U.S. patent application number 11/418531 was filed with the patent office on 2006-10-12 for fluid transfer device and method of use.
Invention is credited to George A. Lopez.
Application Number | 20060229572 11/418531 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 23008969 |
Filed Date | 2006-10-12 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060229572 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Lopez; George A. |
October 12, 2006 |
Fluid transfer device and method of use
Abstract
A fluid transfer device comprising a hollow piercing element
having a first end for receiving a standard syringe nose or other
similar medical device and a second end having a tapered tip for
accessing fluid inside a medication container is disclosed. In a
preferred embodiment, the device has a disk-shaped stop for
limiting entry of the piercing element into the vial. Preferably,
the piercing element includes outwardly extending barbs which allow
the device to be inserted into a vial but which prevent the device
from being removed from the vial after insertion. After the syringe
is disengaged from the device, the device and spent medication vial
may be discarded as a unit. Alternatively, the device can remain
attached to the vial, and a new syringe can be used to withdraw
additional fluid from the vial when desired. In an alternate
embodiment, a reusable, resealable valve is connected to the first
end of the piercing element, which valve allows multiple syringes
to be used with the piercing element. Various adaptors for using
the device with intravascular (IV) lines and drip-bags are also
disclosed.
Inventors: |
Lopez; George A.; (Corona
del Mar, CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
KNOBBE MARTENS OLSON & BEAR LLP
2040 MAIN STREET
FOURTEENTH FLOOR
IRVINE
CA
92614
US
|
Family ID: |
23008969 |
Appl. No.: |
11/418531 |
Filed: |
May 3, 2006 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10607946 |
Jun 27, 2003 |
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11418531 |
May 3, 2006 |
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09489189 |
Jan 20, 2000 |
6599273 |
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10607946 |
Jun 27, 2003 |
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09150580 |
Sep 10, 1998 |
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09489189 |
Jan 20, 2000 |
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08476127 |
Jun 7, 1995 |
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09150580 |
Sep 10, 1998 |
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08265095 |
Jun 24, 1994 |
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08476127 |
Jun 7, 1995 |
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08096659 |
Jul 23, 1993 |
5695466 |
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08265095 |
Jun 24, 1994 |
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PCT/US92/10367 |
Dec 1, 1992 |
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08096659 |
Jul 23, 1993 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
604/256 ;
604/86 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F21K 2/00 20130101; A61J
1/201 20150501; A61M 39/045 20130101; A61M 2205/583 20130101; Y10S
604/905 20130101; A61J 1/20 20130101; A61M 5/14 20130101; A61M
2039/267 20130101; A61M 2205/32 20130101; A61M 39/26 20130101; A61J
1/2096 20130101; A61M 2039/0036 20130101; A61M 2205/6063
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
604/256 ;
604/086 |
International
Class: |
A61M 37/00 20060101
A61M037/00; A61M 5/14 20060101 A61M005/14; A61M 5/00 20060101
A61M005/00 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Dec 1, 1992 |
WO |
PCT/US92/10367 |
Claims
1. A medical connector for controlling the flow of fluid from a
plurality of fluid sources, the connector comprising: a first
tubular body including a proximal end, a distal end, and a wall
structure including a fluid passage; a valve including a housing
comprising a first portion having a proximal end including an
opening configured to receive a delivery end of a first medical
implement, a second portion having a distal end in fluid
communication with the proximal end of the first tubular body, and
an internal cavity, the housing further comprising a first region
positioned near the proximal end having a first cross-sectional
width, a second region positioned in a distal direction from the
first region having a second cross-sectional width, the second
cross-sectional width being larger than the first cross-sectional
width; a seal element comprising a proximal end, a distal end, an
internal cavity, and an external surface comprising a radially
outwardly extending portion, wherein an outward portion of the
outwardly extending portion is positioned between the first portion
of the housing and the second portion of the housing to secure the
radially outwardly extending portion with a tight fit, the seal
element adapted to move from a first position in which the proximal
end of the seal element is positioned adjacent the opening of the
housing to a second position in which the proximal end of the seal
element is positioned in a distal direction from its location in
the first position, the proximal end of the seal element further
comprising an orifice extending between an external surface of the
seal element and the internal cavity of the seal element, the
orifice being in an open position when fluid is permitted to flow
through the valve and being in a closed position when fluid is not
permitted to flow through the valve; a second tubular body having a
wall structure including a fluid passage such that the fluid
passage is in direct communication with the fluid passage of the
first tubular body, and wherein the first tubular body defines a
first axial centerline and the second tubular body defines a second
axial centerline extending at an angle to the first axial
centerline.
Description
RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 10/607,946, filed on Jun. 27, 2003, which is a
continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/489,189, filed
on Jan. 20, 2000, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,599,273, which is a
continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/150,580, filed
Sep. 10, 1998, now abandoned, which is a continuation of U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 08/476,127, filed Jun. 7, 1995, now
abandoned, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser.
No. 08/265,095, filed Jun. 24, 1994, now abandoned, which is a
continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No.
08/096,659, filed Jul. 23, 1993, which is a continuation-in-part
application of PCT Application Serial No. PCT/US92/10367, filed
Dec. 1, 1992, which designates the United States and is a
continuation-in-part in the United States of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 07/813,073, filed Dec. 18, 1991, which is
abandoned. The disclosures of these related applications are
incorporated herein in their entirety by this reference
thereto.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] This invention relates to a device for transferring
medication or another fluid from one location to another. This
device eliminates the need for handling needles by medical
personnel during the administration of medication.
[0004] 2. Background Discussion
[0005] The manipulation of fluids for parenteral administration in
hospital and medical settings routinely involves the use of
syringes to facilitate the movement of a fluid between two points.
Many syringes have needles attached which are used to pierce the
seal or septum of a medicament container, or a septum in fluid
communication with sterile tubing. Fluid then passes from the
container or tubing into the syringe and is transferred from the
syringe to an installed intravenous line (IV) or other fluid
delivery system. Additionally, needles are often used to transfer
fluids from one fluid line to another.
[0006] In some instances, the fluid is withdrawn from a single-dose
medication container and injected into an IV system, supplementing
the fluid already being administered through the IV line. These
single-dose medication containers are then typically discarded.
Commonly, these single-dose medication containers are "drip bags"
for intravascular use, or vials, bottles, or test tubes.
[0007] Intravenous tubing sets also commonly incorporate
"y-connectors" having a septum which, when penetrated, allows
access to the fluid flowing within the tubing set. Syringes are
often used to penetrate the septums and add or withdraw fluid from
the tubing set.
[0008] The sharp needles employed with conventional syringes used
to draw or introduce fluid from containers or tubing sets introduce
the risk of puncture wounds to the user or patient, with a
concurrent risk of exposure to a direct dose of medication which
can be, in extreme instances, fatal.
[0009] A medication transfer system that is easy to use and
eliminates the threat posed by exposed needles would therefore be
of great benefit to the medical community.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0010] One embodiment of the present invention is a medication
transfer device which eliminates the risk of accidental needle
sticks during the handling of fluid-filled syringes having attached
needles. As will be discussed in detail below, the device assists
in the transfer of fluid from a sealed container to a syringe or
vice versa.
[0011] The present invention comprises a piercing device used to
access fluid in the interior of a vial through a pierceable seal
located at the top of the vial, and facilitate the transfer of the
fluid into a syringe. The device comprises a piercing element,
having a hollow tube with an exterior surface, an interior bore,
and at least one hole in the piercing element through which fluid
flows into the interior bore of the piercing element. The device
also comprises a locking structure projecting outward from the
exterior surface of the piercing element. This locking structure
permits penetration of the pierceable seal by the piercing element,
but prohibits withdrawal of the piercing element back through the
pierceable seal. A connecting portion adapted to connect the device
to a syringe allows fluid from the interior of the vial to pass
through the device and into the syringe. In a preferred embodiment,
the device also comprises a stop which limits the extent of
penetration of the piercing element into the interior of the vial.
This stop may be a round disk, or a tab, located on the piercing
element. Preferably, the locking structure is at least one barb,
which extends at an angle away from the piercing element. The
connecting portion preferably forms a substantially fluid-tight
seal with the syringe.
[0012] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention,
a method of accessing and transferring fluid inside a vial through
a pierceable seal on the vial, using a syringe, is provided. The
method comprises the steps of connecting the syringe to a device
having a piercing element. This piercing element has a hollow tube
having an exterior surface, an interior bore, a distal end and at
least one hole proximal to the distal end. The piercing element
also includes a locking structure projecting outward from the
exterior surface of the piercing element. This locking structure
permits penetration of the pierceable seal by the piercing element,
but prohibits withdrawal of the piercing element back through the
pierceable seal. The piercing element is used to pierce the seal on
the vial, and is inserted into the vial until the hole proximal the
distal end of the piercing element contacts the fluid inside the
vial. The desired amount of fluid is withdrawn from the vial
through the internal bore in the piercing element and into the
syringe. The syringe is then separated from the piercing element,
such that the locking structure on the piercing element prohibits
the withdrawal of the piercing element through the pierceable seal.
In a preferred embodiment, the syringe and the piercing element are
connected before the piercing element is inserted into the vial.
Alternatively, the piercing element can be inserted into the vial
prior to connecting it to the syringe. The method of the present
invention further comprises connecting a second syringe to the
piercing element which remains in the vial, and repeating the
withdrawing and separating steps to fill the second syringe. In a
preferred embodiment, the syringe forms a substantially fluid-tight
seal with the piercing element.
[0013] In yet another embodiment of the present invention, the
piercing device is used in conjunction with a medical valve to
provide a resealable fluid pathway between a vial and a syringe. In
accordance with this embodiment, the valve preferably comprises a
hollow housing having a spike with a seal mounted thereon located
within the housing. A first end of the housing allows a syringe or
other medical implement to access the seal, which may be pressed
over the spike to allow fluid flow therethrough. A second end of
the housing allows access to the end of said spike opposite said
seal. Threads are preferably located within the second end of the
housing for securing a medical connector to the free end of the
spike.
[0014] In operation the piercing device described above is pressed
through a seal on a vial. The connecting end of the piercing
element is then connected to the free end of the spike. Threads are
preferably located on the outside of the connecting end of the
piercing element for locking engagement with the threads located on
the housing.
[0015] A syringe may then be pressed against the seal on the other
end of the valve. At that time fluid may be withdrawn from the vial
through the piercing element and valve and into the syringe. This
system advantageously allows disconnection of the syringe from the
valve, at which time the seal reseals the spike of the medical
valve, thereby sealing the passage to the vial and protecting the
integrity of the fluid therein.
[0016] Another aspect of this invention is an adaptor for use with
medicament containers such as a drip bag. The adaptor has a medical
valve as described above, which may be removably attached by a
locking mechanism to a second tubular body having a tubular spike.
The spike is in fluid communication with the medicament container.
Alternatively, the second body and valve may be formed integrally.
In use, the valve is attached to the medicament container and then
the tip of an ANSI standard connector, such as an IV set or
syringe, is pressed into the valve, depressing the seal and
exposing the spike within the valve. The large tubular spike on the
second body is then used to penetrate the seal or septum of the
medicament container, and fluid is withdrawn through the valve. The
aspect of this invention related to an adaptor for use with
medicament containers also relates to the following
embodiments:
[0017] A medical valve adaptor for use with containers of fluid,
said valve adaptor comprising: [0018] a first body having proximal
and distal ends, and a cavity therein; [0019] a first spike located
within said cavity and attached to said proximal end; [0020] a seal
located on said first spike; [0021] one or more tabs connected to
said first body and extending from said first body into said cavity
and against said first spike to lock said first spike and seal
within the cavity in said first body; [0022] a tubular second body
having proximal and distal ends; [0023] a tubular second spike
located on the distal end of said second body and in fluid
communication therewith; and [0024] the proximal end of said first
body located integrally on the proximal end of said second body,
and in fluid communication therewith.
[0025] A method of assembling a medical valve adaptor for use with
containers of fluid, said valve adaptor including a first body
having proximal and distal ends and a cavity therein, a first
spike, a resilient seal, a second tubular body having proximal and
distal ends, and a second tubular spike, said method comprising the
steps of: [0026] placing said seal over an end of said first spike;
[0027] attaching said first spike, with said seal thereon, inside
said cavity to the proximal end of said first body; [0028] creating
at least one tab for securing said first spike with said seal
thereon within said cavity in said first body; [0029] forming said
second spike integrally with the distal end of said second body;
and [0030] creating a locking mechanism integrally with the
proximal end of said second body, said locking mechanism adapted to
secure the proximal end of said first body to, and in fluid
communication with, the proximal end of said second body.
[0031] A method of assembling a medical valve adaptor for use with
a container of fluid, said valve adaptor including a first body
having proximal and distal-ends and a cavity therein, a first
spike, a resilient seal, a second tubular body having proximal and
distal ends, and a second tubular spike, said method comprising the
steps of: [0032] placing said seal over an end of said first spike;
[0033] attaching said first spike, with said seal thereon, inside
said cavity to the proximal end of said first body; [0034] creating
at least one tab for securing said first spike with said seal
thereon within said cavity in said first body; [0035] forming said
second spike integrally with the distal end of said second body;
and [0036] joining the proximal end of said first body to, and in
fluid communication with, the proximal end of said second body.
[0037] A method of using a medical valve adaptor for use with a
container of fluid and a fluid withdrawal device having a tip and
an ANSI standard connector located on said tip, said valve adaptor
including a first body, and a tubular second body separate from
said first body, said first body having proximal and distal ends
and comprising:
[0038] a cavity located therein; [0039] a first spike located
within said cavity and attached to said proximal end; [0040] a seal
located on said first spike; and [0041] one or more tabs connected
to said first body and extending from said first body into said
cavity and against said first spike to lock said first spike and
seal within the cavity in said first body; said second body having
proximal and distal ends and comprising: [0042] a tubular second
spike located on the distal end of said second body and in fluid
communication therewith; and [0043] a locking mechanism located on
the proximal end of said second body, said locking mechanism
adapted to secure the proximal end of said first body to, and--in
fluid communication with, the proximal end of said second body;
said method comprising the steps of: [0044] attaching said first
body to said second body using said locking mechanism; [0045]
inserting the tip of said fluid withdrawal device into the distal
end of said first body, depressing said seal to expose said first
spike; and [0046] inserting said second spike into said
container.
[0047] A method of using a medical valve adaptor for use with a
container of fluid and a fluid withdrawal device having a tip and
an ANSI standard connector located on said tip, said valve adaptor
including a first body, and a tubular second body integral to and
in fluid communication with said first body, said first body having
proximal and distal ends and comprising: [0048] a cavity located
therein; [0049] a first spike located within said cavity and
attached to said proximal end; [0050] a seal located on said first
spike; and [0051] one or more tabs connected to said first body and
extending from said first body into said cavity and against said
first spike to lock said first spike and seal within the cavity in
said first body; [0052] said second body having proximal and distal
ends and comprising a tubular second spike located on the distal
end of said second body and in fluid communication therewith, said
method comprising the steps of: [0053] inserting the tip of said
fluid withdrawal device into the distal end of said first body,
depressing said seal to expose said first spike; and [0054]
inserting said second spike into said container.
[0055] Another aspect of this invention is a three-way valved
"y-connector" for use with medicament containers. The y-connector
comprises the valve described above, which may be removably
attached by a locking mechanism to a second tubular body having a
tubular branch port which projects at an angle to the main body,
and is in fluid communication with the main body. Alternatively,
the second body and spike of the valve may be formed integrally. In
use, the valve is attached to the second body and then the tip of
an ANSI standard connector, such as an IV set or syringe, is
pressed into the valve, depressing the seal and exposing the
through holes of the spike within the valve. Fluid may then be
introduced or withdrawn from the y-connector through the valve. The
aspect of the invention related to a three-way valved "y-connector"
for use with medicament containers also relates to the following
embodiments:
[0056] A medical three-way valved connector for use `with
containers of fluid, said valved connector comprising: [0057] a
first body having proximal and distal ends, and a cavity therein;
[0058] a spike located within said cavity and attached to the
proximal end of said first body; [0059] a seal located on said
spike; [0060] one or more tabs connected to said first body and
extending from said first body into said cavity and against said
spike to lock said spike and seal within the cavity in said first
body; [0061] a tubular second body having proximal and distal ends;
[0062] a tubular branch located at an angle to, and toward the
proximal end of, said second body, and in fluid communication
therewith; and [0063] the proximal end of said first body located
integrally on the proximal end of said second body, and in fluid
communication therewith.
[0064] A method of assembling a medical three-way valved connector,
said valved connector including a first body having proximal and
distal ends and a cavity therein, a spike, a resilient seal, a
second tubular body having proximal and distal ends, and a tubular
branch, said method comprising the steps of: [0065] placing said
seal over an end of said spike; [0066] attaching said spike, with
said seal thereon, inside said cavity to the proximal end of said
first body; [0067] creating at least one tab for securing said
spike with said seal thereon within said cavity in said first body;
[0068] forming said tubular branch integrally with said second body
and in fluid communication therewith; and [0069] creating a locking
mechanism integrally with the proximal end of said second body,
said locking mechanism adapted to secure the proximal end of said
first body to, and in fluid communication with, the proximal end of
said second body.
[0070] A method of assembling a medical three-way valved connector,
said valved connector including a first body having proximal and
distal ends and a cavity therein, a spike, a resilient seal, a
second tubular body having proximal and distal ends, and a tubular
branch, said method comprising the steps of: [0071] placing said
seal over an end of said spike; [0072] attaching said spike, with
said seal thereon, inside said cavity to the proximal end of said
first body; [0073] creating at least one tab for securing said
spike with said seal thereon within said cavity in said first body;
[0074] forming said tubular branch integrally with said second body
and in fluid communication therewith; and [0075] joining the
proximal end of said first body to, and in fluid communication
with, the proximal end of said second body.
[0076] A method of using a medical three-way valved connector and a
fluid withdrawal device having a tip and an ANSI standard connector
located on said tip, said valved connector having a first body and
a tubular second body separate from said first body, said first
body having proximal and distal ends and comprising: [0077] a
cavity located therein; [0078] a spike located within said cavity
and attached to said proximal end of said first body; [0079] a seal
located on said spike; and [0080] one or more tabs connected to
said first body and extending from said first body into said cavity
and against said spike to lock said spike and seal within the
cavity in said first body; said second body having proximal and
distal ends and comprising: [0081] a tubular branch located at an
angle to, and toward the proximal end of, said second body, and in
fluid communication therewith; and [0082] a locking mechanism
located on the proximal end of said second body, said locking
mechanism adapted to secure the proximal end of said first body to,
and in fluid communication with, the proximal end of said second
body;
[0083] said method comprising the steps of: [0084] attaching said
first body to said second body using said locking mechanism; and
[0085] inserting the tip of said fluid withdrawal device into the
distal end of said first body, depressing said seal to expose said
first spike.
[0086] A method of using a medical three-way valved connector and a
fluid withdrawal device having a tip and an ANSI standard connector
located on said tip, said valved connector having a first body and
a tubular second body integral to and in fluid communication with
said first body, said first body having proximal and distal ends
and comprising: [0087] a cavity located therein; [0088] a spike
located within said cavity and attached to said proximal end of
said first body; [0089] a seal located on said spike; and [0090]
one or more tabs connected to said first body and extending from
said first body into said cavity and against said spike to lock
said spike and seal within the cavity in said first body; [0091]
said second body having proximal and distal ends and having a
tubular branch located at an angle to, and toward the proximal end
of, said second body, and in fluid communication therewith, said
method comprising the step of inserting the tip of said fluid
withdrawal device into the distal end of said first body,
depressing said seal to expose said first spike.
[0092] Another aspect of the present invention is an adaptor for
use with a standard piggyback or y-site connector. The adaptor
comprises the medical valve described above, which may be removably
attached by a locking mechanism to a second body which may have a
cylindrical housing and a tubular spike located, at least
partially, within the housing. The second body also has a hook,
which is adapted to engage the y-site, releasably locking the
adaptor to the connector. The valve is in fluid communication with
the second body. In an alternative embodiment, the second body and
valve may be formed integrally. In use, the valve is attached to
second body. The adaptor is then placed in fluid communication and
releasably locked to the y-site or piggyback connector. Thereafter,
the tip of an ANSI standard connector, such as an IV set or
syringe, is pressed into the valve, depressing the seal and
exposing the through holes of the spike within the valve. Fluid may
then be introduced or withdrawn through the adaptor to the
piggyback connector. This aspect of the invention also relates to
the following embodiments:
[0093] A medical valve adaptor for use with medical three-way fluid
connectors, said valve adaptor comprising: [0094] a first body
having proximal and distal ends, and a cavity therein; [0095] a
first spike located within said cavity and attached to the proximal
end of said first body; [0096] a seal located on said first spike;
[0097] one or more tabs connected to said first body and extending
from said first body into said cavity and against said first spike
to lock said first spike and seal within the cavity in said first
body; [0098] a tubular second body having proximal and distal ends;
[0099] a cylindrical housing adapted to surround the end of said
three-way connector and located on the distal end of said second
body; [0100] a tubular second spike located on the distal end of
said second body and within said housing, and in fluid
communication with said second body; [0101] a hook located on said
housing and adapted to engage said three-way connector such that
said valved adaptor is secured to said three-way connector; and
[0102] the proximal end of said first body integrally located on
the proximal end of said second body, and in fluid communication
therewith.
[0103] A method of assembling a medical valve adaptor, said valve
adaptor including a first body having proximal and distal ends and
a cavity therein, a first spike, a resilient seal, a second tubular
body having proximal and distal ends, a second tubular spike, a
cylindrical housing, and a hook, said method comprising the steps
of: [0104] placing said seal over an end of said first spike;
[0105] attaching said first spike, with said seal thereon, inside
said cavity to the proximal end of said first body; [0106] creating
at least one tab for securing said first spike with said seal
thereon within said cavity in said first body; [0107] forming said
housing integrally with the distal end of said second body; [0108]
forming said second spike integrally with the distal end of said
second body and located within said housing, said second spike
being in fluid communication with said second body; and [0109]
creating a locking mechanism integrally with the proximal end of
said second body, said locking mechanism adapted to secure the
proximal end of said first body to, and in fluid communication
with, the proximal end of said second body.
[0110] A method of assembling a medical valve adaptor, said valve
adaptor including a first body having proximal and distal ends and
a cavity therein, a first spike, a resilient seal, a second tubular
body having proximal and distal ends, a second tubular spike, a
cylindrical housing, and a hook, said method comprising the steps
of: [0111] placing said seal over an end of said first spike;
[0112] attaching said first spike, with said seal thereon, inside
said cavity to the proximal end of said first body; [0113] creating
at least one tab for securing said first spike with said seal
thereon within said cavity in said first body; [0114] forming said
housing integrally with the distal end of said second body; [0115]
forming said second spike integrally with the distal end of said
second body and located within said housing, said second spike
being in fluid communication with said second body; and [0116]
joining the proximal end of said first body to, and in fluid
communication with, the proximal end of said second body.
[0117] A method of using a medical valve adaptor for use with
medical three-way fluid connectors and a fluid withdrawal device
having a tip and an ANSI standard connector located on said tip,
said valve adaptor having a first body and a tubular second body
separate from said first body, said first body having proximal and
distal ends and comprising: [0118] a cavity located therein; [0119]
a spike located within said cavity and attached to said proximal
end of said first body; [0120] a seal located on said spike; and
[0121] one or more tabs connected to said first body and extending
from said first body into said cavity and against said spike to
lock said spike and seal within the cavity in said first body; said
second body having proximal and distal ends and comprising: [0122]
a tubular second body having proximal and distal ends; [0123] a
cylindrical housing adapted to surround the end of said three-way
connector and located on the distal end of said second body; [0124]
a tubular second spike located on the distal end of said second
body and within said housing, and in fluid communication with said
second body; [0125] a hook located on said housing and adapted to
engage said three-way connector such that said valved adaptor is
secured to said three-way connector; and [0126] a locking mechanism
located on the proximal end of said second body, said locking
mechanism adapted to secure the proximal end of said first body to,
and in fluid communication with, the proximal end of said second
body; said method comprising the steps of: [0127] attaching said
first body to said second body using said locking mechanism; [0128]
attaching said second body to said three-way connector by
surrounding the end of said three-way connector with said housing
and engaging said three-way connector with said hook; and [0129]
inserting the tip of said fluid withdrawal device into the distal
end of said first body, depressing said seal to expose said first
spike.
[0130] A method of using a medical valve adaptor for use with
medical three-way fluid connectors and a fluid withdrawal device
having a tip and an ANSI standard connector located on said tip,
said valve adaptor having a first body and a tubular second body
integral to and in fluid communication with said first body, said
first body having proximal and distal ends and comprising: [0131] a
cavity located therein; [0132] a spike located within said cavity
and attached to said proximal end of said first body; [0133] a seal
located on said spike; and [0134] one or more tabs connected to
said first body and extending from said first body into said cavity
and against said spike to lock said spike and seal within the
cavity in said first body; said second body having proximal and
distal ends and comprising: [0135] a tubular second body having
proximal and distal ends; [0136] a cylindrical housing adapted to
surround the end of said three-way connector and located on the
distal end of said second body; [0137] a tubular second spike
located on the distal end of said second body and within said
housing, and in fluid communication with said second body; and
[0138] a hook located on said housing and adapted to engage said
three-way connector such that said valved adaptor is secured to
said three-way connector; said method comprising the steps of:
[0139] attaching said second body to said three-way connector by
surrounding the end of said three-way connector with said housing
and engaging said three-way connector with said hook; and [0140]
inserting the tip of said fluid withdrawal device into the distal
end of said first body, depressing said seal to expose said first
spike.
[0141] This invention also comprises another adaptor for use with
standard medical three-way y-connectors. The adaptor comprises the
medical valve described above, which may be removably attached by a
locking mechanism to a second tubular body having a cylindrical
housing and a spike located within the housing. The spike is in
fluid communication with the second body. The second body also has
an opening in a sidewall thereof having one or more tabs. The
opening is adapted to engage an arm of a standard y-conector, such
that the arm "snaps" past the tabs into the opening in the side
wall, releasably locking the adaptor to the connector. In an
alternative embodiment, the second body and valve may be formed
integrally with one another. In use, the valve is attached to the
second body and then the tip of an ANSI standard connector, such as
an IV set or syringe, is pressed into the valve, depressing the
seal and exposing the spike within the valve. The tubular spike on
the second body is then used to penetrate the seal or septum of the
y-connector. When the second body is pressed onto the y-connector,
the opening and tabs surround an arm of the piggyback connector.
The arm "snaps" past the tabs, which holds the adaptor in place,
releasably locking the adaptor to the connector. Fluid is then
introduced or withdrawn through the adaptor. This other adaptor
also relates to the following embodiments:
[0142] A medical valve adaptor for use with medical three-way fluid
connectors, said valve adaptor comprising: [0143] a first body
having proximal and distal ends, and a cavity therein; [0144] a
first spike located within said cavity and attached to the proximal
end of said first body; [0145] a seal located on said first spike;
[0146] one or more tabs connected to said first body and extending
from said first body into said cavity and against said first spike
to lock said first spike and seal within the cavity in said first
body; [0147] a tubular second body having proximal and distal ends;
[0148] a cylindrical housing adapted to surround the end of said
three-way connector and located on the distal end of said second
body; [0149] a tubular second spike located on the-distal end of
said second body and within said housing, and in fluid
communication with said second body; [0150] an opening having one
or more tabs, said opening located on said housing and adapted to
engage said three-way connector such that said valved adaptor is
secured to said three-way connector and partially held in place by
said tabs; and [0151] the proximal end of said first body
integrally located on the proximal end of said second body, and in
fluid communication therewith.
[0152] A method of assembling a medical valve adaptor, said valve
adaptor including a first body having proximal and distal ends and
a cavity therein, a first spike, a resilient seal, a second tubular
body having proximal and distal ends, a second tubular spike, and a
cylindrical housing having an opening with one or more tabs, said
method comprising the steps of: [0153] placing said seal over an
end of said first spike; [0154] attaching said first spike, with
said seal thereon, inside said cavity to the proximal end of said
first body; [0155] creating at least one tab for securing said
first spike with said seal thereon within said cavity in said first
body; [0156] forming said housing integrally with the distal end of
said second body; [0157] forming said second spike integrally with
the distal end of said second body and located within said housing,
said second spike being in fluid communication with said second
body; and [0158] creating a locking mechanism integrally with the
proximal end of said second body, said locking mechanism adapted to
secure the proximal end of said first body to, and in fluid
communication with, the proximal end of said second body.
[0159] A method of assembling a medical valve adaptor, said valve
adaptor including a first body having proximal and distal ends and
a cavity therein, a first spike, a resilient seal, a second tubular
body having proximal and distal ends, a second tubular spike, and a
cylindrical housing having an opening with one or more tabs, said
method comprising the steps of: [0160] placing said seal over an
end of said first spike; [0161] attaching said first spike, with
said seal thereon, inside said cavity to the proximal end of said
first body; [0162] creating at least one tab for securing said
first spike with said seal thereon within said cavity in said first
body; [0163] forming said housing integrally with the distal end of
said second body; [0164] forming said second spike integrally with
the distal end of said second body and located within said housing,
said second spike being in fluid communication with said second
body; and [0165] joining the proximal end of said first body to,
and in fluid communication with, the proximal end of said second
body.
[0166] A method of using a medical valve adaptor for use with
medical three-way fluid connectors and a fluid withdrawal device
having a tip and an ANSI standard connector located on said tip,
said valve adaptor having a first body and a tubular second body
separate from said first body, said first body having proximal and
distal ends and comprising: [0167] a cavity located therein; [0168]
a spike located within said cavity and attached to said proximal
end of said first body; [0169] a seal located on said spike; and
[0170] one or more tabs connected to said first body and extending
from said first body into said cavity and against said spike to
lock said spike and seal within the cavity in said first body; said
second body having proximal and distal ends and comprising: [0171]
a tubular second body having proximal and distal ends; [0172] a
cylindrical housing adapted to surround the end of said three-way
connector and located on the distal end of said second body; [0173]
a tubular second spike located on the distal end of said second
body and within said housing, and in fluid communication with said
second body; [0174] an opening having one or more tabs, said
opening located on said housing and adapted to engage said
three-way connector such that said valved adaptor is secured to
said three-way connector and partially held in place by said tabs;
and [0175] a locking mechanism located on the proximal end of said
second body, said locking mechanism adapted to secure the proximal
end of said first body to, and in fluid communication with, the
proximal end of said second body; said method comprising the steps
of: [0176] attaching said first body to said second body using said
locking mechanism; [0177] attaching said second body to said
three-way connector by surrounding the end of said three-way
connector with said housing and engaging said three-way connector
with said opening and tabs; and [0178] inserting the tip of said
fluid withdrawal device into the distal end of said first body,
depressing said seal to expose said first spike.
[0179] A method of using a medical valve adaptor for use with
medical three-way fluid connectors and a fluid withdrawal device
having a tip and an ANSI standard connector located on said tip,
said valve adaptor having a first body and a tubular second body
integral to and in fluid communication with said first body, said
first body having proximal and distal ends and comprising: [0180] a
cavity located therein; [0181] a spike located within said cavity
and attached to said proximal end of said first body; [0182] a seal
located on said spike; and [0183] one or more tabs connected to
said first body and extending from said first body into said cavity
and against said spike to lock said spike and seal within the
cavity in said first body; said second body having proximal and
distal ends and comprising: [0184] a tubular second body having
proximal and distal ends; [0185] a cylindrical housing adapted to
surround the end of said three-way connector and located on the
distal end of said second body; [0186] a tubular second spike
located on the distal end of said second body and within said
housing, and-in fluid communication with said second body; and
[0187] an opening having one or more tabs, said opening located on
said housing and adapted to engage said three-way connector such
that said valved adaptor is secured to said three-way connector and
partially held in place by said tabs; said method comprising the
steps of: [0188] attaching said second body to said three-way
connector by surrounding the end of said three-way connector with
said housing and engaging said three-way connector with said
opening and tabs; and [0189] inserting the tip of said fluid
withdrawal device into the distal end of said first body,
depressing said seal to expose said first spike.
[0190] Still another aspect of this invention is an adaptor for use
with narrowly necked medicament containers such as test tubes. The
adaptor comprises the medical valve described above, which may be
removably attached by a locking mechanism to a second tubular body
having an open-ended tube. The open-ended tube is in fluid
communication with the second body. Alternatively, the second body
and valve may be formed integrally with one another. In use, the
valve is attached to the second body and then the tip of an ANSI
standard connector, such as an IV set or syringe, is pressed into
the valve, depressing the seal and exposing the spike within the
valve. The open-ended tube on the second body is then inserted into
the narrowly necked container, and fluid is withdrawn through the
adaptor. This aspect of the invention also relates to the following
embodiments:
[0191] A medical valve adaptor for use with medical three-way fluid
connectors, said valve adaptor comprising: [0192] a first body
having proximal and distal ends, and a cavity therein; [0193] a
first spike located within said cavity and attached to the proximal
end of said first body; [0194] a seal located on said first spike;
[0195] one or more tabs connected to said first body and extending
from said first body into said cavity and against said first spike
to lock said first spike and seal within the cavity in said first
body; [0196] a tubular second body having proximal and distal ends;
[0197] an open-ended tube adapted to reach into and withdraw fluids
from said narrowly necked container, said tube-located on the
distal end of and in fluid communication with said second body; and
[0198] the proximal end of said first body integrally located on
the proximal end of said second body, and in fluid communication
therewith.
[0199] A method of assembling a medical valve adaptor, said valve
adaptor including a first body having proximal and distal ends and
a cavity therein, a first spike, a resilient seal, a second tubular
body having proximal and distal ends, and an open-ended tube, said
method comprising the steps of: [0200] placing said seal over an
end of said first spike; [0201] attaching said first spike, with
said seal thereon, inside said cavity to the proximal end of said
first body; [0202] creating at least one tab for securing said
first spike with said seal thereon within said cavity in said first
body; [0203] attaching said open-ended tube to, and in fluid
communication with, the distal end of said second body; and [0204]
creating a locking mechanism integrally with the proximal end of
said second body, said locking mechanism adapted to secure the
proximal end of said first body to, and in fluid communication
with, the proximal end of said second body.
[0205] A method of assembling a medical valve adaptor, said valve
adaptor including a first body having proximal and distal ends and
a cavity therein, a first spike, a resilient seal, a second tubular
body having proximal and distal ends, and an open-ended tube, said
method comprising the steps of: [0206] placing said seal over an
end of said first spike; [0207] attaching said first spike, with
said seal thereon, inside said cavity to the proximal end of said
first body; [0208] creating at least one tab for securing said
first spike with said seal thereon within said cavity in said first
body; [0209] attaching said open-ended tube to, and in fluid
communication with, the distal end of said second body; and [0210]
joining the proximal end of said first body to, and in fluid
communication with, the proximal end of said second body.
[0211] A method of using a medical valve adaptor for use with a
narrowly necked container of fluid and a fluid withdrawal device
having a tip and an ANSI standard connector located on said tip,
said valve adaptor including a first body, and a tubular second
body separate from said first body, said first body having proximal
and distal ends and comprising: [0212] a cavity located therein;
[0213] a first spike located within said cavity and attached to
said proximal end; [0214] a seal located on said first spike; and
[0215] one or more tabs connected to said first body and extending
from said first body into said cavity and against said first spike
to lock said first spike and seal within the cavity in said first
body; said second body having proximal and distal ends and
comprising: [0216] a tubular second body having proximal and distal
ends; [0217] an open-ended tube adapted to reach into and withdraw
fluids from said narrowly necked container, said tube located on
the distal end of and in fluid communication with said second body;
and [0218] a locking mechanism located on the proximal end of said
second body, said locking mechanism adapted to secure the proximal
end of said first body to, and in fluid communication with, the
proximal end of said second body; said method comprising the steps
of: [0219] attaching said first body to said second body using said
locking mechanism; [0220] inserting the tip of said fluid
withdrawal device into the distal end of said first body,
depressing said seal to expose said first spike; and
[0221] inserting said open-ended tube into said narrowly necked
container.
[0222] A method of using a medical valve adaptor for use with a
narrowly necked container of fluid and a fluid withdrawal device
having a tip and an ANSI standard connector located on said tip,
said valve adaptor including a first body, and a tubular second
body integral to and in fluid communication with said first body,
said first body having proximal and distal ends and comprising:
[0223] a cavity located therein; [0224] a first spike located
within said cavity and attached to said proximal end; [0225] a seal
located on said first spike; and [0226] one or more tabs connected
to said first body and extending from said first body into said
cavity and against said first spike to lock said first spike and
seal within the cavity in said first body; said second body having
proximal and distal ends and comprising: [0227] a tubular second
body having proximal and distal ends; and [0228] an open-ended tube
adapted to reach into and withdraw fluids from said narrowly necked
container, said tube located on the distal end of and in fluid
communication with said second body; said method comprising the
steps of: [0229] inserting the tip of said fluid withdrawal device
into the distal end of said first body, depressing said seal to
expose said first spike; and [0230] inserting said open-ended tube
into said narrowly necked container.
[0231] Alternatively, each of the adaptors discussed above may be
used by first placing the adaptor in fluid communication with the
piggyback connector or other container and thereafter depressing
the seal in the valve with an ANSI standard connector such as an IV
set or syringe in order to introduce or withdraw fluid through the
adaptor.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0232] FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of a medication
transfer device of the present invention in a typical orientation
for drawing medication from a sealed vial.
[0233] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the system of FIG.
1, inverted.
[0234] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the first embodiment of the
valve of this invention.
[0235] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of the valve shown in
FIG. 1 illustrating the spike, seal, and the body or housing
components of the invention.
[0236] FIG. 5 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the valve
of FIG. 1, after assembly by a first assembly method.
[0237] FIG. 6 is a schematic, longitudinal, cross-sectional view of
the assembled valve of FIG. 1 before compressing the seal.
[0238] FIG. 7 is a schematic, longitudinal, cross-sectional view
similar to FIG. 6 showing the valve during compression of the
seal.
[0239] FIG. 8 is a schematic illustration of an ANSI delivery end
of a medical implement compressing the seal of the valve of this
invention.
[0240] FIG. 9 is a side elevation view, partially in cross-section,
of a third embodiment of the seal.
[0241] FIG. 10 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the
assembled valve of FIG. 1 using the seal of FIG. 9.
[0242] FIG. 11 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the
assembled valve of FIG. 1, using a fourth embodiment of the
seal.
[0243] FIG. 12 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the
assembled valve of FIG. 1, using a fifth embodiment of the
seal.
[0244] FIG. 13 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a sixth
embodiment of the seal.
[0245] FIG. 14 is a longitudinal section of the seal shown in FIG.
13 used in connection with the spike device shown in FIG. 2.
[0246] FIG. 15 is a longitudinal partial cross-sectional view of a
seventh embodiment of the seal of this invention.
[0247] FIG. 16 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view, after
assembly, of the embodiment of the valve shown utilizing the seal
of FIG. 15.
[0248] FIG. 17 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view, after
assembly, of the eighth embodiment of the valve of this
invention.
[0249] FIG. 18 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view, after
assembly, of the ninth embodiment of the valve of this
invention.
[0250] FIG. 19 is a side elevation view, after assembly, of the
seal and spike shown in FIG. 14 connected to the body or housing
shown in FIGS. 20 and 21.
[0251] FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 20-20 of
FIG. 19.
[0252] FIG. 21 is a perspective view, with sections broken away to
show the wall structure of the cavity containing the seal shown in
FIGS. 13 and 14.
[0253] FIG. 22 is a greatly enlarged, cross-sectional view taken
along line 22-22 of FIG. 14.
[0254] FIG. 23 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the body
of a tenth embodiment of the valve of this invention, which is
suitable for use in a second assembly method.
[0255] FIG. 24 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the body
of an eleventh embodiment of the valve of this invention, which is
also suitable for use in the second assembly method.
[0256] FIG. 25 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the tenth
embodiment of the valve of the present invention, comprising the
spike and seal components from FIG. 3 and the body component from
FIG. 23, assembled by using the second assembly method, or a
functionally equivalent method.
[0257] FIG. 26 is a perspective view of a gouging bit and a base
which are preferably used in the second assembly method.
[0258] FIG. 27 is a cross-sectional view of the bit of FIG. 26
taken along line 27-27 thereof.
[0259] FIG. 28 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the
components of the assembled valve of FIG. 25, before assembly,
inserted with the gouging bit and base of FIG. 26.
[0260] FIG. 29 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the
assembled valve of FIG. 25, along with the gouging bit and base of
FIG. 26.
[0261] FIG. 30 is an enlarged view of the area inside line 30-30 of
FIG. 29.
[0262] FIG. 31 illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of a
manually operated punch machine for using the gouging bit and base
of FIG. 26 to perform the second assembly method on the valve
components shown as illustrated in FIG. 28.
[0263] FIG. 32 is an exploded perspective view of a preferred
medication transfer device utilized with a medical valve and
syringe.
[0264] FIG. 33 is a partially exploded side view of one embodiment
of a drip bag adaptor made in accordance with the present
invention, showing the relationship between the drip bag, adaptor,
and removable valve.
[0265] FIG. 34 is a side view of another embodiment of the drip bag
adaptor, having an integral valve.
[0266] FIG. 35 is aside view of a new Y-site or piggyback
y-connector made in accordance with the present invention.
[0267] FIG. 36 is a partially exploded side view of a hook adaptor
made in accordance with this invention.
[0268] FIG. 37 is a plan view of the hook adaptor shown in FIG. 36,
as viewed from the bottom.
[0269] FIG. 38 is a side view of another embodiment of the hook
adaptor, having an integral valve.
[0270] FIG. 39 is a partially exploded side view of a snap-on
adaptor made in accordance with this invention.
[0271] FIG. 40 is a plan view of the snap-on adaptor shown in FIG.
39, as viewed from the bottom.
[0272] FIG. 41 is a side view of another embodiment of the snap-on
adaptor, having an integral valve.
[0273] FIG. 42 is a partially exploded side view of a test tube
adaptor made in accordance with the present invention.
[0274] FIG. 43 is a side view of another embodiment of the test
tube adaptor, having an integral valve.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0275] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, a first embodiment of the present
invention generally comprises a piercing element 520 for use in a
medication container access system. The system includes a standard
medical implement used to measure and deliver a dose of fluid
medication, such as a syringe 522, and a bottle or vial 524
containing the medication. Preferably, a single-dose vial suitable
for disposal after one use is used, whereby the piercing element
520 may be disposable. FIGS. 1 and 2 are exploded views of the
system, with FIG. 1 showing the typical orientation of the system
when fluid is withdrawn from the vial 524. FIG. 2 shows an inverted
orientation in order to better illustrate some of the elements of
the present invention.
[0276] Fluid medication may be delivered to patients by drawing the
medication from the vial 524 through the piercing element 520 into
the syringe 522, and thereafter injecting the fluid from the
syringe 522 into an existing IV delivery system. This method will
be discussed in more detail below.
[0277] Preferably, the piercing element 520 has a proximal end 570
and a distal end 580. The proximal end 570 of the piercing element
520 preferably has a connecting portion which may be in the form of
a tubular extension 526, adapted to receive the tip or nose 528 of
an ANSI (American National Standards Institute, Washington, D.C.)
standard syringe 522. It is, however, contemplated that the inner
diameter of the tubular extension 526 can be of any size to
accommodate the attachment of any of a number of medical
implements. Once inserted into a bore 552 of the extension 526, the
nose 528 of the syringe 522 forms a substantially fluid-tight fit
with the extension 526. Preferably, bore 552 becomes slightly
smaller in diameter from distal end 570 of extension 526 towards
the proximal end 580 to accommodate a tapered nose 528 and form a
tight seal. The taper of the bore 552 is preferably at the same
angle as the nose 528 of the syringe 522 and, more preferably, in
accordance with ANSI standards, the taper is 0.006 inch per linear
inch. Although a fluid-tight seal is achieved, the tapered shape of
these cooperating parts also allows them to be easily disengaged
with a minimal separation force.
[0278] The medication vial 524 generally comprises a container
portion 538 having a narrow neck 539 on which a cap or lid 536
fits. A resilient septum 534 is placed over a circular opening 535
in the lid 536 to simultaneously provide a seal for the vial 524
and an access site for the piercing element 520. The septum is
prepared from a resilient material that is flexible, inert,
impermeable to fluid and readily pierceable by the piercing element
520.
[0279] Referring now to FIG. 2, the piercing element 520 preferably
has, at its distal end 580, a penetration portion 532. The
penetration portion 532 preferably is sized so as to be able to
pierce the septum 534 of the vial 524 and extend into contact with
the medication within the container 538. A fluid flow conduit in
the form of bore 552 runs from at least one hole 548 in the
piercing element 520, through to the proximal end 570 of the side
wall of the piercing element 520. In a preferred embodiment, the
penetration portion 532 of the piercing element 520 has a tapered
conical tip 544. Preferably, the distal end of the tip 544 is
shaped to allow the tip 544 to pierce the septum 534 of the vial
524 and, therefore, the penetration portion 532 is sharply pointed.
However, the penetration portion 532 may be slightly round to
prevent accidental sticks and yet still be able to penetrate the
septum 534.
[0280] As described above, preferably at least one longitudinal
through hole 548 is provided proximal the distal end 580 of the
piercing element 520 to permit fluid to flow from the container 524
into the bore 552. Advantageously, by placing the through hole 548
proximal the distal end 580 of the piercing element 520, the risk
of coring the septum 534 with the piercing element 520 is
eliminated. If the through hole 548 were to be located at the
distal end 580 of the piercing element 520, the piercing element
520 may core the septum 534 introducing particulates into the fluid
which may harm a patient. In a preferred embodiment, there are
three through-holes 548 within about 0.200 inch from the distal end
580 of the piercing element 520. These through-holes 548 may be of
any size; however, the larger the size of the through-holes, the
greater the fluid flow rate through the bore 552 of the piercing
element 520. In a preferred embodiment, the size of the
through-holes 548 are 18-gauge or equivalent to provide a flow rate
three times that of a standard 18-gauge needle.
[0281] In a preferred embodiment, a disk-shaped stop 530 centrally
located on the piercing element 520 is integral with, and
interconnects, the extension 526 and the penetrating portion 532 of
the piercing element 520. A distal face 540 on the disk-shaped stop
530 may contact a top surface 537 of the cap 536 of the vial 524 to
limit the distance the piercing element 520 may extend into the
vial 524. The stop 530 may, of course, have a variety of shapes and
configurations.
[0282] A locking structure 550 is preferably attached to or
integral with the piercing element 520. In one embodiment, the
locking structure 550 may comprise two barbs on diametrically
opposed sides of the piercing element 520 near the distal end 580.
The barbs are desirably angled in the proximal direction in order
to more easily pass through the elastomeric septum 534 into the
vial 524. The barbs prevent the removal of the penetration portion
544 of the piercing element 520 back through the septum 534. The
locking structure 550 thus retains a portion of the piercing
element 520 in the vial 524. In one embodiment, the piercing
element 520 is approximately 0.125 inch in diameter and the locking
structure 550 extends at a 45.degree. angle towards the proximal
end a distance of approximately 0.0625 inch.
[0283] It is possible for the locking structure 550 to be located
other than at the distal end 580 of the piercing element. For
example, the locking element may comprise a somewhat elongate
barbed structure, which extends from the piercing element 520 some
distance from the distal end 580. Alternatively, the locking
structure 550 may extend from the stop 530 of the piercing element,
depending on its location. For example, one or more barb-like
structures may extend downwardly from the stop 530 along a side of
the piercing element 520.
Method of Using the Vial Access Device
[0284] The vial access device of the present invention provides a
closed system for transferring a predetermined amount of medication
from a remote source to a patient. Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the
delivery end or nose 528 of a medical implement such as a syringe
is engaged with the piercing element 520. The nose 528 is pushed
into the proximal end of bore 552 of the piercing element 520 until
a substantially fluid-tight fit is achieved between the syringe 522
and the piercing element 520. The distal end 580 of the piercing
element 520 is then inserted through the septum 534 of the
medication vial 524. The vial 524 is generally held in an inverted
position, as shown in FIG. 1, such that the fluid in the vial abuts
the septum 534. The penetrating portion 544 of the piercing element
520 and the locking structure 550 are pushed through the septum
534, thereby exposing the through-hole(s) 548 to the fluid inside
the vial 524. A plunger 560 inside the syringe 522 is withdrawn,
thereby creating a vacuum which draws fluid from the vial 524,
through the through hole(s) 548, the bore 552, a conduit 556 in the
syringe nose 528 and into a chamber 558 in the syringe 522. The
desired amount of medication is thus transferred from the vial 524,
through the piercing element 520 and into the syringe 522.
[0285] After the desired amount of fluid has been drawn into the
syringe 522, the syringe 522 is pulled away from the vial 524. Upon
retraction of the syringe 522 from the piercing element 520, the
locking structure 550 catches on the inner side of the septum 534,
preventing the piercing element 520 from disengaging the vial 524.
Further refraction force causes the syringe nose 528 to disengage
from the piercing element 520. The user then transfers the fluid
within the syringe 522 to a delivery system which administers the
medication to the patient.
[0286] Preferably, if fluid remains in the vial 524 after the
desired volume of fluid is transferred to the syringe 522, the
syringe 522 is withdrawn from the piercing element 520 as shown in
FIG. 2 so that the fluid contained in the vial 524 does not spill.
The vacuum created in the syringe 522 prevents the fluid medication
from exiting the syringe 522 through the conduit 556 in the syringe
nose 528.
[0287] The piercing element 520 is partially trapped in the vial
524 by the locking structure 550. The single-dose medication vial
524 and piercing element 520 may then be discarded as a unit.
Advantageously, by not removing the penetration portion 544 of the
piercing element 520 from the vial, the risk of a healthcare worker
injuring himself or herself on the penetration portion 544 or
locking structure 550 of the piercing element is eliminated.
Alternatively, if the vial contains sufficient medication for more
than a single dose, a new syringe can be attached to the piercing
element 520 held within the medication vial 524 and additional
fluid can be transferred from the vial 524, through the piercing
element 520 and into the new syringe 522.
[0288] The piercing element 520 is preferably manufactured from a
hard plastic. The piercing element 520 may also be manufactured
from other medically inert materials known to those of skill in the
art. One particular advantage of this invention is that it
eliminates the use of metal needles. This dramatically reduces the
risk of skin puncture during the administration of fluids contained
in a vial to a patient. The piercing element 520 need only be
strong enough to penetrate the septum 534 of a vial 524 or other
similar seal.
Alternate Embodiment
[0289] In a second embodiment as shown in FIG. 32 and described in
more detail below, the piercing element 520 is used in conjunction
with a medical valve 10 or 11 described below in order to transfer
fluid from a vial 524 to a syringe 522.
[0290] FIGS. 3-31 illustrate the medical valve 10 or 11 and methods
of manufacturing the valve 10 or 11. In this description and in
conjunction with the FIGURES, the term "proximal" is used to denote
the end of the valve and other components at or near the spike tip
32 in FIGS. 4 through 8, 10 through 12, 14, 16 and 25, and at or
near the seal cap 92 in FIGS. 3, 9, 13, and 15 through 19. The term
"distal" is used to denote the opposite end of the valve, or spike
tip, or seal.
[0291] As best shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the first embodiment of the
invention, valve 10, includes a valve body or housing 12, a spike
element 24, and a seal 36. The seal 36 is prepared from a resilient
material that is flexible, inert, impermeable to fluid, and readily
pierceable by the spike 26. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 13
depicting an alternate shaped seal 36d, this seal 36d has a precut
slit 211 in its proximal end. This provides a tiny orifice through
which the tip 32 of the spike element 24 may easily pass, yet still
provides a fluid tight seal upon withdrawal of the spike element.
These three components are assembled, as depicted in FIG. 5, for
example, with the spike element 24 enclosed to prevent accidental
sticks. FIG. 4 illustrates how the housing 12, seal 36, and spike
element 24 are attached without the need to use any adhesive or
other bonding agent or process. Mechanical connection which
provides a fluid tight closure is attained as is discussed
subsequently. As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the seal 36 moves within
the housing 12, being pierced by the spike element 24 to expose the
tip 32 of the spike element 24 to allow fluid to flow through the
valve 10.
[0292] Referring to FIG. 3, one preferred embodiment of housing 12
has a bell-shaped skirt 16 and an upper, preferably cylindrical,
conduit 20. The skirt 16 is integral with, and connected by an
annular ring 14, to the upper conduit 20. The skirt 16 creates a
shield for an inner conduit 18 of the spike element 24. This inner
conduit 18 is preferably cylindrical in shape, and slightly
tapered. Inner conduit 18 and upper conduit 20 comprise aligned
hollow tubes so that inner conduit 18 and upper conduit 20 are in
fluid communication with one another when the spike element 24
pierces the seal 36. There is an annular lip 25 surrounding a
circular opening 25a in the top of the conduit 20 (see FIG. 4).
[0293] In the first embodiment, the upper conduit 20 is adapted to
receive the tip or nose 48 of an ANSI standard syringe 46 (see
FIGS. 6 and 7). It is, however, contemplated that the outer
diameter of the upper conduit 20 can be of any size to accommodate
the attachment of other connector devices thereto. Advantageously,
the proximal end of the upper conduit 20 can be equipped with a
locking mechanism to facilitate locking of the valve 10 to a
variety of connector devices. For example, referring to FIG. 3,
locking ears 22 near the proximal lip 25 of housing 12 are
preferably provided such that the housing 12 can be locked into any
compatible Luer-Lock device known to those with skill in the art.
For example, referring to FIG. 19, conventional Luer-Lock threads
180 can be provided on the outer diameter of upper conduit 20.
[0294] Referring to FIG. 4, the spike element 24 has at its distal
end the inner conduit 18 and at its proximal end a hollow spike 26
which is integral with the inner conduit. The inner conduit 18 and
spike 26 present a continuous passageway for fluid during use. An
annular cuff 28 on an intermediate portion of the spike element 24
is integral with, and interconnects, the inner conduit 18 and the
spike 26. As illustrated in FIG. 5, the rim 28a of the cuff 28
abuts the underside of the inner ring 14, and has an annular detent
28b that snaps into an annular groove 14b in the underside of the
ring. The cuff 28 serves two functions. First, it serves as an
attachment device to the underside of the annular ring 14. Second,
it serves as a support and attachment device for the seal 36.
[0295] The hollow spike 26 has a tapered conical shape, ending in a
sharp, pointed tip 32. Preferably, along the length of the spike
are raised, protruding ridges 30. These raised ridges 30 extend
from the surface of the spike preferably between 0.2 and 2.0 mm.
The ridges 30 are preferably aligned along the length of the spike
as illustrated in FIG. 4. These ridges 30 serve to break any vacuum
created when the spike 26 is sealed as described hereinbelow.
Modifications to the alignment and orientation of the ridges are
discussed hereinbelow in association with their function. Just
distal the spike tip 32, there is situated at least one
longitudinal through-hole 34 to permit fluid communication between
the inner conduit 18 and the upper conduit 20. Preferably, there
are three through-holes 34 within about 0.200 inch from the spike
tip 32. These through-holes 34 may be of any size, however, the
larger the size of the through-holes the greater the fluid flow
rate through the valve 10. In a preferred embodiment, the size of
the through-holes 34 are 18-gauge to provide a flow rate three
times that of a standard 18 gauge needle.
[0296] The seal 36 has a seal cap 40 with a generally flat top
surface 40b, an outwardly tapered sidewall 38, and a lower lip 42.
Its interior is hollow to provide the conically shaped cavity 37
(FIG. 5). Thus, the seal 36 slips easily over the spike element 24
to fit snugly within the cavity 37. The seal lip 42 is seated
within the annular cuff 28 and wedged between the cuff and the
underside of the ring 14. There are longitudinal grooves 43 (FIG.
4) along the length of the seal 36 which provide air pockets that
facilitate compression of the seal 36 during use. The grooves 43
may be of variable shape or size to facilitate seal compression. In
the first embodiment, there is a single groove 43 which completely
surrounds the seal 36 between the seal cap 40 and the lip 42.
[0297] The base of the seal 36 has a width such that the seal lip
42 fits snugly into the annular cuff 28. The hollow interior or
cavity 37 (FIG. 5) of the seal 36 is preferably tapered to conform
internally to the shape of the spike 24, having a wall portion 44
which contacts the spike 24 distal seal cap 40. The exterior of the
seal 36 is sized and shaped to fit inside the upper conduit 20 of
the housing 12. The cap 40 reseals the valve 10 when the top
surface 40b is above the through-holes 34. Preferably, the cap 40
substantially fills the opening 25a in the top of the conduit 20.
Thus, after assembly, the top surface 40b of the seal cap 40 is
essentially flush with the lip 25, so that the lip 25 and seal cap
40 can be swabbed with alcohol or other disinfectant without
leakage of disinfectant into the valve 10. It is important that the
surface 40b be exposed so that it may be swabbed with a
disinfectant.
[0298] FIG. 5 illustrates a first embodiment of a valve of the
present invention that has been assembled using a first assembly
method. The spike 24, with contiguous inner conduit 18, is affixed
to the housing 12 through the association of the external portion
of annular cuff 28 and the inner surface 254 of annular ring 14.
Specifically, the annular cuff 28 forms a tight fit within the
annular ring 14, so that the force of friction between the external
portion of annular cuff 28 and the inner surface 254 of annular
ring 14 secures the spike 24 inside the housing 12. This first
method of assembly requires that sufficient force be applied to the
distal end of the spike 24 to overcome the force of friction
between the annular cuff 28 and the annular ring 14, while holding
the housing 12 in place, so that the spike 24 slides toward the
proximal end of the housing 12, until the rim 28a of the annular
cuff 28 abuts the underside of the annular ring 14. Alternatively,
the spike 24 can be held in place, while the housing 12 is forced
around the outside of the spike 24. A person of skill in the art
will know of numerous techniques by which this method can be
accomplished. In addition, although not necessarily required, the
spike 24 may be affixed to the housing 12 by any one of a variety
of additional measures known to those of skill in the art
including, but not limited to, heat sealing, glue, pressure lock,
bonding, or the like.
[0299] Proper selection of the dimensions of the annular cuff 28
and the annular ring 14 will provide a fluid tight closure for the
valve 10. However, if the outside diameter of the annular cuff 28
is too small relative to the inside diameter of the annular ring
14, then, referring to FIG. 5, the spike 24 may slip in a downward
direction relative to the housing 12, which may cause the valve 10
to leak. On the other hand, if the outside diameter of the annular
cuff 28 is too large relative to the inside diameter of the annular
ring 14, then the housing 12 may crack, particularly when the valve
10 is used to conduct lipids, or other fats, which may cause the
entire spike 24 to expand. Although one of skill in the art will be
able to determine appropriate dimensions for the annular cuff 28
and the annular ring 14, the present inventors have developed an
improved method of assembling an improved valve 11 of the present
invention which will be described below. This improved valve and
improved method of assembly will reduce the likelihood that a valve
will either leak or crack, by securing the spike 24 inside the body
12, without-requiring as much pressure between the annular cuff 28
and the annular ring 14.
[0300] The seal 36 fits into the annular cuff 28 and is held in
place by an internal lip 27 along the internal portion of the
annular ring 14 of the housing 12. The length of the spike 24 is
such that, after assembly, the tip of the spike rests below the
plane defined by the lip 25 of the housing 12. Preferably, the
spike tip 32 is approximately from 0.525'' to 0.1'' below the lip
25 of the housing 12. The seal 36 fits snugly against the spike 24
and is essentially flush--with the lip 25 of the housing 12. The
spike tip 32 is thus embedded within the seal cap 40 prior to use
or may be approximately 0.025'' distal the seal cap 40 when the
valve 10 is in the closed position. The inner conduit 18 is
partially shielded by the bell shaped skirt 16 of the housing 12
(see FIGS. 3-5). The inner surface 254 of the bell shaped skirt 16
preferably has protruding threads 45 as an optional locking
mechanism for attaching a medical implement thereto. Further, other
medical devices can be pressure fit over the outer portion of inner
conduit 18 without direct association with the protruding threads
45.
[0301] During use, the invention is designed to be adapted as a
two-way valve. The orientation of the valve is independent to fluid
flow and dependent on the preferred orientation of the preexisting
connections. Thus, the invention can be used as a valve connector
for an intravenous central or peripheral piggyback connector in
either orientation. Parenteral fluid is delivered to patients
through tubing such that the liquid flows from a container through
a needle into the patient. The containers are frequently changed or
additional fluid bottles are added. The invention disclosed herein
is designed to interconnect medical implements along the route of
fluid delivery to the patient. However, the invention is also
useful in any environment in which a resealable fluid valve is
desired. During use, a connector of the appropriate size is fitted
over the inner conduit 18. Locking can be achieved by a Luer-Lock
mechanism, a pressure fit or any other locking mechanisms known to
those with skill in the art, as described above. Thus, in one
example, fluid passes from the inner conduit 18 into the spike 26.
However, fluid flow is locked in place by the seal 36.
[0302] FIGS. 6 and 7 illustrate valve activation. FIG. 6
illustrates a syringe 22 connected to the proximal end of the valve
10. However, this connecting implement could be any number of
medical implements known to those of skill in the art. The nose 28
of the syringe 22 is placed on the seal cap 40 inside the lip 25 of
the housing 12. The application of pressure on the syringe 22 in
the direction of the arrows, as illustrated in FIG. 6 creates
pressure on seal cap 40. The resulting downward pressure compresses
the seal 36. This pushes the tip 32 of the spike 26 through the
seal cap 40 to expose the through-holes 34. Compression is
facilitated by the grooves 38. Fluid is now able to flow into the
syringe 22, or vice versa, depending on whether fluid is to be
withdrawn from the patient or medication injected into the patient.
FIG. 7 shows valve 10 opened by insertion of the nose 28 of the
syringe 22 into the opening 25a. A syringe plunger 60 in the
syringe 22 is retracted thereby creating a vacuum to draw fluid
through the valve 10 into the syringe. For intravenous
applications, the valve 10 can be orientated in the position
diagramed in FIGS. 6 and 7, or it can be rotated 180.degree. such
that fluid flows in the opposite direction.
[0303] Upon removal of the syringe from spike 26, as shown in FIG.
6, the seal 36 is free to return to its original shape and cover
through-holes 34. The ability of the seal 36 to return to its
original shape is determined by the resiliency of the material used
to prepare the seal 36. In addition, the ability of the seal 36 to
return to its original shape is facilitated by the protruding
ridges 30 formed on the external surface of the spike. During
compression, a vacuum may form in the area between the spike 26 and
the seal 36, thereby preventing the seal 36 from returning to its
original position. The protruding ridges permit air to pass along
the spike/seal interface to prevent vacuum formation and allow free
return of the seal. The-ability of the seal 36 to deform reversibly
and return to its original position is particularly useful because
(1) it immediately stops fluid flow through the valve 10, (2) it
covers the recessed spike 26 to maintain its sterility, and (3) it
reduces the risk that the spike could inadvertently pierce another
object or person. In addition, since the valve 10 lacks movable
parts, except for the seal, it is unlikely that when the seal 36 is
pushed down, the valve 10 would fail to function.
[0304] Advantageously, the through-holes 34 are located relatively
low on the spike 26. Thus, the through-holes 34 are sealed
relatively early in the process as the seal 36 returns to its
original configuration when the valve 10 is closed. In one
preferred embodiment the through holes 34 are located 0.075'' below
the spike tip 32 (see FIG. 4). Additionally, the through-holes 34
are sealed even if the seal 36 does not fully return to its
original configuration depicted in FIG. 6. Further, the ability of
the seal 36 to return reversibly to its original position permits
the reuse of the connector valve 10. Following disconnection, and
before reuse, the surface of pierced seal cap 40 is essentially
flush with the housing 12. Thus, this flush surface can
advantageously be sterilized with alcohol or other surface
decontaminating substances. The skirt 16 and upper conduit 20
advantageously shield both connections from the surrounding
environment to protect the sterility of the connection. Further,
both the skirt 16 and upper conduit 20 function as collection
reservoirs to prevent fluid from dripping from the valve 10 during
manipulation.
[0305] A cover cap (not shown) can be supplied to fit over the
upper conduit 20 as further protection for the seal surface between
use. Such a cover cap, however, is not needed to maintain sterility
since the seal 36 may be swabbed with a disinfectant after each
use. The reversibility of the seal 36 makes the valve 10
particularly attractive as a connector valve to provide fluid
communication between two fluid lines. Therefore, the present
invention provides for placing a first fluid line in communication
with a second fluid line using the valve disclosed herein. The
reversibility of the valve 10 permits multiple fluid lines to be
successively added, for example, to a fluid line in direct
communication with a patient's vein. Since the valve is easily
sterilizable and sealable, fluid lines can be added and removed
without disconnecting venous contact.
[0306] The valve 10 is preferably prepared from a hard plastic, but
it is additionally contemplated that the valve could be prepared
from other medically inert materials known to those in the art. The
spike element 24 is preferably prepared from the same material as
the housing 12. One particular advantage of this invention is that
it does not rely on the use of metal needles. This dramatically
reduces the risk of skin puncture during use and manufacture.
Further, the upper conduit 20 serves as a shield to the spike 26
such that skin puncture is further reduced. The spike 26 need only
be strong enough to penetrate the seal cap 40, or if necessary, to
pierce a connecting septum.
[0307] In the embodiment of the invention illustrated in FIGS. 4
through 6, the through-holes 34 are placed distal spike tip 32.
This placement provides two important advantages. First, the
placement of the through-holes 34 facilitates resealing of the
valve 10 after use. Second, if the through-holes were placed at the
spike tip 32, the holes 34 may core the seal cap 40 thereby
introducing seal particulate into the fluid flow and possibly
plugging the holes 34. Thus, the longitudinal placement of the
through-holes distal spike tip 32 prevents the introduction of
particulates into the fluid path and/or plugging of the
through-holes 34. It is additionally contemplated that the number
and diameter of the through-holes 34 can be adjusted to accommodate
different fluid velocities. In a preferred embodiment, the
preferred velocity of fluid passing through the through-holes 34 is
equal to or greater than the flow rate through an 18 gauge needle.
Through-holes larger than 18 gauge will, of course, facilitate
greater fluid velocities.
[0308] An important advantage of the invention is that the valve 10
has very little dead space, thus the volume of liquid entering into
the valve is substantially equivalent to the volume of fluid
leaving the valve. Further, the total equivalent fluid volume of
the valve is very small such that the volume of fluid flowing
through the system in order to place the valve in fluid
communication with a medical implement such as a syringe 22 is
substantially zero.
[0309] An alternative embodiment of the seal, a seal 36a, is shown
in FIG. 9. Seal 36a comprises a seal cap 92 at the proximal end
thereof and a seal lip 96 at the distal end thereof. A cup-like
annular flange 95 is provided proximal seal cap 92. The seal cap 92
and seal lip 96 are connected by a seal wall consisting of a
plurality of ringed wall portions 94 that expand and collapse in an
accordion like fashion. During compression of the seal 36a, the
diameter of the ringed wall portions 94 expand outward in the
radial direction. There are air pockets 13a (FIG. 10) between ring
portions 94 and the housing and air pockets 13b between spike 24
and seal 36a. The seal 36a contains a cavity 98 distal seal cap 92
and adjacent the ringed wall portions 94. The seal 36a interacts
with spike 26 (FIG. 6) and other components of the present
invention in a similar fashion to seal 36 of FIG. 6.
[0310] Referring to FIG. 10, the cup-like annular flange 95 may be
stretched around the upper conduit 20 and held in place by an
annular ring 97. This creates a trampoline like effect that assists
returning the seal 36a to a decompressed state after withdrawal of
a syringe (not shown). This embodiment has two advantages. First,
the proximal end of the valve 10 can be swabbed with alcohol or
other disinfectant without leakage of disinfectant into the valve
10. Second, by affixing cup-like annular flange 95 to upper conduit
20 at the proximal end thereof with annular ring 97, the repeated
deformation and reformation of the seal 36a is assisted.
[0311] An alternative embodiment of the seal, a seal 36b is shown
in connection with the valve 10 in FIG. 11. The seal 36b is similar
to the seal 36a and is comprised of seal cap 92, a side wall
consisting of ringed wall portions 94 and a seal lip 96. It also
has an outwardly extending ring 99 which is at a right angle with
respect to the longitudinal axis of the valve 10. This ring 99 is
used to attach the seal 36b to upper conduit 20. Preferably, an
upper conduit annular plug 20 is inserted within upper conduit 20
to create a tight fit between perpendicular ring 99, a ledge 101
in-the upper conduit 20, and the plug 20'. The ring 99 assists in
the reformation of seal 36b to enclose spike 26 upon withdrawal of
a syringe (not shown).
[0312] As shown in FIG. 12, the cup-like annular flange 95 and ring
99 may both be used in connection with the valve 10, to provide the
seal 36c. This seal 36c, provides rapid reformation upon withdrawal
of a syringe (not shown) and realizes the advantages of both the
seals 36a and 36b.
[0313] Another alternative embodiment of the seal, a seal 36d, is
shown in FIG. 13. In this embodiment, the seal 36d is comprised of
seal cap 92, seal lip 96, and a side wall 150 comprised of circular
tires 100 stacked in series one on top of an adjacent larger
diameter lower tire. The circular tires 100 are preferably solid
throughout the diameter of the cross-section thereof. These
circular tires 100 will deform and reform upon, respectively,
compression and decompression of the seal 36d, thereby exposing or
covering a spike (not shown) as the case may be.
[0314] As mentioned above, preferably seal 36d has a precut slit
211 in the cap 92 lying along the longitudinal axis of the valve
10. The seal cap 92 has a unique configuration that insures that
the slit 211 closes and is sealed upon withdrawal of a syringe (not
shown) and reformation of the seal 36d. It includes an enlarged,
internal, pressure responsive member 200 which is integral with the
cap 92. Between the proximal end of the side wall 150 and the
member 200 is an annular space 102 which is filled with the fluid
in the cavity 98. This fluid is under pressure, for example at the
blood pressure of the patient to which the valve 10 is attached.
Referring to FIG. 14, fluid, for example the patient's blood, flows
through the holes 34 in the spike 26, filling the cavity 102. This
fluid presses against the exterior of the member 200, closing the
slit 211 when the seal is decompressed as shown in FIGS. 14 and 19.
The pressure from this fluid creates a high pressure seal which
prevents fluid from escaping valve 10 through the slit 211. There
is a semi-cylindrical annular flange tear ring 104 on the end of
the member 200 which advantageously extends the useful life of seal
36d.
[0315] Preferably, there is a tear ring 104 integral with the
member 200 along the perimeter of the internal surface of the
member 200, and a slight saucer-like depression 204 in the external
surface of the seal. The pressure responsive element in the
decompressed state closes any orifice in the seal 36d to provide an
essentially fluid-tight seal while in the decompressed state. The
pressure responsive member 200 enables the valve to maintain a
fluid-tight seal even at very high pressures sometimes experienced
in medical applications, particularly when the valve 10 is
connected to a patient's artery. The center of the member 200 and
the annular space 102 are coaxial with the entryway 211a to the
orifice 211. The pressurized fluid fills the annular space 102 to
apply pressure that compresses the member 200 to tightly close the
entryway to the orifice. In a preferred embodiment the distance
from the entryway 211a to the proximal end of seal cap 92 is from
0.500 to 0.075 inches and more preferably approximately 0.100
inch.
[0316] As best illustrated in FIG. 22, the tip 32 is designed to
avoid tearing the seal. Tip 32 has three facets 210, 212, and 214
which are joined with each other along parting lines a, b, and c.
This junction of the facets 210, 212, and 214 frequently is ragged
and will tear the seal 36d. This is prevented by the parting lines
a, b, and c, or junctions, being disposed within recesses 220, 222,
and 224, respectively, to provide "buried parting lines."
[0317] Another alternative embodiment of the present invention
using the seal 36d is shown in FIG. 8 and FIGS. 19 through 21. In
this embodiment, the inner wall 160 of the upper end of the conduit
20 is provided with at least one, and preferably, a plurality of
radial indentations 107. The indentations 107 are elongated
disposed generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the valve
10 in a symmetrical, star-like configuration. Each indentation has
opposed lateral edges 162 which engage the seal 36d upon
compression of the seal 36d. The indentations provide space into
which the seal 36d expands upon compression.
[0318] As best shown in FIG. 8, the wall 181 of the proximal end of
the conduit 20 is tapered inward at the same angle as the nose 28
of the syringe 22. In accordance with ANSI standards, the taper is
0.006 inch per linear inch. The wall 182 of the syringe nose 28
bears against the wall 181 as the nose slides into the opening 25a
to push the seal 36d inward compressing it and forcing the tip 32
of the spike 26 to enter the slit 211. The seal 36d expands upon
compression to fill essentially completely the upper portions of
the indentations 107. Some sections of the seal 36d are wedged
between the edges 162 and other sections fill the indentations 107.
As the liquid flows through the nose 28 through holes 34, air in
the nose 28 is forced out of the nose 28 and expelled from valve 10
between walls 181 and 182. Thus, essentially the entire prescribed
dosage is delivered through valve 10 to the patient. Fluid flows
through the through-holes 34, but does not leak between either the
seal 36d and the wall 181 or between the abutting walls 181 and
182.
[0319] FIGS. 15, 16, 17, and 18 depict embodiments of seals,
namely, seal 36e, seal 36f, and seal 36g, which are substantially
the same as the seals 36a (FIG. 10), seal 36b (FIG. 11), and seal
36c (FIG. 12), except the side wall 150 employing the circular
tires 100 is used in place of the accordion wall portion 94.
[0320] Other components of the present invention interact with the
various embodiments of the seal in a similar fashion to their
interaction with seal 36 of FIG. 4. Prior to use of valve 10, it is
preferable that the seal caps 40 or 92 be pierced centrally by a
steel needle in the axial direction, precutting the seal to provide
the slit 211 in order to allow for more rapid decompression and
reformation of the seal upon piercing by the spike 26. The seals
are advantageously formed from a material which can repeatedly
reseal and prevent fluid from flowing around the seal material. The
seal 36 should also be capable of being forced down and then spring
back into position to reseal the valve. Material that is too soft
will reseal effectively; however, will not be capable of springing
back after opening of the valve. Material that is too hard will
provide sufficient spring force; however, will not effectively
seal. Thus, in a preferred embodiment, the seal is formed from a
silicone having a hardness in the range from 30-70 Shore durometer
units, and more-preferably in the range 40-50 Shore durometer
units. A cure silicone polymer in the preferred hardness range is
available from Wacker Silicone Corp. of Adrian, Mich. Preferably,
silicone available from Dow Chemical Co. under the name DOW-595 is
used. In some embodiments of the invention, it is desirable to
-provide additional lubricity to the seal 36 to allow it to spring
back and reseal more effectively. Dow Chemical Co. produces a
silicone formulation with silicone oil built in to provide this
additional lubricity. Preferably, however, X-15.TM. mineral oil is
placed on the seal 36 to lubricate it.
[0321] In general, the closing of the valve 10 is provided not by
the side wall of the seal 36 which immediately covers the
through-holes 34, but by the beat cap 40, or seal cap 92 filling
the proximal end of the cavity 98 and the opening 25a. Thus, the
seal caps 40 and 92 are sufficiently thick to reseal the opening
25a effectively after valve closure. However, the seal caps 40 and
92 should also be sufficiently thin to allow them to readily return
to the closed position. Preferably the thickness of the caps 40 and
92 ranges between 0.075 and 0.500 inch and more preferably may be
approximately 0.100 inch.
[0322] The valve disclosed in this invention can be provided in a
sterile and disposable form such that after its use in a given
installation is exhausted, the device is discarded. However, as
described above, in any given installation, the device can be
reused multiple times. Since the device does not employ needles,
there is little chance that the device will inadvertently cause
skin puncture. Therefore, the extra precautions required for
handling and disposing of needles is obviated. It will be apparent
from the detailed description provided herein that the present
invention can provide for the elimination of nearly all needles
used in the medical environment. With the use of the valve of the
present invention, the need for all needles except those that are
directly input into a patient is, advantageously, eliminated.
[0323] FIG. 23 illustrates a body or housing 12 of a tenth
embodiment of the present invention, while FIG. 24 illustrates a
body or housing 12 of an eleventh embodiment of the present
invention. The housing 12 of FIG. 23 or FIG. 24 is substantially
similar to housing 12 described above in conjunction with FIG. 7.
Thus, the housing 12 has a bell-shaped skirt 16, an inner surface
254, protruding threads 45, an inner surface 250, and further
includes a gouging surface 252a. In FIG. 24 the gouging surface
252a is illustrated as a ledge extending arcuately from the inner
surface 250, while in FIG. 23 the gouging surface 252a is
illustrated as a ledge extending at a slope from the inner surface
250. The housing 12 is specially designed for use with a second,
and improved, method of assembly, described in more detail below.
In particular, for the improved method of assembly described below,
a portion of the gouging surface 252a preferably has a smaller
diameter than the effective diameter of the protruding threads 45.
As recognized by a person of skill in the art, other embodiments of
the housing 12, with variations to the gouging surface 252a, can be
used with the improved method of assembly, or a functionally
equivalent method, to provide an improved medical valve 11, based
on the following description of the improved valve and method.
[0324] FIG. 25 illustrates the improved medical valve 11 comprising
the housing 12 of FIG. 23 (although the valve 11 could be made with
the housing 12 of FIG. 24 equally well), the spike element 24 of
FIG. 7, and the seal 36 of FIG. 7. An improved medical valve 11 can
also be created from the spike element 24 and seal 36 of any of the
first nine embodiments. Thus, for example, an improved medical
valve 11 can be assembled using the housing 12 of FIG. 23, the
spike element 24 of FIG. 14, and the seal 36d of any of FIGS. 3-7,
7 and 9-19 to create a new, and preferred, embodiment. The improved
medical valve 11 is essentially similar to medical valve 10,
described above, with the addition of retaining tabs 252c for
securing the spike element 24 and the seal 36 inside the housing
12, and a variation in the interference fit between the spike
element 24 and the housing 12.
[0325] Still referring to FIG. 25, the improved medical valve 11
comprises a spike element 24 and a seal 36 mounted in the housing
12. The seal lip 42 of the seal 36 is secured between the internal
lip 27 of the housing 12 and the annular cuff 28 of the spike
element 24 to secure the seal 36 inside the housing 12. The annular
cuff 28 of the spike element 24 is secured against the underside of
the seal lip 42 of the seal 36 by retaining tabs 252c to secure the
spike element 24 and the seal 36 inside the housing 12. The
retaining tabs 252c preferably consist of a portion of the material
that, before assembly, constituted either the gouging surface 252a
of FIG. 23 or FIG. 24. These tabs 252c constitute material from the
gouging surface 252a which has been gouged away from its original
position on the housing 12 and forced against the lower surface of
the annular cuff 28. The retaining tabs 252c are rigid enough to
hold the spike element 24 and the seal 36 against the underside of
the annular ring 14 of the housing 12 and prevent leakage from the
improved medical valve 11. The spike element 24 is further
prevented from removal from housing 12 because of the annular
detent 28b on the annular cuff 28, which detent 28b snaps into the
annular groove 14b of the annular ring 14.
[0326] The securing force provided by the retaining tabs 252c
reduces the need for friction or interference fit between the
external portion of annular cuff 28 and the inner surface 254 of
annular ring 14, as described above with respect to the first
method of assembly. Thus, the outside diameter of the annular cuff
28 can be reduced relative to the inside diameter of the annular
ring 14, without allowing leakage to occur within the medical valve
11. For example, it has been found that the outside diameter of the
annular cuff 28 can be as little as about 0.003'' larger than the
inside diameter of the ring 14 and still provide a proper seal. The
ability to reduce the diameter of cuff 28 (in relation to the
diameter of the ring 14) reduces the possibility that the housing
12 will crack in response to hoop stress, even when the spike
element 24 expands because of the conduction of lipids, or other
fats. Further, the lessened importance of providing exact
tolerances between the annular cuff 28 and the annular ring 14
allows for variations in the materials and the manufacturing
process of these components, reducing manufacturing costs.
[0327] FIG. 26 shows a gouging bit 262 and a base 260 that are
preferably used in the improved method of assembling valve 11. The
gouging bit 262 has a central bore 298 therethrough, a gouging edge
266 thereon, several guiding surfaces 292, 294, and 296, and a
number of ribs 297. The base 260 includes a hole 268. FIG. 27 shows
a cross-sectional view of the tip of the gouging bit 262. This
FIGURE shows the several guiding surfaces 292, 294, and 296, the
ribs 297, along with the bore 298 and a contact surface 276 to
which the ribs 297 are connected.
[0328] FIGS. 28, 29, and 30 illustrate the use of the gouging bit
262 and the base 260 to perform the improved method to assemble an
improved valve 11 of the present invention. Referring to FIG. 28, a
seal 36 of FIG. 7 is placed onto a spike element 24 of FIG. 7. The
inner conduit 18 of the spike element 24 is placed inside the bore
298 in the gouging bit 262. The spike element 24 can be retained
inside the gouging bit 262 by friction between the outer surface of
the inner conduit 18 of the spike element 24 and the inner surface
of the bore 298 of the gouging bit 262, or by other appropriate
means.
[0329] Preferably, the contact surface 276 of the gouging bit 262
contacts the upper surface of the annular cuff 28 of the spike
element 24. It is noted that the gouging bit 262 is sized such that
the gouging edge 266 extends beyond the outside perimeter of the
spike element 24, including the annular detent 28b.
[0330] The valve housing 12 is placed inside of the hole 268
located in the base 260, with the distal end of the housing 111
protruding from the base 260. Once the gouging bit 262 and the base
260 are positioned so that their centers are in direct vertical
alignment, the base 260 is moved upwardly, toward the gouging bit
262 (although, as one skilled in the art will recognize,
alternately, the bit 262 may be moved downwardly towards the base
260). As the base 260 approaches the gouging bit 262, the base 260
forces the housing 12 around the outside of the spike element 24
and the seal 36, so that the spike element 24 and the seal 36
penetrate the housing 12. Continued movement of the base 260 causes
the housing 12 to be pushed up around the spike element 24 and the
seal 36 until the distal portion of the annular ring 14 of the
housing 12 makes contact with the annular cuff 28 of the spike
element 24, as shown in FIG. 29.
[0331] Referring again to FIG. 28, the inside diameter of the
housing 12 (including the threads 45) is sufficiently large enough
that when the housing 12 is pressed around the outside of the spike
element 24 and the seal 36, the annular detent 28b of the spike
element 24 passes by the protruding threads 45 and the gouging
surface 252a of the housing. Further, the inside diameter of the
housing 12 is sized such that the gouging edge 266 of the gouging
bit 262 also do not contact the threads 45.
[0332] However, the housing 12 and bit 262 are sized such that the
gouging edge 266 of the gouging bit 262 does make contact with the
housing 12 at the gouging surface 252a. in this manner, the gouging
edge 266 of the gouging bit 262 gouges a portion of the gouging
surface 252a away from the inner surface of the housing 12. The
portion of the gouging surface 252a that is partially separated
from the housing 12 is folded or crushed in towards the center of
the gouging bit 262 and down toward the annular cuff 28 of the
spike element 24 between pairs of ribs 297 by the guiding surfaces
292, 294, 296 to form a number of retaining tabs 252c, as shown in
FIGS. 29 and 30. At this point, the housing 12, the spike element
24, and the seal 36 have been assembled to form an improved medical
valve 11, with the retaining tabs 252c securing the spike element
24 and the seal 36 inside the housing 12. The gouging bit 262 can
then be separated from the base 260, and the assembled medical
valve 11 can be removed.
[0333] The method described above is the preferred method of
assembly for the improved medical valve 11 of the present
invention. However, this improved method of assembly can be
modified in numerous ways without departing from the essential
teachings of the present invention.
[0334] Referring again to FIGS. 26 and 27, the tip of the gouging
bit 262 comprises a number of surfaces 276, 266 and 292, 294, and
296 that combine to perform three basic functions. First, the
contact surface 276, which is preferably an annular surface having
a diameter of less than the outer diameter of the bit 262, presses
against the annular cuff 28 of a spike element 24 to drive the
spike element 24 into the housing 12. Second, the gouging surface
266 on the gouging bit 262 scrapes a portion of the gouging surface
252a of the housing 12 away from the remainder of the gouging
surface. Specifically, gouging surface 266 is created by the
intersection of surfaces 292 and 294 of the gouging bit 262 with
the outside surface 291 of the gouging bit 262 to form a relatively
sharp edge at the perimeter of the gouging bit 262. Third, the
gouging bit 262 folds the gouged material from the gouging surface
toward the center of the gouging bit 262 along surfaces 292, 294,
and 296. In order to perform this guiding function, surfaces 292,
294 and 296 all preferably slope downwardly and inwardly towards
the contact surface 276. Further, in order to create thick
retaining tabs as opposed to a thinner retaining ring, ribs 297 are
used to guide and separate the gouged material. Each rib 297 thus
partially extends from the gouging edge 266 to the guiding surface
276. As illustrated, 112 ribs 297 are advantageously used to create
112 tabs.
[0335] FIGS. 26 and 27 illustrate the presently preferred
embodiment of the gouging bit 262. However, a person of skill in
the art can modify the design of the gouging bit 262 in numerous
ways without departing from the teachings of the present
invention.
[0336] Substantial force is required to drive the base 260 toward
the gouging bit 262 with sufficient force to insert the spike
element 24 into the housing 12 and to gouge the gouging surface
252a of the housing 12 and create the retaining tabs 252c.
Preferably, therefore, this assembly is accomplished through use of
a machine 286. FIG. 31 illustrates the manually operated punch
machine 296 that is preferably utilized, along with the gouging bit
262 and the base 260, to perform the improved method of assembly.
The punch machine 286 illustrated in FIG. 31 is well-known to a
person of skill in the art, and merely incorporates the specific
bit 262 and base 260 described above. When utilizing this machine
286, the gouging bit 262 is positioned in the punch machine 286 so
that it is in direct vertical alignment with the base 260. Again,
the seal 36 is placed over the spike element 24, which is placed
inside the gouging bit 262. The valve housing 12 is placed inside
the base 260. The punch machine 286 is operated by manually pulling
down on a handle 280 to create rotational motion in an axle 282,
which in turn creates vertical motion in a piston 284. The vertical
motion of the piston 284 is then communicated to the base 260.
Thus, by this machine 286, a downward motion in the handle 280 is
translated into an upward motion in the base 260 with respect to a
stationary bit 262.
[0337] Movement of the piston 284 pushes the base 260 in which the
valve housing 12 is located upwardly until the annular cuff 28 of
the spike element 24 contacts the annular ring 14 of the housing
12. During this procedure, the gouging edge 266 of the gouging bit
262 gouges a portion of the gouging surface 252a away from the
inner surface of the housing 12 to create the retaining tabs 252c.
A mechanical stop (not shown) is preferably used to prevent the
base 260 from being driven too far relative to the gouging bit
262.
[0338] After the components of the medical valve have been
assembled, the handle 280 is released and returned to its normal
position as shown in FIG. 31. At this time, the base 260 also
returns to its normal position, also known in FIG. 31. The
completed valve 11 is then removed from the machine 286.
[0339] Although FIG. 31 illustrates a manually-operated punch
machine, a person of skill in the art will recognize that a wide
variety of machines could be designed to implement the improved
method of assembly, including an automated version of the machine
286 described above.
[0340] The valve 10 or 11 is used to provide a closed, patient
access system for transferring a predetermined amount of medication
from a remote source to the patient. The valve 10 or 11 is
connected by the distal end to the patient, for example, a vein or
artery in fluid communication with the valve. Blood fills the
valve, but the seal 36d, for example, prevents any blood from
leaking from the valve. The delivery end or nose 28 of the medical
implement (such as syringe 22) is inserted into the valve as
depicted in FIG. 8, pushing the nose 28 against the seal to
compress the seal sufficiently to allow the tip 32 of the spike 24
to pierce the seal and enter said delivery end. The predetermined
amount of medication in its entirety may now be transferred through
the nose 28 into the valve 10 or 11 and into the patient. Since the
nose 28 and seal 36d engage in a manner so that the tip 32 of the
spike element 24, upon piercing the seal, meets the seal to avoid
formation of any dead space at the interface between nose 28 and
the seal surface 40b. Transfer directly through the valve 10 or 11
of essentially the entire predetermined amount of medication from
the syringe 22 to the patient, so that essentially none of said
predetermined amount is collected in any dead space in the valve,
is accomplished with this invention. Upon withdrawing the nose 28
from the valve 10 or 11 the seal 36d returns to the decompressed
state to close the valve and maintain while in said decompressed
state a fluid tight seal even at high pressures and after repeated
uses.
[0341] FIG. 32 illustrates the piercing element 520 used in
conjunction with the above-described valve 10 or 11. It is
recognized that the piercing element 520 may be used in conjunction
with any of the embodiments of the valve 10 or 11 described
above.
[0342] In particular, in the preferred embodiment, the proximal end
570 of the piercing element 520 has a number of threads 588 located
on the outside surface thereof for engagement with the threads 45
inside of the housing 12 of valve 10 or 11. These threads 588 may
comprise standard threads, or, as shown, short wings for engaging
the threads 45 of the housing 12. When the proximal end 570 of the
piercing element 520 is threadingly engaged with the distal end of
the valve 10 or 11, the valve 10 or 11 and piercing element 520
form a fluid tight seal.
[0343] It is also contemplated that the piercing element 520 and
valve 10 or 11 may be made as a single element, wherein the conduit
18 of the valve 10 or 11 and the connection portion at the proximal
end 570 of the piercing element 520 comprise a continuous single
conduit or element. In one version the piercing element 520
(without threads thereon) may be connected to the conduit 18 of the
valve 10 or 11 and be permanently affixed thereto. This may be
done, for example, by fusing the conduit 18 into the connecting
portion of the piercing element or by any other means known to one
skilled in the art. Alternatively, the spike 24 may be formed as an
extension of the proximal end 570 of the piercing element 520.
Method of Using the Alternate Embodiment
[0344] In operation, the piercing element 520 is preferably
threaded into engagement with the housing 12 of the valve 10 or 11.
The penetrating portion 532 of the piercing element 520 is then
inserted through the septum 534 of the vial 524. Lastly, as best
illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7, the nose 28 of syringe 22 is engaged
with the proximal end of the valve 10 or 11. Once the syringe 22 is
engaged, a fluid conduit exists from the vial 524 through the
piercing element 520 and valve 10 or 11 to the syringe 22, whereby
fluid may be withdrawn into the syringe 22 from the vial 524.
[0345] Advantageously, the syringe 22 may be disengaged from the
valve 10 or 11 at any time. Once disengaged, the fluid conduit is
automatically closed by the seal 36 in the valve 10 or 11. This
system allows later withdrawal of fluid with another syringe 22,
without the fear of contamination of the fluid in the vial between
uses.
Drip Bag Adaptor
[0346] In another preferred embodiment of the invention,
illustrated by FIGS. 33 and 34, a sterile adaptor 311 is provided
to function as a connector to a container 315 (shown in phantom) of
fluid. Fluid can thus be removed from or added to the fluid
container.
[0347] The adaptor 311 is preferably made of any medically inert
material. In a preferred embodiment of the adaptor 311, and
especially where disposability is desired, the adaptor 311 is
constructed of rigid plastic. In other embodiments, however, and
particularly where reusability is desired, the adaptor 311 may be
made of stainless steel or any other medically inert substance, to
allow sterilization in an autoclave or similar device.
[0348] FIG. 33 shows an adaptor 311 having a generally cylindrical
body 314 with a proximal end and a distal end, and an adaptor spike
312 located at the proximal end. The adaptor spike 312 will
preferably penetrate the outer surface of a seal 316 located on the
container 315. The spike 312 may be of any size and shape, to
accommodate a range of container and seal sizes. In a preferred
embodiment of the adaptor 311, shown in FIG. 33, the spike 312 is
generally cylindrical having a sharpened annular proximal end, and
is approximately 1.375 inches long. Alternatively, the spike 312
may be generally frustoconical in shape.
[0349] A longitudinal channel 313 leads from the proximal end of
the spike to the distal end of the adaptor 311, providing a route
for fluid to flow through the adaptor 311. The channel 313 is
typically cylindrical although it may also be slightly
frustoconical to accommodate the change in diameter from the tip of
the spike 311 to the distal end of the adaptor 311. In the
preferred embodiment of the adaptor 311, the channel 313 has a
generally smooth interior surface, to facilitate the easy flow of
fluid through the adaptor 311.
[0350] Near the distal end of the spike is preferably located a
flange 317, of a size and shape to sealably conform to the surface
of the seal 316. In this manner, the spike 312 and flange 317 serve
to first penetrate the seal 316 and next mate with the seal 316,
preventing leakage of fluid from the container 315 around the
outside surface of the adaptor 311. In addition, the flange 317
prevents the adaptor 311 from entirely transversing the seal
316.
[0351] In one embodiment, shown in FIG. 33, strengthening ribs 318
are provided between the distal end of the adaptor 311 and the
flange 317. These ribs 318 provide rigidity to the body 314 and
prevent unwanted bending or twisting of the adaptor 311. In
addition, the ribs 318 provide a gripping surface for the fingers
or hand of a user, facilitating easy insertion or removal of the
adaptor 311 through the seal 316. In other embodiments, however,
strengthening ribs 318 may not be required. This is particularly so
where the length of the body 314 is relatively small.
[0352] The body 314 may be of any length necessary to accommodate
easy connection to the fluid container 315. In particular, it is
advantageous that the body 314 be long enough to provide the user
an adequate gripping surface, to facilitate installation and
removal of the adaptor 311. In a preferred embodiment of the
adaptor 311, the body 314 is approximately 1.625 inches long.
[0353] In one preferred embodiment of the adaptor 311, shown in
FIG. 33, the distal end of the adaptor 311 is provided with a
locking mechanism 319 that preferably comprises a Luer-Lock device
or other locking device known to those of skill in the art. The
locking mechanism 319 is adapted to removably and sealably connect
the distal end of the adaptor 311 to a medical valve 10 or 11 as
previously described.
[0354] Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 34, the distal end of the
adaptor 311 can be provided with an integral medical valve 10 or
11.
[0355] The adaptor 311 is thus useable with containers having a
seal. Examples of containers with such seals contemplated for use
with this invention include medicament drip bags, bottles for
intravenous delivery of fluids, or the like.
[0356] In use, the adaptor 311 coupled with a valve 10 or 11 is
typically inserted into a medicament drip bag or the like.
Thereafter, the tip or nose of an ANSI standard IV set, syringe, or
other connector or medical implement, is then pushed into the
proximal end of the medical valve 10 or 11. Referring now to FIGS.
6 and 7, this action pushes the tip 32 of the spike 26 through the
seal 36, exposing the through holes 34 and thus bringing the IV
tubing or other medical implement into fluid communication with the
fluid in the bag 315. The connection process is more extensively
described above with reference to FIGS. 6 and 7.
Y-Connector with Integral Valve
[0357] Another embodiment of the present invention is shown in FIG.
35. A connector 331 is provided to function as a conduit between
either two or three fluid sources or receptacles. The connector 331
has a tubular body 332, having a proximal and a-distal end, and a
tubular branch 335 located between the proximal and distal ends. At
the proximal end of the body 332 is provided an integral spike
element 24 as previously described.
[0358] The connector 331 is preferably made of any medically inert
material. Advantageously, the connector 331 may be made of a
transparent material, allowing a user to see whether fluid is
flowing therethrough. In one preferred embodiment of the connector
331, and especially where disposability is desired, the connector
is constructed of rigid transparent plastic.
[0359] A longitudinal channel 334 runs through the body 332 from
the proximal end to the distal end, providing continuous fluid
communication from the through holes 34 of the spike element 24
through the connector 331. The channel 334 is generally cylindrical
in shape, although it may be slightly conical or have internal step
changes in diameter to accommodate the difference in diameter
between the base of the spike element 24 and the distal end of the
body 332. Furthermore, in the preferred embodiment of the connector
331 the channel 334 has a generally smooth interior surface, to
facilitate the flow of fluid through the connector 331.
[0360] Toward the proximal end of the body 332 is provided the
tubular branch port 335, which has a longitudinal channel 336
located therethrough. The channel 336 is in fluid communication
with the channel 334 of the main body 332, and is, like the main
channel 334, generally cylindrical in shape. In addition, the
channel 336 preferably has a generally smooth interior surface.
[0361] The spike element 24 is preferably formed integrally with
the main body 332. To form a plastic body with a continuous
through-channel (such as the body 332 of this connector 331), an
effective method of manufacture is to use a bore pin to manufacture
the connector 331. The connector 331 of the present invention has
the advantage of easy manufacture at low cost. In addition, the
connector 331 will be less bulky, and will have a lower weight,
than a connector in which the spike element 24 is formed separately
and then mechanically attached.
[0362] At a later time, before use, the seal 36 and housing 12 of
the medical valve 10 or 11 of other preferred embodiments can be
placed over the spike element 24 and attached by such means as were
described earlier in the discussion of those embodiments.
[0363] In use, the distal end of the body 332 can be placed in
fluid communication with flexible tubing (not shown) or another
fluid transmitting device or medical implement. The end of the
branch port 335 can be, like the distal end of the body 332, placed
in fluid communication with a source of fluid or other fluid
transmitting device or medical implement.
[0364] The connector 331 typically connects one or two fluid
sources with a fluid receiver such as a patient. A first fluid
source or parenteral fluid is, in use, placed in fluid
communication with the tubular branch port 335. The fluid receiver,
such as a patient, is, in use, placed in fluid communication with
the distal end of the body 332. In this manner, the first fluid
flows from its source through the branch port channel 336 into the
main channel 334 and then to the fluid-receiver or patient.
[0365] When a second fluid needs to be administered to a patient,
the tip or nose of an ANSI standard syringe or other medical
implement is pushed into the end of the medical valve 10 or 11.
Referring now to FIGS. 6 and 7, this action pushes the tip 32 of
the spike 26 through the seal 36, exposing the through holes 34 and
thus bringing the syringe or other connector into fluid
communication with the connector 331. The connection process is
more extensively described above with reference to FIGS. 6 and 7.
Once the second fluid has been introduced the y-connector (also
known as a y-site or piggyback connector) can be disconnected and
the seal closes the valve 10 or 11.
Hook Adaptor for Y-Connectors
[0366] FIGS. 36, 37, and 38 illustrate another embodiment of the
present invention. A hook adaptor 351 is provided to function as a
connector to a standard piggyback or y-site (not shown). The hook
adaptor 351 attaches to the piggyback or y-site, providing a stable
fluid link to the piggyback or y-site that is not easily or
accidentally disconnected.
[0367] The hook adaptor 351 is preferably made of any medically
inert material. In a preferred embodiment of the hook adaptor 351,
and especially where disposability is desired, the hook adaptor 351
is constructed of rigid plastic. In other embodiments, however, and
particularly where reusability is desired, the hook adaptor 351 may
be made of stainless steel or any like substance, to allow
sterilization in an autoclave or similar device.
[0368] As shown in FIG. 36, the hook adaptor 351 has a generally
cylindrical tubular body 354 with a proximal end and a distal end,
with an adaptor housing 355 and spike 356 at or near the distal
end. In addition, a hook 357 leads downward and away from the
housing 355, to rotatably and removably engage an arm of the y-site
when the hook adaptor 351 is placed in fluid communication with the
y-site, thereby providing a stable and not easily disconnected
link.
[0369] Referring to FIG. 36, the housing 355 has a depth, defined
by the distance from the distal end of the outside wall 358 of the
housing 355 to the base 359 of the housing 355, sufficient to
envelop a substantial portion of the end of the branch port of the
piggyback or y-site connector. In the preferred embodiment of this
adaptor 351, the housing 355 is approximately 0.375'' deep.
[0370] The housing 355 may furthermore have a section 352 removed
from a portion of the distal end of the housing wall 358, to
accommodate the arm of the piggyback connector when the adaptor 351
is in the connected and locked position (see discussion below).
[0371] Centrally located within the housing 355 is a spike 356. The
spike 356 is tubular, having a narrow channel 353 running
longitudinally therethrough, providing a route for fluid to flow
through the spike 356 and into the body 354 of the adaptor 351. The
spike 356 will preferably penetrate a septum located on the end of
the branch port. The spike 356 may be of any length and shape, to
accommodate a range of septum sizes. Most advantageously, the spike
is approximately as long as, or smaller than, the depth of the
housing 355, so that the end of the spike does not substantially
protrude beyond the distal end 358 of the housing 355. This
prevents a user from accidentally sticking himself or herself with
the spike 356. In a preferred embodiment of the adaptor 351, shown
in FIG. 36, the spike 356 is generally cylindrical having a
sharpened annular proximal end, and is approximately 0.37 inches
long. Alternatively, the spike 356 may be generally frustoconical
in shape.
[0372] The spike 356 should furthermore be smooth surfaced, and as
thin as possible to avoid substantially rupturing or coring of the
septum of the branch port of the piggyback connector during
insertion and/or removal, yet large enough to provide a sufficient
channel 353 for fluids, especially liquids, to pass easily
therethrough. In particular, it is contemplated that the adaptor
351 may be repeatedly connected to, and removed from, the same
connector.
[0373] The longitudinal channel 353 is typically cylindrical
although it may also be slightly frustoconical to accommodate the
change in diameter from the tip of the spike 356 to the base 359 of
the housing 355. In the preferred embodiment of the adaptor 351,
the channel 353 has a generally smooth interior surface, to
facilitate the easy flow of fluid through the adaptor 351.
[0374] The body 354 may be of any length necessary to accommodate
easy connection to the piggyback connector. In particular, it is
advantageous that the body 354 be long enough to provide the user
an adequate gripping surface, to facilitate installation and
removal of the adaptor 351. In a preferred embodiment of the
adaptor 351, the body 354 is approximately 0.41 inches long,
measured from the base 359 of the housing 355 to the proximal end
of the body 354.
[0375] In one preferred embodiment of the adaptor 351, shown in
FIG. 36, the proximal end of the adaptor 351 is provided with a
locking mechanism 360 that preferably comprises a Luer-Lock device
or other locking device known to those of skill in the art. The
locking mechanism 360 is adapted to removably and sealably connect
the proximal end of the adaptor 351 to a medical valve 10 or 11 as
previously described.
[0376] Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 38, the proximal end of the
adaptor 351 could be provided with an integral medical valve 10 or
11.
[0377] The hook 357 is of a size and shape to rotatably engage an
arm of the y-site. The hook 357 preferably leads downward from the
housing 355 at a slight angle, to accommodate the angle at which
the branch port departs from the main body or arm of the y-site. In
the preferred embodiment of the adaptor 351 shown in FIGS. 36 and
38, the hook 357 declines from the housing 355 at an angle of
approximately 27.degree., and is approximately 0.5 inches long. The
interior bend of the hook 357 should be of a radius to accommodate
the arm of the y-site, and is in the shown preferred embodiment
approximately 0.11 inches in radius.
[0378] In use, the housing 355 of the adaptor 351 is placed over
the end of the branch port of the y-site, and then pressed down
until the spike 356 penetrates the septum on the branch port,
providing fluid communication between the adaptor 351 and the
y-site. The adaptor 351 is then rotated until the hook 357 engages
the arm of the y-site, firmly holding the adaptor 351 onto the
y-site, and preventing accidental disconnection of the adaptor 351.
To remove the adaptor 351, a user merely rotates the hook 357 in
the opposite direction, disengaging the hook 357 from the
y-site.
[0379] If using an adaptor 351 of the type shown in FIG. 36, a
medical valve 10 or 11 of the first preferred embodiment can be
attached to the proximal end of the adaptor 351, using the locking
mechanism 360.
[0380] The tip or nose of an ANSI standard IV set, syringe, or
other connector or medical implement, is then pushed into the
proximal end of the medical valve 10 or 11. Referring now to FIGS.
6 and 7, this action pushes the tip 32 of the spike 26 through the
seal 36, exposing the through holes 34 and thus bringing the
syringe or other connector into fluid communication with the
adaptor 351. The connection process is more extensively described
above with reference to FIGS. 6 and 7.
Snap-On Adaptor for Piggyback Connector
[0381] Another embodiment of the present invention is shown in
FIGS. 39, 40, and 41. A snap-on adaptor 371 is provided to function
as a connector to a standard medical y-site. The snap-on adaptor
371 attaches to the branch port or another arm of the y-site,
providing a stable fluid link to the y-connector 361 that is not
easily or accidentally disconnected.
[0382] The snap-on adaptor 371 is preferably made of any sterile,
medically inert material. In addition, the material should be
capable of slight elastic deformation, to allow the adaptor 371 to
"snap" into position (see description of use, below). In the
preferred embodiment of the snap-on adaptor 371, and especially
where disposability is desired, the adaptor 371 is constructed of
rigid plastic. In other embodiments, however, and particularly
where reusability is desired, the adaptor 371 may be made of
stainless steel or any like substance, to allow sterilization in an
autoclave or similar device.
[0383] As shown in FIG. 39, the snap-on adaptor 371 has a generally
cylindrical tubular body 374 with a proximal end and a distal end,
and an adaptor housing 375 and spike 376 at the distal end.
[0384] The adaptor housing 375 is generally cylindrical and of a
size and shape to closely surround the end of the branch port or
other arm of the standard y-site. The housing 37.5 wall has an
opening 372, shaped to closely accommodate the branch port or arm
of the piggyback connector when the adaptor 371 is connected to the
y-site.
[0385] The opening 372 is preferably just wide enough to allow the
branch port or arm of the y-site to pass easily therethrough. In
addition, in the preferred embodiment of the adaptor 371 as shown
in FIG. 39, the opening 372 has a rounded proximal end, to
accommodate the radius of the protruding branch port or arm of the
y-site when the adaptor 371 is connected to the y-site. In a
preferred embodiment of the adaptor 371, the opening 372 is
approximately 0.22 inches wide, and rounded at one end with a 0.11
inch radius.
[0386] Toward the distal end 378 of the housing 375, the opening
372 narrows sharply and then gradually widens, so that a pair of
opposing and spaced apart tabs 377a, 377b are formed, integral with
the housing 375. The tabs 377a, 377b are spaced apart a distance
sufficient to prevent the passage of the branch port or arm of the
y-site therethrough, unless deliberate pressure is applied. In the
preferred embodiment of the adaptor 371, the tabs 377a, 377b are
spaced apart by approximately 0.09 inches.
[0387] The opening 372 gradually widens from the tabs 377a, 377b
toward the distal end of the housing wall 378, thus providing
entrance bearing surfaces 373a, 373b which assist in guiding an arm
of the y-site into the opening 372. In the preferred embodiment of
the adaptor 371 shown in FIGS. 39 and 41, the entrance bearing
surfaces 373a, 373b decline from the horizontal at an angle of
approximately 40.degree..
[0388] Centrally located within the housing 375 is the spike 376.
The spike 376 is tubular, having a narrow channel 381 running
longitudinally therethrough, providing a route for fluid to flow
through the spike 376 and into the body 374 of the adaptor 371. The
spike 376 will preferably penetrate a septum located on a branch
port of a y-site. The spike 376 may be of any length and shape, to
accommodate a range of seal sizes. Most advantageously, the spike
does not protrude past the distal end of the housing 375. This
prevents a user from accidentally sticking himself or herself with
the spike 376. In a preferred embodiment of the adaptor 371, shown
in FIG. 39, the spike 376 is generally cylindrical having a
sharpened annular proximal end, and is approximately 0.5 inches
long. Alternatively, the spike 376 may be generally frustoconical
in shape.
[0389] The spike 376 should furthermore be smooth surfaced, and as
thin as possible to avoid substantially rupturing the septum on the
branch port of the piggyback connector during insertion and/or
removal, yet large enough to provide a sufficient channel 381 for
fluids, especially liquids, to pass easily therethrough. In
particular, it is contemplated that the adaptor 371 may be
repeatedly connected to, and removed from, the same y-site,
potentially tearing small pieces of the septum off in the process.
This poses the danger of causing particles of the septum to enter
the fluid stream of the y-site, contaminating the stream and
possibly harming a patient. Therefore, in the preferred embodiment
of the adaptor 371, the spike 376 is only about 0.05 inches in
diameter.
[0390] The longitudinal channel 381 is typically cylindrical
although it may also be slightly frustoconical to accommodate the
change in diameter from the tip of the spike 376 to the base 379 of
the housing 375. In a preferred embodiment of the adaptor 371, the
channel 381 has a generally smooth interior surface, to facilitate
the easy flow of fluid through the adaptor 371.
[0391] The body 374 may be of any length necessary to accommodate
easy connection to the y-site. In particular, it is advantageous
that the body 374 be long enough to provide the user an adequate
gripping surface, to facilitate installation and removal of the
adaptor 371. In the preferred embodiment of the adaptor 371, the
body 374 is approximately 0.3 inches long, measured from the base
379 of the housing 375 to the proximal end of the body 374.
[0392] In one preferred embodiment of the adaptor 371, shown in
FIG. 39, the proximal end of the adaptor 371 is provided with a
locking mechanism 382 that preferably comprises a Luer-Lock device
or other locking device known to those of skill in the art. The
locking mechanism 382 is adapted to removably and sealably connect
the proximal end of the adaptor 371 to a medical valve 10 or 11, as
previously described.
[0393] Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 41, the proximal end of the
adaptor 371 could be provided with an integral medical valve 10 or
11.
[0394] In use, the housing 375 of the adaptor 371 is placed over
the end of the branch port of the y-site, and then advanced so that
the spike 376 pierces the septum on the branch port. A deliberate
force must be applied so that the arm of the y-site passes through
the tabs 377a, 377b and into the opening 372. Constant pressure on
the adaptor 371 thus causes the arm of the y-site to snap into the
opening, and contemporaneously the spike 376 penetrates the septum,
providing fluid communication between the y-site and adaptor
371.
[0395] To remove the adaptor 371, the user must deliberately pull
the adaptor 371 off the y-site.
[0396] If using an adaptor 371 of the type shown in FIG. 39, a
medical valve 10 or 11 of the first preferred embodiment may be
attached to the proximal end of the adaptor 371, using the locking
mechanism 382.
[0397] The tip or nose of an ANSI standard IV set, syringe, or
other connector, is then pushed into the proximal end of the
medical valve 10 or 11. Referring now to FIGS. 6 and 7, this action
pushes the tip 32 of the spike 26 through the seal 36, exposing the
through holes 34 and thus bringing the syringe or other connector
into fluid communication with the adaptor 371. The connection
process is more extensively described above with reference to FIGS.
6 and 7.
Test Tube Adaptor
[0398] FIGS. 42 and 43 illustrate yet another embodiment of the
present invention. A test tube adaptor 391 is provided to function
as a device for withdrawing fluid from, or depositing fluid into, a
test tube or other narrowly necked container. The test tube adaptor
391 either attaches to a medical valve 10 or 11 as previously
described, as shown in FIG. 42; or is a single piece having an
integral medical valve 10 or 11, as shown in FIG. 43.
[0399] The test tube adaptor 391 is preferably made of any
medically inert material. In the preferred embodiment of the test
tube adaptor 391, and especially where disposability is desired,
the test tube adaptor 391 is constructed of plastic. In other
embodiments, however, and particularly where reusability is
desired, the test tube adaptor 391 may be made of stainless steel
or any like substance, to allow sterilization in an autoclave or
similar device.
[0400] As shown in FIG. 42, the test tube adaptor 391 has a
generally cylindrical tubular body 394 with a proximal and a distal
end, and an open-ended tube 395 at the distal end.
[0401] The tube 395 is preferably flexible, and transparent, so
that a user can see whether fluid is flowing therein. In the
preferred embodiment the tube 395 is constructed of flexible
medical tubing. In addition, the tube 395 should be of a length
sufficient to reach substantially into a test tube or similar
narrowly necked container, so that fluids can be withdrawn. In the
preferred embodiment, the tube 395 is approximately 5.5 inches
long. The tube 395 should also have an inner diameter sufficient to
allow fluids, especially liquids, to pass easily therethrough. In
the preferred embodiment, the tube 395 has an inner diameter of
approximately 0.03 inches.
[0402] The body 394 is generally cylindrical, although it may also
be conical or have a neck to accommodate the change in diameter
from its proximal end to the distal end where the tube 395 is
attached.
[0403] In one preferred embodiment of the adaptor 391, shown in
FIG. 42, the proximal end of the adaptor 391 is provided with a
locking mechanism 392 that preferably comprises a Luer-Lock device
or other locking device known to those of skill in the art. The
locking mechanism 392 is adapted to removably and sealably connect
the proximal end of the adaptor 391 to a medical valve 10 or 11, as
previously described.
[0404] Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 43, the proximal end of the
adaptor 391 could be provided with an integral medical valve 10 or
11.
[0405] In use, the tube 395 of the adaptor 391 is placed into the
test tube or other container. If using an adaptor 391 of the type
shown in FIG. 42, a medical valve 10 or 11 of the first preferred
embodiment must be attached to the proximal end of the adaptor 391,
using the locking mechanism 392. The tip or nose of an ANSI
standard syringe, IV set, or other connector, is then pushed into
the proximal end of the medical valve 10 or 11. Referring now to
FIGS. 6 and 7, this action pushes the tip 32 of the spike 26
through the seal 36, exposing the through holes 34 and thus
bringing the syringe into fluid communication with the adaptor 391
and the test tube. The valve connection process is more extensively
described above with reference to FIGS. 6 and 7.
[0406] The foregoing provides a description of the best mode
contemplated of carrying out the present invention, and of the
manner and process of making and using it, in such full, clear,
concise, and exact terms as to enable any person skilled in the art
to which it pertains to make and use the invention. Although
certain embodiments have been described, it is intended that the
scope of the invention not be limited to the specific embodiments
described. It will be appreciated that certain modification and
variations may suggest themselves to those skilled in the art. The
spirit and scope of the invention are limited solely by the
following claims.
* * * * *