Aseptic Connectors Or Couplings (e.g., Frangible, Piercable, Etc.) Patents (Class 604/905)
  • Patent number: 7153296
    Abstract: A releasable tubing connector including a male part that can be selectively fastened to a female part. The male and female parts are provided with internal valve assemblies that cooperate with one another to permit fluid to flow through the tubing connector. When the male and female parts are fastened together, fluid can flow through the releasable tubing connector. On the other hand, when the male and female parts are unfastened, fluid can flow through neither.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2006
    Inventor: Martin S. Mitchell
  • Patent number: 7140592
    Abstract: A self-sealing male Luer connector for connection with a female Luer connector. The male Luer connector includes a housing having a distally-projecting tubular male body and a surrounding cuff interconnected by a proximal wall in which is formed at least one activation opening. A valve plug is slidably installed within the housing and formed with a distal end configured to sealingly engage the distal end of the male body's interior flow passage and with at least one activation arm at its proximal end configured to extend through the activation opening into the cavity formed between the male body and the cuff. An elastomeric device is sealingly configured within the activation opening about the activation arm to secure the valve plug in position and bias it distally. The proximal end of the male Luer connector may be configured as a conventional female connector, a blood collection device, or other such device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2006
    Assignee: Cardinal Health 303, Inc.
    Inventor: John C. Phillips
  • Patent number: 7137974
    Abstract: A sterile to sterile connection device comprising a connector and one or more coupling devices. The connector has body portion which has two openings sealed from the environment so as to form a sterile environment within the connector. At least one of the openings being sealed from the environment by a sterile barrier plug. The connector also has a port capable movement within the body of the connector to at least an open and a closed position. The coupling device is formed of a body having two openings and a stem having a bore through at least a portion of the stem. The stem is contained within the body and capable of moving at least linearly through the body between a first and second stem position. One of the openings of the stem is sealed from the environment by a sterile barrier plug and the other is sealed to a presterilized component. The coupling device opening containing the sterile barrier plug is attached to either the inlet or outlet of the connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2006
    Inventors: Joseph M. Almasian, Brett M. Belongia, Frank Lentine, Martin Morrissey, Curtis Nauseda, Chau Nguyen, Stephen Proulx, Naren Renganath
  • Patent number: 7118559
    Abstract: A surgical fluid collection apparatus includes a housing member defining an internal chamber for collection of body fluids and a holder member releasably couplable to the housing member. The holder member includes an internal penetrating member defining an internal conduit in fluid communication with a fluid outlet of the housing member when the holder member is coupled to the housing member to permit passage of the body fluids therethrough. A collection member is positionable with respect to the holder member to receive the body fluids passing through the internal conduit of the internal penetrating member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2006
    Assignee: Tyco Healthcare Group LP
    Inventor: Mary Jo A. Toomey
  • Patent number: 7115114
    Abstract: A medical device having a releasable retaining includes needle cannula connected to a hub having an open proximal end with a frusto-conically shaped cavity therein. The cavity is part of a passageway through the hub which is in fluid communication with the lumen of the needle cannula. A retaining element is releasably connected to the hub. The hub includes an aperture and at least one protuberance projecting into the aperture for engaging the frusto-conically shaped tip of a fluid delivery device. The protuberance is shaped to offer less resistance to hub movement in a direction of engagement than in a direction of disengagement with the tip. The retaining element is connected to the hub so that when the hub is engaged to the tip, the force required to disengage the retaining element from the tip is greater than the force required to disengage the retaining element from the hub.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2006
    Assignee: Becton, Dickinson and Company
    Inventor: Richard J. Caizza
  • Patent number: 7104520
    Abstract: A needle free medical connector includes a housing with a first port and a second port. The connector also includes a piston element defining a fluid passageway between the first and second ports. The piston element is movable between flow and non-flow positions. The piston element has a compressible section having a variable inner width that forms a part of the flow path through the connector. As the piston is compressed to the flow position, the compressible section self-expands in width thereby maintaining or increasing the volume of the fluid passageway through the connector. The compressible section has a configuration permitting the continuous flow of fluid through its entirety.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2006
    Assignee: Alaris Medical Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Karl R. Leinsing, Theodore J. Mosler
  • Patent number: 7097209
    Abstract: Sterile coupling comprising a male and a female connector, each provided with a membrane device comprising a membrane surface covered with an adhesive at the exterior surface. When the connectors are brought into operation, the adhesive surface are contacted to form a bonded surface. Then, a hole is generated through the bonded surface and the sterile portions of the devices are brought into cooperations. The hole is formed by a rupture member arranged in one of the connectors. After rupturing, the membrane devices retract to a space formed between the cylindrical bodies of the connectors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2006
    Assignee: Gambro Inc.
    Inventors: Birgitta Ekman Sparrman, legal representative, Eric Westberg, Peter Unger, deceased
  • Patent number: 7090191
    Abstract: A connector or a connector assembly comprises a fitting, a resilient sealing member, a plurality of protrusions, and a removable stripout layer. The fitting includes a socket. The protrusions extend from the fitting and are connectable to a mating connector. The resilient sealing layer, which is disposed in the socket of the fitting, includes a hollow body having opposite open ends and an internal passage extending between the open ends. The removable stripout layer is movable between a first position in which the stripout layer overlies an end of the resilient sealing member and a second position in which the stripout layer is removed from the end of the resilient sealing member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2006
    Assignee: Pall Corporation
    Inventors: Vlado I. Matkovich, Thomas J. Bormann, Gerard R. Delgiacco, Mladen Franovic
  • Patent number: 7087047
    Abstract: This invention discloses a donor blood donation and sampling system including a donor needle adapted for drawing blood from a body, a blood collection bag coupled to a blood collection conduit which is coupled to the donor needle, a blood sampling conduit also coupled to the donor needle, and a sampling tube assembly arranged for selectable fluid engagement with the blood sampling conduit and for selectable clamping engagement with at least said blood collection conduit. A donor blood donation and sampling method is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2006
    Assignee: Teva Medical Ltd.
    Inventors: Menachem Kraus, Eli Shemesh
  • Patent number: 7083605
    Abstract: A connector system for sterile connection includes a male type patient side connector having a tube connecting portion at a rear end portion thereof, a protective cap for the patient side connector, an inner cap held in the protective cap and including a ring-shaped portion that supports a disinfectant-impregnated member therein, and a female type circuit side connector including an outer cylinder and an inner cylinder fixed at one end of the outer cylinder, where the inner cylinder includes an internal end portion located inside the outer cylinder and an external end portion exposed outside the outer cylinder. When the protective cap is fitted with the patient side connector, the disinfectant-impregnated member contacts with the patient side connector. When the protective cap is removed therefrom, the inner cap becomes retained in the patient side connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2006
    Assignee: JMS Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hideyasu Miyahara
  • Patent number: 7037302
    Abstract: The positive flow needleless connector has a cannula slideably mounted within a tubular housing. A sleeve-like septum seals the cannula from an outside environment while also sealing an internal chamber of the cannula from a flow path in a male luer housing. Movement of the cannula from an extended position to a retracted position against the force of a spring exposes a second inlet of the cannula to the flow path of the male luer housing to permit flow therebetween. During disconnect, the inlet from the cannula is sealed prior to the cannula returning the extended position. This allows fluid to move from a reservoir between the cannula and septum to move into the passage of the male luer housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2006
    Inventors: Patricia B. Vaillancourt, legal representative, Vincent L. Vaillancourt, deceased
  • Patent number: 7033339
    Abstract: An improved luer lock receiving septum having a configuration which provides rapid and tight resealing and yet allows penetration of the septum by the luer tip with a low penetration force. The elongated septum includes an upper portion of enlarged diameter having a target surface, a central slit, and a central, lower septum extension projecting about the slit below the upper portion and into a housing so that following luer insertion there is provided sufficient room for both the laterally displaced extension of the septum, the luer taper, and the housing to be received into a conventional luer lock connector. The septum is further preferably configured to minimize or eliminate the negative pressure deflection normally associated with the withdrawal of the large diameter luer cannula from an enclosed fluid filled lumen or chamber, by substantially isolating the lumen or chamber from the septum material displacement resultant from luer insertion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2006
    Assignee: Becton Dickinson and Company (part interest)
    Inventor: Lawrence A. Lynn
  • Patent number: 7025754
    Abstract: A container closure device for facilitating withdrawal of a liquid from a collapsible sealed packet is disclosed. The device includes a needle guide and a septum retainer wherein the needle guide is fixable to an outer face of the packet and the septum retainer is fixable to an inner face of the packet in alignment with the needle guide. The needle guide includes a tube for receiving a needle and insures proper alignment of the needle. The septum retainer includes a septum chamber having a septum disposed therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2006
    Assignee: Ventaira Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
    Inventors: George C. Proicou, Richard D. Peters, David Rust Busick, Theodore Robert Adams
  • Patent number: 7014169
    Abstract: A medical valve has a translating member that enlarges the volume of the interior of the valve when the valve is in an open mode (permitting fluid flow), and decreases the volume of the interior when the valve is in a closed mode (preventing fluid flow). This varying volume should substantially eliminate drawback into the valve. To that end, the valve includes a housing having an inlet and an outlet, and a fluid channel extending between the inlet and the outlet. The fluid channel includes a variable volume region. The valve further includes the above noted translating member, which is secured to the housing and at least partly bounds the variable volume region. The translating member has at least a portion that moves distally when the valve transitions from the closed mode to the open mode. The distal movement of the translating member enlarges the volume on the variable volume region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2006
    Assignee: Nypro Inc.
    Inventors: Brian L. Newton, Andrew L. Cote, Sr., Charles F. Ganem, Scott Castanon
  • Patent number: 6997916
    Abstract: A fluid transfer system has a holder that is made of a cylindrical member having a closed end and an open end. The closed end has fitted thereto a luer and a cannula that extends into the interior of the holder. The holder has a distal portion that has a first cross section and a proximal portion that has a second cross section. The cross section of the distal portion is smaller than the cross section of the proximal portion. The distal and proximal portions are joined by a shoulder. The fluid transfer system also includes an adapter that is inserted to the holder from the open end of the holder. The adapter has a base having a central opening and a cylindrical tube that extends from the central opening. The diameter of the cylindrical tube is slightly smaller than the diameter of the distal portion and is configured to accept a first type of fluid collection store such as a vacuum tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2006
    Assignee: Smiths Medical ASD, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert Simas, Jr., David MacLean
  • Patent number: 6997917
    Abstract: A vial having a V-shaped bottom to minimize the amount of medical fluid left in the vial at the end of the fluid withdrawal process. The vial is equipped with a vial access adapter having a fluid withdrawal spike which extends into the V-shaped bottom. The vial access adapter may be vented or non-vented. When the medical fluid is a nuclear drug, the vial and vial access adapter is enshrouded in a protective container containing lead to provide a safety to medical personnel from irradiation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2006
    Assignee: Bracco Diagnostics, Inc.
    Inventors: John J. Niedospial, Jr., Jason M. Voytilla
  • Patent number: 6994699
    Abstract: A port, a container and a method for accessing a port for injecting or withdrawing a liquid from the container are provided. The port may allow for the administration of, for example, a drug, to a patient and may be located on the container. The port has a septum having a target area. The port also has a support ring in contact with the septum. A cap is provided to protect the septum. The cap has a ring handle and allows for removal and exposure of the target area of the septum. A needle, for example, may be used to penetrate the septum allowing the addition or withdrawal of a liquid or other drug to or from the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2006
    Assignees: Baxter International Inc., Baxter Healthcare S.A.
    Inventors: Vincent Houwaert, Denis Motta, Patrick Balteau, Francesco Peluso, Silvano Sforacchi
  • Patent number: 6991215
    Abstract: A one-way valve assembly can be fitted to the end of a syringe to allow fluid to flow from the syringe and into a body cavity but to prevent backflow. The valve assembly is opened by insertion of the luer tip of the syringe into the assembly inlet. The valve has an internal elastic member that forms a variable volume internal chamber. This chamber expands upon insertion of the luer tip into the inlet and shrinks when the luer tip is removed from the assembly. The shrinking action creates a positive pressure in the valve assembly to prevent backflow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2006
    Assignee: Occupational & Medical Innovations, Ltd.
    Inventor: Bruce Leigh Kiehne
  • Patent number: 6974447
    Abstract: The present invention provides a receptacle for a therapeutic fluid susceptible to deterioration on exposure to a gas such as oxygen or carbon dioxide. The receptacle has walls of sheet material each including at least one layer forming a barrier essentially impermeable to such gas, and a seal sealing the walls together in a region thereof. A transfer tube is sealed in the seal having a proximal end in the receptacle, a distal end accessible from outside the receptacle, a flow passage extending between said proximal and distal ends, and a closure blocking flow through the flow passage adapted to be pierced by a tubular needle for transfer of therapeutic through the needle. The transfer tube and closure are essentially impermeable to said gas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2005
    Assignees: Baxter International Inc., Baxter Healthcare S.A.
    Inventors: Sidney T. Smith, Larry Rosenbaum, Gregg Nebgen, William S. Hurst, William S. Hoerle, Adel M. Sadik, Melissa J. Skelnik, Steven H. Giovanetto, Bradley Buchanan
  • Patent number: 6974446
    Abstract: A combination of a storage container for an injectable product and a needleless injection device for injecting the product, wherein an adapter is used to establish a fluid connection between the storage container and the injection device, wherein the storage container is connected to a dosing means for dispensing the injectable product to the injection device in doses, and the dosing means includes an actuator arranged in the storage container or reaching into the storage container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2005
    Assignee: TecPharma Licensing AG
    Inventors: Edgar Hommann, Ian Thompson
  • Patent number: 6971630
    Abstract: A needle free medical connector includes a housing with a first port and a second port. The connector also includes a piston element defining a fluid passageway between the first and second ports. The piston element is movable between flow and non-flow positions. The piston element has a compressible section having a variable inner width that forms a part of the flow path through the connector. As the piston is compressed to the flow position, the compressible section self-expands in width thereby maintaining or increasing the volume of the fluid passageway through the connector. The compressible section has a configuration permitting the continuous flow of fluid through its entirety.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2005
    Assignee: Alaris Medical Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Karl R. Leinsing, Theodore J. Mosler
  • Patent number: 6921391
    Abstract: An infusion device is provided for use with an intravenous catheter connected to a primary fluid supply. A Y site (92) is in fluid communication with the catheter (90). The infusion device is releasably connectable with the Y site (92) to connect a secondary fluid supply (97) to the catheter (40). The infusion device includes a retractable needle (70) that is retractable after use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2005
    Assignee: MDC Investment Holdings, Inc.
    Inventors: John Barker, Michael J. Botich, Thor R. Halseth
  • Patent number: 6911025
    Abstract: A connector system for sterile connection includes a male type connector having a tube connecting portion at a rear end portion thereof, a protective cap for the patient side connector, an inner cap held in the protective cap and including a ring-shaped portion that supports a disinfectant-impregnated member therein, and a female type connector including an outer cylinder and an inner cylinder fixed at one end of the outer cylinder, where the inner cylinder includes an internal end portion located inside the outer cylinder and an external end portion exposed outside the outer cylinder. When the protective cap is fitted with the male type connector, the disinfectant-impregnated member contacts with the male type connector. When the protective cap is removed therefrom, the inner cap becomes retained in the male type connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2005
    Assignee: JMS Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hideyasu Miyahara
  • Patent number: 6902207
    Abstract: Apparatuses and methods for connecting and disconnected fluid conduits (e.g. medical tubing) are disclosed. Typical embodiments of the Apparatuses and methods disclosed herein operate with two separate components, the first having a moveable septum and the second having a fixed septum. When the components are engaged, the device allows the flow of fluid through a conduit to which they are coupled. When the components are uncoupled, the device prevents the flow of fluid through the conduit. An exemplary embodiment of the invention includes a housing, a moveable septum slideably coupled with the housing to be alternately disposed in at least a first and second position and a piercing member having a passage for conducting fluid. The moveable septum closes the passage in the first position and is penetrated by the piercing member to open the passage in the second position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2005
    Assignee: Medtronic MiniMed, Inc.
    Inventor: Hans Lickliter
  • Patent number: 6883778
    Abstract: A medical valve for valving fluid includes a housing defining a chamber having an inlet, an outlet, and an interior wall, a compressible member within the chamber, and a fluid channel defined by the interior wall. The fluid channel directs fluid received from the inlet toward the outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2005
    Assignee: Nypro Inc.
    Inventors: Brian L. Newton, Charles F. Ganem
  • Patent number: 6880801
    Abstract: A connector or a connector assembly comprises a fitting, a resilient sealing member, a plurality of protrusions, and a removable stripout layer. The fitting includes a socket. The protrusions extend from the fitting and are connectable to a mating connector. The resilient sealing layer, which is disposed in the socket of the fitting, includes a hollow body having opposite open ends and an internal passage extending between the open ends. The removable stripout layer is movable between a first position in which the stripout layer overlies an end of the resilient sealing member and a second position in which the stripout layer is removed from the end of the resilient sealing member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Assignee: Pall Corporation
    Inventors: Vlado Ivan Matkovich, Thomas J. Bormann, Gerald R. Delgiacco, Mladen Franovic
  • Patent number: 6875205
    Abstract: A vial adapter having a needle-free valve, a sharpened cannula used to perforate a vial's rubber stopper, and a circular array of claws of different lengths to engage vial closures of different diameters. The array of claws includes a first set of claws each having a first length extending inwardly from the periphery of the housing of the adapter and a second set of claws alternating with the first set of claws and each having a longer length. The second set of claws are mounted so that they deflect and plastically deform out of the way in the case where the adapter is engaged with a vial that exceeds a predetermined size. The housing includes a shroud that is at least as long as the sharpened cannula to protect medical personnel who use the adapter from inadvertent punctures. The needle-free valve includes a resiliently deformable piston element with a naturally open bore. The interior of the piston provides a fluid flow path through the adapter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2005
    Assignee: Alaris Medical Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Karl R. Leinsing
  • Patent number: 6869426
    Abstract: A medical valve has an open mode that permits fluid flow, and a closed mode that prevents fluid flow. Among other things, the medical valve includes a housing forming an interior having a fluid chamber, and a valve mechanism within the interior. The valve mechanism has a movable member that includes a needle (e.g., a hypetube). The needle may extend into the fluid chamber when the valve is in the open mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2005
    Assignee: Nypro Inc.
    Inventor: Charles F. Ganem
  • Patent number: 6843513
    Abstract: A male luer lock connector for medical fluid lines comprising an elongated tubular body having an end portion with external luer cone and an internally threaded bushing mounted so that it can turn and slide on a portion with a cylindrical external surface of the tubular body. Cooperating formations disposed between the portion with cylindrical external surface of the tubular body and the bushing are provided to produce during use a perceptible click when the bushing draws near to a fully advanced position of engagement with a female luer lock connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2005
    Assignee: Industrie Borla S.p.A.
    Inventor: Gianni Guala
  • Patent number: 6834842
    Abstract: A fluid management system is disclosed which includes an injection device, a medical device, and a valve. The medical device is in fluid communication with the injection device. The valve is operatively associated with the medical device, and the valve includes a mechanism for slidably opening the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2004
    Assignee: SciMed Life Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Eric Houde
  • Patent number: 6827709
    Abstract: A mixing/charging port for medical treatment in which no air bubble is retained inside thereof even at the time of priming, and which is capable of infusing a drug solution or transfusing blood into a patient safely.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2004
    Assignee: JMS Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Ryoji Fujii
  • Publication number: 20040238776
    Abstract: A coupling for a medical fluid delivery system for administering liquids to a patient includes male and female members, the female member (1) having an inwardly tapering socket (3) for receiving a complimentary tubular spigot (17) of the male member and having a liquid escape vent (9) for escape of liquid supplied from an incorrect or an incorrectly coupled male member. A collar (18) of the male member is threadedly engageable with a hub (2) of the female member for securing the members against disengagement, and the female member has a sleeve (5) with a pawl (6) which cooperates with ratchet teetch (20) on the collar to lock the collar against answering, the pawl being disengageable by squeezing the sleeve (5). The sleeve (5) has openings (8) to permit treatment of the hub and sleeve interior for destroying bacteria. The male member may be provided at the forward end of a syringe (34).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 21, 2004
    Publication date: December 2, 2004
    Inventors: Joseph Peters, John Watkinson
  • Publication number: 20040227120
    Abstract: A self-sealing male connector having a body, a resilient boot mounted over the body, and a male thread hub. The body is formed with an elongate post that extends to the distal end. The body includes a fluid flow lumen extending from its proximal end to its distal end. At its proximal end, the body may be formed as a female Luer connector, or may be directly connected to tubing, or other arrangements. The internal fluid flow lumen extends through the post to its distal end. The body includes a first groove in which is mounted the boot. In a second groove is mounted the thread cuff. The thread cuff is used to engage a female connector and through thread action, draw in into engagement with the post. As the female connector is further engaged with eh sealed male connector, the post protrudes through the boot and into fluid communication with the female fluid flow passage thus establishing a flow path through both connectors.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 14, 2003
    Publication date: November 18, 2004
    Inventor: John Raybuck
  • Patent number: 6814726
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a connector element for connecting lengths of tubing, cannulas and catheters to a second connector element. The connector element includes a sealing part that is movable relative to a flow conduit portion of the connector, and which enables the conduit to be sealed with respect to the ambient atmosphere. A sterile connection is therefore ensured.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2004
    Assignee: Fresenius Medical Care Deutschland GmbH
    Inventor: Martin Lauer
  • Publication number: 20040220532
    Abstract: A medical device having a releasable retaining includes needle cannula connected to a hub having an open proximal end with a frusto-conically shaped cavity therein. The cavity is part of a passageway through the hub which is in fluid communication with the lumen of the needle cannula. A retaining element is releasably connected to the hub. The hub includes an aperture and at least one protuberance projecting into the aperture for engaging the frusto-conically shaped tip of a fluid delivery device. The protuberance is shaped to offer less resistance to hub movement in a direction of engagement than in a direction of disengagement with the tip. The retaining element is connected to the hub so that when the hub is engaged to the tip, the force required to disengage the retaining element from the tip is greater than the force required to disengage the retaining element from the hub.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2003
    Publication date: November 4, 2004
    Inventor: Richard J. Caizza
  • Patent number: 6811139
    Abstract: A connector is provided which has a fluid passage whose volume does not substantially vary with the opening/closing of a valve disc. The connector includes a substantially cylindrical connector main body, a valve disc made of elastic material and disposed at one of the opening ends of the connector main body, and a substantially cylindrical connecting member disposed on the outer periphery of the connector main body on the side of the valve disc and coaxially with the connector main body to be movable in an axial direction of the connector main body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2004
    Assignee: Terumo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Yoshinori Hishikawa
  • Publication number: 20040215106
    Abstract: A transfer needle safety apparatus including a guide port adapted to fit a variety of body fluid receptacle sizes. A sleeve substantially fills the cavity inside a needle shield. The sleeve includes a robust external lead-in structure for aligning/assembling and centering the sleeve in the shield and a robust internal lead-in structure for aligning and centering a narrow body receptacle onto a needle. The sleeve engages a long section of the outer surface of a receptacle thereby preventing rocking or lateral motion of a receptacle septum relative to a needle tip. Streamlined gripping features allow removal of the sleeve from the shield.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 24, 2003
    Publication date: October 28, 2004
    Inventors: Eric Sampson, Christopher S. Ronsick
  • Publication number: 20040206924
    Abstract: A medical valve has a translating member that enlarges the volume of the interior of the valve when the valve is in an open mode (permitting fluid flow), and decreases the volume of the interior when the valve is in a closed mode (preventing fluid flow). This varying volume should substantially eliminate drawback into the valve. To that end, the valve includes a housing having an inlet and an outlet, and a fluid channel extending between the inlet and the outlet. The fluid channel includes a variable volume region. The valve further includes the above noted translating member, which is secured to the housing and at least partly bounds the variable volume region. The translating member has at least a portion that moves distally when the valve transitions from the closed mode to the open mode. The distal movement of the translating member enlarges the volume on the variable volume region.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 13, 2004
    Publication date: October 21, 2004
    Inventors: Brian L. Newton, Andrew L. Cote, Charles F. Ganem, Scott Castanon
  • Patent number: 6802490
    Abstract: A needle free medical connector includes a housing with a first port and a second port. The connector also includes a piston element defining a fluid passageway between the first and second ports. The piston element is movable between flow and non-flow positions. The piston element has a compressible section having a variable inner width that forms a part of the flow path through the connector. As the piston is compressed to the flow position, the compressible section self-expands in width thereby maintaining or increasing the volume of the fluid passageway through the connector. The compressible section has a configuration permitting the continuous flow of fluid through its entirety.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2004
    Assignee: Alaris Medical Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Karl R. Leinsing, Theodore J. Mosler
  • Patent number: 6796971
    Abstract: A device for storing and administering a medical fluid comprising a sealed flexible formed container with an opening part in its front end in which an insert is positioned. Over the insert, the container extends into a removable sealing cap. After removal of the sealing cap an injection means is attached to the insert and fluid administration through the insert is admitted in one direction by squeezing the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2004
    Assignee: Fresenius Kabi AB
    Inventors: Gunnar Andersson, Bert Petterson
  • Patent number: 6796967
    Abstract: A needle assembly for use with an injection device including a pair of housing members slidably coupled with one another. A needle is structurally attached to one of the housing members such that it is positioned within the two housing members. A first membrane is disposed on an opening of one housing member and a second membrane is disposed on an opening of the other housing member such that the needle is concealed from the view and access of a user thereof. The needle assembly may be contracted by sliding one housing member relative to the other causing the needle to penetrate one of the membranes and administer an injection into or below the skin of the user. Additionally, one or more locking mechanisms may be incorporated to prevent inadvertent needle sticks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2004
    Assignee: NPS Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
    Inventor: James U. Jensen
  • Publication number: 20040124388
    Abstract: A one-way valve assembly can be fitted to the end of a syringe to allow fluid to flow from the syringe and into a body cavity but to prevent backflow. The valve assembly is opened by insertion of the luer tip of the syringe into the assembly inlet. The valve has an internal elastic member that forms a variable volume internal chamber. This chamber expands upon insertion of the luer tip into the inlet and shrinks when the luer tip is removed from the assembly. The shrinking action creates a positive pressure in the valve assembly to prevent backflow.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 30, 2003
    Publication date: July 1, 2004
    Inventor: Bruce Leigh Kiehne
  • Publication number: 20040124389
    Abstract: A self-sealing male Luer connector for connection with a female Luer connector. The male Luer connector includes a housing having a distally-projecting tubular male body and a surrounding cuff interconnected by a proximal wall in which is formed at least one activation opening. A valve plug is slidably installed within the housing and formed with a distal end configured to sealingly engage the distal end of the male body's interior flow passage and with at least one activation arm at its proximal end configured to extend through the activation opening into the cavity formed between the male body and the cuff. An elastomeric device is sealingly configured within the activation opening about the activation arm to secure the valve plug in position and bias it distally. The proximal end of the male Luer connector may be configured as a conventional female connector, a blood collection device, or other such device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 31, 2002
    Publication date: July 1, 2004
    Inventor: John C. Phillips
  • Patent number: 6755391
    Abstract: A medical valve has a translating member that enlarges the volume of the interior of the valve when the valve is in an open mode (permitting fluid flow), and decreases the volume of the interior when the valve is in a closed mode (preventing fluid flow). This varying volume should substantially eliminate drawback into the valve. To that end, the valve includes a housing having an inlet and an outlet, and a fluid channel extending between the inlet and the outlet. The fluid channel includes a variable volume region. The valve further includes the above noted translating member, which is secured to the housing and at least partly bounds the variable volume region. The translating member has at least a portion that moves distally when the valve transitions from the closed mode to the open mode. The distal movement of the translating member enlarges the volume on the variable volume region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2004
    Assignee: Nypro Inc.
    Inventors: Brian L. Newton, Andrew L. Cote, Sr., Charles F. Ganem, Scott Castanon
  • Publication number: 20040111078
    Abstract: A connector system for sterile connection includes a male type connector having a tube connecting portion at a rear end portion thereof, a protective cap for the patient side connector, an inner cap held in the protective cap and including a ring-shaped portion that supports a disinfectant-impregnated member therein, and a female type connector including an outer cylinder and an inner cylinder fixed at one end of the outer cylinder, where the inner cylinder includes an internal end portion located inside the outer cylinder and an external end portion exposed outside the outer cylinder. When the protective cap is fitted with the male type connector, the disinfectant-impregnated member contacts with the male type connector. When the protective cap is removed therefrom, the inner cap becomes retained in the male type connector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 28, 2003
    Publication date: June 10, 2004
    Applicant: JMS Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hideyasu Miyahara
  • Patent number: 6746438
    Abstract: The invention concerns a device for the two-way transfer of a liquid (38) between a bottle (14) provided with a cap (44) capable of being perforated at a cartridge (12) comprising a cylindrical reservoir (26) wherein slides a piston (34) capable of being perforated. It comprises: a body (16) including means to be fixed on the bottle (14); a member (24) linking the piston (34) capable of being perforated to the body (16); a shuttle (20) relative to the body (16) and said linking member (24), the shuttle bearing a hollow needle (22) whereof one first end (112) is adapted to pierce the piston (34) and whereof the second end (114) is adapted to pierce the cap (44). The shuttle (20) is mobile between a piston wherein the needle ends (112, 114) are spaced apart from the piston (34) capable of being perforated and the cap (44) capable of being perforated and an end-of-stroke transferring position wherein the needle ends (112, 114) are received in the cartridge (12) and the bottle (14).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2004
    Assignee: Sedat
    Inventor: Yves Arnissolle
  • Patent number: 6739628
    Abstract: A frangible hose connector that has a knit line at the intended point of fracture, as opposed to a circumferential groove or notch. The knit line provides a break zone which has a lower tensile strength than that of the parent material, thereby providing that the connector is relatively easy to fracture. The connector also includes finger grips which makes breaking the connector easier. The finger grips provide that the connector is configured to be fractured via a twisting or torsion force, as opposed to a bending force. As such, the connector tends to break in a manner wherein fluid does not fling or spray. The connector is formed of plastic, and the knit line is created during the plastic injection molded process, wherein two mold fronts are “squared-up” and meet in the mold cavity to form the knit line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2004
    Assignee: Atrion Medical Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Rowland W. Kanner, Michael Parcus, Larry Lee Young
  • Patent number: 6726672
    Abstract: An intravenous drug access system. In one embodiment of the invention, the drug access system includes an IV bag having an inlet port and an outlet port, whereby the inlet port is a female luer integral therewith. The integral female luer fitting may be fitted with a sealed end cap including a male luer insert with a closed end. An alternative embodiment of the present invention comprises a discrete pre-molded connector made with a spike at one end and a female luer fitting at the opposing end. The spike is used to penetrate a standard IV bag through a conventional inlet port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2004
    Assignee: ICU Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Kevin B. Hanly, Frank O'Brien, Salvadore F. Palomares, William S. Phillips, Bruce Hubrecht, William M. Porter, Evelyn L. Foss
  • Publication number: 20040073189
    Abstract: A vial access transfer set for use with a bottle containing a medicinal fluid that provides a mechanism for securely attaching an administration set to the bottle and also provides a universal spike port to which any primary IV line can be readily attached. The vial access transfer set includes a novel, vented vial access adapter to which a length of tubing can be connected, the adapter comprising a top wall, a cannula connected to the top wall and a uniquely configured, resiliently deformable slitted skirt connected to the top wall and extending therefrom. With this construction, during the interconnection of the vial access transfer set with the bottle, the rubber septum of the bottle can readily be pierced by the cannula and the resiliently deformable skirt positively snapped into place over the neck portion of the drug vial or bottle to maintain the adapter in secure connection with the bottle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 9, 2002
    Publication date: April 15, 2004
    Inventors: Phil Wyatt, James D. Mullin, Gary Schaeffer, Freddy Zinger
  • Patent number: 6716895
    Abstract: The present invention relates to antimicrobial compositions, methods for the production of these compositions, and use of these compositions with medical devices, such as catheters, and implants. The compositions of the present invention advantageously provide varying release kinetics for the active ions in the compositions due to the different water solubilities of the ions, allowing antimicrobial release profiles to be tailored for a given application and providing for sustained antimicrobial activity over time. More particularly, the invention relates to polymer compositions containing colloids comprised of salts of one or more oligodynamic metal, such as silver. The process of the invention includes mixing a solution of one or more oligodynamic metal salts with a polymer solution or dispersion and precipitating a colloid of the salts by addition of other salts to the solution which react with some or all of the first metal salts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2004
    Assignee: C.R. Bard, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard N. Terry