Devices, assemblies and methods for delivering medicaments

Abstract

A valve assembly includes an inlet in fluid communication with a housing of a medical device; an outlet in fluid communication with a delivery conduit of the medical device; and a body having a channel in fluid communication with a fluid source. The body is configured to move relative to the inlet and the outlet to selectively fluidly couple the channel with the housing and the delivery conduit. In a first position of the body, the channel is not aligned with at least one of the inlet or the outlet such that the delivery conduit is not in fluid communication with at least one of the housing or the fluid source. In a second position of the body, the channel is aligned with the inlet and outlet such that the delivery conduit is in fluid communication with the housing and the fluid source.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 343,833, filed on May 19, 2022, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] Aspects of the present invention generally relate to devices and methods for delivering medicaments. More specifically, in embodiments, the present invention relates to devices for delivering powdered medicaments, such as hemostats. Background Art

[0003] In certain medical procedures, it may be necessary to minimize or stop bleeding within the body. For example, endoscopic medical procedures may require hemostasis of bleeding tissue within the gastrointestinal tract, such as within the esophagus, stomach, or intestines.

[0004] During endoscopic surgery, a user inserts the sheath of an endoscope into a patient's body cavity. The user controls the endoscope using the handle of the endoscope during the procedure. Tools are passed through a working channel of the endoscope via, for example, a port in the handle to deliver therapy at a surgical site near the distal end of the endoscope. The surgical site is distal to the operator.

[0005] To achieve hemostasis at a remote site, a hemostatic agent may be delivered by a device inserted into a working channel of an endoscope. For example, agent delivery may be achieved by a system that may be manually operated. However, such a system may require numerous steps or actuations to achieve delivery, may not achieve a desired agent delivery rate or a desired agent dosage, may result in the agent blocking portions of a delivery device, may result in inconsistent agent dosages, or may result in the agent not being able to reach a treatment site deep within the GI tract. The present invention may address one or more of these or other problems in the art. Summary of the invention

[0006] Each of the aspects disclosed herein may include one or more of the features described in conjunction with any of the other disclosed aspects.

[0007] According to one example, a valve assembly for a medical device includes: an inlet, which is fluidly connected to a housing of the medical device, wherein the housing stores a drug; an outlet, which is fluidly connected to a delivery conduit of the medical device; and a body, which has a channel that is fluidly connected to a fluid source, wherein the body is configured to move relative to the inlet and the outlet to selectively fluidly connect the channel to the housing and the delivery conduit; wherein in a first position of the body, the channel is not aligned with at least one of the inlet or the outlet, so that the delivery conduit is not fluidly connected to at least one of the housing or the fluid source; and wherein in a second position of the body, the channel is aligned with the inlet and the outlet, so that the delivery conduit is fluidly connected to the housing and the fluid source.

[0008] Any of the valve assemblies disclosed herein may include any of the following features. In the first position, the channel is positioned in lateral alignment relative to an axis extending between an inlet and an outlet. In the second position, the channel is positioned in parallel alignment relative to an axis extending between an inlet and an outlet. When the body is in the first position and the second position, the channel is in fluid communication with a fluid source. The body is configured to guide a fluid through the channel and into the housing via the inlet when in the first position to agitate the medicament in the housing. The body is configured to guide a mixture of a fluid and a medicament from the housing into the channel via the inlet, and the channel is configured to guide the mixture into the delivery conduit via the outlet. The body includes an insert positioned in the channel, the insert including a porous mesh. The insert is configured to prevent the medicament from moving through the insert toward the fluid source and allow the fluid to pass through the insert. The channel is a first channel, and wherein the body includes a second channel in fluid communication with the first channel, the length of the second channel being less than the length of the first channel. In the first position and the second position of the body, the second channel: is not aligned with the outlet; is in fluid communication with the fluid source; and is not in fluid communication with the inlet. In the third position of the body, the second channel is aligned with the outlet so that the delivery conduit is in fluid communication with the fluid source via the second channel. In the third position of the body, the channel is not aligned with the inlet and the outlet so that the delivery conduit is not in fluid communication with the housing via the first channel. The body includes an insert positioned in the second channel, and wherein the insert is configured to prevent the medicament from moving through the second channel and allowing the fluid to pass through the second channel. The valve assembly also includes a housing defining an inlet and an outlet, the housing being configured to receive the body, wherein a gap is formed between the housing and the body, the gap being positioned between the inlet and the outlet so that when the body is in the first position, the delivery conduit is in fluid communication with the fluid source via the gap. The size of the gap is set so that the medicament cannot pass through the gap.

[0009] According to another example, a device for delivering a medicament includes: a housing configured to store a medicament, the housing having an inlet; a pressurized fluid source configured to store a pressurized fluid; a valve assembly including a body having a channel, wherein the body is configured to move between a first position and a second position to selectively fluidly connect the pressurized fluid source to the housing via the channel; wherein in the first position, the valve assembly is configured to misalign the channel with the inlet to prevent the pressurized fluid from moving through the channel and delivering the medicament out of the device; and wherein, in the second position, the valve assembly is configured to align the channel with the inlet to allow the pressurized fluid to move through the channel and deliver the medicament out of the device.

[0010] Any of the medical devices described herein may include any of the following features. The body includes an insert positioned within a channel, the insert being configured to prevent the medicament from moving through the insert and allowing a pressurized fluid to pass through the insert. The channel is a first channel, wherein the body includes a second channel in fluid communication with the first channel. In the first position and the second position of the body, the valve assembly is configured to prevent the pressurized fluid from moving through the second channel and out of the device, and in the third position of the body, the valve assembly is configured to allow the pressurized fluid to move through the second channel and out of the device. The valve assembly includes a housing configured to receive the body, wherein a gap is formed between the housing and the body. When in the first position, the valve assembly is configured to allow the pressurized fluid to move out of the device via the gap while preventing the medicament from being delivered out of the device.

[0011] According to another example, a method for delivering fluid from a medical device, wherein the medical device includes a housing for storing a medicament, the method comprising: moving a channel of a valve body to a first position aligned with an inlet and an outlet of the housing, thereby allowing fluid to be delivered through the channel and into the housing via the inlet to agitate the medicament in the housing, and allowing fluid and agitated medicament to be delivered through the channel and toward a delivery conduit of the medical device via the outlet; and moving the channel to a second position not aligned with the inlet and the outlet, thereby preventing fluid from being delivered through the channel and into the housing via the inlet, and preventing fluid from being delivered toward the delivery conduit via the outlet.

[0012] It is understood that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are merely exemplary and explanatory of the invention as claimed, rather than restrictive descriptions. As used herein, the terms "include", "comprises" or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive contents, so that a process, method, article or device including a list of elements includes not only those elements, but may include other elements that are not explicitly listed or are not inherent to such a process, method, article or device. In the case where the element is not circular, the term "diameter" may refer to the width. The term "top" refers to the direction or side of the device relative to its orientation during use, and the term "bottom" refers to the direction or side of the device relative to its orientation during use, which is opposite to the "top". The term "exemplary" is used in the sense of "example" rather than "exemplary". The term "approximately" or similar terms (e.g., "substantially") include values ​​of + / -10% of the value. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate various aspects of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention.

[0014] Figure 1 An exemplary delivery device is shown.

[0015] Figure 2 Shows Figure 1 A stereoscopic view of an exemplary valve assembly of a delivery device.

[0016] Figure 3A Shown in the first position Figure 2 A partial side view of a valve assembly.

[0017] Figure 3B Shown in the second position Figure 2 A partial side view of a valve assembly.

[0018] Figure 4 Shows Figure 1 A perspective view of another exemplary valve assembly of a delivery device.

[0019] Figure 5A Shown in the first position Figure 4 A partial side view of a valve assembly.

[0020] Figure 5B The second position is shown Figure 4 A partial side view of a valve assembly.

[0021] Figure 5C Shown in the third position Figure 4 A partial side view of a valve assembly.

[0022] Figure 6 Shows Figure 1 A perspective view of another exemplary valve assembly of a delivery device.

[0023] Figure 7 Shows Figure 6 A perspective view of the movable body of the valve assembly.

[0024] Fig. 8A Shown in the first position Figure 6 A partial side view of a valve assembly.

[0025] Figure 8B Shown in the second position Figure 6 A partial side view of a valve assembly.

[0026] Fig.9A Shown in the first position Figure 7 A partial side view of the movable body.

[0027] Fig. 9B The second position is shown Figure 7 A partial side view of the movable body.

[0028] Fig. 10A Shown in the first position Figure 1A partial side view of another exemplary valve assembly of a delivery device.

[0029] Fig. 10B The second position is shown Fig. 10A A partial side view of a valve assembly.

[0030] Fig. 10C Shown in the third position Fig. 10A A partial side view of a valve assembly.

[0031] Fig.11 Shows Figure 1 A partial side view of another exemplary valve assembly of a delivery device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0032] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a dispensing device having a valve assembly for selectively releasing a pressurized fluid to deliver a medicament (e.g., a powdered medicament) to a site of a medical procedure. The valve assembly may include a movable body for fluidly coupling a pressurized medium source (e.g., a gas tank) with a housing storing the medicament, from which a pressurized fluid (e.g., a gas) may be released. The medicament may be received in the housing of the dispensing device and selectively fluidly communicated with the pressurized fluid through a channel of the movable body. Thus, when the valve assembly selectively moves the channel to align with the housing, the pressurized fluid received in the channel from the pressurized fluid source may travel toward the housing and enter the housing to agitate the medicament before delivery to the target site of the medical procedure. Various aspects of the dispensing device and valve assembly, such as the movable body and the channel, may facilitate fluidization of the medicament with the flow of the pressurized fluid before delivering the medicament, which may help selectively control the flow of the pressurized fluid to help prevent or minimize blockages during delivery.

[0033] Figure 1 A delivery system 10 is shown, which may be a medicament (e.g., powder) delivery system. The delivery system 10 may include a handle body 12. The handle body 12 may include or may be configured to receive a housing 14 (or other source or container) storing a material (e.g., a medicament). The housing 14 may be coupled to the handle body 12 to provide the medicament to the handle body 12, or a cap / housing for the medicament may be screwed onto or otherwise coupled to the housing 14 to supply the medicament to the housing 14. The medicament may be, for example, a powdered medicament, such as a hemostatic agent. The medicament may alternatively be another type of medicament or material, or another form of medicament (e.g., a liquid or gel medicament), and may have any desired function. The housing 14 may be removably attached to other components of the delivery system 10, including components of the handle body 12.

[0034] The handle body 12 can have various features that will be discussed in further detail herein. U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 589,633, filed on October 1, 2019 and published on April 2, 2022 as U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2020 / 0100986A1 (the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety), discloses features of exemplary delivery devices and systems. Features of the present invention can be combined with any of the features described in the above-mentioned applications. The features described herein can be used alone or in combination and are not mutually exclusive. Where possible, similar reference numerals and / or terms are used to represent similar structures.

[0035] Still refer to Figure 1 , the delivery system 10 may include an actuation mechanism 30 for activating the flow of a pressurized fluid (e.g., gas) from a pressurized medium source in fluid communication with the delivery system 10. The actuation mechanism 30 may be selectively actuated (e.g., manually pressed) or otherwise moved or actuated to control the delivery of a material (e.g., a powdered medicament) and a pressurized fluid. A single pressurized fluid or a combination of a powdered medicament and a fluid may be delivered from an outlet 34 of the handle body 12. The outlet 34 may be in fluid communication with a catheter 36 or another delivery catheter for delivering a combination of a medicament and a fluid to a desired location within a patient's body cavity.

[0036] Figure 2 Various aspects of an exemplary valve assembly 100 are shown. The valve assembly 100 can be at least partially housed within the handle body 12 of the delivery system 10. In some embodiments, the valve assembly 100 can be selectively actuated (e.g., moved) by the actuation mechanism 30. In other embodiments, the valve assembly 100 can be actuated by a separate actuator, such as a control knob 106 (discussed further below). In this case, the actuation mechanism 30 can be configured to deliver pressurized fluid from a pressurized fluid source to the valve assembly 100, and the control knob 106 can be configured to actuate (e.g., move) one or more components of the valve assembly 100 to selectively direct the pressurized fluid through the valve assembly 100.

[0037] In further embodiments, the actuation mechanism 30 can be configured to simultaneously establish fluid communication between the pressurized fluid source and the valve assembly 100, and also actuate the control knob 106 to control the movement of one or more components of the valve assembly 100. In other words, the operator can only interact with the actuation mechanism 30, and the actuation mechanism 30 can then actuate the control knob 106. Although not shown, the actuation mechanism 30 and / or the control knob 106 can include one or more other actuation elements, such as, for example, buttons, sliders, levers, triggers, dials, and various other suitable actuators. As described herein, the actuation of the control knob 106 can control the delivery of the pressurized fluid and the medicament through the valve assembly 100.

[0038] The valve assembly 100 may include a housing 102, a fixed body 103 at least partially disposed within the housing 102, a movable body 104 disposed within the fixed body 103, and a control knob 106 coupled to the movable body 104 (e.g., coupled to one end of the movable body 104). The control knob 106 may extend outwardly from an opening on the housing 102 to allow an operator to access and actuate the control knob 106. The housing 102 may be attached to the housing 14 (e.g., by any of the mechanisms discussed above with respect to the housing 14 and the surgical body 12), and in particular to a funnel 16 extending from the housing 14. The funnel 16 may extend at least partially into the housing 102, and may be configured to receive a medicament stored in the housing 14 (e.g., via gravity) to direct the medicament into the valve assembly 100. The funnel 16 may have a tapered profile with tapered sidewalls extending radially inwardly toward a central opening (eg, the inlet 114 ) of the valve assembly 100 .

[0039] The fixed body 103 can be coupled to the housing 102 and, in particular, achieve a press fit through an opening of the housing 102 downstream of the housing 14 and the funnel 16. The fixed body 103 can be fixed relative to the housing 102 so that the fixed body 103 is immovable relative to the housing 102, the housing 14, and the funnel 16. As described in detail herein, the fixed body 103 can include an inlet 114 in fluid communication with the housing 14 and the funnel 16, and an outlet 116 in fluid communication with the tube 32 of the delivery device 10. The movable body 104 can be coupled to the fixed body 103 and, in particular, achieve a press fit through an opening of the fixed body 103. The movable body 104 can be configured to move (e.g., rotate) within the opening and relative to the fixed body 103, the housing 102, the housing 14, and the funnel 16. In some embodiments, the fixed body 103 can be completely omitted so that the movable body 104 can be coupled to the housing 102, and the housing 102 can include the inlet 114 and the outlet 116.

[0040] Still refer to Figure 2 , the valve assembly 100 may include one or more internal passages within the movable body 104. For example, the valve assembly 100 may include a passage 108 extending through the movable body 104, and the passage 108 may have a longitudinal length defined between a first open end 110 and a second open end 112. In other embodiments, the valve assembly may include additional passages within the movable body (see Figure 4). The valve assembly 100 may include an inlet 114 along a first end of the housing 102 and an outlet 116 along a second end of the fixed body 103. The inlet 114 may be in fluid communication with the funnel 16, and further in fluid communication with the channel 108 in a configuration in which at least one of the first open end 110 and / or the second open end 112 is aligned with the channel 108. The inlet 114 may be configured to direct pressurized fluid from the channel 108 into the housing 14 to agitate the medicament stored therein, and to direct the agitated medicament out of the housing 14 (e.g., through the funnel 16) and into the channel 108.

[0041] The outlet 116 can be in fluid communication with the tube 32 of the delivery device 10, and further in fluid communication with the channel 108 in a configuration where at least one of the first open end 110 and / or the second open end 112 is aligned with the channel 108. The outlet 116 can be configured to direct agitated medicament received in the channel 108 (e.g., from the housing 14) to the tube 32. In some embodiments, the tube 32 can include a hypotube fluidically coupled to the catheter 36 (see Figure 1 Tube 32 may be configured to direct the agitated mixture of medicament and pressurized fluid received from valve assembly 100 to conduit 36 ​​for delivery to a patient.

[0042] Still refer to Figure 2 , the valve assembly 100 may include a fluidic passage 120 extending through the movable body 104 in a transverse (e.g., substantially perpendicular) orientation relative to the channel 108. The fluidic passage 120 may be in fluid communication with the channel 108 at a junction 118, which is located along a mid-portion of the channel 108 between the first open end 110 and the second open end 112. The fluidic passage 120 may also be in fluid communication with a source of pressurized fluid, such that the valve assembly 100 may be configured to receive the pressurized fluid via the fluidic passage 120.

[0043] In this example, the valve assembly 100 may include an insert 122 positioned within the fluidic channel 120, such as adjacent to the junction 118. The insert 122 may include a porous mesh configured to allow pressurized fluid received from a pressurized fluid source to pass through the fluidic channel 120 and enter the channel 108 at the junction 118, while preventing a medicament received in the channel 108 from entering the fluidic channel 108.

[0044] The valve assembly 100 can be configured in a plurality of configurations, such as, for example, a non-delivery configuration ( Figure 3A ) and transport form ( Figure 3B). As described herein, the movable body 104 can be configured to move (e.g., rotate) relative to the housing 102, the fixed body 103, the housing 14, the funnel 160, and / or the tube 32 in response to actuating the control knob 106 between a plurality of positions corresponding to the configuration of the valve assembly 100. In some embodiments, the valve assembly 100 can include one or more visual indicators (e.g., markings, indicia, colors, etc.) and / or physical stops (e.g., protrusions, lugs, recesses, etc.) that define a plurality of positions of the control knob 106 corresponding to the respective configurations of the valve assembly 100 to facilitate actuation of the control knob 106 by a user.

[0045] For example, the movable body 104 can be configured to rotate about an axis that is substantially coaxial with the jet channel 120. It should be understood that the channel 108 and / or the jet channel 120 can be configured to move (e.g., rotate) simultaneously with the movable body 104 to adjust the alignment and / or orientation of the corresponding channel relative to the housing 14, the funnel 16, and / or the tube 32.

[0046] In an exemplary use, such as Figure 3A As shown, when the control knob 106 is actuated to position the movable body 104 in the first position, the valve assembly 100 can be in a non-delivery configuration in which the channel 108 is not aligned with the inlet 114 and the outlet 116. In other words, the movable body 104 can move (e.g., rotate) relative to the housing 102, the fixed body 103, the housing 14, the funnel 16, and / or the tube 32 so that the first open end 110 and the second open end 112 are fluidly separated from the inlet 114 and the outlet 116. In this case, when the movable body 104 is in the first position, the pressurized fluid received in the channel 108 from the jet channel 120 can be prevented from entering the housing 14 and the funnel 16 via the inlet 114 and / or entering the tube 32 via the outlet 116. In the case where the first open end 110 and the second open end 112 form a terminal / closed path, when the movable body 104 is in the first position, the pressurized fluid can be maintained in the channel 108 and / or the jet channel 120. In other embodiments, delivery of pressurized fluid to the valve assembly 100 may be blocked when the movable body 104 is in the first position.

[0047] It should be appreciated that when the movable body 104 is in the first position, the channel 108 can be oriented in a variety of suitable orientations and / or alignments relative to the inlet 114 and the outlet 116, such that the corresponding position of the channel 108 can include a plurality of positions in which the first open end 110 and the second open end 112 are not aligned with each of the inlet 114 and the outlet 116. Figure 3AThe inlet 114 and the outlet 116 are aligned in a particular manner (e.g., wherein the longitudinal axis of the passage 108 is offset by about 90 degrees from the longitudinal axis of the inlet 114 and the outlet 116, such that the longitudinal axis of the passage 108 extends into / out of Figure 3A ), but it should be understood that the first position of the movable body 104 may include other possible orientations and / or alignments of the channel 108 without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0048] Reference now Figure 3B , when the control knob 106 is actuated to move (e.g., rotate) the movable body 104 to the second position, the valve assembly 100 can be converted to a delivery configuration in which the channel 108 is aligned with the inlet 114 and the outlet 166. In other words, the movable body 104 can be rotated relative to the housing 102, the fixed body 103, the housing 14, the funnel 16, and / or the tube 32 to fluidically couple the first open end 110 and the second open end 112 with the inlet 114 and the outlet 116, or vice versa. In this case, when the movable body 104 is in the second position, the pressurized fluid received in the channel 108 from the jet channel 120 can enter the housing 14 and the funnel 16 via the inlet 114 and / or enter the tube 32 via the outlet 116.

[0049] With the first open end 110 forming an open path toward the inlet 114 when the movable body 104 is in the second position, at least a first portion of the pressurized fluid received from the jet channel 120 can be directed through the channel 108 and into the housing 14 and the funnel 16 via the inlet 114. The first portion of the pressurized fluid can move through the funnel 16 and agitate the medicament stored in the funnel 16 and / or the housing 14. While agitating and / or fluidizing the medicament, a mixture of the medicament and the pressurized fluid can be directed through the inlet 114 and into the channel 108 before exiting the channel 108 and entering the tube 32 via the outlet 116. With the tube 32 in fluid communication with the conduit 36, the mixture can be delivered to the patient via the conduit 36.

[0050] Still refer to Figure 3B, with the second open end 112 forming an open path toward the outlet 116 when the movable body 104 is in the second position, at least a second portion of the pressurized fluid received from the jet channel 120 can be directed through the channel 108 and into the tube 32 via the outlet 116. It should be understood that when the first portion of the pressurized fluid is simultaneously directed through the channel 108 and toward the inlet 114, the second portion of the pressurized fluid can be directed through the channel 108 and toward the outlet 116. The insert 122 can be configured to prevent any material and / or medicament maintained within the housing 14, the funnel 16, the tube 32, and / or the conduit 36 ​​from flowing from the channel 108 into the jet channel 120.

[0051] In some embodiments, the jet channel 120 can be configured to maintain fluid communication with the pressurized fluid source when the movable body 104 is in the first position and the second position. In other words, the jet channel 120 can continue to receive the pressurized fluid source regardless of the relative position of the movable body 104. In other embodiments, when the movable body 104 is moved from the first position ( Figure 3A ) moves to the second position ( Figure 3B ), the jet channel 120 can maintain fluid communication with the pressurized fluid source. In this example, the jet channel 120 can be configured to maintain a fixed orientation relative to the housing 14, the funnel 16, the tube 32, and / or the housing 102 when the movable body 104 moves between the first position and the second position.

[0052] Reference now Figure 4 , aspects of another exemplary valve assembly 200 are shown. Except for the differences expressly described herein, the valve assembly 200 can be configured similarly to the valve assembly 100, such that the same reference numerals are used to identify the same components. The valve assembly 200 can be housed within the handle body 12. The valve assembly 200 can include a movable body 204 that is at least partially housed within the fixed body 103 and is coupled to the control knob 106. As discussed above with respect to the movable body 104 of the valve assembly 100, the movable body 204 can be selectively actuated by the actuation mechanism 30, which can interact with the control knob 106 (see Figure 1 ), or actuated solely by the control knob 106. In an embodiment, the valve assembly 200 can include two or more internal channels within the movable body 204.

[0053] For example, the valve assembly 200 may include the first passage 108 (described above with respect to Figures 2 to 3B104 and 110. The movable body 204 may further include a second channel 208 extending through the movable body 204 and a second channel 208. The second channel 208 may have a transverse orientation relative to the first channel 108. For example, the second channel 208 may be angled relative to the first channel 108, ranging from about 50 degrees to about 70 degrees, such as 60 degrees. In this example, the second channel 208 may be in fluid communication with the first channel 108 and the jet channel 120 at the junction 118. The second channel 208 may have a longitudinal length defined between the junction 118 and the open end 210. In this example, the longitudinal length of the second channel 208 may be less than the longitudinal length of the first channel 108. In other embodiments, the first channel 108 and the second channel 208 may have substantially similar longitudinal lengths.

[0054] Still refer to Figure 4 , the valve assembly 200 may include an insert 212 positioned within the second channel 208, such as adjacent to the junction 118. The insert 212 may be substantially similar to the insert 122 described above, such that the insert 212 may be configured to allow pressurized fluid received from the pressurized fluid source (via the jet channel 120) to pass into the second channel 208 while preventing a medicament received in the first channel 108 from entering the second channel 208. As described herein, the second channel 208 may be configured to be aligned with the outlet 116 when the movable body 204 is moved to the second position ( Figure 5B ) to deliver pressurized fluid to the patient in isolation from the medication.

[0055] In some embodiments, one or more of the open ends of the first passage 108 can have a widened and / or expanded configuration to facilitate the flow of the pressurized fluid through the first passage 108. For example, the second open end 112 can have a widened configuration to enhance the flow of the pressurized fluid out of the first passage 108 via the second open end 112. In this case, the widened configuration of the second open end 112 can allow more fluid and / or medicament to enter the outlet 116 for delivery through the tube 32. In another example, the first open end 110 can have a widened configuration to allow more fluid to enter the inlet 114 to agitate the medicament stored in the housing 14 and the funnel 16. Although described with respect to the valve assembly 200, the valve assembly 100 can also include a widened configuration of the second open end 112 and / or the first open end 110.

[0056] The valve assembly 200 can be configured in multiple configurations, such as, for example, a non-delivery configuration ( Figure 5A )、Fluid transport form( Figure 5B ) and drug delivery form ( Figure 5C). The movable body 204 can be configured to move (e.g., rotate) relative to the housing 102, the fixed body 103, the housing 14, the funnel 160, and / or the tube 32 in response to actuating the control knob 106 between a plurality of positions corresponding to the configuration of the valve assembly 200. For example, the movable body 204 can be configured to rotate about an axis coaxial with the central longitudinal axis of the jet channel 120.

[0057] It should be understood that the first channel 108, the second channel 208, and the jet channel 120 can be configured to move (e.g., rotate) simultaneously with the movable body 204, thereby adjusting the alignment and / or orientation of the corresponding channels relative to the housing 14, the funnel 16, and / or the tube 32. Although the valve assembly 200 is described below with respect to the first, second, and third positions of the movable body 204, it should be understood that such terminology is merely exemplary, such that the valve assembly 200 can be transitioned between multiple configurations in any corresponding order. As an illustrative example only, the valve assembly 200 can be transitioned from a non-delivery configuration to a drug delivery configuration, from a drug delivery configuration to a fluid delivery configuration, from a fluid delivery configuration to a non-delivery configuration, or various other suitable sequences.

[0058] In an exemplary use, such as Figure 5A As shown, when the control knob 106 is actuated to move the movable body 204 to the first position, the valve assembly 200 can be in a non-delivery configuration in which the first channel 108 and the second channel 208 are not aligned with the inlet 114 and the outlet 116, respectively. In other words, the movable body 204 can move (e.g., rotate) relative to the housing 102, the fixed body 103, the housing 14, the funnel 16, and / or the tube 32 so that the first open end 110, the second open end 210, and the open end 210 are fluidly separated from the inlet 114 and the outlet 116. In this case, when the movable body 204 is in the first position, the pressurized fluid received in the first channel 108 and the second channel 208 from the jet channel 120 can be prevented from entering the housing 14 via the inlet 114 and / or entering the tube 32 via the outlet 116. With first open end 110 , second open end 210 , and open end 210 forming a terminal / closed path, pressurized fluid may be maintained within first channel 108 , second channel 208 , and / or fluidic channel 120 when movable body 204 is in the first position.

[0059] It should be appreciated that when the movable body 204 is in the first position, each channel 108, 208 may be oriented in a variety of suitable orientations and / or alignments relative to the inlet 114 and the outlet 116, such that the corresponding positions of the channels 108, 208 may include a plurality of positions in which the first open end 110, the second open end 112, and the open end 210 are each misaligned with the inlet 114 and the outlet 116. Thus, although Figure 5A 108 , 208 are shown in a particular alignment relative to the inlet 114 and the outlet 116 , but it should be understood that the first position of the movable body 204 may include other possible orientations and / or alignments of the channels 108 , 208 .

[0060] Reference now Figure 5B , the valve assembly 200 can be converted to a fluid delivery configuration when the control knob 106 is actuated to move (e.g., rotate) the movable body 204 to the second position, in which the second channel 208 is aligned with the outlet 116, and the first channel 108 is maintained misaligned with each of the inlet 114 and the outlet 116. In other words, the movable body 204 can be rotated relative to the housing 102, the fixed body 103, the housing 14, the funnel 16, and / or the tube 32 to fluidically couple the open end 210 with the outlet 116, and maintain the first open end 110 and the second open end 112 fluidly separated from the inlet 114 and the outlet 116. The pressurized fluid from the pressurized fluid source can flow into the jet channel 120, through the insert 122 and the joint 118, and into the second channel 208. In this case, when the movable body 204 is in the second position, the pressurized fluid received in the channel 208 from the jet channel 120 can enter the tube 32 via the outlet 116.

[0061] In this case, valve assembly 200 can be configured to deliver pressurized fluid through tube 32 and into catheter 36 without the need for a medicament. Figure 5B When in the fluid delivery configuration of the embodiment of the present invention, the valve assembly 200 can clear any existing material and / or agent maintained within the tube 32 and / or the conduit 36 ​​by dispensing the pressurized fluid therethrough via the second passage 208 without introducing any additional material (e.g., agent). The insert 212 can be configured to prevent any of the existing materials and / or agents maintained within the tube 32 and / or the conduit 36 ​​from flowing through the second passage 208 and entering the first passage 108 and / or the fluidic passage 120.

[0062] Reference now Figure 5C, when the control knob 106 is actuated to move (e.g., rotate) the movable body 204 to the third position, the valve assembly 200 can be converted to a drug delivery configuration, in which the first channel 108 is aligned with the inlet 114 and the outlet 116, and the second channel 208 is not aligned with the inlet 114 and the outlet 116. In other words, the movable body 204 can be rotated relative to the housing 102, the fixed body 103, the housing 14, the funnel 16 and / or the tube 32 to fluidically couple the first open end 110 and the second open end 112 with the inlet 114 and the outlet 116, or vice versa. Therefore, the open end 210 can be separated from the outlet 116 fluid. In this case, when the movable body 204 is in the third position, the pressurized fluid received in the first channel 108 from the jet channel 120 can enter the housing 14 via the inlet 114 and / or enter the tube 32 via the outlet 116.

[0063] For example, with the first open end 110 forming an open path toward the inlet 114 when the movable body 204 is in the third position, at least a first portion of the pressurized fluid received from the jet channel 120 can be directed through the first channel 108 and into the housing 14 via the inlet 114. The first portion of the pressurized fluid can move through the funnel 16 and agitate the medicament within the funnel 16 and / or the housing 14. While the medicament is agitated, the mixture of the medicament and the pressurized fluid can be directed through the inlet 114, the first channel 108, and the outlet 116 before entering the tube 32.

[0064] Still refer to Figure 5C , with the second open end 112 forming an open path toward the outlet 116 when the movable body 204 is in the third position, at least a second portion of the pressurized fluid received from the jet channel 120 can be directed through the first channel 108 and into the tube 32 via the outlet 116. It should be understood that when the first portion of the pressurized fluid is simultaneously directed through the first channel 108 and toward the inlet 114, the second portion of the pressurized fluid can be directed through the first channel 108 and toward the outlet 116.

[0065] Although not shown, it should be understood that the valve assembly 200 can also be converted to an agitation configuration, wherein the movable body 204 can be moved (e.g., rotated) to a fourth position, wherein the open end 210 is aligned with the inlet 114. In this case, the second channel 208 can be fluidly coupled to the housing 14 and the funnel 16 so that the pressurized fluid received from the jet channel 120 can be directed toward the medicament stored therein. In this case, the valve assembly 200 can be configured to agitate the medicament within the housing 14 and / or the funnel 16 without delivering any portion of the medicament to the tube 32.

[0066] Although each of the valve assemblies 100 and 200 are shown and described herein as having a body 104, 204 that is movable relative to the corresponding housing 102, it should be understood that in other embodiments, the body 104, 204 (and in particular one or more passages) can remain relatively fixed. In this case, the housing 14 and / or the funnel 16 can be selectively moved to align the inlet 114 with the passage.

[0067] Reference now Figure 6 , various aspects of another exemplary valve assembly 300 are shown. Except for the differences explicitly described herein, the valve assembly 300 can be configured similarly to the valve assembly 100, such that the same reference numerals are used to identify the same components. The valve assembly 300 can be housed within the handle body 12. The valve assembly 300 can include a housing 302, an outlet port 318, and a jet channel 120. The housing 302 can be coupled to the housing 14, and in particular, to the funnel 16.

[0068] The valve assembly 300 may also include a movable body 304 at least partially contained within the housing 302. At least a portion of the movable body 304 may include an opening 305 to facilitate connection to an actuator (not shown). For example, a link mechanism (e.g., a rod, wire, cable, etc.) may be coupled to the actuator and the movable body 304 at the opening 305. Thus, the movable body 304 may be configured to move (e.g., pivot, rotate, translate, etc.) relative to the housing 302 in response to actuation of the actuator. It should be understood that the actuator may be coupled to the actuation mechanism 30 ( Figure 1 ) so that the valve assembly 300 can be configured to actuate the movable body 304 (via the actuator) and deliver the pressurized fluid (via the actuation mechanism 30) independently of each other. In other embodiments, the valve assembly 300 can be composed of the actuation mechanism 30 (see Figure 1 ) is selectively actuated. As described herein, the movable body 304 may include one or more internal channels.

[0069] like Figure 7 As shown, the movable body 304 may include a proximal portion 306A, a distal portion 306B, and a distal end 306C. The movable body 304 may also include an intermediate body 310 positioned between the proximal portion 306A and the distal portion 306B. The intermediate body 310 may have a channel 308 formed along the sidewall of the intermediate body 310, so that the channel 308 can be opened along the outer surface of the intermediate body 310. The longitudinal length of the channel 308 can be defined between a first open end 312 and a second open end 314. As described herein, the channel 308 can be configured to receive a medicament and / or a pressurized fluid when the movable body 304 moves to one or more positions within the housing 302.

[0070] The proximal portion 306A can be separated from the intermediate body 310 by the first slot 307A, the intermediate body 310 can be separated from the distal portion 306B by the second slot 307B, and the distal portion 306B can be separated from the distal end 306C by the third slot 307C. The size and shape of each of the slots 307A, 307B, 307C can be set to receive a corresponding mechanism therein. For example, each of the first slot 307A and the second slot 307B can be configured to receive a sealing mechanism, such as, for example, an O-ring. A sealing mechanism (not shown) can be arranged around the intermediate body 310 to seal the channel 308 fluid in the housing 302. The third slot 307C can be configured to receive a fastening mechanism, such as, for example, a retaining clip. The fastening mechanism (not shown) can be configured to fix and maintain the movable body 304 in the housing 302 during the movable body 304 moves (e.g., rotates) relative to the housing 302.

[0071] The valve assembly 300 can be configured in multiple configurations, such as, for example, a non-delivery configuration ( Fig. 8A ), fluid transport form (also in Fig. 8A ) and drug delivery form ( Figure 8B ). As described herein, the movable body 304 can be configured to move (e.g., rotate) relative to the housing 302, the shell 14, the funnel 160, and / or the outlet port 318 in response to actuating a control knob (not shown) between multiple positions corresponding to the configuration of the valve assembly 300. It should be understood that the intermediate body 310 and the channel 308 can be configured to move (e.g., rotate) simultaneously with the movable body 304, thereby adjusting the alignment and / or orientation of the channel 308 relative to the housing 302, the shell 14, and / or the funnel 16. In addition, the valve assembly 300 can be configured to receive a pressurized fluid from a pressurized fluid source in response to actuation of the actuation mechanism 30.

[0072] refer to Fig. 8A, the movable body 304 can be disposed within the housing 302, wherein the intermediate body 310 is positioned adjacent to the junction 118. Thus, any pressurized fluid received within the housing 302 via the fluidic channel 120 may encounter the intermediate body 310 when passing through the insert 122 and the junction 118. In an exemplary use, the valve assembly 300 may be in a non-delivery configuration when the movable body 304 is in a first position, in which the channel 308 is not aligned with the inlet 114 and the outlet 116, and the pressurized fluid is not actively delivered to the fluidic channel 120 (delivered from a pressurized fluid source in response to actuation of the actuation mechanism 30). In this configuration, as discussed in detail below, the medicament stored in the housing 14 and the funnel 16 can be prevented from moving between the inlet 114 and the outlet 116 (e.g., via gravity), wherein the intermediate body 310 is positioned therebetween to block the path of the medicament.

[0073] When the movable body 304 is maintained in the first position, as Fig. 8A As shown, when the actuation mechanism 30 is actuated to deliver the pressurized fluid from the pressurized fluid source to the jet channel 120, the valve assembly 300 can be switched from the non-delivery configuration to the fluid delivery configuration. In this case, the channel 308 can remain misaligned with the inlet 114 and the outlet 116, thereby preventing the medicament from leaving the funnel 16. In this example, the size and / or shape of the intermediate body 310 can be set so that a gap 316 is formed between the inner surface of the housing 302 and the outer surface of the intermediate body 310.

[0074] like Fig.9A As shown, the size of the gap 316 can be set so that only pressurized fluid can be received therein, thereby preventing any material (e.g., a medicament) from passing therethrough. In other words, Fig.9A A partial perspective view from within the funnel 16 is shown, wherein the movable body 304 may be positioned in a first position in which the intermediate body 310 covers the opening of the funnel 16. A gap 316 may be formed between the intermediate body 310 and the inner surface of the funnel 302, thereby allowing pressurized fluid to pass through the gap 316 and enter the funnel 16.

[0075] Thus, when the movable body 304 is in the first position, the valve assembly 300 can be configured to allow the pressurized fluid to at least partially bypass the movable body 304 via the gap 316. In other words, when the valve assembly 300 is in the fluid delivery configuration, the pressurized fluid received from the fluidic channel 120 at the junction 118 can pass around the intermediate body 310. In this case, at least a first portion of the pressurized fluid can be directed toward the inlet 114, and at least a second portion of the pressurized fluid can be directed toward the outlet 116 via the gap 316 formed between the intermediate body 310 and the housing 302.

[0076] The first portion of the pressurized fluid can move through the funnel 16 and agitate the medicament stored in the funnel 16 and / or the housing 14. Due to the size of the gap 316 relative to the particle size of the medicament, the movable body 304 can be configured to prevent the agitated medicament in the housing 14 and the funnel 16 from leaving when the movable body 304 is maintained in the first position. Therefore, the mixture of medicament and pressurized fluid can be prevented from moving toward the outlet 116 and the outlet port 318. By allowing the first portion of the pressurized fluid to move through the housing 302 when in the fluid delivery configuration, the valve assembly 300 can operate to prevent long-term pressurization of the housing 14.

[0077] Still refer to Fig. 8A , the valve assembly 300 can also allow at least a second portion of the pressurized fluid to be delivered via the outlet 116 toward the outlet port 318 without delivering any portion of the medicament stored in the housing 14. With the outlet port 318 in fluid communication with the conduit 36, the valve assembly 300 can be configured to purge any existing material and / or medicament maintained within the outlet port 318 and / or conduit 36, such as from a previous delivery, by only allowing the pressurized fluid to be delivered when in the fluid delivery configuration.

[0078] It should be appreciated that when the movable body 304 is in the first position, the passage 308 may be oriented in a variety of suitable orientations and / or alignments relative to the inlet 114 and the outlet 116. Fig. 8A 308 is shown in a particular alignment relative to the inlet 114 and the outlet 116 , but it should be understood that the first position of the movable body 304 may include other possible orientations and / or alignments of the channel 308 .

[0079] Reference now Figure 8B , the valve assembly 300 can be converted to a drug delivery configuration when the actuator is actuated to move (e.g., rotate) the movable body 304 to a second position in which the channel 308 is aligned with the inlet 114 and the outlet 166. In other words, the movable body 304 can be rotated relative to the housing 302, the shell 14, the funnel 16, and / or the outlet port 318 to fluidly couple the first open end 312 and the second open end 314 with the inlet 114 and the outlet 116, or vice versa. In this case, the pressurized fluid received in the shell 14 and / or the funnel 16 via the inlet 114 can direct the agitated drug into the channel 308 at the first open end 312, as shown in FIG. Fig. 9B In other words, Fig. 9BA partial perspective view from within the funnel 16 is shown, wherein the movable body 304 can be positioned in a second position in which the first open end 312 is aligned with the opening of the funnel 16. The channel 308 can be in fluid communication with the funnel 16, thereby allowing the pressurized fluid to enter the funnel 16 and subsequently allow the agitated mixture of the medicament and fluid to enter the channel 308 from the funnel 16 via the first open end 312.

[0080] When the movable body 304 is in the second position, with the channel 308 forming an open path between the inlet 114 and the outlet 116, the agitated medicament and pressurized fluid received in the housing 14 can move through the funnel 16 and into the channel 308 before exiting the intermediate body 310 at the outlet 116. As described above, the outlet port 318 can be in fluid communication with the conduit 36, so that the mixture of medicament and pressurized fluid received in the outlet port 318 can be discharged via the conduit 36 ​​( Figure 1 ) is delivered to a patient. The insert 122 can be configured to prevent the medicament moving through the channel 308 from flowing into the jet channel 120.

[0081] Reference now Figures 10A to 10C , showing aspects of another exemplary valve assembly 400. Except for the differences explicitly described herein, the valve assembly 400 can be configured similarly to the valve assembly 100, such that the same reference numerals are used to identify the same components. The valve assembly 400 can be housed in the handle body 12 ( Figure 1 ) and may include a housing 402 coupled to the housing 14 via the funnel 16. In some embodiments, the housing 402 may be integral with the funnel 16 and the housing 14, while in other embodiments, the housing 402 may be selectively attached thereto. In this embodiment, the valve assembly 400 may include one or more internal passages.

[0082] Specifically refer to Fig. 10A , the valve assembly 400 may include a passage 404 extending through the housing 402. The passage 404 may have a longitudinal length defined between an inlet 406 and an outlet 408. In this example, the inlet 406 may be fluidly coupled to the fluidic channel 120 for receiving a pressurized fluid in the passage 404, and the outlet 408 may be fluidly coupled to the conduit 36 ​​(see Figure 1 ) for delivering a medicament received in passage 404 (from housing 14) to a patient. Valve assembly 400 may include one or more movable bodies for selectively controlling the delivery of pressurized fluid and medicament to a patient.

[0083] For example, the valve assembly 400 can include at least a first movable body 410 and a second movable body 420, and each of the movable bodies 410, 420 can be at least partially received within the channel 404. The first movable body 410 can include a first end 412 and a second end 414, wherein the first end 412 is positioned within the channel 404 and adjacent to the central opening of the funnel 16 in at least some configurations. In some embodiments, the central opening of the funnel 16 can be at least partially defined by one or more surfaces 18. The surface 18 can at least partially define a junction between the funnel 16 and the channel 404. In this example, the surface 18 can be at least partially angled to taper outward from the central opening of the funnel 16.

[0084] Still refer to Fig. 10A , the first end 412 may be sized, shaped, and otherwise configured to interface with the surface 18, thereby sealing the central opening of the funnel 16 when the first movable body 410 is in a first position in which the first end 412 abuts against the surface 18. At least some surfaces of the first end 412 may have a shape that is complementary to the shape of the surface 18. For example, the first end 412 may include a surface and / or edge that tapers inwardly to mate with the surface 18. The second end 414 may be positioned outside the channel 404, and the first movable body 410 may be coupled to a biasing mechanism 440 (e.g., a spring) at the second end 414. The biasing mechanism 440 may be configured to push the first movable body 410 to the first position so that the first end 412 may be biased toward the surface 18 of the funnel 16. As described herein, the valve assembly 400 may include an actuator 430 (e.g., a lever assembly) configured to move the first movable body 410 between one or more positions relative to the funnel 16.

[0085] The second movable body 420 may include a first end 422 and a second end 424, wherein the first end 422 is positioned within the channel 404 and adjacent the inlet 406. In this example, the first end 422 may be sized, shaped, and otherwise configured to interface with the inlet 406 to seal the channel 404 from the fluidic channel 120 when the second movable body 420 is in a first position in which the first end 422 abuts against one or more surfaces defining the inlet 406.

[0086] Still refer to Fig. 10A, the second end 424 can be positioned outside of the channel 404, and the second movable body 420 can be coupled to a biasing mechanism 442 (e.g., a spring) at the second end 424. The biasing mechanism 442 can be configured to urge the second movable body 420 to the first position so that the first end 422 can be biased toward a surface defining the inlet 406. As described herein, the actuator 430 can be configured to move the second movable body 420 relative to the inlet 406 between one or more positions.

[0087] The actuator 430 can be a lever assembly that includes a rod / shaft 432 having a handle 434 at one end and a pivot joint 436 at an opposite end. The handle 434 can be configured to move (e.g., pivot) the shaft 432 about the pivot joint 436 between one or more positions. In some embodiments, the actuator 430 can be manually manipulated via the handle 434. In other embodiments, the actuator 430 can be responsive to the actuation mechanism 30 ( Figure 1 ) is actuated and automatically actuated. In other embodiments, the actuation mechanism 30 can be completely omitted, so that the actuator 430 can be configured to release the pressurized fluid from the pressurized fluid source and move the movable bodies 410, 420 at the same time.

[0088] Still refer to Fig. 10A , the actuator 430 can be coupled to each of the first movable body 410 and the second movable body 420 via at least one engagement mechanism. For example, the first movable body 410 can be coupled to the actuator 430, and in particular to the shaft 432, via a pin 4358 received in a slot 416 formed in the first movable body 410. The second movable body 420 can be coupled to the shaft 432 via a pin 439 received in an opening formed at the second end 424. Thus, movement of the shaft 432 (via actuation of the handle 434) can provide corresponding movement of the first movable body 410 and the second movable body 420 between one or more positions.

[0089] The valve assembly 400 can be configured in multiple configurations, such as, for example, a non-delivery configuration ( Fig. 10A )、Fluid transport form( Fig. 10B ) and drug delivery form ( Fig. 10C As described herein, the movable bodies 410, 420 can be configured to move (e.g., translate) relative to the housing 402, the shell 14, the funnel 160, and / or the passage 404 in response to actuating the actuator 430 between a plurality of positions corresponding to the configuration of the valve assembly 400.

[0090] In an exemplary use, such as Fig. 10AAs shown, the valve assembly 400 can be biased to a non-delivery configuration, wherein the movable bodies 410, 420 are pushed to a first position. In the first position, the first movable body 410 can engage against the surface 18 of the funnel 16, and the second movable body 420 can engage against the inlet 406. Therefore, the valve assembly 400 can be configured to prevent the release of the medicament from the housing 14 and / or the funnel 16 into the channel 404, wherein the first movable body 410 forms a fluid seal against the surface 18. The valve assembly 400 can also be configured to prevent the release of the pressurized fluid from the jet channel 120 into the channel 404, wherein the second movable body 420 forms a fluid seal at the inlet 406.

[0091] The valve assembly 400 can be maintained in the non-delivery configuration without an opposing (downward) force being applied against the biasing mechanisms 440, 442 (eg, in response to actuation of the actuator 430). Fig. 10B As shown, when the handle 434 is actuated to at least partially compress the biasing mechanisms 440, 442 to a first degree, the valve assembly 400 can be moved from the non-delivery configuration ( Fig. 10A ) to a fluid delivery configuration. The first movable body 410 can be maintained in a first position relative to the channel 404, wherein the first end 412 is positioned against the surface 18, such that the first movable body 410 remains coupled to the funnel 16. Thus, the medicament stored in the housing 14 and the funnel 16 can remain sealed therein by the first movable body 410.

[0092] In response to moving the handle 434, the biasing mechanism 440 can be at least partially compressed, thereby moving the pin 438 within the slot 416, such as from a first position ( Fig. 10A shown) moves to the second position ( Fig. 10B 408). The second movable body 420 can be moved to a second position relative to the channel 404, wherein the first end 422 moves away from the inlet 406 in response to compression of the biasing mechanism 442. In this case, the first end 422 can be disengaged from the surface defining the inlet 406, thereby separating the second movable body 420 from the inlet 406. Therefore, the pressurized fluid in the jet channel 120 can be received in the channel 404. With the second movable body 420 in the second position, the pressurized fluid can be received in the channel 404 via the inlet 406, thereby delivering the pressurized fluid toward the outlet 408.

[0093] In some embodiments, when the valve assembly 400 is in the fluid delivery configuration, the pressurized fluid can travel through the channel 404 and exit the outlet 408. For example, the pressurized fluid can travel around the first movable body 410 and toward the outlet 408. In other embodiments, the pressurized fluid can be received within the channel 404 and prevented from exiting the outlet 408 by the first movable body 410. In this case, the pressurized fluid can only be transferred to the drug delivery configuration when the valve assembly 400 is switched to the drug delivery configuration (see Fig. 10C ), the pressurized fluid can be maintained within the passage 404 and directed toward the outlet 408. By directing the pressurized fluid into the passage 404 before releasing the medicament from the housing 14 and the funnel 16 into the passage 404, the valve assembly 400 can be configured to prevent the passage 404 from becoming clogged, such as when the medicament is received in the passage 404 before the pressurized fluid.

[0094] like Fig. 10C As shown, when the handle 434 is actuated to further compress the biasing mechanisms 440, 442 to a second degree ( Fig. 10B ), the valve assembly 400 can be changed from the fluid delivery form ( Fig. 10B ) to the drug delivery configuration. The first movable body 410 can be moved relative to the channel 404 to a second position, wherein the first end 412 moves away from the funnel 16 in response to compression of the biasing mechanism 440 and movement of the pin 438 within the slot 416, such as from the second position ( Fig. 10B ) moves to the third position ( Fig. 10C In this case, the first end 412 can be separated from the surface 18 defining the central opening of the funnel 16, thereby separating the first movable body 410 from the funnel 16. Therefore, the medicine stored in the housing 14 and the funnel 16 can be received in the channel 404.

[0095] The second movable body 420 can be moved to a third position relative to the passage 404, wherein the first end 422 is moved further away from the inlet 406 (relative to the first end 422) in response to greater compression of the biasing mechanism 442. Fig. 10BIn the second position of the first movable body 410 and the second movable body 420, the pressurized fluid can be received in the channel 404 via the inlet 406, and the medicament stored in the housing 14 and / or the funnel 16 can be received in the channel 404 via the central opening of the funnel 16. In this case, the pressurized fluid can stir the medicament in the channel 404. It should be understood that before the medicament is released from the housing 14 and / or the funnel 16 into the channel 404, the pressurized fluid can be received in the channel 404.

[0096] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the pressurized fluid can be directed into the funnel 16 and / or housing 14 to agitate the medicament therein. With the first movable body 410 at least partially positioned within the channel 404 between the inlet 406 and the outlet 408, the pressurized fluid can be directed around the first movable body 410 through a surface of the first movable body 410 so that at least a portion of the pressurized fluid can be received within the funnel 16 and / or housing 14.

[0097] Still refer to Fig. 10C , the pressurized fluid can direct the agitated medicament toward outlet 408 for delivery to conduit 36 ​​( Figure 1 ) before agitating the medicament in the channel 404 and / or in the funnel 16 and the housing 14. Although a single actuator 430 is shown and described herein, it should be understood that the valve assembly 400 may include a corresponding actuator for selectively controlling the movement of each movable body 410, 420. Alternatively, the actuator 430 may be configured to selectively move each of the first movable body 410 and the second movable body 420 independently of each other. As described above, in some embodiments, the actuator 430 may be coupled to the actuation mechanism 30 such that the actuator 430 may be configured to move in response to actuation of the actuation mechanism 30, or vice versa. Thus, the movable bodies 410, 420 may move between one or more positions while releasing pressurized fluid from a pressurized fluid source through the actuator 30.

[0098] In some embodiments, the jet channel 120 can be configured to maintain fluid communication with the pressurized fluid source when the movable bodies 410, 420 are in the respective positions. In other words, the jet channel 120 can continue to receive the pressurized fluid source regardless of the relative positions of the movable bodies 410, 420. In other embodiments, in response to the second movable body 420 moving from the first position ( Fig. 10A ) moves to the second position ( Fig. 10B ), the jet channel 120 can be in fluid communication with a pressurized fluid source. In this case, actuation of the actuator 430 can provide a corresponding release of the pressurized fluid from the pressurized fluid source.

[0099] Reference now Fig.11 , showing aspects of another exemplary valve assembly 500. The valve assembly 500 can be configured similarly to the valve assembly 400, except for the differences expressly described herein, such that the same reference numerals are used to identify the same components. The valve assembly 500 can be housed within the handle body 12 ( Figure 1 ) and may include a housing 502 coupled to the housing 14 via the funnel 16. In some embodiments, the housing 502 may be integral with the funnel 16 and the housing 14, while in other embodiments, the housing 502 may be selectively attached thereto. In this embodiment, the valve assembly 500 may include one or more internal passages.

[0100] For example, valve assembly 500 may include passage 504 having a substantially uniform orientation relative to passage 404 of valve assembly 400. Figures 10A to 10B ) and / or a larger cross-sectional profile than the jet channel 120. In this case, the valve assembly 500 can be configured to switch from the non-delivery configuration to the delivery configuration ( Fig.11 ) generates a vortex in the channel 504. In other words, when the movable bodies 410, 420 move to Fig.11 In the corresponding second position shown in FIG. 5 , when the pressurized fluid from the jet channel 120 is received at the inlet 406, the medicine stored in the housing 14 and / or the funnel 16 can enter the channel 504. In this case, the pressurized fluid can form a rotating vortex in the channel 504 and around the first movable body 410, such as Fig.11 As shown by the arrows in , the medicine is agitated before being delivered toward the outlet 408.

[0101] In some embodiments, one or more surface features can be positioned within the channel 504 to induce turbulence and enhance mixing and fluidization of the medicament prior to delivery toward the outlet 408. For example, the valve assembly 500 can include one or more baffles, protrusions, dimples, recesses, cavities, and / or other suitable structures to form a physical obstruction within the channel 504. Such surface features can be similarly positioned within the corresponding channels of the valve assemblies 100, 200, 300, 400 shown and described above. It should be understood that, except for the above differences, the exemplary use of the valve assembly 500 can be substantially similar to the valve assembly 400 shown and described above.

[0102] Although the principles of the present invention are described herein with reference to illustrative examples for specific applications, it should be understood that the present invention is not limited thereto. Personnel with ordinary skills in the art and access to the teachings provided herein will recognize that additional modifications, applications, and replacements of equivalents all fall within the scope of the examples described herein. Therefore, the present invention should not be considered to be limited by the foregoing description.

Claims

1. A valve assembly for a medical device, comprising: an inlet in fluid communication with a housing of the medical device, wherein the housing stores a medicament; an outlet port in fluid communication with a delivery conduit of the medical device; as well as a body having a passageway in fluid communication with a fluid source, wherein the body is configured to move relative to the inlet and the outlet to selectively fluidly couple the passageway with the housing and the delivery conduit; wherein in the first position of the body, the passageway is not aligned with at least one of the inlet or the outlet such that the delivery conduit is not in fluid communication with at least one of the housing or the fluid source; as well as Wherein in the second position of the body, the passage is aligned with the inlet and the outlet such that the delivery conduit is in fluid communication with the housing and the fluid source.

2. The valve assembly of claim 1, wherein in the first position, the passage is positioned in transverse alignment relative to an axis extending between the inlet and the outlet.

3. A valve assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein in the second position the passages are positioned in parallel alignment relative to an axis extending between the inlet and the outlet.

4. A valve assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the passage is in fluid communication with the fluid source when the body is in the first position and the second position.

5. A valve assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the body is configured to direct the fluid through the passage and into the housing via the inlet when in the first position to agitate the medicament within the housing.

6. The valve assembly of claim 5, wherein the body is configured to direct the mixture of the fluid and the medicament from the housing into the channel via the inlet, and the channel is configured to direct the mixture into the delivery conduit via the outlet.

7. A valve assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the body comprises an insert positioned within the passageway, the insert comprising a porous mesh.

8. The valve assembly of claim 7, wherein the insert is configured to prevent the medicament from moving through the insert toward the fluid source and to allow the fluid to pass through the insert.

9. A valve assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the passage is a first passage, and wherein the body comprises a second passage in fluid communication with the first passage, the second passage having a length less than the length of the first passage.

10. The valve assembly of claim 9, wherein in the first position and the second position of the body, the second passage: misaligned with said outlet; in fluid communication with the fluid source; and is not in fluid communication with the inlet.

11. The valve assembly of claim 10, wherein in the third position of the body, the second passage is aligned with the outlet such that the delivery conduit is in fluid communication with the fluid source via the second passage.

12. The valve assembly of claim 11, wherein in the third position of the body, the passageway is not aligned with the inlet and the outlet such that the delivery conduit is not in fluid communication with the housing via the first passageway.

13. The valve assembly of any one of claims 9 to 11, wherein the body comprises an insert positioned within the second passage, and wherein the insert is configured to prevent movement of the medicament through the second passage and to allow the fluid to pass through the second passage.

14. A valve assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a shell defining the inlet and the outlet, the shell being configured to receive the body, wherein a gap is formed between the shell and the body, the gap being positioned between the inlet and the outlet so that when the body is in the first position, the delivery conduit is connected to the fluid source fluid via the gap.

15. The valve assembly of claim 14, wherein the gap is sized such that the medicament cannot pass through the gap.

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