Air blocks

Abstract

Air blocks are described. In one embodiment, an air block may include an outer shell having an outer shell lumen. The outer shell may have an outer shell first split separably coupled to an outer shell second split. The air block may also include a tool guide coupled to the outer shell at least partially in the outer shell lumen. The tool guide may have a tool guide proximal opening and a tool guide distal opening. The tool guide may have a tool guide lumen. The tool guide may have one or more fenestrations configured to allow fluid communication between the tool guide lumen and the outer shell lumen. The tool guide may have a tool guide first split separably coupled to a tool guide second split. The air block may also include a proximal hemostasis valve coupled to the tool guide proximal opening. The air block may also include a distal hemostasis valve coupled to the tool guide distal opening. The outer shell may be configured to be split along a full length of the tool guide lumen into the outer shell first split and the outer shell second split. The tool guide may be configured to be split along the full length of the tool guide lumen into the tool guide first split and the tool guide second split.

Description

AIR BLOCKSCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. provisional application no.63 / 646,251, filed May 13, 2024, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.BACKGROUND

[0002] A catheter may be used to access a site of interest in the body. A tool may be advanced through a catheter to effect a desired action at a site of interest. However, advancing a tool through a catheter risks introducing air into the bloodstream.

[0003] An air block may be used with a catheter to reduce the risk of introducing air into the bloodstream when advancing a tool through a catheter. However, an air block may reduce the effective working length of a tool advanced through the catheter.

[0004] What is needed are devices and methods that reduce the risk of introducing air into the bloodstream when advancing a tool through a catheter, and also reduce the effect on the effective working length of the tool advanced through the catheter.SUMMARY

[0005] Air blocks are described. In one embodiment, an air block may include an outer shell having an outer shell lumen. The outer shell may have an outer shell first split separably coupled to an outer shell second split. The air block may also include a tool guide coupled to the outer shell at least partially in the outer shell lumen. The tool guide may have a tool guide proximal opening and a tool guide distal opening. The tool guide may have a tool guide lumen. The tool guide may have one or more fenestrations configured to allow fluid communication between the tool guide lumen and the outer shell lumen. The tool guide may have a tool guide first split separably coupled to a tool guide second split. The air block may also include a proximal hemostasis valve coupled to the tool guide proximal opening. The air block may also include a distal hemostasis valve coupled to the tool guide distal opening. The outer shell may be configured to be split along a full length of the tool guide lumen into the outer shell first split and the outershell second split. The tool guide may be configured to be split along the full length of the tool guide lumen into the tool guide first split and the tool guide second split.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0006] FIGURES 1-4 show perspective, side, front, and exploded views of one embodiment of an air block 1500.

[0007] FIGURES 5A-5E show one embodiment of a method for using air block 1500.

[0008] FIGURES 6-7 show side and front views of one embodiment of an air block 2500. FIGURES 8A-8B show exploded views of air block 2500. FIGURE 9 shows one embodiment of an outer shell first split 2504a.

[0009] FIGURES 10A-10F show one embodiment of a method for using air block 2500.DESCRIPTION

[0010] FIGURES 1-4 show perspective, side, front, and exploded views of one embodiment of an air block 1500.

[0011] Air block 1500 may be configured to be split apart and removed from around a tool.

[0012] Air block 1500 may include an outer shell 1504. Outer shell 1504 may have a proximal portion 1504p and a distal portion 1504d. Outer shell 1504 may have an outer shell lumen 1524. Outer shell 1504 may be at least partially made of a transparent material.

[0013] Outer shell 1504 may be configured to be at least partially filled with a liquid in outer shell lumen 1524. Outer shell 1504 may be configured to contain the liquid and reduce an amount of liquid that may escape from outer shell lumen 1524.

[0014] Outer shell 1504 may have an outer shell first split 1504a and an outer shell second split 1504b. Outer shell first split 1504a may be separably coupled to outer shell second split 1504b. Outer shell first split 1504a and outer shell second split 1504 may be of similar or dissimilar size and / or shape.

[0015] Outer shell 1504 may have a split seal 1509. Split seal 1509 may be coupled between outer shell first split 1504a and outer shell second split 1504b. Split seal 1509 may be positioned between mating surfaces of outer shell first split 1504a and outer shell second split 1504b. Split seal 1509 may have one or more pieces. Split seal 1509 may be made of silicon, rubber, or other suitable material.

[0016] Split seal 1509 may be configured to reduce an amount of liquid that may escape from between outer shell first split 1504a and outer shell second split 1504b.

[0017] Air block 1500 may include a tool guide 1502. Tool guide 1502 may be coupled to outer shell 1504. Tool guide 1502 may be coupled to outer shell 1504 at least partially in outer shell lumen 1524. Tool guide 1502 may have a proximal portion 1502p and a distal portion 1502d. Tool guide 1502 may have a tool guide proximal opening 1505 and a tool guide distal opening 1507.

[0018] Tool guide 1502 may have a tool guide lumen 1503. Tool guide lumen1503 may have a proximal portion 1503p and a distal portion 1503d. Tool guide lumen 1503 may have a longitudinal axis 1503x. Tool guide lumen 1503 may have a longitudinal axis 1503x that passes through tool guide proximal opening 1505 and tool guide distal opening 1507. Tool guide lumen 1503 may have a cross section that is circular, oval, or other suitable shape. Tool guide lumen 1503 may be concentric or nonconcentric with outer shell 1504.

[0019] Tool guide 1502 may be configured to guide a tool advanced through tool guide proximal opening 1505 through tool guide lumen 1503 and through tool guide distal opening 1507. Tool guide lumen 1503 may have a width that decreases from proximal portion 1502p to distal portion 1502d of tool guide 1502. Tool guide lumen 1503 may taper down from proximal portion 1502p to distal portion 1502d of tool guide 1502. Tool guide lumen 1503 may have an inside surface that is smooth to allow a tool to be advanced with less force.

[0020] Tool guide 1502 may have one or more fenestrations 1528. Fenestrations1528 may be configured to allow fluid communication between tool guide lumen 1503 and outer shell lumen 1524. Fenestrations 1528 may be located at an upper portion of tool guide lumen 1503 to allow air bubbles to escape tool guide lumen 1503 up through fenestrations 1528 and into outer shell lumen 1524. Tool guide 1502 may be capable ofbeing manipulated to position fenestrations 1528 at an upper portion of tool guide lumen 1503 to allow air bubbles to escape tool guide lumen 1503 up through fenestrations 1528 and into outer shell lumen 1524. Fenestrations 1528 may be linear and / or nonlinear.

[0021] Fenestrations 1528 may have openings from tool guide lumen 1503 that are shaped and / or finished to allow a tool to be advanced with less force. For example, fenestrations 1528 may have openings from tool guide lumen 1503 that are oval-shaped and oriented longitudinally. As another example, fenestrations 1528 may have openings from tool guide lumen 1503 that are sized smaller than a tool. As yet another example, fenestrations 1528 may have openings from tool guide lumen 1503 that are smooth or rounded. Fenestrations 1528 may be angled proximally away from tool guide lumen 1503 to reduce the likelihood a tool will catch on fenestrations 1528 while being advanced.

[0022] Tool guide 1502 may have a tool guide first split 1502a and a tool guide second split 1502b. Tool guide first split 1502a may be separably coupled to tool guide second split 1502b. Tool guide first split 1502a may be coupled to outer shell first split 1504a. Tool guide first split 1502a and outer shell first split 1504a may be formed integrally or discretely. Tool guide second split 1502b may be coupled to outer shell second split 1504b. Tool guide second split 1502b and outer shell second 1504b may be formed integrally or discretely. Tool guide first split 1502a and tool guide second split 1502b may be of similar or dissimilar size and / or shape.

[0023] Air block 1500 may include a proximal hemostasis valve 1506. Proximal hemostasis valve 1506 may be coupled to tool guide proximal opening 1505. Proximal hemostasis valve 1506 may be configured to reduce an amount of liquid that may escape from outer shell lumen 1524 and / or tool guide lumen 1503 when a tool is passed through proximal hemostasis valve 1506.

[0024] Proximal hemostasis valve 1506 may have a proximal hemostasis valve first split 1506a and a proximal hemostasis valve second split 1506b. Proximal hemostasis valve first split 1506a may be separably coupled to proximal hemostasis valve second split 1506b. Proximal hemostasis valve first split 1506a may be coupled to one or both of outer shell first split 1504a and tool guide first split 1502a. Proximal hemostasisvalve second split 1506b may be coupled to one or both of outer shell second split 1504b and tool guide second split 1502b.

[0025] Air block 1500 may include a distal hemostasis valve 1508. Distal hemostasis valve 1508 may be coupled to tool guide distal opening 1507. Distal hemostasis valve 1508 may be configured to reduce an amount of liquid that may escape from outer shell lumen 1524 and / or tool guide lumen 1503 when a tool is passed through distal hemostasis valve 1508.

[0026] Distal hemostasis valve 1508 may have a distal hemostasis valve first split 1508a and a distal hemostasis valve second split 1508b. Distal hemostasis valve first split 1508a may be separably coupled to distal hemostasis valve second split 1508b.Distal hemostasis valve first split 1508a may be coupled to one or both of outer shell first split 1504a and tool guide first split 1502a. Distal hemostasis valve second split 1508b may be coupled to one or both of outer shell second split 1504b and tool guide second split 1502b.

[0027] Air block 1500 may include an adapter tube 1510. Adapter tube 1510 may include a proximal portion 151 Op, a distal portion 151 Od, and a longitudinal axis 1510x. Adapter tube 1510 may define an adapter tube lumen 1511. Proximal portion 151 Op of adapter tube 1510 may be coupled to distal portion 1502d of tool guide 1502 and / or distal hemostasis valve 1508. Adapter tube lumen 1511 may be substantially coaxial with tool guide lumen 1503.

[0028] Adapter tube 1510 may be configured to be coupled to an introducer and / or a catheter. Adapter tube 1510 may be configured to be at least partially inserted into an introducer and / or a catheter.

[0029] Adapter tube 1510 may have an adapter tube first split 1510a and an adapter tube second split 1510b. Adapter tube first split 1510a may be separably coupled to adapter tube second split 1510b. Adapter tube 1510 may have scoring 1513 along a length of adapter tube 1510. Scoring 1513 may include one or more score lines along a length of adapter tube 1510. Scoring 1513 may be configured to allow adapter tube 1510 to be split into adapter tube first split 1510a and adapter tube second split 1510b.

[0030] Outer shell 1504 may have a coupling device 1540. Coupling device 1540 may be configured to separably couple outer shell first split 1504a and outer shell second split 1504b.

[0031] Coupling device 1540 may include one or more bands 1541. Bands 1541 may be coupled to outer shell first split 1504a and outer shell second split 1504b. Bands 1541 may wrap around proximal portion 1504p and / or distal portion 1504d of outer shell 1504. Bands 1541 may wrap around at least a portion of outer shell first split 1504a and outer shell second split 1504b. Bands 1541 may be configured to fit into one or more grooves or channels formed in outer shell 1504. Bands 1541 may be made of silicone, rubber, fabric, or other suitable material. Bands 1541 may be configured to be cut, torn, or otherwise broken.

[0032] Coupling device 1540 may include one or more of straps, latches, clips, fasteners, hinges, slots, tabs, posts, holes, adhesives, and other suitable devices.

[0033] Air block 1500 may include an inlet port 1532. Inlet port 1532 may be coupled to outer shell 1504. Inlet port 1532 may have an inlet port lumen 1533 in fluid communication with outer shell lumen 1524.

[0034] Inlet port 1532 may be configured to allow a liquid to be introduced into outer shell lumen 1524.

[0035] Air block 1500 may include a forward-flow one-way check valve 1514.Forward-flow one-way check valve 1514 may be coupled to inlet port 1532. Forwardflow one-way check valve 1514 may be configured to allow a liquid to be introduced through inlet port lumen 1533 and into outer shell lumen 1524. Forward-flow one-way check valve 1514 may be configured to not allow liquid to escape from outer shell lumen 1524 out through inlet port lumen 1533.

[0036] Air block 1500 may include an outlet port 1530. Outlet port 1530 may be coupled to outer shell 1504. Outlet port 1530 may be coupled to an upper portion of outer shell 1504. Outlet port 1530 may have an outlet port lumen 1531 in fluid communication with outer shell lumen 1524.

[0037] Outlet port 1530 may be configured to allow air and / or liquid to be removed from outer shell lumen 1524.

[0038] Air block 1500 may include a reverse-flow one-way check valve 1 12.Reverse-flow one-way check valve 1512 may be coupled to outlet port 1530. Reverseflow one-way check valve 1512 may be configured to allow air and / or liquid to be removed from outer shell lumen 1524 and out through outlet port lumen 1531. Reverseflow one-way check valve 1512 may be configured to not allow air and / or liquid to enter into outer shell lumen 1524 through outlet port lumen 1531.

[0039] Air block 1500 may be configured to be split apart and removed from around a tool. Air block 1500 may be configured to be split apart and removed from around a tool without having to withdraw the tool fully out of air block 1500. Air block 1500 may be configured to be split apart and removed from around a tool without having to remove air block 1500 from an end of the tool.

[0040] Air block 1500 may be configured to be split along a full length of tool guide lumen 1503, allowing air block 1500 to be removed from around a tool in tool guide lumen 1503. Air block 1500 may be configured to be split to expose a full length of tool guide lumen 1503, allowing air block 1500 to be removed from around a tool in tool guide lumen 1503. Air block 1500 may be configured to be split along longitudinal axis 1503x of tool guide lumen 1503, allowing air block 1500 to be removed from around a tool in tool guide lumen 1503.

[0041] Outer shell 1504 and tool guide 1502 may each be configured to be split into two or more pieces along a full length of tool guide lumen 1503.

[0042] Outer shell 1504 may be configured to be split along a full length of tool guide lumen 1503 into outer shell first split 1504a and outer shell second split 1504b. Tool guide 1502 may be configured to be split along a full length of tool guide lumen 1503 into tool guide first split 1502a and tool guide second split 1502b.

[0043] Proximal hemostasis valve 1506 and distal hemostasis valve 1508 may each be configured to be split into two or more pieces around a tool. Proximal hemostasis valve 1506 may be configured to be split around a tool into proximal hemostasis valve first split 1506a and proximal hemostasis valve second split 1506b around a tool. Distal hemostasis valve 1508 may be configured to be split around a tool into distal hemostasis valve first split 1508a and distal hemostasis valve second split 1508b.

[0044] Adapter tube 1510 may be configured to be split into two or more pieces along a full length of adapter tube lumen 1511. Adapter tube 1510 may be configured to be split along a full length of adapter tube lumen 1511 into adapter tube first split 1510a and adapter tube second split 1510b.

[0045] FIGURES 5A-5E show one embodiment of a method for using air block 1500.

[0046] FIGURE 5 A shows advancing a tool T through air block 1500. A tool T may be advanced through tool guide lumen 1503 and adapter tube lumen 1511. A distal portion of the tool T may extend past distal portion 151 Od of adapter tube 1510.

[0047] FIGURE 5B shows coupling air block 1500 to a hub H of a catheter C. Adapter tube 1510 with the tool T may be inserted into a proximal portion of a hub H of a catheter C. Tool guide lumen 1503 may be oriented horizontally or substantially horizontally. Outer shell lumen 1524 may be filled with a liquid to submerge tool guide lumen 1503. A liquid may be introduced into outer shell lumen 1524 through inlet port 1532. The tool T may then be advanced through tool guide lumen 1503, adapter tube lumen 1511, and the catheter C to access a site of interest. As the tool T is advanced through tool guide lumen 1503, air introduced into tool guide lumen 1503 may be allowed to pass through fenestrations 1528 into outer shell lumen 1524. Outlet port 1530 may be positioned at the highest point of air block 1500. Air may be removed from outer shell lumen 1524 through outlet port 1530.

[0048] FIGURES 5C1 and 5C2 show uncoupling air block 1500 from the hub H of the catheter C. Air block 1500 may be pulled back over the tool T to pull adapter tube 1510 from the hub H of the catheter C. The tool T may remain in position in the catheter C.

[0049] FIGURE 5D shows uncoupling outer shell first split 1504a and outer shell second split 1504b. Bands 1541 may be cut or otherwise removed from outer shell 1504. Tool guide first split 1502a and tool guide second split 1502b may also be uncoupled.

[0050] FIGURE 5E shows splitting air block 1500. Outer shell 1504 may be split along a full length of tool guide lumen 1503 into outer shell first split 1504a and outer shell second split 1504b. Tool guide 1502 may be split along a full length of tool guide lumen 1503 into tool guide first split 1502a and tool guide second split 1502b.

[0051] Outer shell first split 1504a and outer shell second split 1504b may be pulled apart. Tool guide first split 1502a and tool guide second split 1502b may be pulled apart along the full length of tool guide lumen 1503 to expose the full length of tool guide lumen 1503.

[0052] Proximal hemostasis valve first split 1506a and proximal hemostasis valve second split 1506b may be pulled apart. Distal hemostasis valve first split 1508a and distal hemostasis valve second split 1508b may be pulled apart.

[0053] Adapter tube first split 1510a and adapter tube second split 1510b may be pulled apart along scoring 1513 to expose the full length of adapter tube lumen 1511.

[0054] Air block 1500 may be removed from around the tool T. The tool T may be advanced further through catheter C by a distance that was previously occupied by air block 1500.

[0055] FIGURES 6-7 show side and front views of one embodiment of an air block 2500. FIGURES 8A-8B show exploded views of air block 2500.

[0056] Air block 2500 may be configured to be split apart and removed from around a tool.

[0057] Air block 2500 may include an outer shell 2504. Outer shell 2504 may have a proximal portion 2504p and a distal portion 2504d. Outer shell 2504 may have an outer shell lumen 2524. Outer shell 2504 may be at least partially made of a transparent material.

[0058] Outer shell 2504 may be configured to be at least partially filled with a liquid in outer shell lumen 2524. Outer shell 2504 may be configured to contain the liquid and reduce an amount of liquid that may escape from outer shell lumen 2524.

[0059] Outer shell 2504 may have an outer shell first split 2504a and an outer shell second split 2504b. Outer shell first split 2504a may be separably coupled to outer shell second split 2504b. Outer shell first split 2504a and outer shell second split 2504 may be of similar or dissimilar size and / or shape. FIGURE 9 shows one embodiment of an outer shell first split 2504a.

[0060] Outer shell 2504 may have a split seal 2509. Split seal 2509 may be coupled between outer shell first split 2504a and outer shell second split 2504b. Split seal 2509 may be positioned between mating surfaces of outer shell first split 2504a andouter shell second split 2504b. Split seal 2509 may have one or more pieces. Split seal 2509 may be made of silicon, rubber, or other suitable material.

[0061] Split seal 2509 may be configured to reduce an amount of liquid that may escape from between outer shell first split 2504a and outer shell second split 2504b.

[0062] Air block 2500 may include a tool guide 2502. Tool guide 2502 may be coupled to outer shell 2504. Tool guide 2502 may be coupled to outer shell 2504 at least partially in outer shell lumen 2524. Tool guide 2502 may have a proximal portion 2502p and a distal portion 2502d. Tool guide 2502 may have a tool guide proximal opening 2505 and a tool guide distal opening 2507.

[0063] Tool guide 2502 may have a tool guide lumen 2503. Tool guide lumen2503 may have a proximal portion 2503p and a distal portion 2503d. Tool guide lumen 2503 may have a longitudinal axis. Tool guide lumen 2503 may have a longitudinal axis 2503x that passes through tool guide proximal opening 2505 and tool guide distal opening 2507. Tool guide lumen 2503 may have a cross section that is circular, oval, or other suitable shape. Tool guide lumen 2503 may be concentric or nonconcentric with outer shell 2504.

[0064] Tool guide 2502 may be configured to guide a tool advanced through tool guide proximal opening 2505 through tool guide lumen 2503 and through tool guide distal opening 2507. Tool guide lumen 2503 may have a width that decreases from proximal portion 2502p to distal portion 2502d of tool guide 2502. Tool guide lumen 2503 may taper down from proximal portion 2502p to distal portion 2502d of tool guide 2502. Tool guide lumen 2503 may have an inside surface that is smooth to allow a tool to be advanced with less force.

[0065] Tool guide 2502 may have one or more fenestrations 2528. Fenestrations2528 may be configured to allow fluid communication between tool guide lumen 2503 and outer shell lumen 2524. Fenestrations 2528 may be located at an upper portion of tool guide lumen 2503 to allow air bubbles to escape tool guide lumen 2503 up through fenestrations 2528 and into outer shell lumen 2524. Tool guide 2502 may be capable of being manipulated to position fenestrations 2528 at an upper portion of tool guide lumen 2503 to allow air bubbles to escape tool guide lumen 2503 up through fenestrations 2528 and into outer shell lumen 2524. Fenestrations 2528 may be linear and / or nonlinear.

[0066] Fenestrations 2528 may have openings from tool guide lumen 2503 that are shaped and / or finished to allow a tool to be advanced with less force. For example, fenestrations 2528 may have openings from tool guide lumen 2503 that are oval-shaped and oriented longitudinally. As another example, fenestrations 2528 may have openings from tool guide lumen 2503 that are sized smaller than a tool. As yet another example, fenestrations 2528 may have openings from tool guide lumen 2503 that are smooth or rounded. Fenestrations 2528 may be angled proximally away from tool guide lumen 2503 to reduce the likelihood a tool will catch on fenestrations 2528 while being advanced.

[0067] Tool guide 2502 may have a tool guide first split 2502a and a tool guide second split 2502b. Tool guide first split 2502a may be separably coupled to tool guide second split 2502b. Tool guide first split 2502a may be coupled to outer shell first split 2504a. Tool guide first split 2502a and outer shell first split 2504a may be formed integrally or discretely. Tool guide second split 2502b may be coupled to outer shell second split 2504b. Tool guide second split 2502b and outer shell second 2504b may be formed integrally or discretely. Tool guide first split 2502a and tool guide second split 2502b may be of similar or dissimilar size and / or shape.

[0068] Tool guide first split 2502a may be formed as one or more projections2527a coupled to outer shell first split 2504a. Tool guide second split 2502b may be formed as one more projections 2527b coupled to outer shell second split 2504b. Projections 2527a and / or projections 2527b may define tool guide lumen 2503. Projections 2527a and / or projections 2527b may define fenestrations 2528.

[0069] Air block 2500 may include a proximal hemostasis valve 2506. Proximal hemostasis valve 2506 may be coupled to tool guide proximal opening 2505. Proximal hemostasis valve 2506 may be configured to reduce an amount of liquid that may escape from outer shell lumen 2524 and / or tool guide lumen 2503 when a tool is passed through proximal hemostasis valve 2506.

[0070] Air block 2500 may include a distal hemostasis valve 2508. Distal hemostasis valve 2508 may be coupled to tool guide distal opening 2507. Distal hemostasis valve 2508 may be configured to reduce an amount of liquid that may escapefrom outer shell lumen 2524 and / or tool guide lumen 2503 when a tool is passed through distal hemostasis valve 2508.

[0071] Air block 2500 may include an adapter tube 2510. Adapter tube 2510 may include a proximal portion 2510p, a distal portion 2510d, and a longitudinal axis 2510x. Adapter tube 2510 may define an adapter tube lumen 2511. Proximal portion 251 Op of adapter tube 2510 may be coupled to distal portion 2502d of tool guide 2502 and / or distal hemostasis valve 2508. Adapter tube lumen 2511 may be substantially coaxial with tool guide lumen 2503.

[0072] Adapter tube 2510 may be configured to be coupled to an introducer and / or a catheter. Adapter tube 2510 may be configured to be at least partially inserted into an introducer and / or a catheter.

[0073] Outer shell 2504 may have a coupling device 2540. Coupling device 2540 may be configured to separably couple outer shell first split 2504a and outer shell second split 2504b.

[0074] Coupling device 2540 may include a proximal cap 2541. Proximal cap2541 may be removably coupled to proximal portion 2504p of outer shell 2504.

[0075] Proximal cap 2541 may have a proximal cap skirt 2542 configured to fit around proximal portion 2504p of outer shell 2504. Proximal portion 2504p of outer shell 2504 may be configured to cooperate with proximal cap skirt 2542. Proximal portion 2504p of outer shell 2504 may have a reduced width or narrow portion 2544 configured to cooperate with proximal cap skirt 2542.

[0076] Proximal cap 2541 may have proximal cap threads 2545 configured to cooperate with outer shell proximal threads 2546. Proximal cap threads 2545 may be inward-facing and formed on proximal cap skirt 2542. Outer shell proximal threads 2546 may be outward-facing and formed on narrow portion 2544 of outer shell 2504.

[0077] Alternatively, proximal cap 2541 may be removably coupled to proximal portion 2504p of outer shell 2504 with an interference fit, bayonet connector, or other suitable connector.

[0078] Proximal cap 2541 may have a proximal cap opening 2549. Proximal cap opening 2549 may be configured to at least partially align with tool guide proximal opening 2505. Proximal cap opening 2549 may be configured to provide access to toolguide proximal opening 2505. Proximal hemostasis valve 2506 may be coupled to proximal cap opening 2549. Proximal hemostasis valve 2506 may be coupled between proximal cap opening 2549 and tool guide proximal opening 2505.

[0079] Coupling device 2540 may include a distal cap 2551. Distal cap 2551 may be removably coupled to distal portion 2504d of outer shell 2504.

[0080] Distal cap 2551 may have a distal cap outer skirt 2552 configured to fit around distal portion 2504d of outer shell 2504. Distal portion 2504d of outer shell 2504 may be configured to cooperate with distal cap outer skirt 2552. Distal portion 2504d of outer shell 2504 may have a tapered or reduced width configured to cooperate with distal cap outer skirt 2552.

[0081] Distal cap 2551 may have a distal cap inner skirt 2553 configured to fit inside distal portion 2504d of outer shell 2504. Distal portion 2504d of outer shell 2504 may be configured to cooperate with distal cap inner skirt 2553. Distal portion 2504d of outer shell 2504 may have a distal portion recess 2554 configured to cooperate with distal cap inner skirt 2553.

[0082] Distal cap 2551 may have distal cap threads 2555 configured to cooperate with outer shell distal threads 2556. Distal cap threads 2555 may be outward-facing and formed on distal cap inner skirt 2553. Outer shell distal threads 2556 may be inwardfacing and formed in distal portion recess 2554 of outer shell 2504.

[0083] Alternatively, distal cap 2551 may be removably coupled to distal portion2504d of outer shell 2504 with an interference fit, bayonet connector, or other suitable connector.

[0084] Distal cap 2551 may have a distal cap opening 2559. Distal cap opening 2559 may be configured to at least partially align with tool guide distal opening 2507. Distal cap opening 2559 may be configured to provide access to tool guide distal opening 2507. Distal hemostasis valve 2508 may be coupled to distal cap opening 2559. Distal hemostasis valve 2508 may be coupled between distal cap opening 2559 and tool guide distal opening 2507.

[0085] Proximal cap 2541 may be configured to be capable of being removably coupled to distal cap 2551. Proximal cap threads 2545 may be configured to cooperate with distal cap threads 2555. Distal cap outer skirt 2552 may be configured to fit aroundat least a portion of proximal cap skirt 2542. Proximal cap skirt 2542 may have at least a portion with a tapered or reduced width configured to fit inside distal cap outer skirt 2552.

[0086] Coupling device 2540 may include one or more of straps, latches, clips, fasteners, hinges, slots, tabs, posts, holes, adhesives, and other suitable devices.

[0087] Air block 2500 may include an inlet port 2532. Inlet port 2532 may be coupled to outer shell 2504. Inlet port 2532 may have an inlet port lumen 2533 in fluid communication with outer shell lumen 2524.

[0088] Inlet port 2532 may be configured to allow a liquid to be introduced into outer shell lumen 2524.

[0089] Air block 2500 may include a forward-flow one-way check valve 2514.Forward-flow one-way check valve 2514 may be coupled to inlet port 2532. Forwardflow one-way check valve 2514 may be configured to allow a liquid to be introduced through inlet port lumen 2533 and into outer shell lumen 2524. Forward-flow one-way check valve 2514 may be configured to not allow liquid to escape from outer shell lumen 2524 out through inlet port lumen 2533.

[0090] Air block 2500 may include an outlet port 2530. Outlet port 2530 may be coupled to outer shell 2504. Outlet port 2530 may be coupled to an upper portion of outer shell 2504. Outlet port 2530 may have an outlet port lumen 2531 in fluid communication with outer shell lumen 2524.

[0091] Outlet port 2530 may be configured to allow air and / or liquid to be removed from outer shell lumen 2524.

[0092] Air block 2500 may include a reverse-flow one-way check valve 2512.Reverse-flow one-way check valve 2512 may be coupled to outlet port 2530. Reverseflow one-way check valve 2512 may be configured to allow air and / or liquid to be removed from outer shell lumen 2524 and out through outlet port lumen 2531. Reverseflow one-way check valve 2512 may be configured to not allow air and / or liquid to enter into outer shell lumen 2524 through outlet port lumen 2531.

[0093] Air block 2500 may be configured to be split apart and removed from around a tool. Air block 2500 may be configured to be split apart and removed from around a tool without having to withdraw the tool fully out of air block 2500. Air block2500 may be configured to be split apart and removed from around a tool without having to remove air block 2500 from an end of the tool.

[0094] Air block 2500 may be configured to be split along a full length of tool guide lumen 2503, allowing air block 2500 to be removed from around a tool in tool guide lumen 2503. Air block 2500 may be configured to be split to expose a full length of tool guide lumen 2503, allowing air block 2500 to be removed from around a tool in tool guide lumen 2503. Air block 2500 may be configured to be split along longitudinal axis 2503x of tool guide lumen 2503, allowing air block 2500 to be removed from around a tool in tool guide lumen 2503.

[0095] Outer shell 2504 and tool guide 2502 may each be configured to be split into two or more pieces along a full length of tool guide lumen 2503.

[0096] Outer shell 2504 may be configured to be split along a full length of tool guide lumen 2503 into outer shell first split 2504a and outer shell second split 2504b. Tool guide 2502 may be configured to be split along a full length of tool guide lumen 2503 into tool guide first split 2502a and tool guide second split 2502b.

[0097] FIGURES 10A-10F show one embodiment of a method for using air block 2500.

[0098] FIGURE 10A shows coupling air block 2500 to a hub H of a catheter C. Adapter tube 2510 may be inserted into a proximal portion of a hub H of a catheter C. Tool guide lumen 2503 may be oriented horizontally or substantially horizontally. Outer shell lumen 2524 may be filled with a liquid to submerge tool guide lumen 2503. A liquid may be introduced into outer shell lumen 2524 through inlet port 2532.

[0099] FIGURE 10B shows advancing a tool T through air block 2500. A tool T may be advanced through tool guide lumen 2503, adapter tube lumen 2511, and the catheter C to access a site of interest. As the tool T is advanced through tool guide lumen 2503, air introduced into tool guide lumen 2503 may be allowed to pass through fenestrations 2528 into outer shell lumen 2524. Outlet port 2530 may be positioned at the highest point of air block 2500. Air may be removed from outer shell lumen 2524 through outlet port 2530.

[0100] FIGURES 10C-10D show uncoupling outer shell first split 2504a and outer shell second split 2504b. Tool guide first split 2502a and tool guide second split2502b may also be uncoupled. FIGURE 10C shows distal cap 2551 unscrewed or otherwise removed from outer shell 2504. FIGURE 10D shows proximal cap 2541 unscrewed or otherwise removed from outer shell 2504.

[0101] FIGURE 10E shows splitting air block 2500. Outer shell 2504 may be split along a full length of tool guide lumen 2503 into outer shell first split 2504a and outer shell second split 2504b. Tool guide 2502 may be split along a full length of tool guide lumen 2503 into tool guide first split 2502a and tool guide second split 2502b.

[0102] Outer shell first split 2504a and outer shell second split 2504b may be pulled apart. Tool guide first split 2502a and tool guide second split 2502b may be pulled apart along the full length of tool guide lumen 2503 to expose the full length of tool guide lumen 2503.

[0103] Air block 2500 may be removed from around the tool T. The tool T may be advanced further through catheter C by a distance that was previously occupied by air block 2500.

[0104] FIGURE 10F shows proximal cap 2541 coupled to distal cap 2551. Adapter tube 2510 may remain in the hub H.

[0105] While the foregoing has been with reference to particular embodiments of the invention, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that changes in these embodiments may be made without departing from the principles and spirit of the invention.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. An air block, comprising: an outer shell having an outer shell lumen, the outer shell having an outer shell first split separably coupled to an outer shell second split; a tool guide coupled to the outer shell at least partially in the outer shell lumen, the tool guide having a tool guide proximal opening and a tool guide distal opening, the tool guide having a tool guide lumen, the tool guide having one or more fenestrations configured to allow fluid communication between the tool guide lumen and the outer shell lumen, the tool guide having a tool guide first split separably coupled to a tool guide second split; a proximal hemostasis valve coupled to the tool guide proximal opening; and a distal hemostasis valve coupled to the tool guide distal opening; wherein the outer shell is configured to be split along a full length of the tool guide lumen into the outer shell first split and the outer shell second split, and the tool guide is configured to be split along the full length of the tool guide lumen into the tool guide first split and the tool guide second split.

2. The air block of claim 1, further comprising: a split seal coupled between the outer shell first split and the outer shell second split.

3. The air block of claim 1, further comprising: an adapter tube coupled to a distal portion of the tool guide.

4. The air block of claim 1, further comprising: an inlet port coupled to the outer shell, the inlet port having an inlet port lumen in fluid communication with the outer shell lumen; and an outlet port coupled to the outer shell, the outlet port having an outlet port lumen in fluid communication with the outer shell lumen.

5. The air block of claim 1 , wherein the tool guide lumen has a width that decreases from a proximal portion of the tool guide to a distal portion of the tool guide.

6. The air block of claim 1, wherein the tool guide lumen is defined by a plurality of projections coupled to the outer shell first split and the outer shell second split.

7. The air block of claim 1, further comprising: one or more bands removably coupled to outer shell first split and outer shell second split.

8. The air block of claim 1, further comprising: a proximal cap removably coupled to a proximal portion of the outer shell.

9. The air block of claim 8, wherein the proximal cap includes proximal cap threads, the proximal portion of the outer shell includes outer shell proximal threads, and the proximal cap threads are configured to cooperate with the outer shell proximal threads.

10. The air block of claim 8, wherein the proximal cap includes a proximal cap opening configured to allow access to the tool guide proximal opening.

11. The air block of claim 1, further comprising: a distal cap removably coupled to a distal portion of the outer shell.

12. The air block of claim 11, wherein the distal cap includes distal cap threads, the distal portion of the outer shell includes outer shell distal threads, and the distal cap threads are configured to cooperate with the outer shell distal threads.

13. The air block of claim 11, wherein the distal cap includes a distal cap opening configured to allow access to the tool guide distal opening.

14. An air block, comprising: an outer shell having an outer shell lumen, the outer shell having an outer shell first split separably coupled an outer shell second split; a tool guide coupled to the outer shell at least partially in the outer shell lumen, the tool guide having a tool guide proximal opening and a tool guide distal opening, the tool guide having a tool guide lumen, the tool guide having one or more fenestrations configured to allow fluid communication between the tool guide lumen and the outer shell lumen, the tool guide having a tool guide first split separably coupled to a tool guide second split; a proximal hemostasis valve coupled to the tool guide proximal opening; a distal hemostasis valve coupled to the tool guide distal opening; and a means for separably coupling the outer shell first split and the outer shell second split; wherein the outer shell is configured to be split along a longitudinal axis of the tool guide lumen into the outer shell first split and the outer shell second split, and the tool guide is configured to be split along the longitudinal axis of the tool guide lumen into the tool guide first split and the tool guide second split.

15. A method for using an air block, the method comprising: introducing a liquid into an outer shell lumen of an outer shell to submerge a tool guide lumen of a tool guide, the tool guide coupled to the outer shell at least partially in the outer shell lumen, the tool guide having a tool guide proximal opening and a tool guide distal opening, the tool guide having one or more fenestrations configured to allow fluid communication between the tool guide lumen and the outer shell lumen, the outer shell having an outer shell first split separably coupled to an outer shell second split, the tool guide having a tool guide first split separably coupled to a tool guide second split; advancing a tool through a proximal hemostasis valve coupled to the tool guide proximal opening, through the tool guide lumen, and through a distal hemostasis valve coupled to the tool guide distal opening, while allowing a gas introduced into the tool guide lumen to pass through the fenestrations into the outer shell lumen;removing the outer shell and the tool guide from the tool by splitting the outer shell along a longitudinal axis of the tool guide lumen into the outer shell first split and the outer shell second split, and splitting the tool guide along the longitudinal axis of the tool guide lumen into the tool guide first split and the tool guide second split.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein introducing a liquid includes introducing a liquid through an inlet port coupled to the outer shell, the inlet port having an inlet port lumen in fluid communication with the outer shell lumen.

17. The method of claim 15, wherein allowing a gas to pass into the outer shell lumen includes orienting the tool guide lumen horizontally.

18. The method of claim 15, further comprising: after allowing the gas to pass into the outer shell lumen, removing the gas from the outer shell lumen.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein removing the gas includes removing the gas through an outlet port coupled to the outer shell, the outlet port having an outlet port lumen in fluid communication with the outer shell lumen.

20. The method of claim 15, wherein splitting the outer shell includes uncoupling the outer shell first split and the outer shell second split.

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