Abstract: An NG feeding tube tip (50) is disclosed, which has a main body portion that fits to the end of an NG or OG feeding tube (20). The main body has a hollow interior that is in fluid communication with the bore of the NG or OG tube (20); and an aperture (56) in a sidewall through which feed can be given to a patient, and through which a sample of stomach content can be aspirated. The tip (50) is characterised by the outer wall of the main body comprising a recess or groove (60, 62, 80), which intersects the aperture (56), and which extends at least partially around the exterior surface of the main body. The recess or groove (60, 62, 80) prevents or inhibits an aperture-occluding seal between the stomach wall (30) and the NG or OG tube tip being formed, especially when a vacuum is applied to the NG or OG tube (20) during an aspiration procedure.

Abstract: Fluid connector systems including first and second valve assemblies couplable together to form a fluid pathway therethrough, and can resist fluid flow through the connector system when the valve assemblies are separated from each other, the first valve assembly including a post forming a fluid passage, and the second valve assembly including a valve plug positioned within a bore and configured to obstruct a fluid passage, such that when the valve assemblies are separated, a slit of the valve plug resist fluid flow therethrough, and when the valve assemblies are coupled together the post extends through the compressible valve and engagement of a ridge of the valve plug against the post resist fluid flow between the post and the ridge.

Abstract: The present invention relates to peripheral intravenous catheters, and in particular to an integrated peripheral intravenous catheter having a low profile securement platform, a needle hub having an interior compartment and further comprising a paddle grip, and an extension tube coupled to the catheter and stored within the interior compartment of the needle hub prior to catheterization.

Abstract: A catheter with a variable circular loop is responsive to a contraction wire for increasing the coiling of the circular loop. The shape of the loop is supported by an elongated member, wherein a radially constrictive sleeve confines the contraction wire to extends immediately alongside the length of elongated member so as to improve uniformity and minimize misshaping of the loop during contraction.

Abstract: Systems and methods are adapted for treating the carotid artery. The systems include interventional catheters and blood vessel access devices that are adapted for transcervical insertion into the carotid artery. Embodiments of the systems and methods can be used in combination with embolic protection systems including blood flow reversal mechanisms, arterial filters, and arterial occlusion devices.

Abstract: A combination flush catheter and selective catheter as one convertible catheter and methods of using the same. The selective catheter may be a reverse curve or guide catheter. The additional steps of removal of the flush catheter and re-insertion of the selective catheter may be eliminated, reducing the possibility of errors and making the procedure smoother and shorter.

Abstract: An airway assist device and methods of making and using an airway assist device to assist in opening an airway or removing fluid or material obstructing an airway of a subject.

Abstract: An exemplary syringe adapter for coupling with a syringe may include a housing. A needle-free connector may be disposed in the housing. A communication member may be in slidable engagement with the housing. The communication member may be slidable, with respect to the housing, between an unactuated state and an actuated state of the syringe adapter. A cannula may extend from the communication. In the unactuated state, the cannula may be retracted within the needle-free connector. In the actuated state, the cannula may protrude through and axially beyond the needle-free connector.

Abstract: Systems and methods for endometrial ablation. The systems include a handle and elongated introducer sleeve extending to an expandable working end having a fluid-tight interior chamber. A thin dielectric wall surrounds at least a portion of the interior chamber and has an external surface for contacting endometrial tissue. The thin dielectric wall surrounds a collapsible-expandable frame and receives an electrically non-conductive gas. First and second polarity electrodes are exposed to the interior and exterior of the chamber, respectively. A radiofrequency power source operatively connects to the electrode arrangement to apply a radiofrequency voltage across the first and second electrodes, wherein the voltage is sufficient to initiate ionization of the neutral gas into a conductive plasma within the interior chamber, and to capacitively couple the current in the plasma across the thin dielectric wall to ablate endometrial tissue engaged by the external surface of the dielectric structure.

Abstract: A catheter with a variable circular loop is responsive to a contraction wire for increasing the coiling of the circular loop. The shape of the loop is supported by an elongated member, wherein a radially constrictive sleeve confines the contraction wire to extends immediately alongside the length of elongated member so as to improve uniformity and minimize misshaping of the loop during contraction.

Abstract: Described are methods of treating urinary incontinence using a urinary sling and a tissue path that passes through the obturator foramen, along with related surgical implants, devices, systems and kits.

Abstract: A dual lumen coaxial cannula assembly including a first infusion tube having a proximal end, a distal end, and a sidewall extending circumferentially therebetween, as well as a second drainage tube co-axially aligned with the first infusion tube, the second drainage tube having a proximal end, a distal end, and a sidewall extending circumferentially therebetween. The assembly also includes a connector assembly, which has an inlet portion through which a portion of the first infusion tube is configured to extend and an outlet portion through which a portion of the second drainage tube is configured to extend. The connector assembly is configured to enable selective axial displacement of the first infusion tube through the second drainage tube.

Abstract: A liquid cartridge includes: a cartridge body; a liquid supply portion; a sealing member having a through-hole; first and second valves; and first and second urging members. The liquid supply portion defines therein a liquid passage extending in a frontward direction and having an opening open frontward. The sealing member is provided on a periphery of the opening of the liquid supply portion, and has first and second surfaces those face rearward. The first and second valves are disposed in the liquid passage so as to be movable in the frontward direction and a rearward direction. The first valve is pressed by the first urging member to abut the first surface and interrupts communication between the through-hole and the liquid passage. The second valve is urged by the second urging member to abut the second surface and interrupts communication between the through-hole and an outside of the liquid supply portion.

Abstract: An introducer sheath includes an elongate shaft having a proximal end, a distal end and a lumen extending therebetween. An actuatable hemostasis valve in a hub is adjacent the proximal end of the elongate shaft and may be used to prevent blood from escaping from the elongate shaft. The introducer sheath may also have a a self-expanding funnel adjacent the distal end of the elongate shaft.

Abstract: Methods and devices to facilitate positioning of a catheter into a vessel. Devices include axially concentric assemblies of a piercing needle and a dilator that guides an outer catheter into a vessel, such as a blood vessel. The assemblies described herein can include retraction mechanisms and/or lock mechanisms to control needle positioning during catheterization processes as well as improved valves that prevent leakage of fluid from the proximal end of the devices. The devices and method include the use of novel valves to prevent undesired leakage of fluids through the proximal end of the catheter.

Abstract: A male-female adapter (21) can be coupled to a hermetically closable connector (1) with external threading (13) and closing plug (6) which can be bored by pressure of a male fitting so as to form a connector (1)—adapter (21) unit which is suitable for using a female fitting. The adapter (21) comprises an external tubular body (22) with an axial extension (24) which can be hooked to the connector (1) in a rotatable and axially slidable manner, an internal tubular body (26) with terminal tangs (27, 37) axially projecting from the extremities of the external tubular body (22), a middle transversal wall (28) which integrally connects the two tubular bodies (22, 26), and two opposite sense threadings (29, 30) formed in internal portions of the external tubular body (22), which threadings are separated by said middle transversal wall (28).

Abstract: A multi-headed catheter for fluid delivery and a method of placing a multi-headed catheter for fluid delivery are provided. The multi-headed catheter includes a first tube extending along an axis, wherein the first tube has at least one exit hole provided at a distal end of the first tube to define a perfusion section of the first tube; and a second tube extending along the axis, wherein at least a portion of the second tube is disposed within the first tube, wherein the second tube has at least one exit hole provided at a distal end of the second tube to define a perfusion section of the second tube. The distal end of the second tube is configured to exit said first tube at an opening provided along a wall of the first tube. The perfusion sections of the first tube and the second tube can be independently placed to deliver fluid to distinct anatomical areas within a surgical wound site.

Abstract: A one-piece medical connector has a unitary body. The unitary body includes a rigid portion that forms a housing. The unitary body also includes a resilient portion located at least partially within the housing. At least a movable portion of the resilient portion is configured to move relative to the rigid portion. Movement of the resilient portion selectively permits fluid flow through the connector. The rigid portion and the resilient portion form a one-piece unitary connector.

Abstract: A curved inflatable bone tamp includes an outer shaft defining a passageway. An inner shaft is positioned within the passageway. The inner shaft extends between opposite first and second end. The inner shaft defines a lumen. The inner shaft is curved between the first end and the second end. A first leg of a balloon is coupled to the outer shaft and a second leg of the balloon is coupled to the inner shaft such that a material can flow through the lumen and into the balloon to inflate the balloon. The balloon includes a wall having a variable thickness between the legs when the balloon is uninflated and a uniform thickness between the legs when the balloon is inflated. Kits, systems and methods are disclosed.

Abstract: A collection fitting, system, and method for sampling fluid from a tissue site is described. The collection fitting includes a switch fitting having a first passage and a second passage. The collection fitting also includes a bypass switch coupled to the switch fitting. The bypass switch is operable to fluidly couple the first passage and the second passage through the bypass switch. The bypass switch is also operable to fluidly couple the first passage and the second passage through a specimen container.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to an echogenic catheter assembly. The catheter assembly includes a catheter having a proximal end and a distal end that defines a lumen extending from the proximal end to the distal end. Further, the catheter assembly includes a coil member configured with at least a portion of the lumen of the catheter. The coil member forms a plurality of outwardly extending projections. One or more of the outwardly extending projections define a cross-sectional shape having at least one non-arcuate edge. As such, the non-arcuate edges of the outwardly extending projections are configured to enhance ultrasonic imaging of the catheter when inserted into a patient.

Abstract: A method of assessing bladder storage anomalies via utilization of an indwelling urinary drainage catheter is provided. A urodynamic assessment assembly is provided, the assembly characterized by a pressure sensor for vesical pressure measurement, a processor/controller for receiving, processing and/or displaying select urodynamic patient parameters comprising sensed/monitored pressure data, and a catheter balloon adaptor for operably uniting the pressure sensor of the urodynamic assessment assembly to a balloon inflation valve of the indwelling urinary drainage catheter, the indwelling urinary drainage catheter operably linked with the urodynamic assessment assembly.

Abstract: The invention relates to a catheter device (100) comprising a catheter (68) for insertion into a living being and at least one lumen (69, 70, 74, 79) for guiding a fluid flow within a section of the catheter device, and comprising a valve for controlling a fluid flow, in particular through a catheter, having a valve control chamber (12, 12a), into which an inlet opening (1a) of an inlet channel (1) and an outlet opening (2a) of an outlet channel (2) open, and further having a closure element (5, 13, 17) which can be moved in the valve control chamber (12, 12a) in a controlled manner and which, in at least a first position (I), closes the outlet opening (2a), in at least a second position (II) closes the inlet opening (1a), and which, in at least a third position (III), keeps open a connecting channel between the inlet opening (1a) and the outlet opening (2a), a valve train (A, A?, B, B?, 3, 14, 18) being provided and optionally moving the closure element (5, 13, 17) to at least the first, second or third posi

Abstract: A flow control device (40) for controlling the flow of a pressurized fluent substance is disclosed. The device (40) includes a housing (44, 48, 52) having an inlet portion (44) for receiving the fluent substance, an outlet portion (48) for discharging the fluent substance, and a platform (52). The device (40) further has a valve (56) located within the housing (44, 48, 52). The valve (56) is located between the platform (52) and the outlet portion (48). The valve (56) has a flexible, resilient valve head portion (160) that has confronting, openable portions (212, 216) movable from a closed configuration to an open configuration when the valve head portion (160) is subjected to a pressure differential acting across the valve head portion (160).

Abstract: A hemostatic valve assembly is disclosed. The assembly comprises a housing having a sidewall that tapers radially inwardly towards the housing distal end. A valve member having an open proximal end and a tapered distal end with an orifice formed therein is disposed within the housing chamber. The valve member is deformable between a closed configuration in which the orifice is substantially closed and an open configuration in which the orifice is open. A biasing member disposed proximal to the valve member is moveable between a longitudinally compressed condition and a longitudinally expanded condition. When in an expanded condition, the biasing member pushes the valve member longitudinally and against the tapered sidewall of the housing. The tapered sidewall of the housing urges the distal end of the valve member radially inwardly, thus urging the orifice to the substantially closed configuration.

Abstract: In various examples, a hub for a medical device includes a hub housing including a passage from a proximal end of the hub housing to a distal end of the hub housing. A valve is disposed within the hub. The valve is configured to allow passage of an insertable device through the valve while inhibiting leakage of fluid from the valve. A cap is engaged to the hub housing. The cap includes an opening therethrough sized and shaped to allow passage of the insertable device through the opening. The opening allows access to the passage of the hub housing. An angled sidewall is disposed within the hub. The angled sidewall is configured to retain and deform the valve into a curved shape.

Abstract: A catheter includes an elongated tube having a distal end and a proximal end. The elongated tube includes porous material having an interior and an exterior face. The interior face defines a lumen along a central axis of the elongated tube. The porous material is configured to flow a fluid between the interior face and the exterior face and to seep the fluid out of the porous material through the exterior face and interior face. A lining covers at least a portion of the exterior face and substantially limits perfusion through the exterior face at the portion of the exterior face covered by the lining. The catheter is impregnated with a material that prevents buildup of material on one of an inner face or an outer face of the catheter or the lining is coated with one or more of an anticoagulant, antibiotic, or antithrombotic.

Abstract: A vesical pressure measurement system is provided. One or more elements of the system are operably combinable with a previously deployed urinary drainage catheter. The system includes a urodynamic data system and a urinary drainage catheter balloon adaptor. The data system is characterized by a pressure sensor for vesical pressure measurement, and a processor/controller for receiving, processing and/or displaying select urodynamic patient parameters comprising sensed/monitored pressure data. The adaptor operably unites the pressure sensor of the data system to a balloon inflation valve of the catheter. The adaptor includes an adaptor valve for connection to the balloon inflation valve, and a housing, the housing including a balloon inflation valve portion and an adaptor valve portion, the portions urgingly uniteable in furtherance of establishing and maintaining a secure interface between the balloon inflation valve and the adaptor valve.

Abstract: A collection fitting, system, and method for sampling fluid from a tissue site is described. The collection fitting includes a switch fitting having a first passage and a second passage. The collection fitting also includes a bypass switch coupled to the switch fitting. The bypass switch is operable to fluidly couple the first passage and the second passage through the bypass switch. The bypass switch is also operable to fluidly couple the first passage and the second passage through a specimen container.

Abstract: A bronchoscope adapter is configured for one hand operation by providing a slide lock that is captured within a housing and a retaining nut that can be operated with a single finger or thumb. Rotation of the retaining nut is eased by isolating rotational force from a compression block with a spacer ring.

Abstract: A fluid delivery device includes an automatic needle retraction mechanism configured to automatically retract a delivery end of a needle into a housing. In one embodiment, the needle assembly is configured to automatically withdraw the delivery end of the needle into the housing upon an actuator moving from the first position to the second position. In one embodiment, the needle assembly is configured to automatically withdraw the delivery end of the needle into the housing upon decoupling a bottom surface of the housing from a skin surface.

Abstract: A kyphoplasty device and method offers access and serves as a channel to radially locate sites in the vertebral body using a curved needle made of a material, such as nitinol, which recovers its shape after passing through a straight cannula. The needle serves as a channel facilitating precise positioning of an inflatable bone tamp. The bone tamp creates a void when inflated at the proper location within a nonlinear, arcuate-shaped channel defined by the shape of the needle within the vertebral body. After the bone tamp is deflated and removed, the needle serves as a conduit for delivery of cement into the cavity formed by the bone tamp, without repositioning the needle.

Abstract: A connecting structure for medical use includes a first connecting portion 1 and a second connecting portion 2. The first connecting portion 1 includes a threadedly engageable portion 22a, a support portion 22b and a sealing portion 14. The second connecting portion 2 includes a threadedly engageable portion 2c and a sealing portion 2b. The threadedly engageable portions are threadedly engageable with each other. The sealing portions are joinable to each other by advancement of a threaded engagement between the threadedly engageable portions. An operating cylinder 30 is mounted on an outer periphery of the support portion 22b. A torque limiting mechanism 40 is disposed between the operating cylinder 30 and the support portion 22b. The sealing portions 14, 2b can be joined by turning the operating cylinder 30 in a threaded engagement advancing direction.

Abstract: A safety medical connector includes a composite inner pipe, a first resilient element, a sealing element, and a housing. The first resilient element hermetically seals the entrance of the housing, and the sealing element hermetically seals the exit of the housing; hence, thanks to the double hermetic seal structures, the safety medical connector is leakproof and airtight. When in use, part of the composite inner pipe is secured and stationary, thereby enhancing structural stability.

Abstract: A system and methods are described for improving the management of ischemic cardiac tissue during acute coronary syndromes. The system combines a catheter-based sub-system which allows for simultaneous balloon dilation of a coronary artery and infusion of a carefully controlled perfusate during percutaneous coronary intervention. The system allows for modulation of levels of oxygen at the time of percutaneous intervention. In addition, catheters and systems are provided for administration of fluids with modified oxygen content during an intervention that incorporate upstream flow control members to compartmentalize the perfusion of the target coronary artery and the remainder of the heart.

Abstract: A medical connector for use in a fluid pathway. A valve member with sealing rings helps preclude undesired accumulation of fluid within the connector. A branched connector includes a fluid diverter extending away from a port of the branched connector. The fluid diverter is configured to divert fluid flowing through the branched connector and into a medical connector attached thereto, flushing a distal portion of the medical connector.

Abstract: An enteral administration assembly for administering fluids through an enteral device. The administration assembly comprising an inlet, an outlet, and a valve mechanism between the inlet and outlet. The inlet is configured to interlock with only an enteral device to form a sealed connection allowing the passage of fluid between the enteral device and the inlet. The assembly may include a valve or turbulating mechanism comprising a valve and at least one turbulator adapted to change the direction of fluid flowing through the assembly to prevent clogging and flocculation of administered substances.

Abstract: A system and method is provided for applying an anti-pathogenic material to various surfaces of a medical device, wherein the method includes identifying various surfaces of the medical tests which include noncritical dimensions, and limiting the application of the anti-pathogenic material to those surfaces. Some aspects of the invention further include the application of an anti-pathogenic lubricant material to various parts or components of a medical device to reduce friction.

Abstract: Some embodiments comprise a connector including a rigid housing having a first end and a second end. A second member can be positioned at a second end portion of the housing and be engageable with a second device. The second member can have a body portion having a first body portion, a second body portion, and a flow lumen extending axially through the body portion, an annular covering portion extending in a radial direction away from the body portion, a receiving portion extending away from the covering portion in an axial direction, and at least one protrusion extending radially away from an outside surface of the body portion. In some embodiments, the second member can be supported by the housing such that, in an assembled state, the first body portion is positioned within the housing and such that the annular covering portion and the second body portion are positioned outside the housing.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an implantable catheter (100) provided for insertion through a wall (50) of a dural venous sinus (70) in a subject, having a proximal (20) and distal end (30), comprising: —a tubular shaft (10) for insertion through the wall (50) of the venous sinus (70) into the sinus (52), provided with a shaft lumen (12) in fluid connection with a proximal port (14) at the proximal end and a distal port (16) at the distal end of the shaft (10), and —a stop element (40) disposed on an outer surface of the tubular shaft (10), configured to limit the depth of insertion of the tubular shaft (10) into the sinus.

Abstract: Drug delivery connectors are provided for permitting and blocking fluid flow between a container and a catheter connector or other drug delivery site. Embodiments of the drug delivery connectors include a ball valve for forming a releasable seal within the drug delivery connectors. In one or more embodiments, the ball valve prevents fluid flow between an open proximal end and an open distal end of the drug delivery connector and is movable in a proximal direction to release the releasable seal to permit fluid flow from the open proximal direction to the open distal direction. Methods of delivering medication to a catheter connector that includes an actuator are also provided.

Abstract: Apparatus enables one or more needleless injection ports to be established on IV tubing as needed. An IV tubing-engaging portion secures the apparatus about the tubing. A puncturing member establishes fluid communication between the IV line and a sealing member on the apparatus. Connecting a syringe to the sealing member establishes fluid communication between the IV line and the syringe, enabling an injection to be made. When the syringe is withdrawn, the sealing member reseals to prevent fluid leakage from the IV line.

Abstract: An intravenous catheter inserter device comprising a catheter threader body on which is slidably attached a septum activator, a catheter threader, and a needle hub. Some embodiments further include a safety bar that is configured to assist in coordinating the movement of the various components of the device during a catheterization procedure. In general, the septum activator provides a pathway through a septum of a Luer adapter. The Luer adapter comprises a wedge seal that is configured to receive a base portion of a catheter that is inserted into the Luer adapter by the catheter threader. Accordingly, the device of the present invention simultaneously accesses the vasculature of a patient while assembling the catheter into the Luer adapter. The final configuration provides an integrated unit that is attached to the patient and in fluid communication with patient's vascular system.

Abstract: A system and methods are described for improving the management of ischemic cardiac tissue during acute coronary syndromes. The system combines a catheter-based sub-system which allows for simultaneous balloon dilation of a coronary artery and infusion of a carefully controlled perfusate during percutaneous coronary intervention. The system allows for modulation of levels of oxygen at the time of percutaneous intervention. In addition, catheters and systems are provided for administration of fluids with modified oxygen content during an intervention that incorporate upstream flow control members to compartmentalize the perfusion of the target coronary artery and the remainder of the heart.

Abstract: An improved safety occluder and method of use provides an occluder for an infusion set having a first, occluding position, a second, non-occluding position which returns to the first, occluding position when the occluder's plunger is released, and a third, non-occluding position which retains the plunger in a configuration which allows fluid flow through the infusion set. The occluder may also include a locking mechanism to prevent accidental movement of the plunger out of the first, occluding position.

Abstract: A catheter with a valve is disclosed that allows smooth flow of a solution in-both when a solution is flowing from the inside of a catheter towards the outside of a catheter and when a solution is flowing from the outside of a catheter towards the inside of a catheter. The catheter includes a tubular body 12 made of an elastic and flexible synthetic resin material and is equipped with a valve having a slit 16 passing through the outer surface 12b of the tubular body. The catheter is also provided with the movable wall 15 sunken towards the inside of the tubular body 12 at an end tip member region 14 of the tubular body 12. The location where the movable wall 15 exists has a structure with differences in hardness in the thickness direction of the tubular body 12.

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: 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.

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.

Abstract: A catheter assembly is disclosed having a catheter adapter and a needle hub. The catheter adapter has an inner lumen with a septum located within the inner lumen. An introducer needle is inserted through the inner lumen. A septum activator also located within the inner lumen, such that a distal end of the septum activator contacts the septum. The septum activator has an internal cavity and a cavity seal forming a surface of the internal cavity.