Fluid infusion system

Abstract

A valve assembly includes: a conduit; a first valve at least partially disposed in the conduit defining a first fluid path and a second fluid path; and a second valve at least partially disposed in the conduit defining a third fluid path and a fourth fluid path, wherein the first valve and the second valve are configured to alter fluid flow through the conduit.

Description

Cross-references to related applications

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 617,215, entitled “Fluid Infusion System,” filed January 3, 2024, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0002] This disclosure generally relates to fluid delivery systems and methods of using them. Background Technology

[0003] Fluid infusion systems are used to deliver a variety of fluids and medications directly into a patient's bloodstream throughout a healthcare facility. Several challenges exist in the preparation and delivery of intravenous fluids. For example, when infusing an intravenous line with a potentially dangerous medication (such as chemotherapy agents), the line may already be filled with saline, requiring the saline to be administered to the patient before the medication is received. This can result in unwanted fluids being administered to the patient and delays in the delivery of the intended medication.

[0004] Inhaling air from the infusion system after fluid delivery poses another challenge and risk to patients. After a bag of fluid or medication has been completely infused into the patient and emptied, air can be inhaled into the fluid delivery line, creating a risk of air embolism. Air must be removed from the system before it can be used for subsequent fluid infusions.

[0005] Residual medication remaining in the infusion system poses another problem. When medication is delivered and the bag is empty, some medication may remain in the fluid line. This residual medication requires an additional flushing step or the introduction of additional fluid to ensure the patient receives the full dose. Alternatively, residual medication in the fluid line may not be delivered to the patient, resulting in small but persistent underdosing.

[0006] Another challenge in using infusion systems is the need for rapid delivery of emergency medications to patients in certain situations. For example, if a patient has an adverse reaction to a fluid or medication being administered, the infusion must be stopped immediately, and emergency medications must be delivered without administering more of the fluid or medication causing the reaction. In such cases, the time typically spent flushing or perfusing the infusion system to receive and deliver emergency medications can endanger the patient.

[0007] This disclosure provides fluid delivery systems and components thereof that address and overcome these challenges. Summary of the Invention

[0008] This disclosure provides a valve assembly comprising: a conduit having a first opening and a second opening; a first valve at least partially disposed in the conduit defining a first fluid path and a second fluid path, wherein the first valve is movable from (i) a first position in which the first fluid path is in fluid communication with the first opening and the second fluid path is not in fluid communication with the first opening, to (ii) a second position in which the first fluid path is not in fluid communication with the first opening and the second fluid path is in fluid communication with the first opening; and a second valve at least partially disposed in the conduit defining a third fluid path and a fourth fluid path, wherein the second valve is movable from (i) a first position in which the third fluid path is in fluid communication with the second opening and the fourth fluid path is not in fluid communication with the second opening, to (ii) a second position in which the third fluid path is not in fluid communication with the second opening and the fourth fluid path is in fluid communication with the second opening.

[0009] In one configuration, when the first valve is in the first position and the second valve is in the first position, the first opening of the conduit is in fluid communication with the second opening. When either the first valve or the second valve is in the second position, the first opening of the conduit is not in fluid communication with the second opening.

[0010] The catheter may define a longitudinal axis, and the first valve may be rotatable relative to the catheter about an axis substantially transverse to the longitudinal axis. The second valve may be rotatable relative to the catheter about an axis substantially transverse to the longitudinal axis. The first valve may include a first segment located outside the catheter, the first segment being configured to attach to a syringe, the first segment including a first port. The first valve may include a second port movably positioned within the catheter, and the second flow path may include the first port and the second port. The first valve may include a second segment at least partially disposed within the catheter, wherein the second segment defines a channel constituting the first flow path. The channel may extend around the outer periphery of the second segment.

[0011] The second valve may include a first segment located outside the catheter, the first segment being configured to attach to a syringe, wherein the first segment includes a first port. The second valve may include a second port movably positioned within the catheter, and the fourth flow path may include the first port and the second port. The second valve may include a second segment at least partially disposed within the catheter, the second segment defining a flow channel constituting the third flow path. The flow channel may extend around the outer periphery of the second segment.

[0012] A drip chamber is provided, comprising: a housing defining a first end, a passage at the first end, a second end opposite the first end, and a cavity in fluid communication with the passage; a ball movably disposed within the cavity; a stop configured to limit the range of motion of the ball; an inlet proximate to the second end and in fluid communication with the cavity; and an outlet proximate to the second end and in fluid communication with the cavity, wherein at least a portion of the housing is configured to form a seal with the ball, such that the inlet and the outlet are not in fluid communication with the passage. The drip chamber may include a spike at the first end through which the passage may extend. The housing may define a funnel-shaped section within the cavity, the funnel-shaped section being configured to form the seal with the ball. The inlet may include a connector configured to attach to a syringe. The drip chamber may include a check valve adjacent to the inlet.

[0013] A fluid delivery system is disclosed, comprising: a first fluid container containing fluid; a drip chamber as described herein, which is in fluid communication with the first fluid container and receives fluid from the first fluid container; a pump in fluid communication with the drip chamber and receives fluid from the drip chamber; and a valve assembly as described herein, which is in fluid communication with the pump and receives fluid from the pump.

[0014] A method for delivering a fluid is disclosed, the method comprising: placing an infusion chamber in fluid communication with a fluid container; transferring a first fluid from the container through a channel of the infusion chamber into the inner cavity of the infusion chamber; placing a syringe in fluid communication with an inlet of the infusion chamber, the syringe containing a second fluid; and applying a negative pressure to an outlet of the infusion chamber, causing the first fluid to be drawn out of the outlet, wherein the first fluid is drawn out of the outlet until a ball contained within the infusion chamber forms a seal with a portion of the inner cavity, at which point the negative pressure draws the second fluid from the syringe toward the outlet. The first fluid may be different from the second fluid. The first fluid may be a drug, and the second fluid may be saline. Attached Figure Description

[0015] A more complete understanding of this disclosure and its accompanying advantages and features will be more readily obtained by referring to the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings: Figure 1 An illustration of an example of a fluid delivery system constructed according to the principles of this disclosure; Figure 2 A perspective view of an example valve assembly constructed according to the principles of this disclosure; Figure 3 for Figure 2 Side view of the valve assembly; Figure 4 for Figure 2 A partial cross-sectional view of the valve assembly; Figure 5 for Figure 2 A perspective view of the valve assembly in its alternative position; Figure 6 For being in Figure 5 A partial cross-sectional view of the valve assembly at the location shown. Figure 7 For being in Figure 5 Another partial cross-sectional view of the valve assembly at the location shown; Figure 8 for Figure 2 A perspective view of the valve assembly in an alternative location; Figure 9 For being in Figure 8 A partial cross-sectional view of the valve assembly at the location shown. Figure 10 A perspective view of another example of a valve assembly constructed according to the principles of this disclosure; Figure 11 A perspective view of an example drip chamber constructed according to the principles of this disclosure, in which there is no fluid; Figure 12 for Figure 11 A cross-sectional view of the drip chamber; Figure 13 for Figure 11 A cross-sectional view of a drip chamber containing fluid; Figure 14 for Figure 11 A top view of the interior of the infusion chamber; Figure 15 for Figure 11 Another cross-sectional view of the drip chamber; Figure 16 for Figure 11 A cross-sectional view of the components of the infusion chamber, with the syringe and syringe adapter coupled to the component; Figure 17 An illustration of another example of a fluid delivery system constructed according to the principles of this disclosure; and Figure 18 An illustration of another example of a fluid delivery system constructed according to the principles of this disclosure; Detailed Implementation The following description is provided to enable those skilled in the art to make and use the described aspects intended for carrying out the invention. However, various modifications, equivalents, variations, and substitutions will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Any and all such modifications, variations, equivalents, and substitutions are intended to fall within the spirit and scope of the invention.

[0016] Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, as used herein, the singular forms “a,” “one,” and “the” include plural referents.

[0017] Spatial or directional terms such as “left,” “right,” “inner,” “outer,” “above,” and “below” relate to the embodiments or aspects shown in the accompanying drawings and should not be considered limiting, as various alternative orientations may be adopted for the embodiments or aspects.

[0018] All figures used in the specification and claims should be understood to be modified in all cases by the term "about". "About" refers to a range of plus or minus twenty-five percent of the stated value. However, this should not be regarded as a limitation on any value analysis under the doctrine of equivalence.

[0019] Unless otherwise stated, all ranges or ratios disclosed herein should be understood to encompass both the starting and ending values, and any and all subranges or subratios contained therein. For example, the stated range or ratio “1 to 10” should be considered to include any and all subranges or subratios between the minimum value of 1 and the maximum value of 10 (inclusive); that is, all subranges or subratios begin with a minimum value of 1 or greater and end with a maximum value of 10 or less. The ranges and / or ratios disclosed herein represent the average of a particular range and / or ratio.

[0020] The terms “first”, “second”, etc., do not refer to any specific order or sequence, but rather to different conditions, characteristics, or elements.

[0021] All documents mentioned in this article are incorporated in their entirety by reference.

[0022] The term "at least" is synonymous with "greater than or equal to".

[0023] As used herein, “at least one of…” is synonymous with “one or more of…”. For example, the phrase “at least one of A, B, or C” means any one of A, B, or C, or any combination of any two or more of A, B, or C. For example, “at least one of A, B, and C” includes A alone; or B alone; or C alone; or A and B; or A and C; or B and C; or all of A, B, and C.

[0024] The terms "comprising" and "including" do not exclude the presence of any elements or steps other than those listed in any claim or the entire specification. In this specification, "comprising" means "including," and "including" means "comprising."

[0025] As used herein, the term “parallel” or “substantially parallel” means a relative angle between two objects (if extended to a theoretical point of intersection) (e.g., an elongated object and including a reference line) of 0° to 5°, or 0° to 3°, or 0° to 2°, or 0° to 1°, or 0° to 0.5°, or 0° to 0.25°, or 0° to 0.1°, including the stated values.

[0026] As used herein, the terms “vertical,” “lateral,” “substantially vertical,” or “substantially lateral” mean that the relative angle between two objects at their actual or theoretical point of intersection is 85° to 90°, or 87° to 90°, or 88° to 90°, or 89° to 90°, or 89.5° to 90°, or 89.75° to 90°, or 89.9° to 90°, including the stated values.

[0027] This disclosure provides a fluid infusion system and a method of using the same. An example of such a system 10 and its components is now shown with reference to the accompanying drawings (in which like reference numerals denote like elements). The system 10 may include a valve assembly 12 located at or near the distal or patient-side end of the fluid system 10. Reference Figures 1 to 10 An example of valve assembly 12 is shown. The valve assembly may typically define or include a conduit 14 configured or operable to deliver fluid through it. Conduit 14 may include or define a first opening 16, a second opening 18, and a passageway 20 connected to or otherwise in fluid communication with the first and second openings. Conduit 14 may constitute a pipe, conduit, or be at least partially constituted by a pipe, conduit, and / or may be constructed as an integral part of the housing or entire body of valve assembly 12. Conduit 14 and / or passageway 20 may be substantially linear and extend along or substantially parallel to the first axis 22. In alternative examples, at least a portion of conduit 14 and / or passageway 20 may be arcuate, curved, flexibly shaped, or otherwise configured to provide the fluid flow characteristics and features disclosed herein.

[0028] Valve assembly 12 may include a first valve 24, which is at least partially disposed within the passage 20 of catheter 14 and operable to alter the flow path of fluid passing through it. The first valve 24 may, for example, have sections or portions rotatably positioned within the passage 20 to alter and / or guide fluid flow. The first valve 24 may typically include or define a body 26, which includes a first segment 28 and a second segment 30. The first segment 28 is configured to attach or couple to a syringe, fluid source, or other medical device, and the second segment 30 is configured to interact with and alter fluid flow within the passage 20 of catheter 14.

[0029] The first segment 28 of the first valve 24 may typically have an elongated length oriented along axis 40 and typically defines or includes a first port 34 that opens into or otherwise fluidly communicates with the lumen 36. The first segment 28 may include one or more attachment features 38 configured to releasably engage with a syringe and / or syringe adapter, as described herein. For example, as... Figures 2 to 9 The first segment 28 of the first valve 24 shown includes or constitutes a pinless connector, which may include a valve (covering or adjacent to the first port 34), threads, and / or other features to connect compatible devices to the pinless connector. Figure 1 and Figure 10 In the alternative configuration shown, the first segment 28 of the first valve 24 may include or constitute a closed-system transfer connector (typically used for transferring hazardous agents or substances), wherein the first port 34 can be accessed through the sealing membrane 40, and may include other interlocking features such as a cantilever locking arm, a protrusion, etc. U.S. Patent No. 10,744,315 provides examples of needleless connectors and closed-system transfer devices, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by way of incorporation.

[0030] The second segment 30 may typically have a cylindrical body having an elongated length oriented along an axis 42 substantially transverse to the axis 40 of the first segment 28. The second segment 30 may define or include a lumen 44 in fluid communication with the interior 36 and first port 34 of the first segment 28 of the first valve 24. The second segment 30 may also define or include a second port 46 in fluid communication with the lumen 44 (and thus the interior 36 and first port 34), wherein the second port 46 may also be selectively positioned in fluid communication or non-fluid communication with the first opening 16 of the conduit 14. In the example shown, the lumen 44 may extend through a centerline substantially parallel to the axis 42 of the second segment 30. The second port 46 may be defined or constituted by an opening in a sidewall of the second segment 30 substantially perpendicular to the axis 42. The second segment 30 and / or the first valve 24 may be accessible from, for example... Figures 1 to 4 The second port 46 shown is not in fluid communication with the passage 20 and the first opening 16. The first position is rotated to, as shown... Figures 5 to 7 The second port 46 shown is in a second position that is in fluid communication with the passage 20 and the first opening 16.

[0031] The second segment 30 may further define or include a flow channel 48, which may be selectively positioned to be in fluid communication with or not in fluid communication with the first opening 16. The flow channel 48 is isolated from and not in fluid communication with the lumen 44 or the inner cavity 36 of the first segment 28. The flow channel 48 may be formed as an arcuate groove or arcuate section surrounding the outer periphery or circumference of the second segment 30, and may rotate about axis 42 in conjunction with the rotation or movement of the second segment 30. When the second segment 30 is in the aforementioned first position (e.g., where the second port 46 is not in fluid communication with the passage 20 and the first opening 16, such as...), Figures 1 to 4 As shown), the flow channel 48 is in fluid communication with the passage 20 and the first opening 16 to allow fluid to flow between the first opening 16 and the intermediate section 20a of the passage 20 and / or the second opening 18. When the second section 30 is in the second position described above (e.g., the second port 46 is in fluid communication with the passage 20 and the first opening 16, such as...), Figures 5 to 7 As shown), the flow channel 48 is not in fluid communication with the first opening 16 and prevents fluid from flowing between the first opening 16 and the middle section 20a of the passage 20 and / or the second opening 18.

[0032] Valve assembly 12 may include a second valve 50, which is at least partially disposed within the passage 20 of catheter 14 and operable to alter the fluid flow path through it. The second valve 50 may be positioned between the first valve 24 and the second opening 18 of catheter 14, and may have a substantially similar construction, operation, and features to the first valve 24. The second valve 50 may, for example, have a section or portion rotatably positioned within the passage 20 to alter and / or guide fluid flow between an intermediate section 20a of passage 20 and the second opening 18 of catheter 14. The second valve 50 may typically include or define a body 52, which includes a first section 54 and a second section 56, the first section 54 being configured to attach or couple to a syringe, fluid source, or other medical device, and the second section 56 being configured to interact with and alter fluid flow within the passage 20 of catheter 14.

[0033] The first segment 54 of the second valve 50 may typically have an elongated length oriented along axis 58 and typically defines or includes a first port 60 that opens into or otherwise communicates with the lumen 62 in fluid communication. The first segment 54 may include one or more attachment features 64 configured to releasably engage with a syringe and / or syringe adapter (as described herein) and include a needleless connector and / or a closed system transfer connector.

[0034] The second segment 30 may typically have a cylindrical body having an elongated length oriented along an axis 66 substantially transverse to the axis 58 of the first segment 54. The second segment 56 may define or include a lumen 68 in fluid communication with the interior 62 and first port 60 of the first segment 54 of the second valve 50. The second segment 56 may also define or include a second port 70 in fluid communication with the lumen 68 (and thus the interior 62 and first port 60), wherein the second port 70 may also be selectively positioned in fluid communication or non-fluid communication with the first opening 16 of the conduit 14. In the example shown, the lumen 68 may extend through a centerline substantially parallel to the axis 66 of the second segment 56. The second port 70 may be defined or constituted by an opening in a sidewall of the second segment 56 substantially perpendicular to the axis 66.

[0035] The second section 56 and / or the second valve 50 can be in a first position (e.g., the second port 70 is not in fluid communication with the passage 20 and the second opening 18) from the second position (e.g.) Figures 1 to 6 (As shown) Rotate to the second position where the second port 70 is in fluid communication with the passage 20 and the second opening 18 (as shown) Figures 8 to 9 (As shown).

[0036] The second segment 56 may further define or include a flow channel 72, which may be selectively positioned to be in fluid communication with or not in fluid communication with the second opening 18. The flow channel 72 is isolated from and not in fluid communication with the lumen 68 or the inner cavity 62 of the first segment 54. The flow channel 72 may be formed as an arcuate groove or arcuate section surrounding the outer periphery or circumference of the second segment 56, and may rotate about axis 66 in conjunction with the rotation or movement of the second segment 56. When the second segment 56 is in the aforementioned first position (e.g., where the second port 70 is not in fluid communication with the passage 20 and the second opening 18, such as...), Figures 1 to 6 As shown), the flow channel 72 is in fluid communication with the passage 20 and the second opening 18 to allow fluid to flow between the second opening 18 and the intermediate section 20a of the passage 20 and / or the first opening 16. When the second section 54 is in the second position described above (e.g., the second port 70 is in fluid communication with the passage 20 and the second opening 18, such as...), Figures 8 to 9 As shown), the flow channel 72 is not in fluid communication with the second opening 18 and prevents fluid from flowing between the second opening 18 and the middle section 20a of the passage 20 and / or the first opening 16.

[0037] Valve assembly 12 may include one or more connectors, adapters or other couplers 74 positioned on or around the first opening 16, the second opening 18 and / or the conduit 14 to integrate valve assembly 12 into a fluid line, delivery system, or otherwise use as described herein.

[0038] Now for reference Figure 1 and Figures 11 to 6 System 10 may include an infusion chamber 76 that facilitates the controlled delivery of fluids and / or medications through system 10. The infusion chamber 76 may typically include or define a housing 78 having a first end 80, a second end 82, and an interior cavity 84 located within the housing, the interior cavity 84 being configured to receive, store, and deliver fluids to other sections of system 10. The first end 80 of the housing may be configured or operable to attach to or engage a fluid container, such as an IV bag. The first end 80 may include or define a tip 86 configured to pierce a seal, port, or other opening of the fluid container. The tip 86 may include an orifice or opening 88 located at or adjacent to its end and a channel 90 leading from the orifice 88 to the interior cavity 78. The infusion chamber 76 may include a droplet former or other structures to regulate the flow of fluid through the channel 90 and into the interior cavity 84 of the housing 78.

[0039] The drip chamber 76 may include a ball 92, which is movably positioned within the cavity 84 of the housing 78. The ball 92 may have sufficient buoyancy to float or otherwise move within the cavity 84 depending on the presence and level of the fluid contained therein. Figure 13 An example of the position of ball 92 in the cavity when fluid is present is shown, while Figure 14 An example of the position of the ball 92 within the cavity is shown when fluid is significantly removed from the cavity. The drip chamber 786 may include a stop 94 configured or operable to limit or constrain the range of motion of the ball 92 within the cavity 84. For example, the stop 94 may physically limit the maximum height the ball 92 can travel within the cavity 84. The stop 94 may be attached to, extend from, and / or otherwise integrated with one or more portions of the sidewall or surface of the cavity 84, and may be movably positioned relative to the cavity 84 to allow manual adjustment of the range of motion of the ball 92. Figure 14 In the example shown, the stop 94 has an annular structure surrounding the circumference or periphery of the inner cavity 84 and has a plurality of protrusions 96 that define an inner diameter or width smaller than the width or diameter of the ball 92, thereby preventing the ball from passing through or out of the stop 94. The stop 94 is arranged in an originally open configuration to allow fluid to flow freely within the inner cavity 84.

[0040] The infusion chamber 76 includes an inlet 98 near a second end 82 of the housing 78, configured to introduce or inject fluid into the infusion chamber. The inlet 98 may be in fluid communication with an interior cavity 84 of the housing 78, and a check valve 100 may be positioned adjacent to or otherwise in fluid communication with the inlet 98, and thus in fluid communication with an interior cavity 62 of the housing to allow unidirectional flow of fluid into the interior cavity and to prevent any backflow or leakage from the inlet 98 or the housing 78. The inlet 98 may include one or more attachment features 102 configured to releasably engage with a syringe and / or syringe adapter, as described herein. For example, the inlet 98 may include a needleless connector or otherwise attach to a needleless connector similar to... Figures 2 to 9 The pinless connector for valve assembly 12 discussed above is shown. In, as... Figure 1 and Figures 11 to 15 In another configuration shown, inlet 98 may include a closed-system transfer connector 104 (typically used for transferring hazardous drugs or substances) or be otherwise connected to a closed-system transfer connector 104, wherein inlet 98, and therefore the inner cavity 62 of the housing, can be accessed through a sealing membrane 106 and a lumen 108 passing through it. Connector 104 may include interlocking features, such as a cantilever locking arm, a protrusion, etc., for attachment to a syringe adapter as disclosed herein.

[0041] The drip chamber 76 may include an outlet 108 at, adjacent to, or near the second end 82 of the housing 78. The outlet 108 is in fluid communication with the cavity 84 and is configured or operable to deliver fluid from the cavity to other parts of the system 10. The outlet 108 may include one or more pipe sections, nozzles, valves, and / or connectors for attachment and fluid communication with other parts of the system 10.

[0042] The infusion chamber 76 can be configured such that when the volume or amount of fluid in the cavity 84 drops below a threshold level, the ball 92 descends and seals a portion of the cavity 84 away from the inlet 98 and outlet 108. Thus, the ball 92 is operable and configured to prevent air from being entrained into the outlet 108 when the attached fluid container or IV bag has been emptied into the infusion chamber 76 and fluid has been adequately discharged through the outlet 108. The ball 92 may form a seal with the housing 78 adjacent to or near the second end 82. The housing 78 may define or include an annular edge or funnel-shaped region 110, the width or diameter of which is smaller than the width or diameter of the ball 92, such that when the fluid level in the cavity 84 is sufficiently reduced, the ball 92 descends to contact the edge 110, thereby forming a fluid seal between the upper section 112 and the lower section 114 of the cavity 84, the lower section 114 being adjacent to and in fluid communication with the inlet 98 and outlet 108. When ball 92 forms a seal, sufficient fluid can remain in the lower section 114 of the inner cavity 84 to ensure that air is not introduced into the lower section 114 and outlet 108. During operation, ball 92 sealing the inner cavity 84 also applies a vacuum or pressure differential (e.g., on syringe adapter 116, syringe 118, and / or other fluid containers attached to inlet 98) to syringe adapter 116, syringe 118, and / or other fluid containers attached to inlet 98. Figure 16 (as shown), to draw the contents therein into inlet 98 and toward outlet 108, as further described herein.

[0043] Refer again Figure 1 System 10 may include an IV bag or fluid container 120 attached to or suspended on a hanger or frame 122. System 10 includes one or more segments of tubing, pipes, or other fluid conduits to interconnect the components and provide an operable fluid loop or path as described. Infusion chamber 76 may be in fluid communication with container 120 by positioning or inserting a tip 86 through a seal or port in container 120, such that lumen 84 receives fluid from container 120. Pump 124 may be in fluid communication with outlet 108 of infusion chamber 76, and valve assembly 12 may be in fluid communication with pump 124. A first opening 16 of valve assembly 12 may be attached to or otherwise configured to receive fluid delivered by pump 124, and a second opening 18 of valve assembly 12 may be attached to a medical device (not shown), such as an indwelling catheter or cannula for providing fluid to a patient. System 10 may include one or more syringe connectors / vents 126 and may include one or more clamps 128 (e.g., rollers and / or sliding clamps) to regulate fluid flow through system 10. System 10 provides a single-line flow path from container 120 to infusion chamber 76, out of outlet 108 (including any additives or injectables from inlet 98), to pump 124, and toward valve assembly 12.

[0044] Now for reference Figure 17 Another example of system 10 is shown as... Figure 1 The system shown is similar, but with the addition of multiple fluid sources. System 10 includes a first fluid container 120a and a second fluid container 120b, which are attached to or suspended on a hanger or frame 122. A drip chamber 76 is in fluid communication with the first container 120a by positioning or inserting a tip 86 through a seal or port in container 120, such that a cavity 84 receives fluid from container 120. The outlet 108 of drip chamber 76 leads to a connector 130 to intersect with the outlet or line of a second drip chamber 132 attached to the second fluid container 120b. A pump 124 is in fluid communication with both fluid containers 120a and 120b downstream of connector 130, and a valve assembly 12 is in fluid communication with pump 124. The first opening 16 of the valve assembly 12 may be attached to or otherwise configured to receive fluid delivered by the pump 124, and the second opening 18 of the valve assembly 12 may be attached to a medical device (not shown), such as an indwelling catheter or cannula for providing fluid to a patient.

[0045] Now for reference Figure 18 Another example of system 10 is shown as... Figure 17 The system shown is similar but includes multiple pumps. System 10 includes a first fluid container 120a and a second fluid container 120b, which are attached to or suspended from a hanger or frame 122. A drip chamber 76 is in fluid communication with the first container 120a by positioning or inserting a tip 86 through a seal or port in container 120, such that a cavity 84 receives fluid from container 120. An outlet 108 of the drip chamber 76 leads to a first pump 124a upstream of connector 130, and a second pump 124b is connected between the second fluid container 120b and connector 130. A valve assembly 12 is in fluid communication with both pumps and fluid containers downstream of connector 130.

[0046] System 10 and its components provide fluid flow control capabilities at various stages of preparation and delivery to the patient. For example, to infuse system 10 for fluid delivery, syringe adapter 116 and / or syringe 118 can be coupled to inlet 98 of infusion chamber 76. The fluid contents of syringe 118 can be injected through check valve 100 into the lumen 84 of infusion chamber to infuse or fill a fluid circuit or line leading from outlet 108 to pump 124, to valve assembly 12, and toward the patient's indwelling cannula or catheter (not shown). Alternatively, to infuse the line and / or remove air contained in system 10, first valve 24 can be adjusted from a first position to a second position such that first port 34 and second port 46 are in fluid communication with first opening 16 of catheter 14, and syringe can be coupled to a first section 28 of first valve 24 to evacuate air until fluid from infusion chamber 76 fills the fluid line or circuit for delivery. Once the fluid line has been filled and air has been removed, the first valve 24 can return to the first position, allowing fluid to flow through the first and second openings of catheter 14 and downstream to the patient. Any excess fluid or medication aspirated from the syringe can be reintroduced into system 10 through inlet 98 to minimize waste during the perfusion process.

[0047] Once the system has been infused, system 10 can deliver the full dose of medication to the patient. For example, container 120 may contain medication that enters the lumen 84 of infusion chamber 76 through channel 90. Syringe 118 may be coupled directly or via syringe adapter 116 or other intermediate connector to inlet 98 of infusion chamber 76. Syringe 118 may include saline or other flushing fluid. As medication received from fluid container 120 in the lumen 84 of infusion chamber 76 is aspirated and delivered to the patient (e.g., via pump 124 and valve assembly 12), ball 92 descends to form a seal with sealing region 110 of housing 78, thereby ensuring that air is not entrained or passes through outlet 108. Once the seal is formed, a portion of the medication from container 120 will remain in the lower section 114 of housing and in one or more fluid lines leading from outlet 108 to pump 124, valve assembly 12, and the patient. Pump 124 generates a negative pressure through the sealed lower section 114 of housing 78, sufficient to open check valve 100 and draw fluid contents from syringe 118. The contents of syringe 118 then enter inlet 98, pass through outlet 108, and continue toward valve assembly 12, thereby delivering the remaining medication in system 10 to the patient and maintaining system 10 perfusion for subsequent infusions. The volume of syringe contents preferably meets or exceeds the volumetric capacity of the fluid lines within system 10 to ensure complete medication delivery.

[0048] In the event of an adverse reaction or other necessitation of immediate termination of the infusion and administration of one or more emergency medications or other fluids, the second valve 50 can be moved from a first position to a second position, thereby preventing further flow of fluid from the first opening 16 of the catheter 14 (and consequently from the pump 124 and the infusion chamber 76) to the patient, and establishing fluid communication between the first port 60 and the second port 70 and the second opening 18 of the catheter 14 and the downstream portion to the patient. A syringe containing emergency medications or other fluids can be attached to the first section 54 of the second valve 50 via attachment feature 64, and the contents of the syringe can be injected through the first port 60, flow out from the second port 70, and be injected into the patient through the second opening 18 of the catheter 14.

[0049] Those skilled in the art will understand that this disclosure is not limited to what has been specifically shown and described above. Furthermore, unless otherwise stated above, it should be noted that all the drawings are not drawn to scale. It is worth noting that in the drawings, system components have been indicated by conventional symbols where appropriate, and only those specific details relevant to understanding embodiments of this disclosure are shown to avoid obscuring this disclosure with details readily apparent to those skilled in the art as described herein. Moreover, while some embodiments or drawings described herein may show features not explicitly indicated in other drawings or embodiments, it should be understood that the features and components of the examples disclosed herein are not necessarily mutually exclusive and may be included in various different combinations or configurations without departing from the scope and spirit of this disclosure. Based on the foregoing teachings, various modifications and variations are possible without departing from the scope and spirit of this disclosure, which is defined only by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A valve assembly, the valve assembly comprising: A catheter having a first opening and a second opening; A first valve, at least partially disposed in the conduit, defines a first fluid path and a second fluid path, wherein the first valve is movable from (i) a first position in which the first fluid path is in fluid communication with the first opening and the second fluid path is not in fluid communication with the first opening, to (ii) a second position in which the first fluid path is not in fluid communication with the first opening and the second fluid path is in fluid communication with the first opening; and A second valve is at least partially disposed in the conduit, the second valve defining a third fluid path and a fourth fluid path, wherein the second valve is movable from (i) a first position in which the third fluid path is in fluid communication with the second opening and the fourth fluid path is not in fluid communication with the second opening, to (ii) a second position in which the third fluid path is not in fluid communication with the second opening and the fourth fluid path is in fluid communication with the second opening.

2. The valve assembly of claim 1, wherein, When the first valve is in the first position and the second valve is in the first position, the first opening of the conduit is in fluid communication with the second opening.

3. The valve assembly of claim 2, wherein, When the first valve or the second valve is in the second position, the first opening of the conduit is not in fluid communication with the second opening.

4. The valve assembly of claim 1, wherein, The catheter defines a longitudinal axis, and the first valve is rotatable relative to the catheter about an axis substantially transverse to the longitudinal axis.

5. The valve assembly of claim 4, wherein, The second valve is rotatable relative to the conduit about an axis that is substantially transverse to the longitudinal axis.

6. The valve assembly of claim 1, wherein, The first valve includes a first section located outside the catheter, the first section being configured to attach to a syringe, the first section including a first port.

7. The valve assembly of claim 6, wherein, The first valve includes a second port movably positioned within the conduit, and the second flow path includes the first port and the second port.

8. The valve assembly of claim 7, wherein, The first valve includes a second section at least partially disposed within the conduit, the second section defining a flow path that forms the first flow path.

9. The valve assembly of claim 8, wherein, The flow channel extends around the outer periphery of the second section.

10. The valve assembly of claim 1, wherein, The second valve includes a first section located outside the catheter, the first section being configured to attach to a syringe, the first section including a first port.

11. The valve assembly of claim 10, wherein, The second valve includes a second port movably positioned within the conduit, and the fourth flow path includes the first port and the second port.

12. The valve assembly of claim 11, wherein, The second valve includes a second section at least partially disposed within the conduit, the second section defining a flow path that constitutes the third flow path.

13. The valve assembly of claim 12, wherein, The flow channel extends around the outer periphery of the second section.

14. An infusion chamber, the infusion chamber comprising: A housing that defines a first end, a channel located at the first end, a second end opposite to the first end, and an inner cavity in fluid communication with the channel; A ball, which is movably disposed within the inner cavity; A stop member configured to limit the range of motion of the ball; An inlet, which is located near the second end and is in fluid communication with the inner cavity; as well as An outlet is located near the second end and is in fluid communication with the inner cavity, wherein at least a portion of the housing is configured to form a seal with the ball, such that the inlet and the outlet are not in fluid communication with the channel.

15. The drip chamber of claim 14, further comprising a tip located at the first end, the channel extending through the tip.

16. The drip chamber of claim 14, wherein, The housing defines a funnel-shaped section within the inner cavity, the funnel-shaped section being configured to form a seal with the sphere.

17. The drip chamber of claim 14, wherein, The inlet includes a connector configured to be attached to the syringe.

18. The drip chamber according to claim 14, wherein the drip chamber further comprises a check valve adjacent to the inlet.

19. A fluid transport system, the fluid transport system comprising: A first fluid container, wherein the first fluid container contains fluid; The drip chamber according to claim 14, wherein the drip chamber is in fluid communication with the first fluid container and receives fluid from the first fluid container; A pump, which is in fluid communication with the drip chamber and receives fluid from the drip chamber; as well as The valve assembly of claim 1 is in fluid communication with the pump and receives fluid from the pump.

20. A method for conveying fluid, the method comprising: The drip chamber is positioned in fluid communication with the fluid container; The first fluid is transferred from the container through the channel of the drip chamber into the inner cavity of the drip chamber; The syringe is positioned in fluid communication with the inlet of the drip chamber, the syringe containing a second fluid; as well as A negative pressure is applied to the outlet of the drip chamber, causing the first fluid to be drawn out of the outlet, wherein the first fluid is drawn out of the outlet until the ball contained in the drip chamber forms a seal with a portion of the inner cavity, at which point the negative pressure draws the second fluid from the syringe toward the outlet.

21. The method of claim 20, wherein, The first fluid is different from the second fluid.

22. The method of claim 21, wherein, The first fluid is a drug, and the second fluid is saline solution.

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