical fluid into a moveable holder; temporarily fixing a spike to a medical fluid pumping machine; automatically detecting whether the pierceable connector has been placed into the moveable holder; if the pierceable connector is sensed as being placed in the moveable holder, moving the holder so that the spike pierces the pierceable connector; and enabling medical fluid to be pumped from the source through the connected spiked and connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Assignees: Baxter International Inc., Baxter Healthcare S.A.
    Inventors: Robert W. Childers, Patrick Lee, Audrey Kopychev, Douglas Reitz, Rodolfo Roger, John F. Steck
  • Patent number: 8506534
    Abstract: A method of placing a catheter into a patient while preventing disadvantageous escape of fluid from the patient comprises providing a catheter secured to a valve hosing. The catheter has a proximal end, a distal end and an interior lumen. The valve housing has a first port, a second port, and a fluid path running between the first and second ports. The catheter and the valve housing have a hollow needle extending therethrough. The method further comprises piercing the patient's skin, thereby inserting the catheter into the patient. The method further comprises holding the catheter and valve housing in place while removing the hollow needle through the catheter and valve housing. The hollow needle passes through the first and second ports of the valve housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Assignee: Luther Needlesafe Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Ronald B. Luther, John I. Muri, Dean R. Gauf
  • Patent number: 8506549
    Abstract: A multipurpose connector made in two pieces and having three distal connectors and two proximal connectors arranged concentrically in one another and coaxially to one another and made differently and having a venting passage. The multipurpose connector is used in gravity-assisted and pump-assisted enteral feeding and serves for the connection of transfer systems to storage containers, in particular to nutrient and balancing liquid containers having differently designed openings. Also provided is a set for enteral application including a transfer system and the multipurpose connector and the use of the multipurpose connector or of the set.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Assignee: Fresenius Kabi Deutschland GmbH
    Inventors: Barbara Breuer-Thal, Marcel Oster
  • Patent number: 8506538
    Abstract: A medical device for use in connection with a connector of an indwelling line for cleansing a surface of a septum of the connector is provided. The medical device includes a housing including a proximal portion defining a cavity containing a quantity of microbial reducing agent, a distal portion defining a cavity for selective coupling with the connector of the indwelling line, and a partition separating the proximal and distal cavities, wherein the proximal and distal cavities are in fluid communication with one another; and a deformable member overlying an end of the proximal portion for maintaining the microbial reducing agent within the proximal cavity thereof. The microbial reducing agent being dispensable into the distal cavity, at least when the medical device is connected to the connector of the indwelling line, to awash a surface of the connector of the indwelling line and reduce microbes present thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventor: Todd M. Chelak
  • Patent number: 8506547
    Abstract: A method and device for transferring fluids from a non-sterile field to a sterile field within a surgical environment includes utilizing a device that includes a main body having a first inlet port that is in communication with a first outlet port. Fluid is taken from the patient, typically with a sterile syringe and transferred to the non-sterile field where the fluid is processed. The processed fluid is then drawn into another syringe in the non-sterile field and a distal end of the first syringe is place within the inlet port of the sterile main body. A distal end of a second sterile syringe is inserted into the outlet port, where the distal ends of the sterile syringe and the non-sterile syringe do not make contact. As a plunger is forced into a chamber of the first non-sterile syringe to force the fluid out of the first syringe, the plunger of the second sterile syringe is retracted such that a chamber in the second syringe has a sufficient volume to store the processed liquid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Assignee: Nordson Corporation
    Inventors: Todd William Sharratt, Kenneth Mitchell Goodman, Curtis H. Miller
  • Patent number: 8500716
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for a connection interface between a reservoir or syringe, infusion set tubing, and an infusion pump is provided. A base is provided which is adapted to receive a reservoir. The base has a base engagement member, such as a detent, projecting therefrom. A cap is provided which is adapted to receive the base. The cap includes a first cap engagement member, such as a detent opening, which is adapted to removably engage the base detent. The cap further includes a second cap detent opening which is adapted to removably engage the base detent. A piercing member, such as a needle, is disposed in the interior of the cap in such a manner that the needle is separated from the reservoir septum when the base detent is in the first cap detent opening, and the needle pierces the reservoir septum when the base detent is in the second cap detent opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2013
    Assignee: Medtronic MiniMed, Inc.
    Inventors: Randy W. Adair, Sheldon B. Moberg, Chalirmkiert Srisathapat
  • Patent number: 8500715
    Abstract: Fluid communication to an end of a catheter is afforded through a connection hub selectively attachable thereto. The connection hub includes a catheter receiving element and a fluid coupling element that are relatively rotatable coaxially between a catheter receiving condition and a catheter capture condition of the connection hub. The catheter capture condition, a compressible sealing sleeve disposed interior of the connection hub between a pair of clamping jaws projecting from the catheter receiving element is urged into sealing engagement with the exterior of the catheter, catheter is gripped mechanically through the sealing sleeve by the clamping jaws. The exteriors of each of the catheter receiving element and the fluid coupling element are formed into planar actuation handles that facilitate relative rotation of the catheter receiving element and the fluid coupling element into coplanar alignment in the catheter capture condition of the connection hub.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2013
    Assignee: Custom Medical Applications, Inc.
    Inventors: N. Sandor Racz, Gary Bullard
  • Publication number: 20130197485
    Abstract: An antiseptic dead-end cap includes a base having first and second sides, a first annular wall extending from the first side of the base, a cylindrical center plug extending from the first side of the base, and a second annular wall extending from the second side of the base. The first annular wall has an outer and an inner surface. The cylindrical center plug has an outer and an inner surface, and is positioned within the first annular wall to form an annular chamber. The second annular wall has an outer and an inner surface, and defines a second chamber having an open end. The second chamber is further defined by the inner surface of the cylindrical center plug. An antiseptic material is on at least one of the first annular wall inner surface, second annular wall inner surface, second annular wall outer surface, and cylindrical center plug outer surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Applicant: Excelsior Medical Corporation
    Inventor: Excelsior Medical Corporation
  • Publication number: 20130197484
    Abstract: Embodiments of the disclosure include methods and systems for attaching an articulation section. In an embodiment, a medical instrument includes a first tubular member including a first end. The medical instrument also includes a second tubular member including a first end. The second tubular member includes a plurality of layers including an inner layer and a first layer including a fluorinated material. The inner layer includes a first section disposed under the first layer and a second section extending out from under the first layer. A portion of the first tubular member overlaps and is bonded to at least a portion of the second section of the inner layer of the second tubular member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2013
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Inventors: Dane T. Seddon, Sean P. Fleury, Mark D. Wood, Peter L. Dayton, Gary S. Kappel, Norman C. May
  • Patent number: 8496643
    Abstract: A cap assembly is disclosed for use with a lock solution delivery device. The cap assembly includes a housing defining a receptacle and having an inlet end and an outlet end. A plunger is movable axially within the receptacle from a retracted position to an advanced position and is rotatably supported within the receptacle from a first position to a second position. The plunger includes an axial extension configured to non-rotatably engage a syringe connected to the inlet end of the housing. The plunger is positioned to move from the first position to the second position in response to rotatable detachment of a syringe from the inlet end of the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2013
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventors: Casey Chebator, Todd Chelak
  • Patent number: 8491550
    Abstract: A drainage tube unit for aspirating body fluids by means of a suction pump comprises a drainage tube (10) for aspirating the body fluids and at least one service tube (11), each of them with a patient-side end and a pump-side end, the patient-side ends of the drainage tube (10) and of the service tube (11) being arranged in a common patient-side attachment part (3), and the pump-side ends of the drainage tube (10) and of the service tube (11) being arranged in a common pump-side attachment part (2). The ends of the drainage tube (10) extend separate from the ends of the service tube (11), the patient-side ends opening into a drainage channel (37) and a service channel (35) of the patient-side attachment part (3), and the pump-side ends opening into a drainage channel (24) and a service channel (25) of the pump-side attachment part (2). The drainage tube unit according to the invention is inexpensive to produce and is easy and safe to use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2013
    Assignee: Medela Holding AG
    Inventors: Ivo Ramella, Fabian Joder
  • Patent number: 8491546
    Abstract: Cap and cleaning devices antiseptically maintain patient fluid line access valves to minimize the risk of infection via catheters. The devices have a cap that may contain a dry pad impregnated with an antimicrobial agent. The cap covers the access portion of the access valve when not in use. The devices have a hood that contains a wet pad impregnated with a cleaning solution and, optionally, an antimicrobial agent. The wet pad cleans the access portion of the access valve prior to and optionally, after the access valve is utilized to access the patient fluid line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2013
    Assignee: Becton, Dickinson and Company
    Inventors: Minh Quang Hoang, Jonathan Karl Burkholz
  • Publication number: 20130184679
    Abstract: A system, method, and article for delivering an antimicrobial agent into the lumen of a trans-dermal catheter are disclosed. In an embodiment, the system comprises an elongate member configured for insertion into a lumen of a catheter, and the elongate member containing an antimicrobial. In the alternative an antimicrobial agent can be placed on an interior surface of a retaining ring.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 12, 2012
    Publication date: July 18, 2013
    Inventors: Robert J. Ziebol, Keith J. Modert
  • Publication number: 20130184541
    Abstract: An infusion set component of a fluid infusion device and/or a fluid infusion port component for delivery of fluid to a patient is compatible with a cooperating fluid channel module. The fluid channel module includes a body section having coupling features to mate with a base of the component. The fluid channel module also includes an interior fluid flow channel formed within the body section to receive fluid from the fluid infusion device and/or from a syringe or pen delivery device. The fluid channel module also includes a conduit having a first end in fluid communication with the interior fluid flow channel, and having a second end to deliver the fluid to the patient.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 3, 2012
    Publication date: July 18, 2013
    Applicant: MEDTRONIC MINIMED, INC.
    Inventors: David Christopher Antonio, Sumona Nag Adhya, Jose J. Ruelas, Eric Allan Larson
  • Publication number: 20130184687
    Abstract: A clam shell shaped adapter for connecting a fluid output device and a fluid input device to establish a fluid path between the fluid output and input devices has two shells integrally connected by a living hinge. A first shell has a connector fitting end and a catheter end connected by a tubing. The fluid output device may be a catheter that is matable to the catheter end. A retainer structure in the adapter fixedly retains the catheter when the first and second shells close upon each other. Respective latch mechanisms provided at the shells lockingly couple the two shells to each other. The fitting end has a given configuration that prevents it from mating with a counterpart conventional luer fitting but enables it to mate with a counterpart connector fitting that has a special configuration that mirrors the given configuration.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2013
    Publication date: July 18, 2013
    Applicant: SMITHS MEDICAL ASD, INC.
    Inventor: Smiths Medical ASD, Inc.
  • Patent number: 8486049
    Abstract: A valve connector for medical infusion lines including a tubular body (1) with an inlet (4) and an outlet (10), an internal hollow spike (2), and a sealing member (3) including an elastic head (14) with pre-slit (17) normally kept in an undeformed closed condition within the inlet (4). The outlet (10) comprises a pierceable injection point (22) coaxially facing the hollow spike (2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2013
    Assignee: Industrie Borla S.p.A.
    Inventor: Gianni Guala
  • Patent number: 8486047
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides a packaged medical device including a container for receiving a medical device having a passageway defined therein and a port for permitting the sterile passage of an agent between the outside of the container and the passageway defined within the medical device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2013
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventor: Joshua Stopek