WO2000053254A1 - Bleed back control valve - Google Patents

Bleed back control valve Download PDF

Info

Publication number
WO2000053254A1
WO2000053254A1 PCT/US2000/006470 US0006470W WO0053254A1 WO 2000053254 A1 WO2000053254 A1 WO 2000053254A1 US 0006470 W US0006470 W US 0006470W WO 0053254 A1 WO0053254 A1 WO 0053254A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
seal
bleed back
back control
cap
lumen
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US2000/006470
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Neil M. Becker
Duncan Clarke
Chuck Peterson
Albert A. Quinones
Paul Haldeman
Kenneth K. Armstrong
Victor Wilson
Bruce Wilson
Gary Thompson
William P. Colvan
Lashun D. Tarver
Original Assignee
Advanced Cardiovascular Systems, Inc.
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Advanced Cardiovascular Systems, Inc. filed Critical Advanced Cardiovascular Systems, Inc.
Priority to EP00916272A priority Critical patent/EP1159026A1/en
Priority to JP2000603742A priority patent/JP3893246B2/en
Priority to CA002364387A priority patent/CA2364387A1/en
Priority to AU37401/00A priority patent/AU3740100A/en
Publication of WO2000053254A1 publication Critical patent/WO2000053254A1/en

Links

Classifications

    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61MDEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M39/00Tubes, tube connectors, tube couplings, valves, access sites or the like, specially adapted for medical use
    • A61M39/02Access sites
    • A61M39/06Haemostasis valves, i.e. gaskets sealing around a needle, catheter or the like, closing on removal thereof
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61MDEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M39/00Tubes, tube connectors, tube couplings, valves, access sites or the like, specially adapted for medical use
    • A61M39/02Access sites
    • A61M39/06Haemostasis valves, i.e. gaskets sealing around a needle, catheter or the like, closing on removal thereof
    • A61M2039/0633Haemostasis valves, i.e. gaskets sealing around a needle, catheter or the like, closing on removal thereof the seal being a passive seal made of a resilient material with or without an opening
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61MDEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M39/00Tubes, tube connectors, tube couplings, valves, access sites or the like, specially adapted for medical use
    • A61M39/02Access sites
    • A61M39/06Haemostasis valves, i.e. gaskets sealing around a needle, catheter or the like, closing on removal thereof
    • A61M2039/0633Haemostasis valves, i.e. gaskets sealing around a needle, catheter or the like, closing on removal thereof the seal being a passive seal made of a resilient material with or without an opening
    • A61M2039/064Slit-valve
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61MDEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M39/00Tubes, tube connectors, tube couplings, valves, access sites or the like, specially adapted for medical use
    • A61M39/02Access sites
    • A61M39/06Haemostasis valves, i.e. gaskets sealing around a needle, catheter or the like, closing on removal thereof
    • A61M2039/0686Haemostasis valves, i.e. gaskets sealing around a needle, catheter or the like, closing on removal thereof comprising more than one seal
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61MDEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M39/00Tubes, tube connectors, tube couplings, valves, access sites or the like, specially adapted for medical use
    • A61M39/02Access sites
    • A61M39/06Haemostasis valves, i.e. gaskets sealing around a needle, catheter or the like, closing on removal thereof
    • A61M39/0693Haemostasis valves, i.e. gaskets sealing around a needle, catheter or the like, closing on removal thereof including means for seal penetration

Definitions

  • This invention relates generally to a bleed back control assembly for controlling blood loss during vascular diagnostic or interventional procedures, such as insertion and removal of catheters from a patient's blood vessels .
  • Treatment of patients with diseases, such as coronary heart disease can typically involve use of catheters, balloon catheters, stents, and other vascular intervention devices which are introduced transluminally, i.e. to and through the interior of a patient's blood vessels.
  • catheterization procedures include the use of a hemostatic valve to reduce blood loss.
  • RHV rotating hemostasis valve
  • An RHV must be opened to allow introduction of an interventional device into the RHV's lumen, and must be closed to control blood loss while allowing device adjustment, such as moving it back and forth.
  • a doctor must adjust a screw cap of a conventional RHV in order to adjust the seal around various devices introduced axially through the RHV's lumen.
  • Conventional RHV's utilize a Touhy-Bourst seal design, which may be opened and closed by the user, but such a seal allows fluid to escape until properly adjusted.
  • a significant amount of the patient ' s blood may be lost during these adjustments of the RHV's screw cap which are required in order to move a device, such as a catheter, in and out of the RHV.
  • a device such as a catheter
  • the RHV is not adjusted to seal around the device introduced in the RHV's lumen, there is no mechanism for inhibiting substantial bleed back or blood loss.
  • a conventional RHV allows excessive blood loss when the RHV is not adjusted or whenever the RHV is in the open position.
  • This drawback in an RHV allows for excessive and undesirable blood loss from the patient.
  • the excessive blood loss also creates a more ensanguined operating environment for the user of the RHV, increasing risks associated with unwanted exposure to blood (or other fluids) and making more difficult the manipulation or operation of devices.
  • U.S. Patent No. 5,269,764 issued to Vetter et al . , discloses a hemostatic gasket and valve assembly, including a terminal plug, which can be rotated and thus tightened to cause radial compression of the hemostatic gasket.
  • An advantage of the present invention is to provide a bleed back control assembly which permits diagnostic or interventional vascular procedures, such as insertion of devices like catheters, guide wires, or stent delivery systems in a patient's blood vessels, while controlling and significantly reducing the amount of blood loss, even when the catheter must be adjusted or moved.
  • Another advantage of the invention is to provide a bleed back control assembly which permits diagnostic or interventional vascular procedures, while allowing a user to clamp an interventional device introduced into the bleed back control assembly, to maintain device position while controlling blood loss.
  • a bleed back control apparatus in accordance with one aspect of the invention includes a side arm body having proximal and distal ends, and a seal body connected to the proximal end of the side arm body, where the seal mechanism includes a seal assembly and a cap assembly.
  • the seal assembly comprises a bleed back control seal held within an interior chamber of a seal holder.
  • the cap assembly includes a threaded cap which is rotatably attached to the exterior of the proximal end of the side arm body and a funnel cap attached to the threaded cap.
  • a bleed back control seal in accordance with one aspect of the invention has a cylindrical body with a lumen, a web area covering a cross-section of the lumen and having a dilatable aperture, and the cylindrical body and web area are formed of an elastomer.
  • the seal assembly further comprises a clamp seal with a cylindrical body tapering to a frustum, with a lumen through the cylindrical body and frustum, and the clamp seal is formed of an elastomer.
  • a side arm body in accordance with another aspect of the invention has a proximal end and means for sealing connected to the proximal end of the side arm body, where the means for sealing comprises means for controlling bleed back during use.
  • a method in accordance with another aspect of the invention for controlling blood loss using a bleed back control assembly includes introducing a vascular intervention device (such as, but not limited to, a catheter) transluminally within the assembly, and forming a bleed back control seal around the introduced vascular intervention device.
  • a vascular intervention device such as, but not limited to, a catheter
  • a bleed back control assembly in accordance with one aspect of the present invention controls blood loss during insertion, movement, and removal of a vascular intervention device (such as catheter) from the assembly.
  • a vascular intervention device such as catheter
  • the user can adjust a clamp seal to clamp a vascular intervention device introduced transluminally, such as a catheter, to maintain device position or perform high pressure injections.
  • the user can also close the clamp seal, without a vascular intervention device introduced transluminally, to allow high pressure injections into the side arm body.
  • Figure la is a cross-sectional view of a side arm body in accordance with the present invention.
  • Figure lb is a cross-sectional view of a side arm body and seal assembly in accordance with the present invention.
  • Figure lc is a cross-sectional view of a side arm body, a seal assembly, and a cap assembly in accordance with the present invention.
  • Figure Id is a cross-sectional view of a bleed back control assembly in accordance with the present invention.
  • Figure 2 is an exploded view of a seal body and side arm body of a bleed back control assembly in accordance with the present invention.
  • Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of a seal body and a proximal end of a side arm body of a bleed back control assembly in accordance with the present invention.
  • Figure 4a is an exploded view and Figure 4b is a cross-sectional view of a side arm body and male luer connector in accordance with the present invention.
  • Figure 5a is a cross-sectional view and Figure 5b is a perspective view of bleed back control seal in accordance with the present invention.
  • Figure 5c is a perspective view of a web area of a bleed back control seal in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 5d is a cross-sectional view of a bleed back control seal in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 6a is a cross-sectional view and Figure 6b is a perspective view of a seal holder in accordance with the present invention.
  • Figure 7a is a cross-sectional view and Figure 7b is a perspective view of a clamp seal in accordance with the present invention.
  • Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of a combined bleed back control seal and clamp seal in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 9a is a side view
  • Figure 9b is a cross- sectional view
  • Figure 9c is a top view of a threaded cap in accordance with the present invention.
  • Figure 9d is a cross-sectional view
  • Figure 9e is a perspective view of a snap retainer in accordance with the present invention.
  • Figure 9f is a cross- sectional view of a snap retainer and threaded cap in accordance with the present invention.
  • Figure 10a is a side view
  • Figure 10b is a cross- sectional view
  • Figure 10c is a top view of a funnel cap in accordance with the present invention.
  • Figures Ila to lie are a cross-sectional view of an operation of a clamp seal in accordance with the present invention.
  • Figures 12a to 12d are a cross-sectional view of an operation of a clamp seal clamping a vascular intervention device (such as a catheter) which has been inserted transluminally in a bleed back control assembly in accordance with the present invention.
  • a vascular intervention device such as a catheter
  • Figures 13a to 13d are a cross-sectional view of an operation of a funnel cap and dilator in relation to a bleed back control seal in accordance with the present invention.
  • Figures 14a to 14e are a cross-sectional view of an insertion of a vascular intervention device (such as a catheter) through a bleed back control seal in accordance with the present invention.
  • a vascular intervention device such as a catheter
  • Figures 15a to 15d are a cross-sectional view of an insertion of a vascular intervention device (such as a catheter) through a dilated bleed back control seal in accordance with the present invention.
  • a vascular intervention device such as a catheter
  • a side arm body 10 has a proximal end 12 with a seal cavity 14 formed therein.
  • Side arm body 10 also has a distal end 16.
  • Side arm body 10 has a primary branch 11 and a secondary branch
  • a primary lumen 18 is formed through primary branch 11 of side arm body 10 and connects proximal end
  • seal assembly 20 is held within seal cavity 14 at the proximal end 12 of side arm body 10. Seal assembly 20 is generally formed to conform to the shape and interior surface 23 of seal cavity 14. As discussed further below, seal assembly 20 comprises one or more seals made of elastic and resilient materials which may be readily deformed or stretched depending on user operation, and these seals will return to their original shape and position when released or disengaged.
  • cap assembly 30 is connected to seal assembly 20 and is also connected to the exterior surface of seal cavity 14 at the proximal end 12 of side arm body 10.
  • Cap assembly 30 contains seal assembly 20 within seal cavity 14 and, as described further below, allows user operation and adjustment of seal assembly 20. As described further below, the user may adjust seal assembly 20 to either open or close access to primary lumen 18 of side arm body 10, as well as clamp vascular intervention devices introduced into bleed back control assembly 1 to maintain device position or location.
  • Seal body 40 comprises seal assembly 20 and cap assembly 30.
  • a bleed back control assembly 1 in accordance with one aspect of the invention comprises side arm body 10 connected to seal body 40 at proximal end 12 of side arm body 10.
  • a seal body 40 comprising seal assembly 20 connected to cap assembly 30, is attached to proximal end 12 of side arm body 10.
  • Seal body 40 is a seal mechanism which includes one or more elastomeric seals and cap assembly 30 to retain these seals within seal cavity 14.
  • Seal assembly 20 has an aperture 22 formed therethrough, and cap assembly 30 has an aperture 32 which is axially aligned with and proximal to seal assembly 20' s aperture 22.
  • Seal assembly 20' s aperture 22 is also axially aligned with and proximal to primary lumen 18.
  • a male luer connector 50 which is 360 degrees rotatable is connected to distal end 16 of side arm body 10.
  • Luer connector 50 has a lumen 52 which connects proximally with the distal end 16 of primary lumen 18 of side arm body 10.
  • a user may operate bleed black control assembly 1 by inserting a vascular intervention device (such as a catheter) through aperture 32, then through aperture 22, into lumen 18, through lumen 52, and ultimately into a patient's body.
  • a user may operate cap assembly 30 by either pressing, screwing, or unscrewing cap assembly 30.
  • seal assembly 20 By operating cap assembly 30, a user may open or close seal assembly 20 and thereby either seal the connection between aperture 22 and lumen 18 or, when a vascular intervention device is introduced into bleed back control assembly 1, by clamping such a vascular intervention device by constricting a portion of aperture 22 of seal assembly 20. Because of seal assembly 20' s elastomeric properties, seal assembly 20 provides control over blood loss during insertion and removal of vascular intervention devices through bleed back control assembly 1, as described further below.
  • side arm body 10 Referring to Figures la to 10c, the structures of side arm body 10 and seal body 40 are shown. Side arm body 10 will be discussed first. Side Arm Body
  • side arm body 10 is substantially Y shaped and consists of a straight primary branch 11 and a secondary branch 13. Lumens 15 and 18 are formed within both the secondary branch 13 and primary branch 11, respectively.
  • Secondary branch 13 provides access to, and is in fluid communication with, lumen 18 of primary branch 11.
  • Secondary branch 13 can be used for, but is not limited to, contrast injections and drug delivery.
  • Secondary branch 13 may also be used for flushing the system with saline, or any other appropriate uses .
  • Secondary branch 13 of side arm body 10 is formed, in one embodiment, at approximately a 60 degree angle from primary branch 11. The invention is not limited by the angle at which secondary branch 13 connects with primary branch 11.
  • a port 17 is formed at the end of secondary branch 13, and this port 17 provides connections for injections and other drug or fluid delivery devices.
  • a finger rest 19 is formed on the exterior surface of secondary branch 13. Finger rest 19 is formed, in one embodiment, at approximately 30 degrees from secondary branch 13. In another embodiment, the angle at which finger rest 19 is formed may be 20 degrees, 40 degrees, or any other suitable angle. The invention is not limited by the angle at which finger rest 19 connects with secondary branch 13. Finger rest 19 is sufficiently large enough to fit at least one finger of an adult user of bleed back control assembly 1. Finger rest 19 provides the user with improved gripping of bleed back control assembly 1, particularly when the user is operating cap assembly 30 as discussed further below. In another embodiment, a finger rest 19 is formed on the exterior surface of primary branch 11 of side arm body 10. In this embodiment, the finger rest 19 on primary branch 11 may be either in place of, or in addition to, a finger rest 19 on secondary branch 13 of side arm body 10.
  • Primary branch 11 of the side arm body 10 has two ends : a proximal end 12 and a distal end 16.
  • a seal cavity 14 is formed within proximal end 12 of primary branch 11 of side arm body 10. Seal cavity 14 is concentric with, and provides access to, lumen 18 formed axially through primary branch 11.
  • Seal cavity 14 has a wider diameter than the diameter of lumen 18. In one embodiment, seal cavity 14' s diameter is approximately 325% wider than the diameter of lumen 18. The invention is not limited by the difference between the diameters of seal cavity 14 and lumen 18.
  • lumens 15 and 18 may taper or change diameters along their lengths.
  • the diameter of lumen 18 towards the proximal end of lumen 18 may be approximately 16% wider than the diameter at the distal end of lumen 18. The invention is not limited by whether lumens 15 or 18 taper, or by the amount by which each or either lumen tapers .
  • seal cavity 14 has threads 21 to allow cap assembly 30 to rotatably connect to side arm body 10, as described further below. Referring to Figures la, 2, 4a, and 4b, seal cavity 14 has an interior surface 23 which is adjacent to aperture 29 connecting seal cavity 14 to lumen 18.
  • snap insert 25 attached to interior surface 23 of seal cavity 14 is snap insert 25.
  • blocking notch 27 of snap insert 25 constrains the movement of seal assembly 20 within seal cavity 14 and inhibits the removal of seal assembly 20 from seal cavity 14.
  • snap insert 25, including blocking notch 27, is integral with and formed as part of interior surface 23 of seal cavity 14.
  • Luer connector 50 has a lumen 52 which connects proximally with the distal end of lumen 18.
  • Male luer connector 50 may be 360 degrees rotatable or any other appropriate amount of rotation.
  • an O-ring 29 is interposed at the connection between distal end 16 of side arm body 10 and luer connector 50. O-ring 29 improves the seal between side arm body 10 and luer connector 50.
  • O-ring 29 is a conventional O-ring gasket or seal formed of an appropriate elastic material.
  • O-ring 29 is formed of black color ethylene propylene diene monomer having a hardness of 70 ⁇ 5 Shore-A, with an interior diameter of approximately 0.176 inches. If O-ring 29 requires cleaning, a medical grade wash is used.
  • O-ring 29 may be non- cytotoxic, and in an alternate embodiment may be non- allergenic.
  • An appropriate lubricant may be used with O-ring 29.
  • Dow Corning 360 Medical Fluid, 350 centistoke viscosity (referred to as "Dow 360") may be used as a lubricant.
  • a mixture of alcohol and Dow 360 may be used as a lubricant for O-ring 29.
  • O-ring 29 may be lubricated with a coating of a mixture of alcohol and dichloromethane followed by a successive coating of a mixture of alcohol, dichloromethane, and Dow 360.
  • a luer connector 50 is shown connected to the distal end 16 of side arm body 10, the invention is not limited by whether any structures are connected to distal end 16 nor by what those structures are. Those of ordinary skill will appreciate that other appropriate devices may be connected to distal end 16 of side arm body 10 without departing from the scope of the invention.
  • luer connector 50 is formed integrally as part of distal end 16 of side arm body 10.
  • Side arm body 10, snap insert 25, and luer connector 50 may be formed of any appropriate polymeric material (either thermoplastic or thermosetting) .
  • side arm body 10, snap insert 25, and luer connector 50 are formed of polycarbonate, and may be formed of radiation grade or e-beamable polycarbonate.
  • the invention is not limited by the type of O-ring 29 or connector 50 used, nor by the type of lubricant used for O-ring 29.
  • seal body 40 comprises seal assembly 20 connected to cap assembly 30, and cap assembly 30 is connected to the exterior surface of seal cavity 14. As discussed above, seal assembly 20 is held within seal cavity 14 and conforms to the shape of the interior surface 23 of seal cavity 14. Cap assembly 30 holds seal assembly 20 within seal cavity 14 and, as discussed below with respect to Figures 2, 4a, and 4b, cap assembly 30 is connected to the proximal end of side arm body 10. Thus, seal body 40 is a seal mechanism connected to proximal end 12 of side arm body 10 as further described below.
  • seal assembly 20 comprises bleed back control seal 70, and seal holder 80.
  • seal assembly 20 comprises a clamp seal 60, along with bleed back control seal 70 and seal holder 80.
  • Cap assembly 30 comprises funnel cap 90, threaded cap 100, return spring 110, and snap retainer 120.
  • seal body 40 is a seal mechanism comprising one or more seals, such as bleed back control seal 70, as well as seal holder 80, and two caps, funnel cap 90 and threaded cap 100, as well as spring 110 and snap retainer 120.
  • Figure 2 shows these components in exploded view
  • Figure 3 shows these components assembled in relation to each other, as well as in relation to the proximal end 12 of side arm body 10.
  • the proximal end of the seal body 40 is shown at the top of the figure.
  • Each component will be discussed in turn.
  • clamp seal 60 is shaped as three successively larger concentric cylinders, comprising cylindrical portions 63, 65, and 67, with a frustrum portion 61 connected distally to cylindrical portion 63.
  • the cylindrical portion 63 thus tapers at the distal end to a frustum portion 61.
  • Clamp seal 60 fits within seal cavity 14 and conforms generally to the diameter and shape of the bottom of interior surface 23 of seal cavity 14. In one embodiment, there may be a gap or space between clamp seal 60 and the distal interior portion 23 of seal cavity 14, when clamp seal 60 has not been closed or operated on by the user.
  • Clamp seal 60 has a lumen 62 formed through the cylindrical portions 63, 65, and 67, as well as frustum portion 61. Lumen 62 is in fluid communication with lumen 18 of side arm body 10.
  • the maximum diameter of distal cylindrical portion 63 (as well as the diameter of the bottom frustum portion 61) of clamp seal 60 is larger than the interior diameter of the corresponding portion of seal cavity 14.
  • the maximum diameter of proximal cylindrical portion 67 of clamp seal 60 is larger than the interior diameter of the corresponding portion of distal seal holder cavity 85 of seal holder 89.
  • the invention is not limited by the precise differential between the diameters of clamp seal 60 and the interior diameter of seal cavity 14 or distal seal holder cavity 85.
  • This difference in diameters results in the walls of seal cavity 14 providing compression and support to the distal cylindrical portion 63 of clamp seal 60, and ensures that distal cylindrical portion of clamp seal 60 provides a seal inhibiting fluids or gases from escaping around the distal outside surface of seal clamp 60.
  • the difference in diameters between proximal cylindrical portion 67 of clamp seal 60 and distal seal holder cavity 85 results in the walls of distal seal holder cavity 85 providing compression and support to clamp seal 60, and ensures that cylindrical portion 67 inhibits fluids or gases from escaping around the proximal exterior surface of clamp seal 60.
  • clamp seal 60 may open and close clamp seal 60 by turning threaded cap 100.
  • clamp seal 60 may be opened and closed selectively.
  • clamp seal 60 creates a seal inhibiting the flow of fluids or gases into seal body 40 other than through lumen 62 of clamp seal 60.
  • Clamp seal 60 also acts as a bridge or transition joint between seal body 40 and side arm body 10.
  • clamp seal 60 has a lumen 62 formed axially therethrough which is concentric with lumen 18 of side arm body 10.
  • Lumen 62 tapers such that the top (or proximal) aperture of lumen 62 has a smaller diameter than the bottom (or distal) aperture of lumen 62.
  • the top aperture of lumen 62 is approximately 85% as wide as the bottom aperture of lumen 62.
  • the bottom aperture of lumen 62 has a slightly larger diameter than the diameter of aperture 29 connecting to lumen 18 of primary shaft 11 of side arm body 10.
  • the bottom aperture of lumen 62 of clamp seal 60 has a diameter larger than the diameter of aperture 29 leading to lumen 18 of side arm body 10.
  • the proximal aperture of lumen 62 of clamp seal 60 has a diameter larger than the diameter of aperture 82 of seal holder 80.
  • the interior surface 23 of seal cavity 14 and the tapered frustum 61 of clamp seal 60 are, in this embodiment, both at approximately a 20 degree angle from the plane of the distal (or bottom) aperture of lumen 62.
  • the invention is not limited by the angle of either interior surface 23 or clamp seal 60' s frustum portion 61, nor by the amount of taper in lumen 62.
  • Clamp seal 60 is formed of an elastic and resilient material, such as an appropriate elastomeric substance.
  • clamp seal 60 is made of black color fluorosilicone having a hardness of 35 ⁇ 5 Shore-A.
  • Clamp seal 60 is, in this embodiment, post cured for 4 hours at 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Clamp seal 60 may be cleaned by any conventional method known to those of ordinary skill, if needed. Additionally, soap water may be used as a mold release prior to cleaning, if any. If cleaning is performed, a 50/50 mixture of alcohol and deionized water may be used.
  • clamp seal 60 is formed of a synthetic ductile material, clamp seal 60 may be non-allergenic, and in an alternate embodiment may be non-cytotoxic .
  • An appropriate lubricant may be used with clamp seal 60.
  • Dow 360 by itself may, however, exhibit some adhering properties within lumen 62 of clamp seal 60 over time or at an elevated temperature.
  • a mixture of alcohol and Dow 360 may be used as a lubricant for clamp seal 60, and this mixture may bond to some extent to the surface of clamp seal 60.
  • clamp seal 60 may be lubricated with a coating of a mixture of alcohol and dichloromethane, followed by a successive coating of a mixture of alcohol, dichloromethane, and Dow 360.
  • the invention is not limited by the type (or presence) of lubricant used for clamp seal 60.
  • clamp seal 60 forms part of seal assembly 20.
  • seal assembly 20 does not include clamp seal 60.
  • seal holder 80 is placed between clamp seal 60 and bleed back control seal 70.
  • Seal holder 80 has an aperture 82 formed in its bottom surface, and this aperture 82 is concentric with lumen 62 of clamp seal 60.
  • aperture 82 of seal holder 80 has a diameter smaller than the diameter of the proximal (or top) aperture of lumen 62 of clamp seal 60.
  • Seal holder 80 terminates distally with bottom arms 84. Arms 84 conform substantially with the shape of the proximal surface 64 of clamp seal 60. As described below, arms 84 of seal holder 80 provide axial and radial compression to clamp seal 60.
  • seal holder 80 has a distal seal holder cavity 85 formed distal to aperture 82 and defined by the distal portion of arms 84. As discussed above, proximal cylindrical portion 67 of clamp seal 60 is set within distal seal holder cavity 85.
  • legs 86 extend laterally from arms 84. Legs 86 form the proximal wall of distal seal holder cavity 85. Referring to Figures 2 and 3, legs 86 of seal holder 80 are interposed between the proximal surface 64 of clamp seal 60 and the distal arms 76 of bleed back control seal 70.
  • Risers 87 are formed at the ends of legs 86 and protrude proximally. Legs 86 and risers 87 are formed so that aperture 82 is formed therethrough.
  • the distal (or bottom) surface of legs 86 conform substantially with the shape of the proximal (or top) surface 64 of clamp seal 60.
  • the proximal (or top) surface of legs 86 support and conform substantially to the distal (or bottom) surface of distal portion 77 of arms 76 of bleed back control seal 70.
  • distal portions 77 may bevel inward as shown for example in Figures 2 and 3. Risers 87 prevent compression of distal portions 77 of bleed back control seal 70 into aperture 82.
  • Seal holder 80 has a proximal interior chamber 88 which is defined by walls 89. Interior chamber 88 is in fluid communication with lumen 62 of clamp seal 60, by virtue of aperture 82. Bleed back control seal 70 is supported within interior chamber 88.
  • the diameter of top or proximal interior chamber 88 is slightly smaller than the diameter of bleed back control seal 70. Accordingly, walls 89 of seal holder 80 provide axial and radial support, as well as compression (axial and radial), for bleed back control seal 70. In one embodiment, the diameter of top or proximal interior chamber 88 is approximately 6% smaller than the diameter of bleed back control seal 70.
  • bleed back control seal 70 has distal (or bottom) side arms 76, a web area 72 formed between arms 76, distal portions 77 of arms 76, and upper ears 78.
  • Bleed back control seal 70 is, in one embodiment, substantially in the shape of two concentric cylinders each having a lumen, with a bottom (or distal) chamber 73 divided from a top (or proximal) chamber 75 by web area 72.
  • Web area 72 is formed at the proximal or top end of chamber 73 of the larger, bottom (or distal) cylinder formed by side arms 76.
  • the diameter of the top cylinder formed by ears 78 is smaller than the diameter of the bottom cylinder formed by side arms 76.
  • chamber 73 formed between side arms 76 has a diameter larger than the diameter of chamber 75 formed between ears 78.
  • funnel cap 90 comprises a dilator 92 which is a tube having a lumen extending from the proximal end of funnel cap 90 to top chamber 75 of bleed back control seal 70.
  • Dilator 92' s distal end is held within top chamber 75 of bleed back control seal 70, unless dilator 92 is moved.
  • the user can move dilator 92 distally, and thus cause bleed back control seal 70 to dilate or open.
  • dilator 92 rests close to, but does not impact, web area 72 of bleed back control seal 70.
  • Ears 78 of bleed back control seal 70 are shaped to conform with the diameter and shape of dilator 92.
  • the ears 78 of bleed back control seal 70 have an interior diameter smaller than the exterior diameter of dilator 92. This difference in diameters ensures that ears 78 provide a seal and inhibit fluids or gases from escaping proximally around the exterior surface of dilator 92.
  • the proximal end of ears 78 are formed to surround dilator 92 when dilator 92 is in both its disengaged and engaged positions.
  • Ears 78 will surround and seal around the exterior of dilator 92 when threaded cap 100 is screwed down or tightened (as discussed below in relation to Figures Ila to lie, screwing or tightening threaded cap 100 has the effect of moving both bleed back control seal 70 and seal holder 80 distally) .
  • ears 78 of bleed back control seal 70 form a seal around the exterior surface of dilator 92 regardless of how the user manipulates cap assembly 30.
  • the proximal end of ears 78 may be notched at an angle of approximately 30 degrees to improve seal integrity and aid in alignment of dilator 92 of funnel cap 90.
  • integrated into bleed back control seal 70 is a seal formed by ears 78 surrounding dilator 92 in order to prevent or inhibit fluid or gas leakage into interior chamber 94 of funnel cap 90.
  • Bleed back control seal 70 may thus inhibit the introduction of fluids or gases into interior chamber 94 of funnel cap 90.
  • it may be undesirable to allow blood or other fluid to enter interior chamber 94 of funnel cap 90, because of a potential increased risk of confusion as to whether bleed back control assembly 1 is leaking.
  • Fluid leakage into interior chamber 94 of funnel cap 90 may also make it more difficult to engage or depress funnel cap 90 so as to move dilator 92, as discussed below.
  • trapped fluid may leak or spurt out of funnel cap 90 when the user depresses or engages funnel cap 90.
  • bleed back control seal 70 has a web area 72 dividing top chamber 75 from bottom chamber 73.
  • Web area 72 is roughly perpendicular to the plane of ears 78 and is located distal to ears 78.
  • Web area 72 may be regarded as both the floor of top chamber 75 and the ceiling of bottom chamber 73 of bleed back control seal 70.
  • web area 72 is substantially disc shaped.
  • Web area 72 is thinner at the center and thicker towards the side arms 76.
  • the cross-section of web area 72 is approximately wedge shaped.
  • a wedge shaped cross-section of web area 72 provides support for seal integrity.
  • the wedge may be formed at an angle of approximately 115 degrees from the plane of side arms 76.
  • the angle of the wedge may differ, and the invention is not limited by the precise angle of the wedge .
  • the thinning of web area 72 towards the center provides a balance between sealing and ease of vascular intervention device movement through web area 72. This change in thickness of web area 72 also resists tearing of web area 72 as a vascular intervention device is inserted through web area 72.
  • web area 72 thins at the middle to a width of approximately 0.023 to 0.031 inches.
  • the invention is not limited by the exact width of web area 72 or the angle of the wedge cross-section of web area 72.
  • aperture 74 is formed as a pinhole completely intersecting web area 72.
  • Aperture 74 is concentric with lumen 18 of the primary shaft 11 of side arm body 10, as well as lumen 62 of clamp seal 60.
  • the user may push funnel cap 90 and dilator 92 distally. By moving dilator 92 distally, a user will cause dilator 92 to stretch the elastomeric material of web area 72, thus causing aperture 74 to dilate or open wider.
  • bleed back control seal 70 In the normal, disengaged position, in which dilator 92 does not impact web area 72, aperture 74 of bleed back control seal 70 is closed and inhibits the passage of fluid through bleed back control seal 70. In the closed position, bleed back control seal 70' s web area 72 inhibits fluid communication between bottom chamber 73 and top chamber 75. Ultimately, in the closed or normal position, web area 72 of bleed back control seal 70 inhibits bleed back or loss of fluid from primary lumen 18 to dilator 92 of funnel cap 90.
  • bleed back control seal 70 can withstand fluid pressures of roughly 40 - 100 psi.
  • the invention is not limited by the precise fluid pressures which bleed back control seal 70 may withstand.
  • the resistance of bleed back control seal 70 to fluidic pressure may be increased depending on the elastic material used for forming bleed back control seal 70 or on the dimensions of seal 70, including thickness of web area 72 and precise configuration of aperture 74.
  • web area 72 may have an aperture 74 which may be formed with slits 71 and flaps 79 in a star or tricuspid shape as shown in Figure 5c.
  • aperture 74 By using this star shaped embodiment of aperture 74, bleed back control seal 70 may increase resistance to fluid pressures up to approximately 500 psi.
  • web area 72 may include a spherical portion 79 connected in the center of the distal surface of web area 72, as shown in Figure 5d.
  • aperture 74 extends through spherical portion 79.
  • Bleed back control seal 70 extends distally with arms 76.
  • Arms 76 have distal portions 77.
  • distal portions 77 may bevel inward, and the invention is not limited by the amount or presence of bevel of distal portions 77.
  • the proximal surface of legs 86 of seal holder 80 support the bottom or distal portions 77 of bleed back control seal 70.
  • Legs 86 terminate in risers 87.
  • the proximal surface of legs 86 are shaped to conform substantially to and engage with the distal surface of distal portions 77 of arms 76 of bleed back control seal 70.
  • Risers 87 prevent compression of distal portions 77 of bleed back control seal 70 into aperture 82 of seal holder 80.
  • Legs 86 and risers 87 of seal holder 80 also provide rigidity, support, and compression to bleed back control seal 70. Bleed back control seal 70 is held within chamber 88 formed by legs 86, risers 87, and walls 89 of seal holder 80.
  • Bleed back control seal 70 is made from a suitably elastic polymeric material.
  • bleed back control seal 70 is made of natural yellowish color polyisoprene having a hardness of 30 ⁇ 5 Shore-A and elongation of approximately 750%.
  • bleed back control seal 70 may be formed of a synthetic latex, silicone, or rubber.
  • Bleed back control seal 70 may be sterilized by conventional techniques such as e-beam or ethylene oxide sterilization. Bleed back control seal 70 may be cleaned, if wanted, by any conventional cleaning method known to those of ordinary skill.
  • Bleed back control seal 70 is formed of a synthetic resilient material, and bleed back control seal 70 may be non-cytotoxic, and in an alternate embodiment may be non-allergenic.
  • polyisoprene manufactured by Lexington Medical, of 30 durometer medical grade may be used.
  • bleed back control seal 70 The elasticity of the material of bleed back control seal 70 causes web area 72 to form and seal around a vascular intervention device introduced through dilator 92, then into top chamber 75, then through aperture 74, and then through bottom chamber 73 of bleed back control seal 70.
  • bleed back control seal 70 is self-sizing and prevents fluid loss or bleed back, while still allowing movement of a vascular intervention device through bleed back control assembly 1.
  • a user may introduce any appropriate vascular intervention device 130 into bleed back control assembly 1, such as a catheter (for example, a balloon catheter, an atherectomy catheter, a guidewire, or a stent with delivery system) .
  • the elasticity of web area 72 and bleed back control seal 70 generally allows a seal to form around any inserted devices 130.
  • Bleed back control seal 70 is formed of an elastomer with elongation, resilience, and elasticity properties which are sufficient to allow dilation and constriction of bleed back seal 70, as well as insertion of devices 130 through aperture 74 of web area 70, without losing seal integrity.
  • polyisoprene allows approximately 750% elongation.
  • bleed back control seal 70 can be of varying dimensions.
  • the diameter of bottom chamber 73 formed by side arms 76 and the angle of the wedge cross-section of web area 72 may be changed to improve efficiency.
  • increasing the diameter of bottom chamber 73 formed by side arms 76 may facilitate movement of dilator 92 of funnel cap 90 or devices 130 through the aperture 74 of bleed back control seal 70.
  • any suitable lubricant may be used for bleed back control seal 70.
  • Surface tack may be removed by gas chlorinating at 800 ⁇ 100 parts per million. However, chlorinating may affect device movement or sealing through seal 70.
  • a polydimethyl siloxane liquid lubricant may be used.
  • Dow 360, 350 centistoke viscosity may be used as a lubricant.
  • a coating of paralene may be used as a lubricant, or a suitable lubricant may be bonded into the surface of the material of bleed back control seal 70.
  • the invention is not limited by the type (or presence) of lubricant used with bleed back control seal 70.
  • bleed back control seal 70 is held within chamber 88 of seal holder 80 and is held distal to threaded cap 100. Interior arms 101 of threaded cap 100 engage the proximal (or top) end of bleed back control seal 70, such as the exterior surface of ears 78. Interior arms 101 of threaded cap 100 thus retain bleed back control seal 70 and keep bleed back control seal 70 placed within chamber 88 of seal holder 80.
  • interior arms 101 may be formed of an appropriate size and shape so as to provide rigidity and compression (either axial, radial, or both) to bleed back control seal 70, including ears 78.
  • both clamp seal 60 and bleed back control seal 70 may be formed of one combined, integral seal structure. This combined clamp seal 60 and bleed back control seal 70 performs all the functions of these two seals all in one structure.
  • the combined clamp seal 60 and bleed back control seal 70 may be formed of any suitable material, for example, 30 or 45 durometer polyisoprene, fluorosilicone, silicone, or a blend of any of a plurality of appropriate resilient or elastic materials.
  • threaded cap 100 and seal holder 80 may, but need not, be combined in one integrated structure as well.
  • seal assembly 20 of seal body 40 comprises, in one embodiment, clamp seal 60, bleed back control seal 70, and seal holder 80.
  • Cap assembly 30 of seal body 40 will be discussed next.
  • Funnel Cap, Dilator, and Return Spring Cap assembly 30 comprises two concentric caps, funnel cap 90 and threaded cap 100, as well as spring 110 and snap retainer 120.
  • Funnel cap 90 is proximal to and envelops threaded cap 100.
  • Funnel cap 90 and threaded cap 100 may be any suitable approximately cylindrical shapes, and in one embodiment may be octagonal cylinders.
  • funnel cap 90 includes dilator 92 formed in the interior chamber 94 of funnel cap 90.
  • Dilator 92 has a lumen extending distally away from funnel surface 96 of funnel cap 90.
  • Dilator 92 is concentric with lumen 18 of side arm body 10.
  • Dilator 92 is thus a tube with a lumen connecting (at the proximal end) the exterior of bleed back control assembly 1 with the interior of top chamber 75 of bleed back control seal 70 (at the distal end) .
  • Funnel cap 90 is proximal to bleed back control seal 70 and, in the disengaged position, the distal end of dilator 92 is proximal to and slightly separated from web area 72 of bleed back control seal 70.
  • Dilator 92' s lumen in one embodiment, does not taper or change diameter, but those of ordinary skill will appreciate that dilator 92' s lumen may taper or widen without departing from the scope of the invention.
  • Funnel cap 90 has a proximal exterior surface which tapers in the center to form the shape of a funnel 96 leading into the lumen of dilator 92.
  • Funnel 96 of funnel cap 90 is concentric with the lumen of dilator 92.
  • the maximum diameter of funnel 96 may be approximately 73% of the diameter of the proximal surface of funnel cap 90.
  • the invention is not limited by the precise ratio of the diameters of the funnel 96 and proximal surface of funnel cap 90.
  • Funnel 96 improves the loading or self-locating of guidewires, catheters, and other devices 130 as the operator seeks to introduce them into bleed back control assembly 1.
  • funnel 96 may be formed at approximately a 25 degree angle from the plane of proximal surface of funnel cap 90. The invention is not limited by the angle at which funnel 96 is formed, nor by the diameter of funnel 96 as compared to the diameter of funnel cap 90.
  • spring 110 Surrounding dilator 92 and disposed within interior chamber 94 of funnel cap 90 is return spring 110. The ends of spring 110 are squared. In one embodiment, spring 110 may have a spring rate of approximately 3.9 lbs. /inch.
  • the proximal end of spring 110 abuts the interior surface of the proximal end of funnel cap 90. In one embodiment, the distal end of spring 110 abuts proximal surface 104 of threaded cap 100. In another embodiment, as discussed below, the distal end of spring 110 abuts and sits within proximal bowl 124 of snap retainer 120. In this embodiment, the placement of the distal end of spring 110 in bowl 124 helps stabilize and align spring 110, while spring 110 helps keep snap retainer 120 in place. In an alternate embodiment, the proximal surface of seal holder 80 may be formed to abut and support the distal end of spring 110.
  • spring 110 surround the exterior surface of dilator 92.
  • spring 110 may have approximately five windings or coils .
  • the invention is not limited by the diameter or spacing or number of the windings of spring 110.
  • Spring 110 acts to return funnel cap 90 to the original or normal position when released, so that dilator 92 will not dilate aperture 74 of bleed back control seal 70 when the user releases funnel cap 90.
  • Spring 110 may be of any suitable material, and in one embodiment may be formed of 302 stainless steel wire. In one embodiment, the wire of spring 110 is approximately 0.018 inches in diameter, each winding of spring 110 is approximately 0.24 inches in diameter, and spring 110 is approximately 0.5 inches long in its uncompressed state. Spring 110 has ends which may be squared. The invention is not limited by the material out of which spring 110 is formed.
  • Funnel cap 90' s exterior surface extends distally and terminates in arms 98.
  • funnel cap 90 has eight arms 98.
  • Overhanging lip 99 is formed at the distal edge or bottom of arms 98, and overhang 99 extends generally inward towards the interior chamber 94 of funnel cap 90.
  • Overhang 99 of funnel cap 90 grips the distal surface of threaded cap 100 and thereby attaches funnel cap 90 to the exterior of threaded cap 100. Overhang 99 prevents funnel cap 90 from disengaging from threaded cap 100 by wrapping around the distal or bottom edge of threaded cap 100.
  • overhang 99 with threaded cap 100 allows funnel cap 90 to be moved distally, thus allowing dilator 92 to move distally as well through threaded cap 100 and bleed back control seal 70. Additionally, the arrangement of overhang 99 with threaded cap 100 allows funnel cap 90 to retain spring 110 in position, which in turn allows snap retainer 120 to be aligned and held in position. Additionally, the arrangement of funnel cap 90 with threaded cap 100 allows spring 110 to be held in a compressible manner, so as to allow spring 110 to return funnel cap 90 to its original or normal position after being released.
  • the invention is not limited by the number of arms 98 or the shape of overhang 99, nor is the invention limited by the manner by which funnel cap 90 is connected to threaded cap 100. e .
  • Threaded Cap and Snap Retainer Referring to Figures 2, 3, and 9a to 9c, in seal body 40 threaded cap 100 is interposed between funnel cap 90 and seal holder 80. Threaded cap 100 has a diameter such that threaded cap 100 fits the shape of the interior chamber 94 of funnel cap 90, and thus threaded cap 100 will conform inside funnel cap 90.
  • the exterior surface of threaded cap 100 is, in one embodiment, octagonal, and similarly, in this embodiment, the interior surface of funnel cap 90 is octagonal as well. This arrangement allows a user to screw or twist threaded cap 100 by screwing or twisting the funnel cap 90, which thus results in axial movement of seal holder 80 and resulting compression or relaxation of clamp seal 60.
  • funnel cap 90 allows funnel cap 90 to be moved by a user distally and proximally in an axial direction over the exterior surface of threaded cap 100, which thus results in axial movement of dilator 92 and resulting dilation or constriction of bleed back control seal 70.
  • Threaded cap 100 has a center hole 102 formed in its proximal surface 104. Threaded cap 100' s center hole 102 has a diameter slightly wider than the diameter of dilator 92, and threaded cap 100' s center hole 102 is concentric with the lumen of dilator 92. The distal end of dilator 92 of funnel cap 90 extends axially through center hole 102 of threaded cap 100. Threaded cap 100 also has interior arms 101 which surround the center hole of threaded cap 100. Referring to Figure 3, interior arms 101 are formed to conform to the shape of ears 78 and the proximal end of bleed back control seal 70.
  • Threaded cap 100 has secondary slots or apertures 106 formed in proximal surface 104 to allow seal holder 80 to attach to threaded cap 100.
  • there are three secondary apertures 106 which are shaped as curved slots and are spaced approximately equidistantly from each other around the same circumference.
  • the proximal end of seal holder 80 ends in arms 81 which extend through secondary apertures 106 of threaded cap 100.
  • Arms 81 have jaws which grip and envelop the portions of proximal surface 104 adjacent to secondary apertures 106. Arms 81 of seal holder 80 thus engage and connect to proximal surface 104 of threaded cap 100.
  • a snap retainer 120 may be connected to threaded cap 100.
  • snap retainer 120 is connected to, and proximal to, threaded cap 100.
  • Snap retainer 120 has a center hole 126 formed in its surface. Hole 126 of snap retainer 120 is concentric with center hole 102 of threaded cap 104. The diameter of snap retainer 120' s center hole 126 is approximately equal to or greater than the diameter of center hole 102 of threaded cap 100.
  • Center hole 126 of snap retainer 120 has a diameter greater than the maximum, exterior diameter of dilator 92 of funnel cap 90. Dilator 92 thus extends distally through center hole 126 of snap retainer 120 and then through center hole 102 of threaded cap 100.
  • snap retainer 120 is concentric with threaded cap 100, and has an exterior maximum diameter slightly smaller than the diameter of the proximal portion of chamber 88 formed by arms 81 of seal holder 80.
  • Snap retainer feet 122 of snap retainer 120 have an interior diameter slightly greater than the interior diameter of slots 106 of threaded cap 100, and thus feet 122 may fit in slots 106 behind arms 81 of seal holder 80.
  • Snap retainer 120 also has an interior diameter larger than the exterior diameter of dilator 92 of funnel cap 90.
  • Snap retainer 120 has feet 122 which protrude distally.
  • Feet 122 are formed to fit within each of apertures 106 of threaded cap 100.
  • there are three feet 122 which are curved and are spaced approximately equidistantly from each other around the same circumference.
  • feet 122 may be spaced from each other approximately 112 degrees, 112 degrees, and 136 degrees apart, if measured from midpoint to midpoint along their common circumference.
  • Feet 122 are formed to fit within apertures 106 along with arms 81 of seal holder 80. Feet 122 sit interior to arms 81, and thus provide support to arms 81 and ensure that arms 81 retain a firm connection with surface 104 of threaded cap 100.
  • Snap retainer 120 also includes a proximal bowl 124.
  • the distal end of return spring 110 sits within bowl 124 of retainer 120 without blocking the movement of dilator 92 through center hole 126.
  • proximal bowl 124 stabilizes and aligns spring 110.
  • spring 110 holds snap retainer 120 in position atop threaded cap 100.
  • Threaded cap 100 has threads 108 formed in the interior surface of threaded cap 100. Threads 108 rotatably connect threaded cap 100 to side arm body 10, by connecting with threads 21 formed on the exterior surface of seal cavity 14.
  • an alternate embodiment may comprise a seal assembly 20 which does not include clamp seal 60.
  • seal holder 80 may be incorporated into proximal end 12 of side arm body 10.
  • snap retainer 120 and slots 106 of threaded cap 100 may no longer be necessary.
  • threaded cap 100 need not be rotatably attached to side arm body 10.
  • Seal holder 80, funnel cap 90, threaded cap 100, and snap retainer 120 are all made of any suitable polymeric material, similar to side arm body 10, snap insert 25, and luer connector 50.
  • seal holder 80, funnel cap 90, threaded cap 100, and snap retainer 120 may be made of radiation grade polycarbonate .
  • the cap assembly 30 of seal body 40 comprises funnel cap 90, threaded cap 100, spring 110, and snap retainer 120. As discussed above, the user may operate cap assembly 30 to open or close seal assembly 20. The operation and interaction between cap assembly 30 and seal assembly 20 will be discussed next .
  • one embodiment comprises a seal assembly 20 which does not include clamp seal 60.
  • clamp seal 60 may be included.
  • operation of clamp seal 60 may be controlled by the user.
  • clamp seal 60 may be opened or closed by the user.
  • clamp seal 60 allows fluids (such as blood) to pass through lumen 62 and will not impede the movement of devices (such as a catheter) through lumen 62.
  • clamp seal 60 In the closed position, clamp seal 60 will substantially inhibit the flow of fluid (such as blood) through lumen 62, thus sealing aperture 29 connecting seal body 40 and side arm body 10. If a device (such as a catheter) has already been inserted through lumen 62, closing clamp seal 60 will cause lumen 62 to clamp around that device and hold that device in place. Operation of clamp seal 60 to open or close is discussed with reference to Figures 3, Ila to lie, and 12a to 12d.
  • Threaded cap 100 causes clamp seal 60 to open and close. Proximal to and abutting the proximal surface 64 of clamp seal 60 is seal holder 80. Seal holder 80 has upper arms 81 which connect seal holder 80 to proximal surface 104 of threaded cap 100. Threaded cap 100 is rotatably connected to the exterior surface of seal cavity 14. Threaded cap 100 may be rotated by the user to move threaded cap 100 axially towards or away from the distal end 16 of side arm body 10. Rotating or adjusting threaded cap 100 causes seal holder 80 to move axially as well.
  • Rotation of threaded cap 100 to move distally is referred to as tightening, closing, or screwing of threaded cap 100; rotation of threaded cap 100 to move in the opposite, proximal direction is referred to as loosening, opening, or unscrewing threaded cap 100.
  • Rotating threaded cap 100 causes a corresponding axial movement of seal holder 80.
  • the corresponding movement of seal holder 80 will cause the distal end 84 of seal holder 80 to compress seal clamp 60.
  • Axial movement of seal holder 80 causes a corresponding compression (or closure) of clamp seal 60.
  • a user's tightening of threaded cap 100 causes seal holder 80 to compress and deform clamp seal 80, which is made of an elastic material .
  • clamp seal 60 When threaded cap 100 is tightened, clamp seal 60 may be closed completely, when there is no device introduced within lumen 62 of clamp seal 60. As shown in Figures Ila to lie, as threaded cap 100 is tightened, the material forming the walls of lumen 62 will deform and collapse or constrict lumen 62. Sufficient tightening of threaded cap 100 will cause the deformed frustum portion 61 of clamp seal 60 to enter and seal aperture 29 at the proximal end of lumen 18 of the primary shaft 11 of side arm body 10. Sufficient tightening of threaded cap 100 will also cause lumen 62 to constrict completely.
  • tightening of threaded cap 100 causes the cylindrical portions 63, 65, and 67 of clamp seal 60 to compress and deform, thus creating a seal around the exterior surface of clamp seal 60 where it impacts the interior walls of seal cavity 14.
  • tightening threaded cap 100 will cause clamp seal 60 to close and inhibit the flow of fluid from side arm body 10 to the seal body 40.
  • Clamp seal 60 can be opened by unscrewing threaded cap 100. As threaded cap 100 and seal holder 80 are moved proximally, the resilient properties of the elastic material of clamp seal 60 will cause clamp seal 60 to return to its original shape and position.
  • Adjustment of threaded cap 100 to cause clamp seal 60 to close has several advantages. For example, it is undesirable for injections introduced through secondary branch 13 to exit side arm body 10 through proximal end 12, because the injected fluid will not be delivered to the patient.
  • Closing clamp seal 60 allows the user to perform high pressure injections through secondary branch 13 of side arm body 10 while ensuring that the injected fluid does not exit side arm body 10 through proximal end 12.
  • a user can generate up to approximately 200 psi for manual injections.
  • clamp seal 60 In the closed position, clamp seal 60 can withstand up to at least approximately 400 psi, thus allowing the user to perform injections through lumen 15 of secondary branch 13 without allowing the fluid from these injections to exit side arm body 10 into seal body 40. In this way, injections through secondary branch 13 will be delivered into lumen 18 of primary branch 11 and then exit lumen 18 through distal end 16, then through lumen 52 of luer 50, and ultimately into the patient.
  • clamp seal 60 may also be closed or tightened when a device 130 (such as a catheter) is introduced intratubally within lumen 62 of clamp seal 60. Tightening of threaded cap 100 causes distal movement of seal holder 80 and causes radial and axial compression of clamp seal 60. This compression causes constriction of the diameter of lumen 62 of clamp seal 60, as shown in Figures 12b to 12d.
  • a device 130 such as a catheter
  • a device 130 (such as a catheter) can be introduced through funnel 96 and dilator 92 of funnel cap 90, through aperture 74 of bleed back control seal 70, through aperture 82 of seal holder 80, and through and within lumen 62 of seal clamp 60, and further through aperture 29 and lumen 18 of side arm body 10. If a device 130 has been introduced within lumen 62 of clamp seal 60, then the compression of clamp seal 60 will cause lumen 62 to constrict about the shaft of device 130 within lumen 62. This constriction causes clamp seal 60 to firmly hold or clamp onto device 130. Tightening threaded cap 100 and consequent clamping of clamp seal 60 allows hands free operation for the operator of bleed back control assembly 1.
  • seal cavity 14 includes a snap insert 25 which is formed or connected to the interior surface of seal cavity 14. Snap insert 25 includes a blocking notch 27 which extends into seal cavity 14.
  • restrictor notch 83 Distal to blocking notch 27 there is a corresponding restrictor notch 83 formed on the exterior surface of seal holder 80.
  • the relative spacing between blocking notch 27 and restrictor notch 83 permits threaded cap 100 to be unscrewed a sufficient amount to open clamp seal 60.
  • restrictor notch 83 of seal holder 80 will impact blocking notch 27, preventing further unscrewing of threaded cap 100.
  • the restrictive interlocking of blocking notch 27 and restrictor notch 83 will prohibit threaded cap 100 from unscrewing completely from threads 21 of seal cavity 14.
  • seal body 20 may comprise bleed back seal 70, but not include clamp seal 60.
  • seal body 20 may comprise both clamp seal 60 and bleed back seal 70. In both embodiments, bleed back seal 70 operates to control fluid loss during use of bleed back control assembly 1.
  • Bleed back control seal 70 is normally closed unless acted upon.
  • the user of bleed back control assembly 1 may open bleed back control seal 70, by dilating aperture or pinhole 74.
  • bleed back control seal 70 has an aperture 74 in the center of web area 72, and because the material of bleed back control seal 70 is highly elastic and resilient, stretching of web area 72 will cause aperture 74 to open larger, thus allowing bleed back control seal 70 to open.
  • web area 72 will return to the original, closed position when released after being stretched, thus allowing aperture 74 to close again. Operation of bleed back control seal 70 is discussed with reference to Figures 2, 3, 13a to 13d, 14a to 14e, and 15a to 15d.
  • the user may push or press funnel cap 90 and thus move dilator 92 distally to open or dilate bleed back control seal 70.
  • a user of bleed back control assembly 1 may depress funnel cap 90 axially towards distal end 16 of side arm body 10. This pressing or engaging of funnel cap 90 will also cause dilator 92 to move axially and distally. As shown in Figures 13a to 13d, when funnel cap 90 is pushed, dilator 92 will abut web area 72 of bleed back control seal 70.
  • funnel cap 90 and dilator 92 causes bleed back control seal 70 to open by stretching the material of web area 72 distally. Web area 72 will be stretched and pushed into chamber 73 of bleed back control seal 70. This stretching of web area 72 will cause aperture 74 to open wider or dilate. Pushing funnel cap 90 also causes spring 110 to constrict or compress. As shown in Figure 13d, dilator 92 may be moved distally until dilator 92 is blocked by impact with risers 87 and distal legs 86 of seal holder 80.
  • the diameter of bottom chamber 73 formed by side arms 76 of bleed back control seal 70 is larger than the diameter of dilator 92. This difference in diameters provides a break away for the material of web area 72 as web area 72 is pushed and stretched into bottom chamber 73 as dilator 92 moves distally.
  • Return spring 110 wound around the exterior of dilator 92 and inside chamber 94 of funnel cap 90, causes funnel cap 90 to return to the starting, original position when the user releases or stops pushing funnel cap 90. The decompressing action of spring 110 moves dilator 92 proximally, thus allowing bleed back control seal 70 to return to its original shape and close aperture 74 again.
  • threaded cap 100 does not cause dilation or opening of bleed back control seal 70.
  • Threaded cap 100 may be operated as discussed above to rotate and thus cause seal holder 80 to move axially.
  • threaded cap 100 has interior arms 101 which abut or engage the proximal end 78 of bleed back control seal 70.
  • tightening of threaded cap 100 causes corresponding movement axially of seal holder 80 and bleed back control seal 70 without causing dilation of aperture 74 of web area 72.
  • dilator 92 may be attached to threaded cap 100 (as opposed to funnel cap 90) , and in this embodiment rotation or adjustment of threaded cap 100 will cause dilator 92 to impact and open aperture 74 of web area 72 of bleed back control seal 70.
  • threaded cap 100 is operated by the user to open and close bleed back control seal 70.
  • a user may decide to introduce a device 130 (such as a catheter or guidewire) into the bleed back control assembly 1.
  • a device 130 such as a catheter or guidewire
  • the user may insert a device 130 into funnel surface 96 of funnel cap 90.
  • Device 130 then continues into the lumen of dilator 92.
  • Device 130 then moves through aperture 74 of bleed back control seal 70. (The user may decide to dilate or not dilate aperture 74 depending on the user's desires or the size of device 130) .
  • Device 130 then continues through aperture 82 in the bottom of seal holder 80, and thence into lumen 62 of clamp seal 60. Then, device 130 will enter lumen 18 of side arm body 10. Continued insertion will cause device 130 to move through lumen 18, through lumen 52 in luer connector 50, and ultimately into the patient's body in any suitable or desired location and structure, either transluminally, transvenously, or in any other appropriate diagnostic or interventional manner.
  • Dilation of bleed back control seal 70 is not necessary for insertion of many devices 130, such as catheters and guidewires.
  • a user has the option to dilate aperture 74 of bleed back control seal 70 before inserting a device 130 through aperture 74.
  • a user may engage funnel cap 90 and dilator 92, push them axially and distally, and thereby open or dilate aperture 74 of bleed back control seal 70 to allow greater ease of insertion of device 130.
  • An operator of bleed back control assembly 1 may thus introduce a guidewire, catheter, or other desired device 130 through funnel cap 90 into dilator 92, through dilated aperture 74 of bleed back control seal 70, through bottom chamber 73 of bleed back control seal 70, through aperture 82 of seal holder 80, through lumen 62 of clamp seal 60, then into primary lumen 18 of side arm body 10, and ultimately into the patient.
  • a device 130 may be removed by withdrawing device 130 back through these same structures in reverse order. Both during insertion and withdrawal, the user may choose to dilate or stop dilating aperture 74 of bleed back control seal 70, at any time.
  • device 130 may be any appropriate transluminal or interventional device.
  • device 130 may be a catheter, stent, guidewire, balloon catheter, or any other suitable device.
  • a user desiring to introduce a stent into bleed back control assembly 1 may introduce the stent without necessarily requiring use of dilator 92 to open aperture 74 of bleed back control seal 70.
  • Guidewires may be introduced into bleed back control assembly 1 with an introducer and, if an introducer is used, then bleed back control seal 70' s aperture 74 does not need to be opened with dilator 92.
  • a balloon catheter may also be introduced into bleed back control assembly 1 without necessarily dilating bleed back control seal 70.
  • bleed back control seal 70' s web area 72 is self sizing around device 130 introduced through aperture 74. Bleed back control seal 70 thus inhibits the loss of blood or other fluids when a user has inserted a device 130 through aperture 74 of bleed back control seal 70.
  • Bleed back control seal 70 thus controls fluid or blood loss both with and without devices 130 intratubal .
  • a device 130 penetrating bleed back control seal 70 can be moved into and out of side arm body 10 with substantially low fluid leakage and resistance.
  • a user may manipulate funnel cap 90 (and thus dilator 92) to open bleed back control seal 70 and allow the purging of gases or undesired fluids from the interior of bleed back control assembly 1.
  • a user may push or press funnel cap 90 and dilator 92 to cause aperture 74 to open, and this will allow the pressure of fluids within bleed back control assembly 1 to purge gases or fluids trapped inside assembly 1, by causing the gases or fluids to exit dilator 92 and out through the proximal end of assembly 1.
  • bleed back control seal 70 in the closed position can withstand pressures of at least approximately 40 - 100 psi without leaking.
  • bleed back control seal 70 in the closed position can withstand pressures of approximately 500 psi.
  • an alternate embodiment for bleed back control seal 70 may include spherical portion 79 as shown in Figure 5d.
  • bleed back control seal 70 in the closed position may withstand pressures of approximately 400 psi. Therefore, even when clamp seal 60 is in the open position, bleed back control seal 70 (which is normally closed) can prevent leakage of fluid out of the proximal end of bleed back control assembly 1. This may be advantageous, for example, when the user performs injections through secondary branch 13 of the side arm body 10 at appropriate pressures while clamp seal 60 is open.
  • bleed back control assembly 1 of the present invention provides blood loss control during insertion, movement, and removal of devices 130 from assembly 1.
  • Assembly 1 can be adjusted to clamp an intratubal device 130 to maintain device position.
  • closure of clamp seal 60 with or without a device 130 intratubal to assembly 1 allows the user to introduce high pressure injections through lumen 15 of secondary branch 13 of the side arm body 10.
  • the approximate dimensions of some of the components of side arm body 10 and seal body 40 may be approximately as follows:
  • Length of frustum portion 61 0.05
  • Diameter of bottom aperture of lumen 62 is a diameter of bottom aperture of lumen 62 :
  • cap assembly 30 may be incorporated as part of seal assembly 20, and vice versa.
  • seal body 20 may not include clamp seal 60 in one embodiment.
  • structures of threaded cap 100 may be incorporated in funnel cap 90, and vice versa.
  • Alternate embodiments also include adding a position lock for engaging and disengaging funnel cap 90 and dilator 92 (analogous to the manner by which a conventional ball point pen is depressed) , thus requiring a user to engage or depress funnel cap 90 axially in order to engage and disengage dilator 92 from opening bleed back control seal 70.
  • funnel cap 90 and dilator 92 may be locked or unlocked in the open or closed positions with a bayonet style lock, where the lock mode would allow the operator to lock dilator 92 in either the open or closed position to either dilate or not dilate aperture 74 of bleed back control seal 70, whichever is desired.
  • Other embodiments include using a locking mechanism, such as a detent, using a twist motion of funnel cap 90 (of any suitable predetermined amount of rotation) for locking dilator 92 in the open or closed positions .
  • side arm body 10 comprises primary branch 11 and does not include secondary branch 13.
  • finger rest 19 may be formed on the exterior surface of primary branch 11 of side arm body 10.
  • none, some, or all of these plurality of secondary branches 13 may have their own finger rest 19 formed thereon, in addition to or in substitution for a finger rest 19 formed on the exterior surface of primary branch 11.
  • side arm body 10, snap insert 25, luer connector 50, seal holder 80, funnel cap 90, threaded cap 100, spring 110, and snap retainer 120 may each be formed of other appropriate rigid materials or composite materials, such as metal, metallic alloys, other resins, different plastics, glass, or any suitable composite.
  • device 130 may be any device appropriate for inserting into any part of a patient's body, such as insertion into a blood vessel or any other luminal structure or any body cavity.
  • device 130 may be any type of catheter, guidewire, stent, balloon catheter, perfusion balloon, guiding catheter, rapid exchange catheter, over-the- wire balloon, directional coronary atherectomy catheter, or other appropriate device.

Abstract

A bleed back control assembly and method for controlling blood loss during catherization procedures includes a side arm body connected at the proximal end to a seal body. The side arm body comprises one or more branches, each having a lumen, and a finger rest on the exterior of at least one branch. The seal body comprises a cap assembly and a seal assembly. The seal assembly comprises a clamp seal and a bleed back seal, both made of elastomer and held by a seal holder. The cap assembly comprises a threaded cap and a funnel cap. The threaded cap is connected to the seal holder. Rotation of the threaded cap causes the clamp seal to open or close. The funnel cap comprises a dilator, and pressing the funnel cap causes the dilator to open an aperture in the bleed back control seal. A spring, wound around the dilator, returns the funnel cap to its original position, thus closing the bleed back seal. The bleed back seal self-sizes to devices introduced through its aperture. Dilating the bleed back control seal also allows purging of gases or fluids. The clamp seal can clamp a device introduced transluminally to maintain device position, and the clamp seal may also be closed to allow high pressure injections.

Description

BLEED BACK CONTROL VALVE
Background This invention relates generally to a bleed back control assembly for controlling blood loss during vascular diagnostic or interventional procedures, such as insertion and removal of catheters from a patient's blood vessels . Treatment of patients with diseases, such as coronary heart disease, can typically involve use of catheters, balloon catheters, stents, and other vascular intervention devices which are introduced transluminally, i.e. to and through the interior of a patient's blood vessels. Typically, catheterization procedures include the use of a hemostatic valve to reduce blood loss.
It is known in the art to provide a large bore rotating hemostasis valve (RHV) which attaches to the end of a guiding catheter and acts as an open/close valve. After a device is introduced into the lumen of an RHV, the RHV serves as a seal around the device to reduce blood loss . An RHV must be opened to allow introduction of an interventional device into the RHV's lumen, and must be closed to control blood loss while allowing device adjustment, such as moving it back and forth. A doctor must adjust a screw cap of a conventional RHV in order to adjust the seal around various devices introduced axially through the RHV's lumen. Conventional RHV's utilize a Touhy-Bourst seal design, which may be opened and closed by the user, but such a seal allows fluid to escape until properly adjusted.
A significant amount of the patient ' s blood may be lost during these adjustments of the RHV's screw cap which are required in order to move a device, such as a catheter, in and out of the RHV. When the RHV is not adjusted to seal around the device introduced in the RHV's lumen, there is no mechanism for inhibiting substantial bleed back or blood loss. Accordingly, a conventional RHV allows excessive blood loss when the RHV is not adjusted or whenever the RHV is in the open position. This drawback in an RHV allows for excessive and undesirable blood loss from the patient. The excessive blood loss also creates a more ensanguined operating environment for the user of the RHV, increasing risks associated with unwanted exposure to blood (or other fluids) and making more difficult the manipulation or operation of devices.
For example, U.S. Patent No. 5,269,764, issued to Vetter et al . , discloses a hemostatic gasket and valve assembly, including a terminal plug, which can be rotated and thus tightened to cause radial compression of the hemostatic gasket.
Summary
An advantage of the present invention is to provide a bleed back control assembly which permits diagnostic or interventional vascular procedures, such as insertion of devices like catheters, guide wires, or stent delivery systems in a patient's blood vessels, while controlling and significantly reducing the amount of blood loss, even when the catheter must be adjusted or moved.
Another advantage of the invention is to provide a bleed back control assembly which permits diagnostic or interventional vascular procedures, while allowing a user to clamp an interventional device introduced into the bleed back control assembly, to maintain device position while controlling blood loss.
A bleed back control apparatus in accordance with one aspect of the invention includes a side arm body having proximal and distal ends, and a seal body connected to the proximal end of the side arm body, where the seal mechanism includes a seal assembly and a cap assembly. The seal assembly comprises a bleed back control seal held within an interior chamber of a seal holder.
In another aspect, the cap assembly includes a threaded cap which is rotatably attached to the exterior of the proximal end of the side arm body and a funnel cap attached to the threaded cap.
In another aspect, a bleed back control seal in accordance with one aspect of the invention has a cylindrical body with a lumen, a web area covering a cross-section of the lumen and having a dilatable aperture, and the cylindrical body and web area are formed of an elastomer.
In another related aspect, the seal assembly further comprises a clamp seal with a cylindrical body tapering to a frustum, with a lumen through the cylindrical body and frustum, and the clamp seal is formed of an elastomer.
In another aspect, a side arm body in accordance with another aspect of the invention has a proximal end and means for sealing connected to the proximal end of the side arm body, where the means for sealing comprises means for controlling bleed back during use. In a related aspect, a method in accordance with another aspect of the invention for controlling blood loss using a bleed back control assembly includes introducing a vascular intervention device (such as, but not limited to, a catheter) transluminally within the assembly, and forming a bleed back control seal around the introduced vascular intervention device.
Accordingly, with these and other apparatus and method aspects of the invention, a bleed back control assembly in accordance with one aspect of the present invention controls blood loss during insertion, movement, and removal of a vascular intervention device (such as catheter) from the assembly. The user can adjust a clamp seal to clamp a vascular intervention device introduced transluminally, such as a catheter, to maintain device position or perform high pressure injections. The user can also close the clamp seal, without a vascular intervention device introduced transluminally, to allow high pressure injections into the side arm body.
These and other aspects of the invention are described further below.
Brief Description of the Drawings Figure la is a cross-sectional view of a side arm body in accordance with the present invention. Figure lb is a cross-sectional view of a side arm body and seal assembly in accordance with the present invention. Figure lc is a cross-sectional view of a side arm body, a seal assembly, and a cap assembly in accordance with the present invention. Figure Id is a cross-sectional view of a bleed back control assembly in accordance with the present invention.
Figure 2 is an exploded view of a seal body and side arm body of a bleed back control assembly in accordance with the present invention. Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of a seal body and a proximal end of a side arm body of a bleed back control assembly in accordance with the present invention. Figure 4a is an exploded view and Figure 4b is a cross-sectional view of a side arm body and male luer connector in accordance with the present invention.
Figure 5a is a cross-sectional view and Figure 5b is a perspective view of bleed back control seal in accordance with the present invention. Figure 5c is a perspective view of a web area of a bleed back control seal in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. Figure 5d is a cross-sectional view of a bleed back control seal in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 6a is a cross-sectional view and Figure 6b is a perspective view of a seal holder in accordance with the present invention.
Figure 7a is a cross-sectional view and Figure 7b is a perspective view of a clamp seal in accordance with the present invention.
Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of a combined bleed back control seal and clamp seal in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. Figure 9a is a side view, Figure 9b is a cross- sectional view, and Figure 9c is a top view of a threaded cap in accordance with the present invention. Figure 9d is a cross-sectional view and Figure 9e is a perspective view of a snap retainer in accordance with the present invention. Figure 9f is a cross- sectional view of a snap retainer and threaded cap in accordance with the present invention.
Figure 10a is a side view, Figure 10b is a cross- sectional view, and Figure 10c is a top view of a funnel cap in accordance with the present invention. Figures Ila to lie are a cross-sectional view of an operation of a clamp seal in accordance with the present invention.
Figures 12a to 12d are a cross-sectional view of an operation of a clamp seal clamping a vascular intervention device (such as a catheter) which has been inserted transluminally in a bleed back control assembly in accordance with the present invention.
Figures 13a to 13d are a cross-sectional view of an operation of a funnel cap and dilator in relation to a bleed back control seal in accordance with the present invention.
Figures 14a to 14e are a cross-sectional view of an insertion of a vascular intervention device (such as a catheter) through a bleed back control seal in accordance with the present invention.
Figures 15a to 15d are a cross-sectional view of an insertion of a vascular intervention device (such as a catheter) through a dilated bleed back control seal in accordance with the present invention.
Detailed Description
Referring to Figures la through Id, the components of a bleed back control assembly 1 in accordance with one aspect of the invention are shown in relation one to the other.
Referring to Figure la, a side arm body 10 has a proximal end 12 with a seal cavity 14 formed therein.
Side arm body 10 also has a distal end 16. Side arm body 10 has a primary branch 11 and a secondary branch
13. A primary lumen 18 is formed through primary branch 11 of side arm body 10 and connects proximal end
12 to distal end 16. Side arm body 10 is thus a tube having a lumen allowing fluid (such as blood) to communicate from one end to the other. Fluid may also communicate between lumen 18 and seal cavity 14. A secondary lumen 15 is formed through secondary branch 13 of side arm body 10. Fluid may also communicate between lumen 18 of primary branch 11 and lumen 15 of secondary branch 13. Referring to Figure lb, a seal assembly 20 is held within seal cavity 14 at the proximal end 12 of side arm body 10. Seal assembly 20 is generally formed to conform to the shape and interior surface 23 of seal cavity 14. As discussed further below, seal assembly 20 comprises one or more seals made of elastic and resilient materials which may be readily deformed or stretched depending on user operation, and these seals will return to their original shape and position when released or disengaged. Referring to Figure lc, cap assembly 30 is connected to seal assembly 20 and is also connected to the exterior surface of seal cavity 14 at the proximal end 12 of side arm body 10. Cap assembly 30 contains seal assembly 20 within seal cavity 14 and, as described further below, allows user operation and adjustment of seal assembly 20. As described further below, the user may adjust seal assembly 20 to either open or close access to primary lumen 18 of side arm body 10, as well as clamp vascular intervention devices introduced into bleed back control assembly 1 to maintain device position or location. Seal body 40 comprises seal assembly 20 and cap assembly 30. As shown in Figure lc, a bleed back control assembly 1 in accordance with one aspect of the invention comprises side arm body 10 connected to seal body 40 at proximal end 12 of side arm body 10.
Referring to Figure Id, another embodiment of bleed back control assembly 1 in accordance with the invention comprises side arm body 10 having a proximal end 12 and a distal end 16. A seal body 40, comprising seal assembly 20 connected to cap assembly 30, is attached to proximal end 12 of side arm body 10. Seal body 40 is a seal mechanism which includes one or more elastomeric seals and cap assembly 30 to retain these seals within seal cavity 14. Seal assembly 20 has an aperture 22 formed therethrough, and cap assembly 30 has an aperture 32 which is axially aligned with and proximal to seal assembly 20' s aperture 22. Seal assembly 20' s aperture 22 is also axially aligned with and proximal to primary lumen 18. A male luer connector 50 which is 360 degrees rotatable is connected to distal end 16 of side arm body 10. Luer connector 50 has a lumen 52 which connects proximally with the distal end 16 of primary lumen 18 of side arm body 10. In general, a user may operate bleed black control assembly 1 by inserting a vascular intervention device (such as a catheter) through aperture 32, then through aperture 22, into lumen 18, through lumen 52, and ultimately into a patient's body. A user may operate cap assembly 30 by either pressing, screwing, or unscrewing cap assembly 30. By operating cap assembly 30, a user may open or close seal assembly 20 and thereby either seal the connection between aperture 22 and lumen 18 or, when a vascular intervention device is introduced into bleed back control assembly 1, by clamping such a vascular intervention device by constricting a portion of aperture 22 of seal assembly 20. Because of seal assembly 20' s elastomeric properties, seal assembly 20 provides control over blood loss during insertion and removal of vascular intervention devices through bleed back control assembly 1, as described further below.
Referring to Figures la to 10c, the structures of side arm body 10 and seal body 40 are shown. Side arm body 10 will be discussed first. Side Arm Body
Referring to Figures la to Id, 2, 4a, and 4b, side arm body 10 is substantially Y shaped and consists of a straight primary branch 11 and a secondary branch 13. Lumens 15 and 18 are formed within both the secondary branch 13 and primary branch 11, respectively.
Lumen 15 of secondary branch 13 provides access to, and is in fluid communication with, lumen 18 of primary branch 11. Secondary branch 13 can be used for, but is not limited to, contrast injections and drug delivery. For example, secondary branch 13 may also be used for flushing the system with saline, or any other appropriate uses . Secondary branch 13 of side arm body 10 is formed, in one embodiment, at approximately a 60 degree angle from primary branch 11. The invention is not limited by the angle at which secondary branch 13 connects with primary branch 11. A port 17 is formed at the end of secondary branch 13, and this port 17 provides connections for injections and other drug or fluid delivery devices.
Referring to Figures la to Id, 2, and 4a, a finger rest 19 is formed on the exterior surface of secondary branch 13. Finger rest 19 is formed, in one embodiment, at approximately 30 degrees from secondary branch 13. In another embodiment, the angle at which finger rest 19 is formed may be 20 degrees, 40 degrees, or any other suitable angle. The invention is not limited by the angle at which finger rest 19 connects with secondary branch 13. Finger rest 19 is sufficiently large enough to fit at least one finger of an adult user of bleed back control assembly 1. Finger rest 19 provides the user with improved gripping of bleed back control assembly 1, particularly when the user is operating cap assembly 30 as discussed further below. In another embodiment, a finger rest 19 is formed on the exterior surface of primary branch 11 of side arm body 10. In this embodiment, the finger rest 19 on primary branch 11 may be either in place of, or in addition to, a finger rest 19 on secondary branch 13 of side arm body 10.
Primary branch 11 of the side arm body 10 has two ends : a proximal end 12 and a distal end 16. A seal cavity 14 is formed within proximal end 12 of primary branch 11 of side arm body 10. Seal cavity 14 is concentric with, and provides access to, lumen 18 formed axially through primary branch 11.
Seal cavity 14 has a wider diameter than the diameter of lumen 18. In one embodiment, seal cavity 14' s diameter is approximately 325% wider than the diameter of lumen 18. The invention is not limited by the difference between the diameters of seal cavity 14 and lumen 18.
In another embodiment, lumens 15 and 18 may taper or change diameters along their lengths. In one embodiment, the diameter of lumen 18 towards the proximal end of lumen 18 may be approximately 16% wider than the diameter at the distal end of lumen 18. The invention is not limited by whether lumens 15 or 18 taper, or by the amount by which each or either lumen tapers .
The exterior surface of seal cavity 14 has threads 21 to allow cap assembly 30 to rotatably connect to side arm body 10, as described further below. Referring to Figures la, 2, 4a, and 4b, seal cavity 14 has an interior surface 23 which is adjacent to aperture 29 connecting seal cavity 14 to lumen 18.
In one embodiment as shown in Figures 2 and 4a, attached to interior surface 23 of seal cavity 14 is snap insert 25. As discussed further below in relation to Figures 3 and Ila to lie, blocking notch 27 of snap insert 25 constrains the movement of seal assembly 20 within seal cavity 14 and inhibits the removal of seal assembly 20 from seal cavity 14. In an alternative embodiment, snap insert 25, including blocking notch 27, is integral with and formed as part of interior surface 23 of seal cavity 14.
Referring to Figures 4a and 4b, distal end 16 of side arm body 10 is connected to a male luer connector 50. Luer connector 50 has a lumen 52 which connects proximally with the distal end of lumen 18. Male luer connector 50 may be 360 degrees rotatable or any other appropriate amount of rotation.
In one embodiment, an O-ring 29 is interposed at the connection between distal end 16 of side arm body 10 and luer connector 50. O-ring 29 improves the seal between side arm body 10 and luer connector 50.
O-ring 29 is a conventional O-ring gasket or seal formed of an appropriate elastic material. In one embodiment, O-ring 29 is formed of black color ethylene propylene diene monomer having a hardness of 70 ± 5 Shore-A, with an interior diameter of approximately 0.176 inches. If O-ring 29 requires cleaning, a medical grade wash is used. O-ring 29 may be non- cytotoxic, and in an alternate embodiment may be non- allergenic.
An appropriate lubricant may be used with O-ring 29. Dow Corning 360 Medical Fluid, 350 centistoke viscosity (referred to as "Dow 360") may be used as a lubricant. In one embodiment, a mixture of alcohol and Dow 360 may be used as a lubricant for O-ring 29. Alternatively, O-ring 29 may be lubricated with a coating of a mixture of alcohol and dichloromethane followed by a successive coating of a mixture of alcohol, dichloromethane, and Dow 360. While a luer connector 50 is shown connected to the distal end 16 of side arm body 10, the invention is not limited by whether any structures are connected to distal end 16 nor by what those structures are. Those of ordinary skill will appreciate that other appropriate devices may be connected to distal end 16 of side arm body 10 without departing from the scope of the invention. In an alternate embodiment, luer connector 50 is formed integrally as part of distal end 16 of side arm body 10.
Side arm body 10, snap insert 25, and luer connector 50 may be formed of any appropriate polymeric material (either thermoplastic or thermosetting) . In one embodiment, side arm body 10, snap insert 25, and luer connector 50 are formed of polycarbonate, and may be formed of radiation grade or e-beamable polycarbonate.
The invention is not limited by the type of O-ring 29 or connector 50 used, nor by the type of lubricant used for O-ring 29.
Seal Body
Referring to Figures lc and Id, seal body 40 comprises seal assembly 20 connected to cap assembly 30, and cap assembly 30 is connected to the exterior surface of seal cavity 14. As discussed above, seal assembly 20 is held within seal cavity 14 and conforms to the shape of the interior surface 23 of seal cavity 14. Cap assembly 30 holds seal assembly 20 within seal cavity 14 and, as discussed below with respect to Figures 2, 4a, and 4b, cap assembly 30 is connected to the proximal end of side arm body 10. Thus, seal body 40 is a seal mechanism connected to proximal end 12 of side arm body 10 as further described below.
Referring to Figure 2, seal assembly 20 comprises bleed back control seal 70, and seal holder 80. In another embodiment, seal assembly 20 comprises a clamp seal 60, along with bleed back control seal 70 and seal holder 80. Cap assembly 30 comprises funnel cap 90, threaded cap 100, return spring 110, and snap retainer 120. Thus, seal body 40 is a seal mechanism comprising one or more seals, such as bleed back control seal 70, as well as seal holder 80, and two caps, funnel cap 90 and threaded cap 100, as well as spring 110 and snap retainer 120.
Figure 2 shows these components in exploded view, and Figure 3 shows these components assembled in relation to each other, as well as in relation to the proximal end 12 of side arm body 10. In the orientation of Figure 3, the proximal end of the seal body 40 is shown at the top of the figure. Each component will be discussed in turn. a. Clamp Seal
Referring to Figures 2, 3, 7a and 7b, clamp seal 60 is shaped as three successively larger concentric cylinders, comprising cylindrical portions 63, 65, and 67, with a frustrum portion 61 connected distally to cylindrical portion 63. The cylindrical portion 63 thus tapers at the distal end to a frustum portion 61. Clamp seal 60 fits within seal cavity 14 and conforms generally to the diameter and shape of the bottom of interior surface 23 of seal cavity 14. In one embodiment, there may be a gap or space between clamp seal 60 and the distal interior portion 23 of seal cavity 14, when clamp seal 60 has not been closed or operated on by the user. Clamp seal 60 has a lumen 62 formed through the cylindrical portions 63, 65, and 67, as well as frustum portion 61. Lumen 62 is in fluid communication with lumen 18 of side arm body 10.
In one embodiment, the maximum diameter of distal cylindrical portion 63 (as well as the diameter of the bottom frustum portion 61) of clamp seal 60 is larger than the interior diameter of the corresponding portion of seal cavity 14. In addition, the maximum diameter of proximal cylindrical portion 67 of clamp seal 60 is larger than the interior diameter of the corresponding portion of distal seal holder cavity 85 of seal holder 89. The invention is not limited by the precise differential between the diameters of clamp seal 60 and the interior diameter of seal cavity 14 or distal seal holder cavity 85. This difference in diameters results in the walls of seal cavity 14 providing compression and support to the distal cylindrical portion 63 of clamp seal 60, and ensures that distal cylindrical portion of clamp seal 60 provides a seal inhibiting fluids or gases from escaping around the distal outside surface of seal clamp 60. In addition, the difference in diameters between proximal cylindrical portion 67 of clamp seal 60 and distal seal holder cavity 85 results in the walls of distal seal holder cavity 85 providing compression and support to clamp seal 60, and ensures that cylindrical portion 67 inhibits fluids or gases from escaping around the proximal exterior surface of clamp seal 60.
As discussed below in relation to Figures Ila to lie, a user may open and close clamp seal 60 by turning threaded cap 100. Thus, clamp seal 60 may be opened and closed selectively. In its open, disengaged position, clamp seal 60 creates a seal inhibiting the flow of fluids or gases into seal body 40 other than through lumen 62 of clamp seal 60. Clamp seal 60 also acts as a bridge or transition joint between seal body 40 and side arm body 10. As discussed, clamp seal 60 has a lumen 62 formed axially therethrough which is concentric with lumen 18 of side arm body 10. Lumen 62 tapers such that the top (or proximal) aperture of lumen 62 has a smaller diameter than the bottom (or distal) aperture of lumen 62. In one embodiment, the top aperture of lumen 62 is approximately 85% as wide as the bottom aperture of lumen 62. The bottom aperture of lumen 62 has a slightly larger diameter than the diameter of aperture 29 connecting to lumen 18 of primary shaft 11 of side arm body 10. In one embodiment, the bottom aperture of lumen 62 of clamp seal 60 has a diameter larger than the diameter of aperture 29 leading to lumen 18 of side arm body 10. Also, the proximal aperture of lumen 62 of clamp seal 60 has a diameter larger than the diameter of aperture 82 of seal holder 80. These differences in diameters provide rebound so that clamp seal 60 does not get stuck in lumen 18 or in aperture 82 of seal holder 80.
The interior surface 23 of seal cavity 14 and the tapered frustum 61 of clamp seal 60 are, in this embodiment, both at approximately a 20 degree angle from the plane of the distal (or bottom) aperture of lumen 62. Those of ordinary skill will appreciate that the invention is not limited by the angle of either interior surface 23 or clamp seal 60' s frustum portion 61, nor by the amount of taper in lumen 62.
Clamp seal 60 is formed of an elastic and resilient material, such as an appropriate elastomeric substance. In one embodiment, clamp seal 60 is made of black color fluorosilicone having a hardness of 35 ± 5 Shore-A. Clamp seal 60 is, in this embodiment, post cured for 4 hours at 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Clamp seal 60 may be cleaned by any conventional method known to those of ordinary skill, if needed. Additionally, soap water may be used as a mold release prior to cleaning, if any. If cleaning is performed, a 50/50 mixture of alcohol and deionized water may be used. If clamp seal 60 is formed of a synthetic ductile material, clamp seal 60 may be non-allergenic, and in an alternate embodiment may be non-cytotoxic . An appropriate lubricant may be used with clamp seal 60. Dow 360 by itself may, however, exhibit some adhering properties within lumen 62 of clamp seal 60 over time or at an elevated temperature. In one embodiment, a mixture of alcohol and Dow 360 may be used as a lubricant for clamp seal 60, and this mixture may bond to some extent to the surface of clamp seal 60. Alternatively, clamp seal 60 may be lubricated with a coating of a mixture of alcohol and dichloromethane, followed by a successive coating of a mixture of alcohol, dichloromethane, and Dow 360. The invention is not limited by the type (or presence) of lubricant used for clamp seal 60.
In one embodiment, clamp seal 60 forms part of seal assembly 20. In another alternate embodiment, seal assembly 20 does not include clamp seal 60. One of ordinary skill will understand that, in this embodiment, the absence of seal clamp 60 may result in minor alterations in seal holder 80 or cap assembly 30. b. Seal Holder Referring to Figures 2, 3, 6a, and 6b, within seal body 40 seal holder 80 is placed between clamp seal 60 and bleed back control seal 70. Seal holder 80 has an aperture 82 formed in its bottom surface, and this aperture 82 is concentric with lumen 62 of clamp seal 60. In one embodiment, aperture 82 of seal holder 80 has a diameter smaller than the diameter of the proximal (or top) aperture of lumen 62 of clamp seal 60.
Seal holder 80 terminates distally with bottom arms 84. Arms 84 conform substantially with the shape of the proximal surface 64 of clamp seal 60. As described below, arms 84 of seal holder 80 provide axial and radial compression to clamp seal 60.
As discussed above, seal holder 80 has a distal seal holder cavity 85 formed distal to aperture 82 and defined by the distal portion of arms 84. As discussed above, proximal cylindrical portion 67 of clamp seal 60 is set within distal seal holder cavity 85.
Referring to Figure 6a, horizontal legs 86 extend laterally from arms 84. Legs 86 form the proximal wall of distal seal holder cavity 85. Referring to Figures 2 and 3, legs 86 of seal holder 80 are interposed between the proximal surface 64 of clamp seal 60 and the distal arms 76 of bleed back control seal 70.
Risers 87 are formed at the ends of legs 86 and protrude proximally. Legs 86 and risers 87 are formed so that aperture 82 is formed therethrough. The distal (or bottom) surface of legs 86 conform substantially with the shape of the proximal (or top) surface 64 of clamp seal 60. The proximal (or top) surface of legs 86 support and conform substantially to the distal (or bottom) surface of distal portion 77 of arms 76 of bleed back control seal 70. In one embodiment, distal portions 77 may bevel inward as shown for example in Figures 2 and 3. Risers 87 prevent compression of distal portions 77 of bleed back control seal 70 into aperture 82.
Seal holder 80 has a proximal interior chamber 88 which is defined by walls 89. Interior chamber 88 is in fluid communication with lumen 62 of clamp seal 60, by virtue of aperture 82. Bleed back control seal 70 is supported within interior chamber 88. The diameter of top or proximal interior chamber 88 is slightly smaller than the diameter of bleed back control seal 70. Accordingly, walls 89 of seal holder 80 provide axial and radial support, as well as compression (axial and radial), for bleed back control seal 70. In one embodiment, the diameter of top or proximal interior chamber 88 is approximately 6% smaller than the diameter of bleed back control seal 70. The invention is not limited by a precise ratio of the diameters of interior chamber 88 of seal holder 80 and bleed back control seal 70. c. Bleed Back Control Seal Referring to Figures 2, 3, 5a, 5b, and 5c, bleed back control seal 70 has distal (or bottom) side arms 76, a web area 72 formed between arms 76, distal portions 77 of arms 76, and upper ears 78. Bleed back control seal 70 is, in one embodiment, substantially in the shape of two concentric cylinders each having a lumen, with a bottom (or distal) chamber 73 divided from a top (or proximal) chamber 75 by web area 72. Web area 72 is formed at the proximal or top end of chamber 73 of the larger, bottom (or distal) cylinder formed by side arms 76. The diameter of the top cylinder formed by ears 78 is smaller than the diameter of the bottom cylinder formed by side arms 76. In one embodiment, chamber 73 formed between side arms 76 has a diameter larger than the diameter of chamber 75 formed between ears 78. As discussed further below in relation to Figures
3 and 13a to 13d, funnel cap 90 comprises a dilator 92 which is a tube having a lumen extending from the proximal end of funnel cap 90 to top chamber 75 of bleed back control seal 70. Dilator 92' s distal end is held within top chamber 75 of bleed back control seal 70, unless dilator 92 is moved. As discussed further below, the user can move dilator 92 distally, and thus cause bleed back control seal 70 to dilate or open. However, in the unactivated or normal state, dilator 92 rests close to, but does not impact, web area 72 of bleed back control seal 70.
Ears 78 of bleed back control seal 70 are shaped to conform with the diameter and shape of dilator 92. The ears 78 of bleed back control seal 70 have an interior diameter smaller than the exterior diameter of dilator 92. This difference in diameters ensures that ears 78 provide a seal and inhibit fluids or gases from escaping proximally around the exterior surface of dilator 92. The proximal end of ears 78 are formed to surround dilator 92 when dilator 92 is in both its disengaged and engaged positions. Ears 78 will surround and seal around the exterior of dilator 92 when threaded cap 100 is screwed down or tightened (as discussed below in relation to Figures Ila to lie, screwing or tightening threaded cap 100 has the effect of moving both bleed back control seal 70 and seal holder 80 distally) . Thus, ears 78 of bleed back control seal 70 form a seal around the exterior surface of dilator 92 regardless of how the user manipulates cap assembly 30. In one embodiment, the proximal end of ears 78 may be notched at an angle of approximately 30 degrees to improve seal integrity and aid in alignment of dilator 92 of funnel cap 90. Thus, integrated into bleed back control seal 70 is a seal formed by ears 78 surrounding dilator 92 in order to prevent or inhibit fluid or gas leakage into interior chamber 94 of funnel cap 90.
Bleed back control seal 70 may thus inhibit the introduction of fluids or gases into interior chamber 94 of funnel cap 90. For some users of bleed back control assembly 1, in some circumstances, it may be undesirable to allow blood or other fluid to enter interior chamber 94 of funnel cap 90, because of a potential increased risk of confusion as to whether bleed back control assembly 1 is leaking. Fluid leakage into interior chamber 94 of funnel cap 90 may also make it more difficult to engage or depress funnel cap 90 so as to move dilator 92, as discussed below. Finally, if blood or other fluid were to collect in interior chamber 94 of funnel cap 90, trapped fluid may leak or spurt out of funnel cap 90 when the user depresses or engages funnel cap 90. As noted above, bleed back control seal 70 has a web area 72 dividing top chamber 75 from bottom chamber 73. Web area 72 is roughly perpendicular to the plane of ears 78 and is located distal to ears 78. Web area 72 may be regarded as both the floor of top chamber 75 and the ceiling of bottom chamber 73 of bleed back control seal 70. As shown in Figure 5b, web area 72 is substantially disc shaped.
Web area 72 is thinner at the center and thicker towards the side arms 76. In one embodiment as shown for example in Figures 2, 3, and 5a, the cross-section of web area 72 is approximately wedge shaped. A wedge shaped cross-section of web area 72 provides support for seal integrity. In one embodiment, the wedge may be formed at an angle of approximately 115 degrees from the plane of side arms 76. However, one of ordinary skill would appreciate that the angle of the wedge may differ, and the invention is not limited by the precise angle of the wedge . The thinning of web area 72 towards the center provides a balance between sealing and ease of vascular intervention device movement through web area 72. This change in thickness of web area 72 also resists tearing of web area 72 as a vascular intervention device is inserted through web area 72. In one embodiment, web area 72 thins at the middle to a width of approximately 0.023 to 0.031 inches. The invention is not limited by the exact width of web area 72 or the angle of the wedge cross-section of web area 72. In the center of web 72 is aperture 74. In one embodiment, aperture 74 is formed as a pinhole completely intersecting web area 72. Aperture 74 is concentric with lumen 18 of the primary shaft 11 of side arm body 10, as well as lumen 62 of clamp seal 60. As noted above, the user may push funnel cap 90 and dilator 92 distally. By moving dilator 92 distally, a user will cause dilator 92 to stretch the elastomeric material of web area 72, thus causing aperture 74 to dilate or open wider.
In the normal, disengaged position, in which dilator 92 does not impact web area 72, aperture 74 of bleed back control seal 70 is closed and inhibits the passage of fluid through bleed back control seal 70. In the closed position, bleed back control seal 70' s web area 72 inhibits fluid communication between bottom chamber 73 and top chamber 75. Ultimately, in the closed or normal position, web area 72 of bleed back control seal 70 inhibits bleed back or loss of fluid from primary lumen 18 to dilator 92 of funnel cap 90.
In the closed position, bleed back control seal 70 can withstand fluid pressures of roughly 40 - 100 psi. The invention is not limited by the precise fluid pressures which bleed back control seal 70 may withstand. The resistance of bleed back control seal 70 to fluidic pressure may be increased depending on the elastic material used for forming bleed back control seal 70 or on the dimensions of seal 70, including thickness of web area 72 and precise configuration of aperture 74.
In an alternate embodiment, web area 72 may have an aperture 74 which may be formed with slits 71 and flaps 79 in a star or tricuspid shape as shown in Figure 5c. By using this star shaped embodiment of aperture 74, bleed back control seal 70 may increase resistance to fluid pressures up to approximately 500 psi.
In an alternate embodiment, web area 72 may include a spherical portion 79 connected in the center of the distal surface of web area 72, as shown in Figure 5d. In this embodiment, aperture 74 extends through spherical portion 79. By using this spherical portion 79 as a pressure dome, bleed back control seal 70 may then ease resistance to fluid pressures to approximately 400 psi.
Bleed back control seal 70 extends distally with arms 76. Arms 76 have distal portions 77. In one embodiment, distal portions 77 may bevel inward, and the invention is not limited by the amount or presence of bevel of distal portions 77. As discussed above, the proximal surface of legs 86 of seal holder 80 support the bottom or distal portions 77 of bleed back control seal 70. Legs 86 terminate in risers 87. The proximal surface of legs 86 are shaped to conform substantially to and engage with the distal surface of distal portions 77 of arms 76 of bleed back control seal 70. Risers 87 prevent compression of distal portions 77 of bleed back control seal 70 into aperture 82 of seal holder 80. Legs 86 and risers 87 of seal holder 80 also provide rigidity, support, and compression to bleed back control seal 70. Bleed back control seal 70 is held within chamber 88 formed by legs 86, risers 87, and walls 89 of seal holder 80.
Bleed back control seal 70 is made from a suitably elastic polymeric material. In one embodiment, bleed back control seal 70 is made of natural yellowish color polyisoprene having a hardness of 30 ± 5 Shore-A and elongation of approximately 750%. In another embodiment, bleed back control seal 70 may be formed of a synthetic latex, silicone, or rubber. Bleed back control seal 70 may be sterilized by conventional techniques such as e-beam or ethylene oxide sterilization. Bleed back control seal 70 may be cleaned, if wanted, by any conventional cleaning method known to those of ordinary skill. Bleed back control seal 70 is formed of a synthetic resilient material, and bleed back control seal 70 may be non-cytotoxic, and in an alternate embodiment may be non-allergenic. Those of ordinary skill will understand that other elastic or resilient materials may be suitable for bleed back control seal 70. In one embodiment, polyisoprene, manufactured by Lexington Medical, of 30 durometer medical grade may be used.
The elasticity of the material of bleed back control seal 70 causes web area 72 to form and seal around a vascular intervention device introduced through dilator 92, then into top chamber 75, then through aperture 74, and then through bottom chamber 73 of bleed back control seal 70. Thus, bleed back control seal 70 is self-sizing and prevents fluid loss or bleed back, while still allowing movement of a vascular intervention device through bleed back control assembly 1. A user may introduce any appropriate vascular intervention device 130 into bleed back control assembly 1, such as a catheter (for example, a balloon catheter, an atherectomy catheter, a guidewire, or a stent with delivery system) . The elasticity of web area 72 and bleed back control seal 70 generally allows a seal to form around any inserted devices 130. Bleed back control seal 70 is formed of an elastomer with elongation, resilience, and elasticity properties which are sufficient to allow dilation and constriction of bleed back seal 70, as well as insertion of devices 130 through aperture 74 of web area 70, without losing seal integrity. For example, polyisoprene allows approximately 750% elongation.
Those of ordinary skill will appreciate that bleed back control seal 70 can be of varying dimensions. For example, the diameter of bottom chamber 73 formed by side arms 76 and the angle of the wedge cross-section of web area 72 may be changed to improve efficiency. Thus, for example, increasing the diameter of bottom chamber 73 formed by side arms 76 may facilitate movement of dilator 92 of funnel cap 90 or devices 130 through the aperture 74 of bleed back control seal 70.
One of ordinary skill will appreciate that any suitable lubricant may be used for bleed back control seal 70. Surface tack may be removed by gas chlorinating at 800 ± 100 parts per million. However, chlorinating may affect device movement or sealing through seal 70. Alternatively, a polydimethyl siloxane liquid lubricant may be used. In one embodiment, Dow 360, 350 centistoke viscosity, may be used as a lubricant. Alternatively, a coating of paralene may be used as a lubricant, or a suitable lubricant may be bonded into the surface of the material of bleed back control seal 70. The invention is not limited by the type (or presence) of lubricant used with bleed back control seal 70.
Referring to Figures Id, 2, and 9a through 9c, within seal body 40, as noted above, bleed back control seal 70 is held within chamber 88 of seal holder 80 and is held distal to threaded cap 100. Interior arms 101 of threaded cap 100 engage the proximal (or top) end of bleed back control seal 70, such as the exterior surface of ears 78. Interior arms 101 of threaded cap 100 thus retain bleed back control seal 70 and keep bleed back control seal 70 placed within chamber 88 of seal holder 80.
In an alternate embodiment, interior arms 101 may be formed of an appropriate size and shape so as to provide rigidity and compression (either axial, radial, or both) to bleed back control seal 70, including ears 78.
Referring to Figure 8, in an alternate embodiment, both clamp seal 60 and bleed back control seal 70 may be formed of one combined, integral seal structure. This combined clamp seal 60 and bleed back control seal 70 performs all the functions of these two seals all in one structure. In this embodiment, the combined clamp seal 60 and bleed back control seal 70 may be formed of any suitable material, for example, 30 or 45 durometer polyisoprene, fluorosilicone, silicone, or a blend of any of a plurality of appropriate resilient or elastic materials. In this embodiment, threaded cap 100 and seal holder 80 may, but need not, be combined in one integrated structure as well.
Thus, seal assembly 20 of seal body 40 comprises, in one embodiment, clamp seal 60, bleed back control seal 70, and seal holder 80. Cap assembly 30 of seal body 40 will be discussed next. d. Funnel Cap, Dilator, and Return Spring Cap assembly 30 comprises two concentric caps, funnel cap 90 and threaded cap 100, as well as spring 110 and snap retainer 120. Funnel cap 90 is proximal to and envelops threaded cap 100. Funnel cap 90 and threaded cap 100 may be any suitable approximately cylindrical shapes, and in one embodiment may be octagonal cylinders.
Referring to Figures 2, 3, and 10a to 10c, funnel cap 90 includes dilator 92 formed in the interior chamber 94 of funnel cap 90. Dilator 92 has a lumen extending distally away from funnel surface 96 of funnel cap 90. Dilator 92 is concentric with lumen 18 of side arm body 10. Dilator 92 is thus a tube with a lumen connecting (at the proximal end) the exterior of bleed back control assembly 1 with the interior of top chamber 75 of bleed back control seal 70 (at the distal end) . Funnel cap 90 is proximal to bleed back control seal 70 and, in the disengaged position, the distal end of dilator 92 is proximal to and slightly separated from web area 72 of bleed back control seal 70. Dilator 92' s lumen, in one embodiment, does not taper or change diameter, but those of ordinary skill will appreciate that dilator 92' s lumen may taper or widen without departing from the scope of the invention. Funnel cap 90 has a proximal exterior surface which tapers in the center to form the shape of a funnel 96 leading into the lumen of dilator 92. Funnel 96 of funnel cap 90 is concentric with the lumen of dilator 92. The maximum diameter of funnel 96, in one embodiment, may be approximately 73% of the diameter of the proximal surface of funnel cap 90. The invention is not limited by the precise ratio of the diameters of the funnel 96 and proximal surface of funnel cap 90. Funnel 96 improves the loading or self-locating of guidewires, catheters, and other devices 130 as the operator seeks to introduce them into bleed back control assembly 1. In one embodiment, funnel 96 may be formed at approximately a 25 degree angle from the plane of proximal surface of funnel cap 90. The invention is not limited by the angle at which funnel 96 is formed, nor by the diameter of funnel 96 as compared to the diameter of funnel cap 90.
Surrounding dilator 92 and disposed within interior chamber 94 of funnel cap 90 is return spring 110. The ends of spring 110 are squared. In one embodiment, spring 110 may have a spring rate of approximately 3.9 lbs. /inch.
The proximal end of spring 110 abuts the interior surface of the proximal end of funnel cap 90. In one embodiment, the distal end of spring 110 abuts proximal surface 104 of threaded cap 100. In another embodiment, as discussed below, the distal end of spring 110 abuts and sits within proximal bowl 124 of snap retainer 120. In this embodiment, the placement of the distal end of spring 110 in bowl 124 helps stabilize and align spring 110, while spring 110 helps keep snap retainer 120 in place. In an alternate embodiment, the proximal surface of seal holder 80 may be formed to abut and support the distal end of spring 110.
The windings or coils of spring 110 surround the exterior surface of dilator 92. In one embodiment, spring 110 may have approximately five windings or coils . The invention is not limited by the diameter or spacing or number of the windings of spring 110. Spring 110 acts to return funnel cap 90 to the original or normal position when released, so that dilator 92 will not dilate aperture 74 of bleed back control seal 70 when the user releases funnel cap 90.
Spring 110 may be of any suitable material, and in one embodiment may be formed of 302 stainless steel wire. In one embodiment, the wire of spring 110 is approximately 0.018 inches in diameter, each winding of spring 110 is approximately 0.24 inches in diameter, and spring 110 is approximately 0.5 inches long in its uncompressed state. Spring 110 has ends which may be squared. The invention is not limited by the material out of which spring 110 is formed.
Funnel cap 90' s exterior surface extends distally and terminates in arms 98. In an embodiment in which funnel cap 90 is octagonal, funnel cap 90 has eight arms 98. Overhanging lip 99 is formed at the distal edge or bottom of arms 98, and overhang 99 extends generally inward towards the interior chamber 94 of funnel cap 90. Overhang 99 of funnel cap 90 grips the distal surface of threaded cap 100 and thereby attaches funnel cap 90 to the exterior of threaded cap 100. Overhang 99 prevents funnel cap 90 from disengaging from threaded cap 100 by wrapping around the distal or bottom edge of threaded cap 100. Additionally, the arrangement of overhang 99 with threaded cap 100 allows funnel cap 90 to be moved distally, thus allowing dilator 92 to move distally as well through threaded cap 100 and bleed back control seal 70. Additionally, the arrangement of overhang 99 with threaded cap 100 allows funnel cap 90 to retain spring 110 in position, which in turn allows snap retainer 120 to be aligned and held in position. Additionally, the arrangement of funnel cap 90 with threaded cap 100 allows spring 110 to be held in a compressible manner, so as to allow spring 110 to return funnel cap 90 to its original or normal position after being released. The invention is not limited by the number of arms 98 or the shape of overhang 99, nor is the invention limited by the manner by which funnel cap 90 is connected to threaded cap 100. e . Threaded Cap and Snap Retainer Referring to Figures 2, 3, and 9a to 9c, in seal body 40 threaded cap 100 is interposed between funnel cap 90 and seal holder 80. Threaded cap 100 has a diameter such that threaded cap 100 fits the shape of the interior chamber 94 of funnel cap 90, and thus threaded cap 100 will conform inside funnel cap 90. The exterior surface of threaded cap 100 is, in one embodiment, octagonal, and similarly, in this embodiment, the interior surface of funnel cap 90 is octagonal as well. This arrangement allows a user to screw or twist threaded cap 100 by screwing or twisting the funnel cap 90, which thus results in axial movement of seal holder 80 and resulting compression or relaxation of clamp seal 60. Similarly, the arrangement of threaded cap 100 and funnel cap 90 allows funnel cap 90 to be moved by a user distally and proximally in an axial direction over the exterior surface of threaded cap 100, which thus results in axial movement of dilator 92 and resulting dilation or constriction of bleed back control seal 70.
Threaded cap 100 has a center hole 102 formed in its proximal surface 104. Threaded cap 100' s center hole 102 has a diameter slightly wider than the diameter of dilator 92, and threaded cap 100' s center hole 102 is concentric with the lumen of dilator 92. The distal end of dilator 92 of funnel cap 90 extends axially through center hole 102 of threaded cap 100. Threaded cap 100 also has interior arms 101 which surround the center hole of threaded cap 100. Referring to Figure 3, interior arms 101 are formed to conform to the shape of ears 78 and the proximal end of bleed back control seal 70. Threaded cap 100 has secondary slots or apertures 106 formed in proximal surface 104 to allow seal holder 80 to attach to threaded cap 100. In one embodiment, there are three secondary apertures 106 which are shaped as curved slots and are spaced approximately equidistantly from each other around the same circumference. The proximal end of seal holder 80 ends in arms 81 which extend through secondary apertures 106 of threaded cap 100. Arms 81 have jaws which grip and envelop the portions of proximal surface 104 adjacent to secondary apertures 106. Arms 81 of seal holder 80 thus engage and connect to proximal surface 104 of threaded cap 100.
In one embodiment, a snap retainer 120 may be connected to threaded cap 100. In this embodiment, snap retainer 120 is connected to, and proximal to, threaded cap 100. Snap retainer 120 has a center hole 126 formed in its surface. Hole 126 of snap retainer 120 is concentric with center hole 102 of threaded cap 104. The diameter of snap retainer 120' s center hole 126 is approximately equal to or greater than the diameter of center hole 102 of threaded cap 100. Center hole 126 of snap retainer 120 has a diameter greater than the maximum, exterior diameter of dilator 92 of funnel cap 90. Dilator 92 thus extends distally through center hole 126 of snap retainer 120 and then through center hole 102 of threaded cap 100. Referring to Figure 9f, snap retainer 120 is concentric with threaded cap 100, and has an exterior maximum diameter slightly smaller than the diameter of the proximal portion of chamber 88 formed by arms 81 of seal holder 80. Snap retainer feet 122 of snap retainer 120 have an interior diameter slightly greater than the interior diameter of slots 106 of threaded cap 100, and thus feet 122 may fit in slots 106 behind arms 81 of seal holder 80. Snap retainer 120 also has an interior diameter larger than the exterior diameter of dilator 92 of funnel cap 90.
Snap retainer 120 has feet 122 which protrude distally. Feet 122 are formed to fit within each of apertures 106 of threaded cap 100. In one embodiment, there are three feet 122 which are curved and are spaced approximately equidistantly from each other around the same circumference. In another embodiment, feet 122 may be spaced from each other approximately 112 degrees, 112 degrees, and 136 degrees apart, if measured from midpoint to midpoint along their common circumference. Feet 122 are formed to fit within apertures 106 along with arms 81 of seal holder 80. Feet 122 sit interior to arms 81, and thus provide support to arms 81 and ensure that arms 81 retain a firm connection with surface 104 of threaded cap 100. Snap retainer 120 also includes a proximal bowl 124. The distal end of return spring 110 sits within bowl 124 of retainer 120 without blocking the movement of dilator 92 through center hole 126. In this embodiment, proximal bowl 124 stabilizes and aligns spring 110. In turn, spring 110 holds snap retainer 120 in position atop threaded cap 100.
Threaded cap 100 has threads 108 formed in the interior surface of threaded cap 100. Threads 108 rotatably connect threaded cap 100 to side arm body 10, by connecting with threads 21 formed on the exterior surface of seal cavity 14.
As noted above, an alternate embodiment may comprise a seal assembly 20 which does not include clamp seal 60. In this alternate embodiment, seal holder 80 may be incorporated into proximal end 12 of side arm body 10. In this embodiment, snap retainer 120 and slots 106 of threaded cap 100 may no longer be necessary. In this embodiment, threaded cap 100 need not be rotatably attached to side arm body 10. f. Miscellaneous As shown in Figures 2, 3, and 9f, funnel 96 of funnel cap 90, dilator 92, center hole 126 of snap retainer 120, center hole 102 of threaded cap 100, aperture 74 in web area 72 of bleed back control seal
70, upper chamber 75 and lower chamber 73 of bleed back control seal 70, upper chamber 88 and distal cavity 85 and aperture 82 of seal holder 80, lumen 62 of clamp seal 60, and aperture 29 and lumen 18 of side arm body 10 are all substantially aligned along the same axis and are thus all essentially concentric.
Seal holder 80, funnel cap 90, threaded cap 100, and snap retainer 120 are all made of any suitable polymeric material, similar to side arm body 10, snap insert 25, and luer connector 50. In one embodiment, seal holder 80, funnel cap 90, threaded cap 100, and snap retainer 120 may be made of radiation grade polycarbonate .
Thus, the cap assembly 30 of seal body 40 comprises funnel cap 90, threaded cap 100, spring 110, and snap retainer 120. As discussed above, the user may operate cap assembly 30 to open or close seal assembly 20. The operation and interaction between cap assembly 30 and seal assembly 20 will be discussed next .
Operation of Clamp Seal As noted above, one embodiment comprises a seal assembly 20 which does not include clamp seal 60. In an alternate embodiment, such as shown in Figures 2 and 3, clamp seal 60 may be included. In this alternate embodiment, operation of clamp seal 60 may be controlled by the user.
In this embodiment, clamp seal 60 may be opened or closed by the user. In the open position, clamp seal 60 allows fluids (such as blood) to pass through lumen 62 and will not impede the movement of devices (such as a catheter) through lumen 62. In the closed position, clamp seal 60 will substantially inhibit the flow of fluid (such as blood) through lumen 62, thus sealing aperture 29 connecting seal body 40 and side arm body 10. If a device (such as a catheter) has already been inserted through lumen 62, closing clamp seal 60 will cause lumen 62 to clamp around that device and hold that device in place. Operation of clamp seal 60 to open or close is discussed with reference to Figures 3, Ila to lie, and 12a to 12d.
As noted above, turning threaded cap 100 causes clamp seal 60 to open and close. Proximal to and abutting the proximal surface 64 of clamp seal 60 is seal holder 80. Seal holder 80 has upper arms 81 which connect seal holder 80 to proximal surface 104 of threaded cap 100. Threaded cap 100 is rotatably connected to the exterior surface of seal cavity 14. Threaded cap 100 may be rotated by the user to move threaded cap 100 axially towards or away from the distal end 16 of side arm body 10. Rotating or adjusting threaded cap 100 causes seal holder 80 to move axially as well. Rotation of threaded cap 100 to move distally is referred to as tightening, closing, or screwing of threaded cap 100; rotation of threaded cap 100 to move in the opposite, proximal direction is referred to as loosening, opening, or unscrewing threaded cap 100.
Rotating threaded cap 100 causes a corresponding axial movement of seal holder 80. When threaded cap 100 is tightened, the corresponding movement of seal holder 80 will cause the distal end 84 of seal holder 80 to compress seal clamp 60. Axial movement of seal holder 80 causes a corresponding compression (or closure) of clamp seal 60. A user's tightening of threaded cap 100 causes seal holder 80 to compress and deform clamp seal 80, which is made of an elastic material .
When threaded cap 100 is tightened, clamp seal 60 may be closed completely, when there is no device introduced within lumen 62 of clamp seal 60. As shown in Figures Ila to lie, as threaded cap 100 is tightened, the material forming the walls of lumen 62 will deform and collapse or constrict lumen 62. Sufficient tightening of threaded cap 100 will cause the deformed frustum portion 61 of clamp seal 60 to enter and seal aperture 29 at the proximal end of lumen 18 of the primary shaft 11 of side arm body 10. Sufficient tightening of threaded cap 100 will also cause lumen 62 to constrict completely. Additionally, tightening of threaded cap 100 causes the cylindrical portions 63, 65, and 67 of clamp seal 60 to compress and deform, thus creating a seal around the exterior surface of clamp seal 60 where it impacts the interior walls of seal cavity 14. Thus, tightening threaded cap 100 will cause clamp seal 60 to close and inhibit the flow of fluid from side arm body 10 to the seal body 40.
Clamp seal 60 can be opened by unscrewing threaded cap 100. As threaded cap 100 and seal holder 80 are moved proximally, the resilient properties of the elastic material of clamp seal 60 will cause clamp seal 60 to return to its original shape and position.
Adjustment of threaded cap 100 to cause clamp seal 60 to close has several advantages. For example, it is undesirable for injections introduced through secondary branch 13 to exit side arm body 10 through proximal end 12, because the injected fluid will not be delivered to the patient. Closing clamp seal 60 allows the user to perform high pressure injections through secondary branch 13 of side arm body 10 while ensuring that the injected fluid does not exit side arm body 10 through proximal end 12. Typically, a user can generate up to approximately 200 psi for manual injections. In the closed position, clamp seal 60 can withstand up to at least approximately 400 psi, thus allowing the user to perform injections through lumen 15 of secondary branch 13 without allowing the fluid from these injections to exit side arm body 10 into seal body 40. In this way, injections through secondary branch 13 will be delivered into lumen 18 of primary branch 11 and then exit lumen 18 through distal end 16, then through lumen 52 of luer 50, and ultimately into the patient.
Referring to Figures 12a to 12d, clamp seal 60 may also be closed or tightened when a device 130 (such as a catheter) is introduced intratubally within lumen 62 of clamp seal 60. Tightening of threaded cap 100 causes distal movement of seal holder 80 and causes radial and axial compression of clamp seal 60. This compression causes constriction of the diameter of lumen 62 of clamp seal 60, as shown in Figures 12b to 12d. As discussed above, a device 130 (such as a catheter) can be introduced through funnel 96 and dilator 92 of funnel cap 90, through aperture 74 of bleed back control seal 70, through aperture 82 of seal holder 80, and through and within lumen 62 of seal clamp 60, and further through aperture 29 and lumen 18 of side arm body 10. If a device 130 has been introduced within lumen 62 of clamp seal 60, then the compression of clamp seal 60 will cause lumen 62 to constrict about the shaft of device 130 within lumen 62. This constriction causes clamp seal 60 to firmly hold or clamp onto device 130. Tightening threaded cap 100 and consequent clamping of clamp seal 60 allows hands free operation for the operator of bleed back control assembly 1. As noted above, threaded cap 100 may be unscrewed or loosened by rotating threaded cap 100 to cause it to move proximally. This loosening of threaded cap 100 will correspondingly cause seal holder 80 to move proximally as well, since seal holder 80 is connected to threaded cap 100. As discussed above and referring to Figures 2 and 3 , in one embodiment , seal cavity 14 includes a snap insert 25 which is formed or connected to the interior surface of seal cavity 14. Snap insert 25 includes a blocking notch 27 which extends into seal cavity 14.
Distal to blocking notch 27 there is a corresponding restrictor notch 83 formed on the exterior surface of seal holder 80. The relative spacing between blocking notch 27 and restrictor notch 83 permits threaded cap 100 to be unscrewed a sufficient amount to open clamp seal 60. However, as threaded cap 100 is unscrewed further, restrictor notch 83 of seal holder 80 will impact blocking notch 27, preventing further unscrewing of threaded cap 100. Thus, the restrictive interlocking of blocking notch 27 and restrictor notch 83 will prohibit threaded cap 100 from unscrewing completely from threads 21 of seal cavity 14. The combined effect of blocking notch 27 and restrictor notch 83 ensures that seal body 40 will remain attached to side arm body 10 even when threaded cap 100 is unscrewed as completely as possible. Operation of Bleed Back Control Seal As noted above, in one embodiment, seal body 20 may comprise bleed back seal 70, but not include clamp seal 60. In an alternate embodiment, seal body 20 may comprise both clamp seal 60 and bleed back seal 70. In both embodiments, bleed back seal 70 operates to control fluid loss during use of bleed back control assembly 1.
Bleed back control seal 70 is normally closed unless acted upon. The user of bleed back control assembly 1 may open bleed back control seal 70, by dilating aperture or pinhole 74. Because bleed back control seal 70 has an aperture 74 in the center of web area 72, and because the material of bleed back control seal 70 is highly elastic and resilient, stretching of web area 72 will cause aperture 74 to open larger, thus allowing bleed back control seal 70 to open. Because of the elastic and resilient properties of web area 72' s material, web area 72 will return to the original, closed position when released after being stretched, thus allowing aperture 74 to close again. Operation of bleed back control seal 70 is discussed with reference to Figures 2, 3, 13a to 13d, 14a to 14e, and 15a to 15d. The user may push or press funnel cap 90 and thus move dilator 92 distally to open or dilate bleed back control seal 70. A user of bleed back control assembly 1 may depress funnel cap 90 axially towards distal end 16 of side arm body 10. This pressing or engaging of funnel cap 90 will also cause dilator 92 to move axially and distally. As shown in Figures 13a to 13d, when funnel cap 90 is pushed, dilator 92 will abut web area 72 of bleed back control seal 70.
Axial movement of funnel cap 90 and dilator 92 causes bleed back control seal 70 to open by stretching the material of web area 72 distally. Web area 72 will be stretched and pushed into chamber 73 of bleed back control seal 70. This stretching of web area 72 will cause aperture 74 to open wider or dilate. Pushing funnel cap 90 also causes spring 110 to constrict or compress. As shown in Figure 13d, dilator 92 may be moved distally until dilator 92 is blocked by impact with risers 87 and distal legs 86 of seal holder 80.
Referring to Figures 13a to 13d, the diameter of bottom chamber 73 formed by side arms 76 of bleed back control seal 70 is larger than the diameter of dilator 92. This difference in diameters provides a break away for the material of web area 72 as web area 72 is pushed and stretched into bottom chamber 73 as dilator 92 moves distally. Return spring 110, wound around the exterior of dilator 92 and inside chamber 94 of funnel cap 90, causes funnel cap 90 to return to the starting, original position when the user releases or stops pushing funnel cap 90. The decompressing action of spring 110 moves dilator 92 proximally, thus allowing bleed back control seal 70 to return to its original shape and close aperture 74 again. Removal of dilator 92 away from web area 72 of bleed back control seal 70 causes bleed back control seal 70 to close by allowing the resilient material of web area 72 to return to its original shape and position. As the elastic material of web area 72 contracts back to its original shape, aperture 74 will correspondingly grow smaller, until eventually aperture 74 formed in web area 72 of bleed back control seal 70 will close.
In one embodiment, threaded cap 100 does not cause dilation or opening of bleed back control seal 70. Threaded cap 100 may be operated as discussed above to rotate and thus cause seal holder 80 to move axially. As noted above, threaded cap 100 has interior arms 101 which abut or engage the proximal end 78 of bleed back control seal 70. Thus, tightening of threaded cap 100 causes corresponding movement axially of seal holder 80 and bleed back control seal 70 without causing dilation of aperture 74 of web area 72. In an alternate embodiment, dilator 92 may be attached to threaded cap 100 (as opposed to funnel cap 90) , and in this embodiment rotation or adjustment of threaded cap 100 will cause dilator 92 to impact and open aperture 74 of web area 72 of bleed back control seal 70. Thus, in this embodiment, threaded cap 100 is operated by the user to open and close bleed back control seal 70.
During use of bleed back control assembly 1, a user may decide to introduce a device 130 (such as a catheter or guidewire) into the bleed back control assembly 1. Referring to Figures 14a to 14e, the user may insert a device 130 into funnel surface 96 of funnel cap 90. Device 130 then continues into the lumen of dilator 92. Device 130 then moves through aperture 74 of bleed back control seal 70. (The user may decide to dilate or not dilate aperture 74 depending on the user's desires or the size of device 130) . Device 130 then continues through aperture 82 in the bottom of seal holder 80, and thence into lumen 62 of clamp seal 60. Then, device 130 will enter lumen 18 of side arm body 10. Continued insertion will cause device 130 to move through lumen 18, through lumen 52 in luer connector 50, and ultimately into the patient's body in any suitable or desired location and structure, either transluminally, transvenously, or in any other appropriate diagnostic or interventional manner.
Dilation of bleed back control seal 70 is not necessary for insertion of many devices 130, such as catheters and guidewires. Referring to Figures 15a to 15d, a user has the option to dilate aperture 74 of bleed back control seal 70 before inserting a device 130 through aperture 74. In order to introduce a larger device 130 such as a stent with associated delivery system, a user may engage funnel cap 90 and dilator 92, push them axially and distally, and thereby open or dilate aperture 74 of bleed back control seal 70 to allow greater ease of insertion of device 130.
An operator of bleed back control assembly 1 may thus introduce a guidewire, catheter, or other desired device 130 through funnel cap 90 into dilator 92, through dilated aperture 74 of bleed back control seal 70, through bottom chamber 73 of bleed back control seal 70, through aperture 82 of seal holder 80, through lumen 62 of clamp seal 60, then into primary lumen 18 of side arm body 10, and ultimately into the patient. A device 130 may be removed by withdrawing device 130 back through these same structures in reverse order. Both during insertion and withdrawal, the user may choose to dilate or stop dilating aperture 74 of bleed back control seal 70, at any time. One of ordinary skill would understand that device 130 may be any appropriate transluminal or interventional device. For example, device 130 may be a catheter, stent, guidewire, balloon catheter, or any other suitable device. A user desiring to introduce a stent into bleed back control assembly 1 may introduce the stent without necessarily requiring use of dilator 92 to open aperture 74 of bleed back control seal 70. Guidewires may be introduced into bleed back control assembly 1 with an introducer and, if an introducer is used, then bleed back control seal 70' s aperture 74 does not need to be opened with dilator 92. A balloon catheter may also be introduced into bleed back control assembly 1 without necessarily dilating bleed back control seal 70. Because of the elastic and resilient material properties of bleed back control seal 70, bleed back control seal 70' s web area 72 is self sizing around device 130 introduced through aperture 74. Bleed back control seal 70 thus inhibits the loss of blood or other fluids when a user has inserted a device 130 through aperture 74 of bleed back control seal 70.
Bleed back control seal 70 thus controls fluid or blood loss both with and without devices 130 intratubal . A device 130 penetrating bleed back control seal 70 can be moved into and out of side arm body 10 with substantially low fluid leakage and resistance.
A user may manipulate funnel cap 90 (and thus dilator 92) to open bleed back control seal 70 and allow the purging of gases or undesired fluids from the interior of bleed back control assembly 1. A user may push or press funnel cap 90 and dilator 92 to cause aperture 74 to open, and this will allow the pressure of fluids within bleed back control assembly 1 to purge gases or fluids trapped inside assembly 1, by causing the gases or fluids to exit dilator 92 and out through the proximal end of assembly 1.
As noted above, bleed back control seal 70 in the closed position can withstand pressures of at least approximately 40 - 100 psi without leaking. As noted above, if an alternate embodiment of web area 72 and aperture 74 is used, as in Figure 5c, then bleed back control seal 70 in the closed position can withstand pressures of approximately 500 psi. As noted above, an alternate embodiment for bleed back control seal 70 may include spherical portion 79 as shown in Figure 5d. In this embodiment, bleed back control seal 70 in the closed position may withstand pressures of approximately 400 psi. Therefore, even when clamp seal 60 is in the open position, bleed back control seal 70 (which is normally closed) can prevent leakage of fluid out of the proximal end of bleed back control assembly 1. This may be advantageous, for example, when the user performs injections through secondary branch 13 of the side arm body 10 at appropriate pressures while clamp seal 60 is open.
Accordingly, bleed back control assembly 1 of the present invention provides blood loss control during insertion, movement, and removal of devices 130 from assembly 1. Assembly 1 can be adjusted to clamp an intratubal device 130 to maintain device position. Moreover, closure of clamp seal 60 with or without a device 130 intratubal to assembly 1 allows the user to introduce high pressure injections through lumen 15 of secondary branch 13 of the side arm body 10. Other Embodiments
While several aspects of the invention have been described with regard to specific embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that changes can be made in form and detail without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.
In one embodiment, the approximate dimensions of some of the components of side arm body 10 and seal body 40 may be approximately as follows:
COMPONENT DIMENSIONS (in inches, ± 0.005)
Side arm body 10 Overall length: 1.82 Length of secondary branch 13: 1.15 Length of seal cavity 14: 0.46 Interior diameter of seal cavity 14 : 0.38 Diameter of primary lumen 18: 0.12 Diameter of secondary lumen 15: 0.17
Clamp seal 60 Length: 0.26
Max. diameter of frustum portion 61: 0.39
Length of frustum portion 61: 0.05
Length of cylinder portion 63 0.03
Length of cylinder portion 65 0.10
Length of cylinder portion 67 0.08
Width of cylinder portion 63 0.39
Width of cylinder portion 65 0.37
Width of cylinder portion 67. 0_.._27.
Diameter of top aperture of lumen 62. 0.1
Diameter of bottom aperture of lumen 62 :
Figure imgf000044_0001
Those of ordinary skill will appreciate that the various components and sub-assemblies described with respect to alternate embodiments may be rearranged or combined with each other without departing from the scope of the invention. For example, components of cap assembly 30 may be incorporated as part of seal assembly 20, and vice versa. As noted above, seal body 20 may not include clamp seal 60 in one embodiment. Also, structures of threaded cap 100 may be incorporated in funnel cap 90, and vice versa.
Alternate embodiments also include adding a position lock for engaging and disengaging funnel cap 90 and dilator 92 (analogous to the manner by which a conventional ball point pen is depressed) , thus requiring a user to engage or depress funnel cap 90 axially in order to engage and disengage dilator 92 from opening bleed back control seal 70.
Alternatively, funnel cap 90 and dilator 92 may be locked or unlocked in the open or closed positions with a bayonet style lock, where the lock mode would allow the operator to lock dilator 92 in either the open or closed position to either dilate or not dilate aperture 74 of bleed back control seal 70, whichever is desired. Other embodiments include using a locking mechanism, such as a detent, using a twist motion of funnel cap 90 (of any suitable predetermined amount of rotation) for locking dilator 92 in the open or closed positions . In another embodiment, side arm body 10 comprises primary branch 11 and does not include secondary branch 13. In this embodiment, finger rest 19 may be formed on the exterior surface of primary branch 11 of side arm body 10. In another embodiment, there may be a plurality of secondary branches 13 in addition to primary branch 11 of side arm body 10. In this embodiment, none, some, or all of these plurality of secondary branches 13 may have their own finger rest 19 formed thereon, in addition to or in substitution for a finger rest 19 formed on the exterior surface of primary branch 11.
In another embodiment, side arm body 10, snap insert 25, luer connector 50, seal holder 80, funnel cap 90, threaded cap 100, spring 110, and snap retainer 120 may each be formed of other appropriate rigid materials or composite materials, such as metal, metallic alloys, other resins, different plastics, glass, or any suitable composite.
In another embodiment, device 130 may be any device appropriate for inserting into any part of a patient's body, such as insertion into a blood vessel or any other luminal structure or any body cavity. For example, device 130 may be any type of catheter, guidewire, stent, balloon catheter, perfusion balloon, guiding catheter, rapid exchange catheter, over-the- wire balloon, directional coronary atherectomy catheter, or other appropriate device.
Persons of ordinary skill will appreciate that changes can be made to dimensions, sizing, relative dimensions, materials, spatial and angular relationships of and between components, and manufacturing processes and other commercial or industrial techniques, all without departing from the scope of the invention.

Claims

We claim:
1. A bleed back control assembly comprising: a side arm body having a proximal end, a distal end, and a lumen connecting said proximal and distal ends, said side arm body also having a seal cavity formed in said proximal end, said lumen being in fluid communication with said seal cavity; a seal mechanism coupled to the proximal end of said side arm body, said seal mechanism comprising: a cap assembly coupled to said seal assembly and coupled to said proximal end of said side arm body, said cap assembly restraining said seal assembly within said seal cavity and providing user manipulation of said seal assembly and said cap assembly having a lumen having a proximal aperture communicating with the exterior of said cap assembly; and a seal assembly comprising elastomeric material inhibiting said cap assembly lumen from being in fluid communication with said side arm body lumen.
2. The bleed back control assembly of claim 1, wherein said seal cavity has an interior distal surface including an aperture allowing fluid communication between said side arm body lumen and said seal cavity, said seal assembly comprising: an axially movable seal holder distal to said lumen aperture and having an interior chamber; and a bleed back control seal held within said interior chamber of said seal holder, said bleed back control seal having an aperture which is closed unless acted upon for controlling blood loss during operation of said assembly.
3. The bleed back control assembly of claim 2, wherein said bleed back control seal comprises: a top cylindrical section having a lumen surrounded by side walls; a bottom cylindrical section with a lumen having a larger diameter than said top cylindrical section' s lumen; a web area dividing said top and bottom cylindrical sections' lumens, said web area having a dilatable aperture; and wherein said bleed back control seal is formed of an elastomer.
4. The bleed back control assembly of claim 2, wherein said seal assembly further comprises : a clamp seal abutting the interior distal surface of said seal cavity; and said seal holder restrains said clamp seal within said seal cavity.
5. The bleed back control assembly of claim 4, wherein: said clamp seal comprises a cylindrical body portion proximal to a tapered frustum portion, said cylindrical body portion and said frustum having a lumen; said seal holder has legs proximal to said clamp seal, said legs retaining and compressing said cylindrical body portion of said clamp seal; said frustum portion of said clamp seal conforms with the shape and size of the distal interior surface of said seal cavity; said clamp seal is deformable when said legs compress said clamp seal to constrict said lumen of said clamp seal; and wherein said clamp seal is formed of an elastomer.
6. The bleed back control assembly of claim 1, wherein said side arm body further comprises : a finger rest on the exterior surface of said side arm body.
7. The bleed back control assembly of claim 1, wherein said side arm body' s lumen is a primary lumen and said side arm body further comprises : at least one secondary branch, each secondary branch having a lumen allowing fluid communication with said primary lumen, and a finger rest formed on the exterior surface of at least one of said secondary branches.
8. The bleed back control assembly of claim 4, wherein said cap assembly comprises a threaded cap having a proximal surface and a center hole in said proximal surface, and said threaded cap is rotatably connected to said proximal end of said side arm body and is operable to open or close said seal clamp.
9. The bleed back control assembly of claim 3, wherein said cap assembly comprises : a funnel cap having a proximal surface and said funnel cap has a funnel formed in said proximal surface, and said funnel being in fluid communication with the lumen of the top cylindrical section of said bleed back control assembly and facilitating introduction of devices into said bleed back control assembly.
10. The bleed back control assembly of claim 2, wherein said cap assembly comprises : a funnel cap having a proximal surface and an interior chamber, said funnel cap being movable axially and compressing a return spring when moved distally; a tube coupled to and extending distally from the interior of said proximal surface into said funnel cap's interior chamber, for dilating said bleed back control seal's aperture; and said tube having a lumen connecting said proximal surface of said funnel cap to the interior of said bleed back control assembly.
11. The bleed back control assembly of claim 4, wherein said clamp seal and said bleed back control seal are formed of one integral part .
12. The bleed back control assembly of claim 1, further comprising a luer attached to said distal end of said side arm body.
13. The bleed back control assembly of claim 2, wherein said seal mechanism further comprises a tube for dilating said aperture, said bleed back control seal further comprising ears forming a seal around the exterior surface of said tube .
14. The bleed back control seal of claim 2, wherein said bleed back control seal resists fluid pressure of at least 20 psi when said aperture is closed.
15. The bleed back control assembly of claim 8, wherein: said threaded cap may be rotatably tightened to cause the lumen of said clamp seal to close, and said clamp seal resists fluid pressure of up to at least 400 psi when said clamp seal is closed.
16. The bleed back control assembly of claim 8, further comprising: a vascular intervention device intended for transluminal insertion into a patient, said vascular intervention device introduced into said cap assembly's proximal aperture, through said threaded cap's center hole, and into the lumen of said clamp seal, and wherein rotation of said threaded cap causes said lumen of said clamp seal to constrict and clamp around said vascular intervention device.
17. The bleed back control assembly of claim 2, wherein: said cap assembly comprises a funnel cap having a dilator formed therein, said dilator is axially movable to open said aperture of said bleed back control seal, and whereby said dilator allows trapped gas or fluid to be purged from the interior of said bleed back control assembly when said dilator is moved distally to open said aperture of said bleed back control seal .
18. The bleed back control seal of claim 2, wherein said bleed back control seal is formed of an elastomer with elongation property sufficient to allow dilation and constriction of said bleed back control seal without losing seal integrity.
19. A bleed back control assembly comprising: a side arm body having a proximal end, a distal end, a seal cavity formed in said proximal end, and a lumen connecting said proximal and distal ends; means for controlling fluid loss connected to said proximal end, said means for controlling fluid loss comprising: means for seal holding proximal to and holding said means for clamp sealing in position, said means for seal holding having an interior chamber, means for bleed back sealing held in said interior chamber and having an aperture which is normally closed, and means for dilating said aperture of said means for bleed back sealing.
20. A method for controlling blood loss in a bleed back control assembly, comprising: introducing a vascular intervention device transluminally into a funnel cap of said bleed back control assembly, inserting said vascular intervention device through an aperture in a bleed back control seal distal to said funnel cap and forming a bleed back seal conforming to the shape of said vascular intervention device, inserting said vascular intervention device through the lumen of a side arm body distal to said bleed back control seal, inserting said vascular intervention device into a patient's body distal to said side arm body.
PCT/US2000/006470 1999-03-11 2000-03-09 Bleed back control valve WO2000053254A1 (en)

Priority Applications (4)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP00916272A EP1159026A1 (en) 1999-03-11 2000-03-09 Bleed back control valve
JP2000603742A JP3893246B2 (en) 1999-03-11 2000-03-09 Blood backflow control valve
CA002364387A CA2364387A1 (en) 1999-03-11 2000-03-09 Bleed back control valve
AU37401/00A AU3740100A (en) 1999-03-11 2000-03-09 Bleed back control valve

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US09/267,754 US6331176B1 (en) 1999-03-11 1999-03-11 Bleed back control assembly and method
US09/267,754 1999-03-11

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2000053254A1 true WO2000053254A1 (en) 2000-09-14

Family

ID=23020008

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/US2000/006470 WO2000053254A1 (en) 1999-03-11 2000-03-09 Bleed back control valve

Country Status (6)

Country Link
US (4) US6331176B1 (en)
EP (1) EP1159026A1 (en)
JP (1) JP3893246B2 (en)
AU (1) AU3740100A (en)
CA (1) CA2364387A1 (en)
WO (1) WO2000053254A1 (en)

Cited By (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JP2003525660A (en) * 1999-09-07 2003-09-02 メリット・メディカル・システムズ・インコーポレーテッド Hemostasis valve device with integral introducer
EP1409062A1 (en) * 2001-06-28 2004-04-21 Sewoon Medical Co., Ltd. Apparatus for inserting guide wire for use in catheter
EP1545677A2 (en) * 2002-07-31 2005-06-29 Thomas Medical Products, Inc. A tapered fitting for an introducer coupled to a hemostatic valve
EP1656168A2 (en) * 2003-08-18 2006-05-17 Medical Components, Inc. Needle with sealing valve
WO2007080095A1 (en) * 2006-01-10 2007-07-19 B. Braun Melsungen Ag Catheter device
WO2012175699A1 (en) 2011-06-22 2012-12-27 Perouse Medical Hemostasis valve device for injecting a medical material into a patient, and related method
CN110612140A (en) * 2017-03-13 2019-12-24 波士顿科学有限公司 Hemostatic valve and methods of making and using same

Families Citing this family (193)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US6663599B2 (en) * 1992-05-06 2003-12-16 Cook Incorporated Hemostasis cannula
US8753317B2 (en) * 1992-05-06 2014-06-17 Cook Medical Technologies Llc Hemostasis cannula
US5974128A (en) * 1996-11-27 1999-10-26 Ameritech Corporation Method and system for providing calling name identification requery
US9586023B2 (en) 1998-02-06 2017-03-07 Boston Scientific Limited Direct stream hydrodynamic catheter system
US7226433B2 (en) * 1998-02-06 2007-06-05 Possis Medical, Inc. Thrombectomy catheter device having a self-sealing hemostasis valve
US6666846B1 (en) * 1999-11-12 2003-12-23 Edwards Lifesciences Corporation Medical device introducer and obturator and methods of use
US7101353B2 (en) * 1999-12-30 2006-09-05 Cook Vascular Incorporated Splittable medical valve
US6613014B1 (en) * 2000-06-09 2003-09-02 Advanced Cardiovascular Systems, Inc. Catheter hub with detachable push device
US6572590B1 (en) * 2000-07-13 2003-06-03 Merit Medical Systems, Inc. Adjustable quick-release valve with toggle capability
US6626872B1 (en) * 2000-09-12 2003-09-30 Jose A. Navia Perfusion cannula
US6688306B1 (en) * 2000-11-27 2004-02-10 Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc. Clamping assembly for maintaining the position of a respiratory care treatment device
JP4996015B2 (en) * 2001-03-12 2012-08-08 メディキット株式会社 Indwelling catheter
US8137317B2 (en) * 2002-03-15 2012-03-20 Oscor Inc. Locking vascular introducer assembly with adjustable hemostatic seal
US7192433B2 (en) * 2002-03-15 2007-03-20 Oscor Inc. Locking vascular introducer assembly with adjustable hemostatic seal
US8562583B2 (en) 2002-03-26 2013-10-22 Carmel Pharma Ab Method and assembly for fluid transfer and drug containment in an infusion system
US7867215B2 (en) * 2002-04-17 2011-01-11 Carmel Pharma Ab Method and device for fluid transfer in an infusion system
US6955663B2 (en) * 2002-04-19 2005-10-18 Keun-Ho Lee Catheter for extracting and inserting humors
ATE345147T1 (en) * 2002-06-28 2006-12-15 Bioservice S P A SELF-SEALING VALVE FOR MEDICAL PURPOSES
SE523001C2 (en) * 2002-07-09 2004-03-23 Carmel Pharma Ab Coupling component for transmitting medical substances, comprises connecting mechanism for releasable connection to second coupling component having further channel for creating coupling, where connecting mechanism is thread
US20050080449A1 (en) * 2002-10-31 2005-04-14 Mulder Rudolf T. Safety cartridge for retrievable medical filter
US20040172008A1 (en) * 2002-11-19 2004-09-02 Gmp/Cardiac Care, Inc. Hemostasis valve and method of using a hemostasis valve
WO2004047883A2 (en) * 2002-11-25 2004-06-10 Tecpharma Licensing Ag Device for screwing together medium-guiding threaded connections, particularly luer lock connections
WO2004064903A1 (en) * 2003-01-21 2004-08-05 Carmel Pharma Ab A needle for penetrating a membrane
US20040177593A1 (en) * 2003-03-14 2004-09-16 Reilly Michael D. Consumer product carton having MICR encoded incentive
US6926694B2 (en) * 2003-05-09 2005-08-09 Medsolve Technologies, Llc Apparatus and method for delivery of therapeutic and/or diagnostic agents
US20060129091A1 (en) 2004-12-10 2006-06-15 Possis Medical, Inc. Enhanced cross stream mechanical thrombectomy catheter with backloading manifold
US20050027253A1 (en) * 2003-07-29 2005-02-03 Thomas Castellano Sheath with air trap
US7390316B2 (en) * 2003-08-08 2008-06-24 Teleflex Medical Incorporated Seal positioning assembly
WO2005018732A1 (en) * 2003-08-26 2005-03-03 Zerusa Limited A haemostasis device
JP2007519425A (en) * 2003-09-15 2007-07-19 スーパー ディメンション リミテッド Bronchoscope accessories and systems
US8262622B2 (en) 2003-10-28 2012-09-11 Applied Medical Resources Corporation Surgical gel seal
US7198620B2 (en) * 2003-11-13 2007-04-03 The United States Of America As Represented By The Secretary Of The Army One stage saline lock and intravenous catheter set and method of use
US20050203543A1 (en) * 2004-03-15 2005-09-15 Nabil Hilal Surgical guide valve
US8083728B2 (en) 2004-03-18 2011-12-27 C. R. Bard, Inc. Multifunction adaptor for an open-ended catheter
US7594911B2 (en) 2004-03-18 2009-09-29 C. R. Bard, Inc. Connector system for a proximally trimmable catheter
US7594910B2 (en) 2004-03-18 2009-09-29 C. R. Bard, Inc. Catheter connector
US7854731B2 (en) 2004-03-18 2010-12-21 C. R. Bard, Inc. Valved catheter
JP3899346B2 (en) * 2004-03-19 2007-03-28 株式会社グッドマン Y connector
US7377915B2 (en) 2004-04-01 2008-05-27 C. R. Bard, Inc. Catheter connector system
US7353822B2 (en) * 2004-04-27 2008-04-08 Kimberly-Clark , Worldwide, Inc. Clamping assembly for limiting the depth of insertion of a respiratory care treatment device
WO2005107843A1 (en) 2004-04-30 2005-11-17 C.R. Bard, Inc. Valved sheath introducer for venous cannulation
US8177760B2 (en) * 2004-05-12 2012-05-15 C. R. Bard, Inc. Valved connector
US7347853B2 (en) * 2004-05-12 2008-03-25 C. R. Bard, Inc. Catheter with removable extension
US7063685B2 (en) * 2004-05-12 2006-06-20 C. R. Bard, Inc. Hemostasis valve for a catheter
US7572244B2 (en) * 2004-08-02 2009-08-11 Medrad, Inc. Miniature cross stream thrombectomy catheter
US20080275393A1 (en) * 2004-08-24 2008-11-06 Bonnette Michael J Isolation thrombectomy catheter system
US8414527B2 (en) 2004-09-21 2013-04-09 Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc. Rapid exchange catheters having a sealed guidewire lumen and methods of making the same
US8926564B2 (en) 2004-11-29 2015-01-06 C. R. Bard, Inc. Catheter introducer including a valve and valve actuator
US9597483B2 (en) 2004-11-29 2017-03-21 C. R. Bard, Inc. Reduced-friction catheter introducer and method of manufacturing and using the same
US8403890B2 (en) 2004-11-29 2013-03-26 C. R. Bard, Inc. Reduced friction catheter introducer and method of manufacturing and using the same
US8932260B2 (en) 2004-11-29 2015-01-13 C. R. Bard, Inc. Reduced-friction catheter introducer and method of manufacturing and using the same
US7736383B2 (en) * 2005-01-07 2010-06-15 Rex Medical, L.P. Vein filter cartridge
US7736384B2 (en) * 2005-01-07 2010-06-15 Rex Medical, L.P. Cartridge for vascular device
US7347458B2 (en) * 2005-01-14 2008-03-25 C. R. Bard, Inc. Locking luer fitting
JP5166239B2 (en) * 2005-03-30 2013-03-21 アクセス サイエンティフィック、インク. Vascular access
WO2006125054A1 (en) 2005-05-17 2006-11-23 Wilson-Cook Medical Inc. Hemostasis flushing device
US7875019B2 (en) 2005-06-20 2011-01-25 C. R. Bard, Inc. Connection system for multi-lumen catheter
US7914519B2 (en) * 2005-06-23 2011-03-29 Elcam Medical Agricultural Cooperative Association, Ltd. Catheter device
US7766886B2 (en) * 2005-07-30 2010-08-03 The Regents Of The University Of California Drainage devices and methods
US20070035906A1 (en) * 2005-08-11 2007-02-15 Harris Richard A Transient blocking unit
US8012117B2 (en) 2007-02-06 2011-09-06 Medrad, Inc. Miniature flexible thrombectomy catheter
US20080188793A1 (en) * 2007-02-06 2008-08-07 Possis Medical, Inc. Miniature flexible thrombectomy catheter
US7731694B2 (en) * 2005-10-24 2010-06-08 Cardiac Pacemakers, Inc. Hemostasis seal
US8162878B2 (en) * 2005-12-05 2012-04-24 Medrad, Inc. Exhaust-pressure-operated balloon catheter system
JP4749855B2 (en) * 2005-12-13 2011-08-17 オリンパスメディカルシステムズ株式会社 Endoscopic treatment tool
US7842026B2 (en) * 2005-12-29 2010-11-30 Nmt Medical, Inc. Syringe activated-valve for flushing a catheter and methods thereof
US7766897B2 (en) * 2006-01-02 2010-08-03 Carefusion 303, Inc. Protective priming cap for self-sealing male Luer valve
WO2007080843A1 (en) * 2006-01-11 2007-07-19 Kaneka Corporation Catheter system
US7621946B2 (en) * 2006-03-06 2009-11-24 Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc. Implantable medical endoprosthesis delivery system with hub
US20070238928A1 (en) * 2006-04-07 2007-10-11 Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc. Biopsy port for easy device passage
US7686812B2 (en) * 2006-06-30 2010-03-30 Howmedica Osteonics Corp. Method for setting the rotational position of a femoral component
EP2068712A4 (en) * 2006-07-31 2011-01-19 Hospira Inc Oximetry probe assembly having a fluid seal
EP2218425B1 (en) * 2006-09-08 2012-05-09 Edwards Lifesciences Corporation Integrated heart valve delivery system
JP4994775B2 (en) 2006-10-12 2012-08-08 日本コヴィディエン株式会社 Needle point protector
AU2007317697B2 (en) * 2006-11-08 2013-01-17 Cardiac Pacemakers, Inc. Break-away hemostasis hub
WO2008078393A1 (en) * 2006-12-26 2008-07-03 Goodman Co., Ltd. Connector with hemostatic valve
US7922696B2 (en) 2007-01-24 2011-04-12 Access Scientific, Inc. Access device
US7942860B2 (en) 2007-03-16 2011-05-17 Carmel Pharma Ab Piercing member protection device
EP2486951B1 (en) 2007-04-18 2016-05-25 Access Scientific, Inc. Access device
US7975733B2 (en) 2007-05-08 2011-07-12 Carmel Pharma Ab Fluid transfer device
US8974418B2 (en) * 2007-06-12 2015-03-10 Boston Scientific Limited Forwardly directed fluid jet crossing catheter
US8622985B2 (en) * 2007-06-13 2014-01-07 Carmel Pharma Ab Arrangement for use with a medical device
US8657803B2 (en) 2007-06-13 2014-02-25 Carmel Pharma Ab Device for providing fluid to a receptacle
US8029747B2 (en) 2007-06-13 2011-10-04 Carmel Pharma Ab Pressure equalizing device, receptacle and method
US20080319386A1 (en) * 2007-06-20 2008-12-25 Possis Medical, Inc. Forwardly directable fluid jet crossing catheter
AU2008268632B2 (en) * 2007-06-22 2013-10-17 Medical Components, Inc. Tearaway sheath assembly with hemostasis valve
US20090012476A1 (en) * 2007-07-05 2009-01-08 Galt Medical Corporation Hemostasis valve for a catheter introducer
US10398834B2 (en) * 2007-08-30 2019-09-03 Carmel Pharma Ab Device, sealing member and fluid container
US8287513B2 (en) 2007-09-11 2012-10-16 Carmel Pharma Ab Piercing member protection device
WO2009038505A1 (en) 2007-09-17 2009-03-26 Carmel Pharma Ab Bag connector
CA2697774C (en) * 2007-09-18 2016-04-05 Medical Components, Inc. Tearaway sheath assembly with split hemostasis valve
EP2211971A4 (en) 2007-10-19 2014-09-10 Bard Inc C R Introducer including shaped distal region
US9352129B2 (en) 2007-12-13 2016-05-31 Medical Components, Inc. Introducer assembly with cap and method of using same
WO2009079539A1 (en) 2007-12-17 2009-06-25 Medrad, Inc. Rheolytic thrombectomy catheter with self-inflation distal balloon
EP2227285A4 (en) 2007-12-26 2013-07-31 Medrad Inc Rheolytic thrombectomy catheter with self-inflating proximal balloon with drug infusion capabilities
CA2711454C (en) * 2008-03-14 2016-11-29 Medical Components, Inc. Tearaway introducer sheath with hemostasis valve
DE112009000700T5 (en) 2008-03-20 2011-02-10 Medrad, Inc. Hydrodynamic direct current catheter system
US8979828B2 (en) 2008-07-21 2015-03-17 The Spectranetics Corporation Tapered liquid light guide
US9421065B2 (en) 2008-04-02 2016-08-23 The Spectranetics Corporation Liquid light-guide catheter with optically diverging tip
US7938809B2 (en) * 2008-04-14 2011-05-10 Merit Medical Systems, Inc. Quick release hemostasis valve
US8412329B2 (en) * 2008-04-23 2013-04-02 Cardiac Pacemakers, Inc. Hemostasis valve and guidewire pacing system
US9101748B2 (en) * 2008-05-08 2015-08-11 Becton, Dickinson And Company Push-button blood control
US8366684B2 (en) * 2008-05-12 2013-02-05 Becton, Dickinson And Company Intravenous catheter blood control device
WO2009143307A1 (en) * 2008-05-21 2009-11-26 Medical Components, Inc. Vascular guidewire introducer assembly and valve therefor
WO2009148577A1 (en) 2008-06-04 2009-12-10 Gore Enterprise Holdings, Inc. Introducer sheath valve assembly for medical procedures with collapsible tubular diaphragm
US8075550B2 (en) * 2008-07-01 2011-12-13 Carmel Pharma Ab Piercing member protection device
EP2165731A1 (en) * 2008-09-19 2010-03-24 Terumo Medical Corporation Detachable and freely rotating hemostasis valve
US7762524B2 (en) * 2008-10-20 2010-07-27 Baxter International Inc. Barrier assembly for use with needleless connector
US8523838B2 (en) * 2008-12-15 2013-09-03 Carmel Pharma Ab Connector device
US8790330B2 (en) * 2008-12-15 2014-07-29 Carmel Pharma Ab Connection arrangement and method for connecting a medical device to the improved connection arrangement
US8628056B2 (en) * 2009-02-02 2014-01-14 Aptargroup, Inc. Dual sealing system for use with a probe
US8469928B2 (en) 2009-02-11 2013-06-25 Becton, Dickinson And Company Systems and methods for providing a flushable catheter assembly
US8361038B2 (en) 2009-02-11 2013-01-29 Becton, Dickinson And Company Systems and methods for providing a flow control valve for a medical device
US8574203B2 (en) 2009-02-11 2013-11-05 Becton, Dickinson And Company Systems and methods for providing a flushable catheter assembly
US8388583B2 (en) * 2009-08-20 2013-03-05 Becton, Dickinson And Company Systems and methods for providing a flushable catheter assembly
US8679063B2 (en) * 2009-02-11 2014-03-25 Becton, Dickinson And Company Systems and methods for providing a catheter assembly
USRE45896E1 (en) 2009-02-11 2016-02-23 Becton, Dickinson And Company Systems and methods for providing a catheter assembly
US8057095B2 (en) 2009-04-23 2011-11-15 Medtronic, Inc. Multiple use temperature monitor adapter, system and method of using same
WO2010151825A1 (en) 2009-06-26 2010-12-29 C. R. Bard, Inc. Proximally trimmable catheter including pre-attached bifurcation and related methods
US7967790B2 (en) * 2009-09-01 2011-06-28 Pacesetter, Inc. Hemostasis valve with iris seal
USD637713S1 (en) 2009-11-20 2011-05-10 Carmel Pharma Ab Medical device adaptor
US8480646B2 (en) * 2009-11-20 2013-07-09 Carmel Pharma Ab Medical device connector
EP2533848B1 (en) 2010-02-08 2017-05-24 Access Scientific, Inc. Access device
CN102811760B (en) * 2010-03-15 2015-07-22 泰尔茂株式会社 Introducer assembly
CN101837162B (en) * 2010-03-26 2011-12-28 北京迪玛克医药科技有限公司 Medical Y-shaped connector
US9168203B2 (en) 2010-05-21 2015-10-27 Carmel Pharma Ab Connectors for fluid containers
US8162013B2 (en) 2010-05-21 2012-04-24 Tobias Rosenquist Connectors for fluid containers
US8652104B2 (en) 2010-06-25 2014-02-18 Smiths Medical Asd, Inc. Catheter assembly with seal member
US9545495B2 (en) 2010-06-25 2017-01-17 Smiths Medical Asd, Inc. Catheter assembly with seal member
US8357119B2 (en) 2010-07-15 2013-01-22 Becton, Dickinson And Company Catheter assembly and pierced septum valve
US8361020B2 (en) 2010-07-15 2013-01-29 Becton, Dickinson And Company Catheter assembly and pierced septum valve
US9028425B2 (en) 2010-07-15 2015-05-12 Becton, Dickinson And Company Vented blood sampling device
US8864715B2 (en) 2010-09-08 2014-10-21 Becton, Dickinson And Company Assembly method for catheter with blood control
US8932259B2 (en) 2010-09-13 2015-01-13 Becton, Dickinson And Company Catheter assembly
US9259554B2 (en) 2011-03-07 2016-02-16 Becton, Dickinson And Company Systems and methods to compensate for compression forces in an intravascular device
US8641675B2 (en) 2011-03-07 2014-02-04 Becton, Dickinson And Company Systems and methods for preventing septum damage in an intravascular device
US9162038B2 (en) 2011-04-11 2015-10-20 The Spectranetics Corporation Needle and guidewire holder
US9604321B1 (en) * 2013-05-02 2017-03-28 360° Ballistics, LLC Repair of ballistic concrete panels
ES2662356T3 (en) 2011-04-27 2018-04-06 Kpr U.S., Llc Safety IV catheter assemblies
EP2760520A1 (en) 2011-09-26 2014-08-06 Covidien LP Safety catheter
WO2013048768A1 (en) 2011-09-26 2013-04-04 Covidien Lp Safety iv catheter and needle assembly
US9358364B2 (en) 2011-10-06 2016-06-07 Becton, Dickinson And Company Activator attachment for blood control catheters
US9126012B2 (en) 2011-10-06 2015-09-08 Becton, Dickinson And Company Intravenous catheter with duckbill valve
US9089671B2 (en) 2011-10-06 2015-07-28 Becton, Dickinson And Company Systems and methods for sealing a septum within a catheter device
US9155876B2 (en) 2011-10-06 2015-10-13 Becton, Dickinson And Company Port valve of a blood control catheter
US9155863B2 (en) 2011-10-06 2015-10-13 Becton, Dickinson And Company Multiple use stretching and non-penetrating blood control valves
US9155864B2 (en) 2011-10-06 2015-10-13 Becton, Dickinson And Company Multiple use blood control valve with center and circumferential slits
EP2766074B1 (en) 2011-10-14 2020-04-08 Kpr U.S., Llc Safety iv catheter assembly
US20140018621A1 (en) * 2012-07-16 2014-01-16 Christopher A. Stout Systems for reducing fluid leakage and spray-back from medical procedures
US9579486B2 (en) 2012-08-22 2017-02-28 Becton, Dickinson And Company Blood control IV catheter with antimicrobial properties
US9750928B2 (en) 2013-02-13 2017-09-05 Becton, Dickinson And Company Blood control IV catheter with stationary septum activator
US9695323B2 (en) 2013-02-13 2017-07-04 Becton, Dickinson And Company UV curable solventless antimicrobial compositions
US9566087B2 (en) 2013-03-15 2017-02-14 Access Scientific, Llc Vascular access device
US9717887B2 (en) 2013-12-04 2017-08-01 B. Braun Melsungen Ag Catheter assembly blood control device and related methods
US9750925B2 (en) 2014-01-21 2017-09-05 Becton, Dickinson And Company Ported catheter adapter having combined port and blood control valve with venting
US9789279B2 (en) 2014-04-23 2017-10-17 Becton, Dickinson And Company Antimicrobial obturator for use with vascular access devices
US10376686B2 (en) 2014-04-23 2019-08-13 Becton, Dickinson And Company Antimicrobial caps for medical connectors
US9675793B2 (en) 2014-04-23 2017-06-13 Becton, Dickinson And Company Catheter tubing with extraluminal antimicrobial coating
US10154904B2 (en) 2014-04-28 2018-12-18 Edwards Lifesciences Corporation Intravascular introducer devices
US10485406B2 (en) * 2014-05-22 2019-11-26 Thomas Dinghua Lei Bronchoscope adapter and methods for using the same
US10232088B2 (en) 2014-07-08 2019-03-19 Becton, Dickinson And Company Antimicrobial coating forming kink resistant feature on a vascular access device
EP3166515B1 (en) * 2014-07-08 2018-09-12 Applied Medical Resources Corporation Highly responsive instrument seal
CA2967015C (en) 2014-11-07 2023-02-28 C.R. Bard, Inc. Connection system for tunneled catheters
US10765853B2 (en) 2014-12-22 2020-09-08 Cook Medicai Technologies LLC Hemostatic valve system
WO2016176065A1 (en) 2015-04-30 2016-11-03 Access Scientific, Llc Vascular access device
US10744305B2 (en) 2015-10-28 2020-08-18 Becton, Dickinson And Company Ergonomic IV systems and methods
US10245416B2 (en) 2015-10-28 2019-04-02 Becton, Dickinson And Company Intravenous catheter device with integrated extension tube
US10525237B2 (en) 2015-10-28 2020-01-07 Becton, Dickinson And Company Ergonomic IV systems and methods
US10357636B2 (en) 2015-10-28 2019-07-23 Becton, Dickinson And Company IV access device having an angled paddle grip
US10639455B2 (en) 2015-10-28 2020-05-05 Becton, Dickinson And Company Closed IV access device with paddle grip needle hub and flash chamber
US10814106B2 (en) 2015-10-28 2020-10-27 Becton, Dickinson And Company Soft push tabs for catheter adapter
US10493244B2 (en) 2015-10-28 2019-12-03 Becton, Dickinson And Company Extension tubing strain relief
US10549072B2 (en) 2015-10-28 2020-02-04 Becton, Dickinson And Company Integrated catheter with independent fluid paths
USD837368S1 (en) 2016-10-05 2019-01-01 Becton, Dickinson And Company Catheter adapter grip
USD819802S1 (en) 2016-10-05 2018-06-05 Becton, Dickinson And Company Catheter adapter
USD844781S1 (en) 2016-10-05 2019-04-02 Becton, Dickinson And Company Needle hub
USD835262S1 (en) 2016-10-05 2018-12-04 Becton, Dickinson And Company Intravenous catheter assembly
US10238852B2 (en) 2016-10-05 2019-03-26 Becton, Dickinson And Company Septum housing
US11376408B2 (en) 2016-10-12 2022-07-05 Cygnus Medical Llc Pressure-sensing bleed-back control valve with improved sealing
US10939831B2 (en) 2016-10-12 2021-03-09 Cygnus Medical, Llc Pressure-sensing bleed-back control valve with improved sealing
US10625067B2 (en) 2016-10-12 2020-04-21 Firas Al-Ali Pressure-sensing bleed back control valve with improved sealing
US10557552B2 (en) 2016-11-21 2020-02-11 Cardiac Pacemakers, Inc. Trough seal
WO2018169670A1 (en) * 2017-03-13 2018-09-20 Boston Scientific Limited Hemostasis valves and methods for making and using hemostasis valves
US10960501B2 (en) 2017-03-13 2021-03-30 Boston Scientific Limited Hemostasis valves and methods for making and using hemostasis valves
US10842981B2 (en) * 2017-03-13 2020-11-24 Boston Scientific Limited Hemostasis valves and methods for making and using hemostasis valves
WO2018208780A1 (en) * 2017-05-09 2018-11-15 Merit Medical Systems, Inc. Hemostasis torque assembly
US11076745B2 (en) * 2017-05-26 2021-08-03 Covidien Lp Bronchoscopy coupling devices
US10426929B2 (en) * 2017-07-19 2019-10-01 Becton, Dickinson And Company Integrated peripheral intra-venous catheter with improved extension tube port probe access
CA3073550A1 (en) 2017-08-23 2019-02-28 C.R. Bard, Inc. Catheter assemblies and methods thereof
US10953214B2 (en) 2017-09-12 2021-03-23 Boston Scientific Limited Hemostasis valves and methods for making and using hemostasis valves
US10569059B2 (en) 2018-03-01 2020-02-25 Asspv, Llc Guidewire retention device
JP7199715B2 (en) * 2019-06-13 2023-01-06 株式会社東海メディカルプロダクツ Y-shaped connector with hemostatic valve
US20230248956A1 (en) * 2022-02-10 2023-08-10 St. Jude Medical, Cardiology Division, Inc. Integrated Hemostasis Bypass Valve

Citations (8)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US5059186A (en) * 1988-03-07 1991-10-22 Vitaphore Corporation Percutaneous access device
US5064416A (en) * 1988-05-26 1991-11-12 Newgard Kent W Self-occluding intravascular cannula assembly
US5195980A (en) * 1992-01-03 1993-03-23 Thomas Medical Products, Inc. Hemostatic valve
US5269764A (en) 1992-08-21 1993-12-14 Devices For Vascular Intervention, Inc. Hemostatic gasket and valve assembly
US5324271A (en) * 1993-06-04 1994-06-28 Cordis Corporation Double seal hemostasis connector
US5376077A (en) * 1992-12-04 1994-12-27 Interventional Technologies, Inc. Introducer sheath with seal protector
EP0658357A2 (en) * 1993-12-16 1995-06-21 Terumo Kabushiki Kaisha Connector
EP0875262A2 (en) * 1997-05-02 1998-11-04 Schneider/Namic Medical insertion device with hemostatic valve

Family Cites Families (31)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US4341239A (en) 1980-07-14 1982-07-27 Vernay Laboratories, Inc. Combination check-overpressure relief valve
US4421296A (en) 1980-07-17 1983-12-20 Medical Valve Corporation Disposable plastic reciprocating valve
US4421926A (en) 1982-06-28 1983-12-20 General Electric Company Process for co-alkoxylation of halosilanes and separation of the resulting products
NL8300386A (en) 1983-02-02 1984-09-03 Steritech Bv STERILE DEVICE CONNECTING TWO ROOMS.
US4636668A (en) 1983-07-04 1987-01-13 Citizen Watch Co., Ltd. Compact-sized permanent magnet type stepping motor
US4581020A (en) 1983-07-18 1986-04-08 Trimedyne, Inc. Medication delivery device and system for percutaneous administration of medication
DE3341860C2 (en) 1983-11-19 1985-09-19 Hydrotechnik Gmbh, 6250 Limburg Measuring coupling for fluid systems
US4634432A (en) 1985-05-13 1987-01-06 Nuri Kocak Introducer sheath assembly
GB8627808D0 (en) 1986-11-20 1986-12-17 Cox J A Sampling liquids from human/animal body
US4886507A (en) * 1988-02-01 1989-12-12 Medex, Inc. Y connector for angioplasty procedure
US4960412A (en) 1988-04-15 1990-10-02 Universal Medical Instrument Corp. Catheter introducing system
US4874378A (en) * 1988-06-01 1989-10-17 Cordis Corporation Catheter sheath introducer
US5057084A (en) 1990-03-01 1991-10-15 The Regents Of The University Of Michigan Implantable infusion device
US5125915A (en) * 1990-03-02 1992-06-30 Cardiopulmonics, Inc. Locking y-connector for selective attachment to exterior of medical tubing
US5147336A (en) * 1990-06-05 1992-09-15 The Kendall Company Adapter kit for a catheter introducer
US5092840A (en) 1990-07-16 1992-03-03 Healy Patrick M Valved medicine container
US5085645A (en) 1990-08-15 1992-02-04 Becton, Dickinson And Company Apparatus and method for a catheter adapter with valve
US5106054A (en) 1990-08-23 1992-04-21 Thomas J. Fogarty Self-sealing hemostasis valve apparatus and method of forming the same
US5338314A (en) * 1991-04-22 1994-08-16 B. Braun Medical, Inc. Rotating Y-connector
US5382230A (en) 1991-12-16 1995-01-17 Thomas Jefferson University Vascular access sheath for interventional devices
US5273533A (en) * 1992-03-11 1993-12-28 Care Medical Products, Inc. Medical valve
US5458640A (en) * 1993-01-29 1995-10-17 Gerrone; Carmen J. Cannula valve and seal system
JP2871378B2 (en) * 1993-03-25 1999-03-17 株式会社クリニカル・サプライ Sheath introducer with valve
US5478331A (en) * 1994-05-11 1995-12-26 Localmed, Inc. Multi-function proximal end adapter for catheter
US5507732A (en) * 1994-10-05 1996-04-16 Medtronic, Inc. Quick assembly catheter manifold
US5599305A (en) * 1994-10-24 1997-02-04 Cardiovascular Concepts, Inc. Large-diameter introducer sheath having hemostasis valve and removable steering mechanism
US5591137A (en) * 1995-07-14 1997-01-07 Merit Medical Systems, Inc. Hemostasis valve with locking seal
US5820600A (en) 1996-05-14 1998-10-13 Innerdyne, Inc. Adjustable introducer valve
JPH1085341A (en) * 1996-09-17 1998-04-07 Yoshimasa Obayashi Connector with hemostatic valve for catheter
US5935112A (en) * 1997-10-15 1999-08-10 Stevens; Brian W. Hemostasis valve with catheter/guidewire seals
US6287280B1 (en) 1999-09-07 2001-09-11 Merit Medical Systems, Inc. Hemostasis valve apparatus with integral introducer

Patent Citations (8)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US5059186A (en) * 1988-03-07 1991-10-22 Vitaphore Corporation Percutaneous access device
US5064416A (en) * 1988-05-26 1991-11-12 Newgard Kent W Self-occluding intravascular cannula assembly
US5195980A (en) * 1992-01-03 1993-03-23 Thomas Medical Products, Inc. Hemostatic valve
US5269764A (en) 1992-08-21 1993-12-14 Devices For Vascular Intervention, Inc. Hemostatic gasket and valve assembly
US5376077A (en) * 1992-12-04 1994-12-27 Interventional Technologies, Inc. Introducer sheath with seal protector
US5324271A (en) * 1993-06-04 1994-06-28 Cordis Corporation Double seal hemostasis connector
EP0658357A2 (en) * 1993-12-16 1995-06-21 Terumo Kabushiki Kaisha Connector
EP0875262A2 (en) * 1997-05-02 1998-11-04 Schneider/Namic Medical insertion device with hemostatic valve

Cited By (14)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JP2003525660A (en) * 1999-09-07 2003-09-02 メリット・メディカル・システムズ・インコーポレーテッド Hemostasis valve device with integral introducer
EP1409062A1 (en) * 2001-06-28 2004-04-21 Sewoon Medical Co., Ltd. Apparatus for inserting guide wire for use in catheter
EP1409062A4 (en) * 2001-06-28 2006-12-27 Sewoon Medical Co Ltd Apparatus for inserting guide wire for use in catheter
EP1545677A2 (en) * 2002-07-31 2005-06-29 Thomas Medical Products, Inc. A tapered fitting for an introducer coupled to a hemostatic valve
EP1545677A4 (en) * 2002-07-31 2010-03-17 Thomas Medical Products Inc A tapered fitting for an introducer coupled to a hemostatic valve
EP1656168A4 (en) * 2003-08-18 2007-08-08 Medical Components Inc Needle with sealing valve
US7470254B2 (en) 2003-08-18 2008-12-30 Medical Components, Inc. Needle with sealing valve
EP1656168A2 (en) * 2003-08-18 2006-05-17 Medical Components, Inc. Needle with sealing valve
WO2007080095A1 (en) * 2006-01-10 2007-07-19 B. Braun Melsungen Ag Catheter device
WO2012175699A1 (en) 2011-06-22 2012-12-27 Perouse Medical Hemostasis valve device for injecting a medical material into a patient, and related method
FR2976814A1 (en) * 2011-06-22 2012-12-28 Perouse Medical HEMOSTATIC VALVE DEVICE FOR INTRODUCING MEDICAL DEVICE IN PATIENT, AND ASSOCIATED METHOD
CN103781510A (en) * 2011-06-22 2014-05-07 贝鲁斯医疗公司 Hemostasis valve device for injecting a medical material into a patient, and related method
US9566424B2 (en) 2011-06-22 2017-02-14 Perouse Medical Hemostasis valve device for injecting a medical material into a patient, and related method
CN110612140A (en) * 2017-03-13 2019-12-24 波士顿科学有限公司 Hemostatic valve and methods of making and using same

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
US6488674B2 (en) 2002-12-03
US20010021825A1 (en) 2001-09-13
US20020010436A1 (en) 2002-01-24
JP3893246B2 (en) 2007-03-14
AU3740100A (en) 2000-09-28
US20020002352A1 (en) 2002-01-03
US6331176B1 (en) 2001-12-18
US6695820B1 (en) 2004-02-24
CA2364387A1 (en) 2000-09-14
US6575960B2 (en) 2003-06-10
JP2002537953A (en) 2002-11-12
EP1159026A1 (en) 2001-12-05

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US6488674B2 (en) Bleed back control assembly and method
US6602240B2 (en) Method and device for maintaining a seal
US5935122A (en) Dual valve, flexible expandable sheath and method
US6808520B1 (en) Dual valve, flexible expandable sheath and method
US6652492B1 (en) Dual valve, flexible sheath and method
US5807350A (en) Kink resistant catheter sheath introducer
US6416499B2 (en) Medical fluid flow control valve
CA2236608C (en) Medical insertion device with hemostatic valve
AU661064B2 (en) Large-diameter expandable sheath and method
US6551283B1 (en) Hemostasis valve
US5273546A (en) Hemostasis valve
US5897497A (en) Guiding catheter introducer assembly
CA2168369C (en) Dual valve reinforced sheath and method
US5125903A (en) Hemostasis valve
US5207649A (en) Introducer sheath having a hemostatic closure
JP5332048B2 (en) Hemostatic valve
US20100036329A1 (en) Hemostasis valve
EP1229948B1 (en) Hemostasis valve apparatus with integral introducer

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
AK Designated states

Kind code of ref document: A1

Designated state(s): AE AL AM AT AU AZ BA BB BG BR BY CA CH CN CR CU CZ DE DK DM EE ES FI GB GD GE GH GM HR HU ID IL IN IS JP KE KG KP KR KZ LC LK LR LS LT LU LV MD MG MK MN MW MX NO NZ PL PT RO RU SD SE SG SI SK SL TJ TM TR TT TZ UA UG UZ VN YU ZA ZW

AL Designated countries for regional patents

Kind code of ref document: A1

Designated state(s): GH GM KE LS MW SD SL SZ TZ UG ZW AM AZ BY KG KZ MD RU TJ TM AT BE CH CY DE DK ES FI FR GB GR IE IT LU MC NL PT SE BF BJ CF CG CI CM GA GN GW ML MR NE SN TD TG

121 Ep: the epo has been informed by wipo that ep was designated in this application
DFPE Request for preliminary examination filed prior to expiration of 19th month from priority date (pct application filed before 20040101)
WWE Wipo information: entry into national phase

Ref document number: 2000916272

Country of ref document: EP

ENP Entry into the national phase

Ref document number: 2364387

Country of ref document: CA

Ref country code: CA

Ref document number: 2364387

Kind code of ref document: A

Format of ref document f/p: F

WWE Wipo information: entry into national phase

Ref document number: 37401/00

Country of ref document: AU

ENP Entry into the national phase

Ref country code: JP

Ref document number: 2000 603742

Kind code of ref document: A

Format of ref document f/p: F

WWP Wipo information: published in national office

Ref document number: 2000916272

Country of ref document: EP

REG Reference to national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: 8642

WWW Wipo information: withdrawn in national office

Ref document number: 2000916272

Country of ref document: EP