Medical Connectors

Abstract

An adapter for connecting a first connector to a second connector can include a proximal portion configured to linearly engage with the first connector in a snap-fit ​​engagement. The adapter can include a distal portion configured to rotationally engage with the second connector. Rotation of the adapter relative to the second connector can advance a male luer of the first connector into substantial sealing engagement with a female luer on the second connector. The adapter can be configured to displace a collar on the first connector when coupled to the first connector. The second connector can include a proximal portion configured to engage with the first connector, for example, in a snap-fit ​​engagement.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 228,982, entitled MEDICAL CONNECTORS, filed on August 3, 2021. The entire contents of each of the above-identified applications are hereby incorporated by reference into this specification and made a part hereof for all that they disclose.

[0002] Some embodiments disclosed herein relate to medical connectors. [Background technology]

[0003] Although a variety of medical connectors exist, there remains a need for improved medical connectors. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] US Patent Application Publication No. 2019 / 0078712 Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] Some example embodiments are summarized below for illustrative purposes. The embodiments are not limited to the specific implementations described herein. Although the embodiments may include several novel features, no one of these is solely responsible for its desirable attributes or essential to the embodiments.

[0006] Various embodiments disclosed herein may relate to a medical connector, which may include a proximal end with a proximal opening, a distal end with a distal opening, and a fluid pathway between the proximal and distal ends. The connector may include a body portion and a protrusion extending distally from the body portion, with a proximal step formed between the body portion and the protrusion. The protrusion may include a distal step. The protrusion may include a male luer with a tapered outer surface configured to engage a tapered inner surface of the female luer. A collar may be disposed between the proximal and distal steps. The collar may substantially surround the protrusion. The collar may have female threads. An adapter may include a proximal portion having one or more protrusions extending inwardly and engaging a distal step on the protrusion to couple the adapter to the protrusion. The adapter may have a distal portion having female threads.

[0007] The proximal portion of the adapter can be between the protrusion and the collar. The proximal portion of the adapter can fit inside the collar without engaging the threads of the collar. The one or more protrusions can include annular flanges. The adapter can include one or more arms, which, when manipulated, can be configured to apply a force that displaces the one or more protrusions to facilitate disengagement of the adapter from the protrusion. The proximal portion of the adapter can include one or more slits. The medical connector can include a sealing element between the adapter and the protrusion. The sealing element can include an O-ring or a gasket. The adapter can include a shroud extending proximally to substantially cover the body portion.

[0008] Various embodiments disclosed herein may relate to an adapter, which may be configured to couple a first medical connector to a second medical connector. The adapter may include a proximal portion configured to allow for linear coupling of the first medical connector to the adapter without rotating the adapter relative to the first medical connector. The adapter may include a distal portion configured to allow for rotational coupling of the second medical connector to the adapter.

[0009] The proximal portion may include one or more protrusions extending inwardly and configured to engage an engagement feature on the first medical connector. The one or more protrusions may include an annular flange. The proximal portion may have an outer diameter smaller than an outer diameter of the distal portion. The adapter may include one or more arms, which, when manipulated, may be configured to apply a force that spreads the proximal portion to facilitate disengagement of the adapter from the first medical connector. The proximal portion may include one or more slits. The adapter may include a sealing element disposed inside the adapter. The sealing element may include an O-ring or a gasket. The adapter may include a shroud extending proximally beyond the proximal portion.

[0010] Various embodiments disclosed herein may relate to an adapter, which may be configured to couple a first medical connector to a second medical connector. The adapter may include a proximal portion that may include one or more snap-fit ​​engagement features for linearly engaging with the first medical connector. The adapter may include a distal portion with female threads for rotationally engaging with the second medical connector.

[0011] The proximal portion can have an outer diameter smaller than an outer diameter of the distal portion. The adapter can include one or more arms, which, when manipulated, can be configured to apply a force that spreads the proximal portion to facilitate disengagement of the adapter from the first medical connector. The proximal portion can include one or more slits. The adapter can include a sealing element disposed inside the adapter. The sealing element can include an O-ring or a gasket. The adapter can include a shroud extending proximally beyond the proximal portion. The one or more snap-fit ​​engagement features can include a proximal sliding surface, and a distal engagement surface.

[0012] Various embodiments disclosed herein may relate to a medical connector, which may include a distal end with a distal opening and a proximal end with a proximal opening. The proximal end may include a female luer bore and an external thread. The medical connector may have a fluid pathway between the proximal end and the distal end. The adapter may include a distal portion having an internal thread that engages with the external thread of the proximal end. The adapter may include a proximal portion, which may have one or more protrusions with a proximal sloped sliding surface and a distal engagement surface. The proximal portion of the adapter may have an outer diameter smaller than an outer diameter of the distal portion of the adapter. The one or more protrusions may provide a snap-fit ​​engagement mechanism. The proximal portion of the adapter may be configured to linearly engage with another connector.

[0013] Various embodiments disclosed herein may relate to a method that may include accessing a first medical connector that may include a proximal end with a proximal opening, a distal end with a distal opening, a fluid pathway between the proximal and distal ends, a body portion, and a protrusion extending distally from the body portion. The protrusion may include a step. The protrusion may include a male luer with a tapered outer surface that may be configured to engage a tapered inner surface of the female luer. The first medical connector may include a collar that substantially surrounds the protrusion. The collar may include a female thread. The method may include accessing an adapter that may include a proximal portion having one or more protrusions extending inwardly and a distal portion having a female thread. The method may include coupling the adapter to the first medical connector by inserting the protrusion into a proximal portion of the adapter and advancing the adapter axially in a proximal direction until the one or more protrusions engage the step on the protrusion.

[0014] As the adapter is advanced axially, a proximal portion of the adapter may be inserted into the collar. The method may include accessing a second medical connector, which may include a distal end with a distal opening and a proximal end with a proximal opening. The proximal end may include a female luer and male threads. The second medical connector may include a fluid pathway between the proximal and distal ends. The method may include coupling the second medical connector to the adapter by inserting a proximal end of the second medical connector into the distal portion of the adapter and rotating the second medical connector relative to the adapter such that the male luer of the first medical connector sealingly engages with the female luer of the second medical connector and the male threads on the proximal end of the second medical connector engage with the female threads on the distal portion of the adapter. The method may include further rotating the second medical connector relative to the adapter such that one or more breakable elements on the second medical connector break to transition the second medical connector to a free spin configuration.

[0015] Various embodiments disclosed herein may relate to a method that may include accessing a first medical connector that may include a distal end with a distal opening and a proximal end with a proximal opening. The proximal end may include a female luer and a male thread. The first medical connector may have a fluid pathway between the proximal end and the distal end. The first medical connector may have an adapter, the adapter may include a distal portion with a female thread that engages with the male thread of the proximal end and a proximal portion with one or more protrusions. The method may include accessing a second medical connector that may include a proximal end with a proximal opening, a distal end with a distal opening, a fluid pathway between the proximal end and the distal end, a body portion, and a protrusion extending distally from the body portion. The protrusion may include a step. The protrusion may include a male luer with a tapered outer surface. The second medical connector may include a collar that substantially surrounds the protrusion. The collar may include a female thread. The method can include coupling a second medical connector to the adapter by inserting a protrusion into a proximal portion of the adapter and advancing the adapter axially in a proximal direction relative to the second connector until one or more protrusions engage a step on the protrusion and such that a male luer of the second medical connector sealingly engages with a female luer of the first medical connector.

[0016] Several embodiments will be discussed in detail with reference to the following figures, in which like reference numerals refer to like features throughout. These figures are provided for illustrative purposes and the embodiments are not limited to the particular implementations shown in the figures. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0017] [Figure 1] 1 illustrates an example embodiment of a medical connector. [Diagram 2] 2 illustrates the medical connector of FIG. 1 coupled to another medical connector. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the connector of FIG. 1. [Figure 4]2 is another cross-sectional view of the connector of FIG. 1. [Diagram 5] 1 is a cross-sectional view of an example embodiment of a first connector coupled to a portion of a second connector. [Figure 6A] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of an example embodiment of an adapter. [Figure 6B] FIG. 6B is a cross-sectional view of the adapter of FIG. 6A. [Figure 6C] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of another example embodiment of an adapter. [Figure 7] FIG. 6D is a cross-sectional view of the adapter of FIG. 6C coupled to a first connector. [Figure 7A] 1 is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of an adapter coupled to a first connector and a component of a second connector. [Figure 7B] 1 is a cross-sectional view of an example embodiment of an adapter coupled between a first connector and a second connector. [Figure 7C] 11 is a detailed cross-sectional view of the engagement between the adapter and the first and second connectors. FIG. [Figure 8] 1 illustrates a cross-sectional view of an example embodiment of an adapter. [Figure 9] 1 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an example embodiment of an adapter coupled to a connector. [Figure 10] 1 illustrates an example embodiment of a connector coupled to an adapter. [Figure 11] 1 illustrates a cross-sectional view of an example embodiment of a connector attached to an adapter including a shroud. [Figure 12] 1 illustrates an example embodiment of a connector coupled to an adapter with a sealing element. [Figure 13] 1 illustrates an example embodiment of an adapter coupled to a connector. [Figure 14] 1 illustrates an example embodiment of a connector coupled to a connector. [Figure 15] 1 is a cross-sectional view of an example embodiment of a first connector coupled to a portion of a second connector. [Figure 16] 1 is a cross-sectional view of an example embodiment of a first connector coupled to a portion of a second connector. [Figure 17A] 1 illustrates an example embodiment of a process for coupling a first connector to a second connector using an adapter. [Figure 17B] 1 illustrates an example embodiment of a process for coupling a first connector to a second connector using an adapter. [Figure 17C] 1 illustrates an example embodiment of a process for coupling a first connector to a second connector using an adapter. [Figure 17D] 1 illustrates an example embodiment of a process for coupling a first connector to a second connector using an adapter. [Figure 17E] 1 illustrates an example embodiment of a process for coupling a first connector to a second connector using an adapter. [Figure 17F] 1 illustrates an example embodiment of a process for coupling a first connector to a second connector using an adapter. [Figure 18A] 1 illustrates another example embodiment of a method for coupling a first connector to a second connector using an adapter. [Figure 18B] 1 illustrates another example embodiment of a method for coupling a first connector to a second connector using an adapter. [Figure 18C] 1 illustrates another example embodiment of a method for coupling a first connector to a second connector using an adapter. [Figure 18D] 1 illustrates another example embodiment of a method for coupling a first connector to a second connector using an adapter. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0018] Various features and advantages of the systems, devices, and methods of the technology described herein will become more fully apparent from the following description of examples shown in the figures. These examples are intended to illustrate the principles of the disclosure, and the disclosure should not be limited to merely the examples shown. Features of the illustrated examples can be modified, combined, removed, and / or substituted, as would be apparent to one skilled in the art in light of the principles disclosed herein.

[0019] FIG. 1 illustrates an example medical connector 100. FIG. 2 illustrates the medical connector 100 coupled to another medical connector 200. FIGS. 3 and 4 illustrate cross-sectional views of the connector 100. The medical connector 100 can have a proximal end 102 with a proximal opening and a distal end 104 with a distal opening. A fluid path 106 fluidly couples the proximal opening to the distal opening. In some cases, the fluid path can be a linear fluid path without turns or obstructions, and the fluid path can have a substantially uniform inner diameter, although various other configurations can be used. The proximal end 102 can be coupled to a conduit 108, such as a flexible medical tubing or catheter, such that the conduit is in fluid communication with the fluid path 106 through the connector 100. The conduit 108 can be coupled to the connector 100 by adhesive, friction fit, sonic welding, or any other suitable engagement. The proximal end 102 of the connector 100 can be coupled to a variety of other medical devices capable of transporting fluids, such as a syringe, another connector, a pump, etc. In some implementations, the proximal end 102 can have an engagement mechanism (e.g., a female luer, or other coupling structure) for releasably coupling with a medical device. In some implementations, a conduit 108 can couple the connector 100 to a pump, a medical fluid bag, other fluid source, or other medical device. The distal portion of the connector 100 can have a male connection mechanism, such as a male luer 110, which can be an ANSI-compliant male luer tip. The male luer 110 can have a tapered outer surface, which can be configured to engage with a corresponding tapered inner surface of a female luer, which can be an ANSI-compliant female luer.

[0020] The connector 100 may include a body portion 112. An exterior surface of the body portion 112 may have texture, protrusions, recesses, splines, and / or other gripping features configured to facilitate gripping of the body portion by a user during certain operations, such as during the process of connecting or disconnecting the connector 100 to another medical device. A protrusion 114 may extend distally from the body portion 112. A distal end of the protrusion 114 may include a male luer 110. An extension portion 116 of the protrusion 114 may extend between the body portion 112 and the male luer 110. The protrusion 114 (e.g., extension portion 116) may have an outer diameter or cross-sectional area smaller than an outer diameter or cross-sectional area of ​​the body portion 112, such that a step 118 is formed at the transition between the body portion 112 and the protrusion 114. The step 118 may be at the distal end of the body portion 112 and / or at the proximal end of the protrusion 114. In some implementations, the extension portion 116 can have an outer surface that does not include a tapered surface (e.g., does not have an ANSI-compliant tapered surface). The extension portion 116 can have one or more sections with a substantially uniform outer diameter. As seen in Figures 3 and 4, a first section 116a of the extension portion can have a first outer diameter, and a second section 116b of the extension portion can have a second outer diameter that is larger than the first outer diameter, such that a step 120 is formed at the transition from the first section 116a to the second section 116b. The second section 116b can be located distally from the first section 116a. In some cases, the second section 116b of the extension portion can be omitted, such that the tapered surface of the male luer 110 begins at the step 120. In some variations, the step 120 can be formed by a protrusion, such as an annular protrusion.

[0021] The connector 100 can include a collar 122, which can include a shroud 124, which can have one or more sidewalls 126 at least partially surrounding a recess. The collar 122 can have a continuous annular sidewall 126, but the sidewall 126 can have breaks, or slits, or separated portions or fingers. The inside of the sidewall 126 can have threads 128, which can be configured to engage with corresponding threads on a medical device, such as the connector 200 shown in FIG. 2. The exterior surface of the sidewall 126 can have texture, protrusions, recesses, splines, and / or other gripping features configured to facilitate gripping of the collar 122 by a user during certain operations, such as during the process of connecting or disconnecting the connector 100 to another medical device. In some implementations, the collar 122 can have a distal portion 130 that does not have a gripping feature. The portion of the collar 122 with the gripping features (e.g., splines) can have a larger outer diameter than the distal portion 130 of the collar 122 that does not have the gripping features (e.g., splines), thereby forming one or more steps (e.g., each individual spline can have a step at its distal end at the transition to the distal portion 130 of the collar 122).

[0022] The collar 122 can have an engagement portion 132 that engages with the protrusion 114. The engagement portion 132 can have an opening with an inner diameter about the same size as or slightly larger than the outer diameter of the protrusion 114 (e.g., the first section 116a of the protrusion). For example, a flange can extend inwardly from the proximal end of the sidewall 126. The opening through the proximal end of the collar 122 can have a diameter smaller than the diameter of the recess formed by the sidewall 126, forming a step 134. The step 134 can be formed by a flange at the proximal portion of the collar (e.g., at the proximal end of the recess). The distal end of the collar 122 can be open to the recess.

[0023] The collar 122 can be movable relative to the body portion 112 and / or relative to the projection 114. FIG. 3 shows the collar 122 in a proximal position, where the proximal end of the collar 122 can abut against the step 118 or a surface at the distal end of the body portion 112 to prevent the collar 122 from moving further in the proximal direction. FIG. 4 shows the collar 122 in a distal position, where the step 134 abuts against the step 120 to prevent the collar 122 from moving further in the distal direction. The range of motion for the collar 122 can be defined by the distance between the step 118 and the step 120 minus the distance between the step 134 and the proximal end of the collar 122. The collar 122 can be configured to move axially between the proximal and distal positions. The collar 122 can be configured to rotate (e.g., about a longitudinal axis extending through the connector 100 between the proximal and distal ends, such as through the fluid pathway 106).

[0024] As shown in FIG. 2, the distal portion of the connector 100 can be connected to a proximal portion 202 of a medical connector 200, or other medical device. FIG. 5 shows a cross-sectional view of the connector 100 coupled to the proximal portion 202, with the remainder of the connector 200 omitted from the figure. By way of example, the medical connector 200 has similar features to the embodiment of the connector disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 5,399,433, which was published on March 14, 2019 and is entitled AXIALLY ENGAGING MEDICAL CONNECTOR SYSTEM WITH DIMINISHED FLUID REMNANTS, and which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. The connector proximal portion 202 shown in FIG. 5 can have similar features to the first cap component in the embodiment of the closeable male connector disclosed in connection with FIGS. 1-20C of U.S. Patent No. 5,499,433. The proximal portion 202 can have a female luer 204, which can have a tapered surface corresponding to the tapered surface of the male luer 110. The male luer 110 can be advanced distally to engage the female luer 204 such that their tapered surfaces form a seal, allowing for the transfer of fluid between the connectors 100, 200 substantially without leakage during normal operation. Thus, the male luer 110 of the connector 100 can mate with the female luer of the connector 200. The exterior of the proximal portion 202 can have threads 206, which can be configured to engage with threads 128 on the collar 122. The threads can include protrusions and / or grooves, and in some cases one side can have one or more helical grooves and the other side can have one or more corresponding helical protrusions, or one or more protrusions that are not helical but still engage with the helical grooves. The collar 122 can be rotated onto the proximal portion 202 of the connector 200 such that the threaded engagement advances the collar 122 distally towards the connector 200. A step 134 on the collar can push against step 120 to advance protrusion 114 (eg, male luer 110) distally as well.

[0025] During normal operation, the collar 122 advances the male luer 110 distally until the tapered surface of the male luer 110 substantially seals against the tapered surface of the female luer 204. However, in some cases, the collar 122 may be prevented from advancing distally, causing the male luer 110 to not properly engage with the female luer 204, which may result in a leak in the connection between the connectors 100, 200. For example, if the collar 122 is deformed (e.g., either during manufacturing or assembly), the collar 122 may stick when threaded onto the proximal portion 202. In some cases, the collar 122 may have an inner diameter that is smaller than the appropriate size to engage with the proximal portion 202, e.g., due to manufacturing tolerances or defects. Various other features on the collar 122, such as the width, height, or pitch of the inner thread 128 of the collar 122, may be deformed in a manner that prevents the collar 122 from advancing properly. In some cases, the engagement portion 132 of the collar 122 may deform during assembly, which may cause the collar 122 to become misaligned (e.g., when the step 134 abuts the step 120). These issues may increase friction between the collar 122 and the proximal portion 202, preventing the collar 122 from advancing distally, which may result in leakage. Leakage may cause loss of fluid (e.g., which may be a costly drug), inaccurate dosing or sampling amounts, and exposure to hazardous materials (e.g., chemotherapy drugs). A deformed proximal portion 202 (e.g., a larger outer diameter, or deformed threads 206) may also prevent the collar 122 from advancing, which may result in leakage. Leakage may also result from attempting to attach the connector 100 to a device not designed to receive the collar 122, even if both components are properly formed.

[0026] In some implementations, the connector 200 can be configured to transition to a spinning configuration when a threshold amount of torque is applied to the connector 200. For example, as discussed in the '163 patent, the connector can have one or more tabs that are configured to break when a threshold amount of torque is applied to the connector 200, and the proximal portion 202 can be configured to rotate relative to the rest of the connector 200 when the tab breaks. Thus, a user can apply torque to twist the collar 122 and connector 200 together until a threshold torque is reached, at which point the tab breaks and the connector 200 simply spins when additional torque is applied. These features can be used to prevent the connector 200 from later coming off the connector 100. This configuration can effectively set a maximum torque that can be applied when threading the collar 122 onto the connector 200. If that maximum torque is reached before the male luer 110 fully engages the female luer 204 to form a substantially fluid-tight seal (e.g., due to a deformed collar 122), the connection between the connectors 100, 200 may leak. When attaching the connector 100 to a device that does not have a maximum torque threshold, the user may be able to compensate for a deformed collar by over-tightening the collar 122 to advance the male luer 110 sufficiently to prevent leakage. However, in a connector 200 with a torque limiting mechanism, the same deformation of the collar 122 may result in leakage because the torque limiting mechanism may prevent the user from over-tightening the collar 122. Over-tightening the collar 122 may also lead to other problems, such as breakage or deformation of the collar 122 or other components, which may result in significant leakage.

[0027] In some embodiments, the adapter 300 can be used to couple the connector 100 to the connector 200 or to another medical device. FIG. 6A shows a perspective view of an example embodiment of the adapter 300. FIG. 6B shows a cross-sectional view of the adapter 300 of FIG. 6A. FIG. 6C shows a cross-sectional view of another example embodiment of the adapter 300. FIG. 7A shows an example embodiment in which the adapter 300 of FIG. 6C is coupled to a component of the connector 100 and the connector 200. FIG. 7B shows a cross-sectional view of the adapter 300 coupled between the connector 100 and the connector 200. FIG. 7C shows a detailed cross-sectional view of the engagement between the adapter 300 and the connectors 100, 200. The adapter 300 can be configured to have a snap-fit ​​engagement with the connector 100 and a threaded engagement with the connector 200. In some embodiments, the adapter 300 can be used in place of the collar 122 of the connector 100. In some embodiments, when the adapter 300 is used to couple the connector 100 to the connector 200, the collar 122 does not engage the connector 200. The adapter 300 is capable of displacing the collar 122 of the connector 100 away from the connector 200 .

[0028] The adapter 300 can have an overall shape of a hollow cylinder with an annular sidewall surrounding an open interior chamber that can be open at the proximal and distal ends. The adapter 300 can include a proximal portion 302 and a distal portion 304. The proximal portion 302 can be configured to engage with the connector 100, for example, using a snap-fit ​​engagement. The proximal portion 302 has an inner diameter 306 that can be substantially the same as or larger than an outer diameter of the protrusion 114 (e.g., the second section 116b of the protrusion) such that the distal portion 304 of the adapter 300 can fit over the protrusion 114. The proximal portion 302 can include a flange 308, or one or more protrusions, that can extend inwardly to form a step 310 or engagement surface. The flange 308 or protrusion can form a region with an inner diameter that is approximately the same size as or slightly larger than the outer diameter of the projection 114 (e.g., first section 116a of the protrusion), which can be smaller than the inner diameter 306 of the front proximal portion of the flange 308. Each of the flanges 308 or protrusions can define a step 310 or engagement surface. The flange 308 or one or more protrusions can be unthreaded and have substantially the same axial position around its circumference. As shown in FIG. 6C, the proximal end of the adapter 300 can have a tapered surface 312, which can be inclined distally in a direction pointing radially inward. In some embodiments, the flange 308 or protrusion can include one or more teeth with an inclined sliding surface 312 opposite the step 310 or engagement surface, as shown in FIG. 6B, for example. In some embodiments, the flange 308 can extend substantially around the inner circumference of the adapter, as shown in FIG. 6C. In some embodiments, the one or more protrusions 308 can include individual teeth or other protrusions that can be spaced around the inside of the adapter 300, for example, as shown in FIG. 6B.

[0029] To attach the adapter 300 to the connector 100, the protrusion 114 (e.g., male luer 110) can be inserted through the proximal end of the adapter 300, and the adapter 300 can be moved axially in a proximal direction relative to the connector 100. The inner diameter at the flange 308 can be smaller than the outer diameter of the second portion 116b of the protrusion 114. The protrusion 114 (e.g., its second portion 116b) can contact the flange 308 or protrusion, and as the adapter 300 moves further proximally, the flange 308 or protrusion can bend, compress, or otherwise deform laterally outward. Once the adapter 300 moves proximally enough for the flange 308 to clear the step 120, the flange 308 or protrusion can move or expand laterally inward such that the proximal portion 302 of the adapter 300 engages the protrusion 114 on the connector 100. In some implementations, the flange 308 or protrusion can snap into place proximally of the step 120. A step 310 on the adapter 300 can abut against a step 120 on the connector 100 to prevent the adapter from moving distally beyond the position shown in FIG. 7. A tapered surface 312 on the adapter can facilitate sliding of the adapter 300 over the protrusions 114 of the connector 100. The inner edge of the proximal end can be chamfered, rounded, or tapered to prevent the inner edge from catching on the protrusions 114. Once engaged with the connector 100, the adapter 300 can rotate (e.g., about its longitudinal axis).

[0030] The proximal portion 302 of the adapter 300 can have an outer diameter 314 that can be smaller than the inner diameter of the collar 122 on the connector 100 and / or can be smaller than the distance between opposing threads on the inside of the collar 122 such that the proximal portion 302 of the adapter 300 can fit into a recess between the collar 122 and the protrusion 114. The adapter does not engage the collar threads 128 such that the collar 122 and the adapter 300 can rotate relative to one another. The distal portion 304 of the adapter 300 can have an outer diameter 316 that is larger than the outer diameter 314 of the proximal portion 302, which can form a step 318 at the transition from the proximal portion 302 to the distal portion 304. When the adapter 300 is coupled to the connector 100, the step 318 can push the collar 122 of the connector 100 in a proximal direction. The proximal portion 302 of the adapter 300 can have a length 320 (e.g., measured axially) that is sufficiently long such that when the adapter proximal portion 302 is engaged with the connector 100 (e.g., step 310 abuts against step 120), a distance 322 between step 318 at the distal end of body portion 112 of connector 100 and step 118 is at least as long as the length of collar 122 (e.g., measured axially between step 118 and the portion abutting step 318), and in some embodiments, distance 322 can be greater than the length of collar 122 such that a gap can be formed between collar 122 and step 118 and / or between collar 122 and step 318. Collar 122 can have a range of axial motion between step 118 and step 318. In some embodiments, the clearance and / or range of axial motion can be less than about 10 mm, less than about 8 mm, less than about 6 mm, less than about 4 mm, less than about 2 mm, less than about 1 mm, or less, or any range or value between these recited values, although some implementations may use other dimensions. In some embodiments, the collar 122 can be moved to provide the adapter 300 with the same range of axial motion.The collar 122 can axially fill the distance 322 between the steps 118, 318 by more than about 70%, more than about 80%, more than about 85%, more than about 90%, more than about 95%, more than about 98%, or about 100%, or any value or range between these recited values, although some implementations can use other dimensions.

[0031] The distal portion 304 can be configured to engage with the connector 200, for example, using a threaded engagement. FIG. 7 shows one embodiment of an adapter 300 that couples the connector 100 to the connector 200 (only the proximal portion 202 of the connector 200 is seen in FIG. 7). The inside of the distal portion 304 of the adapter 300 can have threads 324. The outside of the proximal portion 202 can have threads 206, which can be configured to engage with threads 324 on the adapter 300. The threads can include ridges and / or grooves, and in some cases one side can have one or more helical grooves and the other side can have one or more corresponding helical ridges, or one or more ridges that are not helical but still engage with the helical grooves. The distal portion 304 of the adapter 300 may have an inner diameter 326, which may be large enough to receive a sidewall of the female luer 204 into a recess between the male luer 110 and the sidewall of the distal portion 304 of the adapter 300. The inner diameter 326 of the distal portion 304 may be larger than the inner diameter 306 of the proximal portion 302. The inner diameter 326 of the distal portion 304 may be larger than the outer diameter 314 of the proximal portion 302. The distal portion 304 may have a length (e.g., along the axial direction) that may be longer, shorter, or the same as the length 320 of the proximal portion.

[0032] In some embodiments, the adapter 300 can be first attached to the connector 100 and then attached to the connector 200. As discussed herein, the adapter 300 can be forced proximally onto the connector 100 to prevent removal of the adapter 300 from the connector 100 until the adapter 300 engages the connector 100 (e.g., with a snap fit). Once the adapter 300 is attached to the connector 100, the adapter 300 can be forced distally against the collar 122. The proximal portion 302 of the adapter can be inserted into the recess between the protrusion 114 and the collar 122. The distal portion 304 of the adapter 300 can then be advanced distally such that the threads 324 engage the threads 206 on the proximal portion 202 of the connector 200. The adapter can be rotated relative to the connector 200, thereby allowing the adapter 300 to be advanced further distally. As the adapter 300 advances distally, the step 310 pushes against the step 120, causing the male luer 110 to also advance distally until the outer tapered surface of the male luer 110 engages the inner tapered surface of the female luer 204, thereby providing a substantially fluid-tight seal. The proximal portion 302 of the adapter 300 may be configured to linearly engage with the first connector 100 (e.g., without rotating the adapter 300 relative to the first connector 100) and / or the distal portion 304 of the adapter 300 may be configured to rotationally engage with the second connector 200.

[0033] In some embodiments, the adapter 300 can be first attached to the connector 200 and then to the connector 100. The distal portion 304 of the adapter can be threaded onto the proximal portion 202 of the connector 200. If the adapter 300 does not have a male luer 110 attached, the adapter 300 can be threaded into a location (or perhaps slightly proximal to that location) that is expected to provide a sealing engagement. The male luer 110 can then be advanced through the adapter 300 and into the proximal portion 202. The male luer 110 and the remainder of the protrusion can be advanced distally (e.g., without the need for rotation) until the flange 308 or protrusion engages (e.g., snap-fits) with the step 120. In some cases, the adapter 300 can be tightened to seal the male luer 110 against the female luer 204. In some cases, if the adapter 300 advances too far distally and is no longer able to engage with the connector 100, the adapter 300 can be loosened and the adapter moved proximally, which may allow the adapter to engage with the connector 100 (e.g., by snapping into place).

[0034] The connector 100 with the adapter 300 can have two nested collars. When the adapter 300 couples the connector 100 to the connector 200, the proximal portion 202 of the connector 200 can be located inside the distal portion 304 of the adapter, the proximal portion 302 of the adapter 300 can be located inside the distal portion of the collar 122, and / or the protrusions 114 of the connector can extend through the proximal portion of the collar 122, through the distal portion of the collar 122, through the proximal portion 302 of the adapter 300, through the distal portion 304 of the adapter 300, and into the proximal portion 202 of the connector 200.

[0035] In some embodiments, the adapter 300 can be made from polycarbonate. In some embodiments, the collar 122 can be made from acrylic. Other suitable materials can be used for the adapter 300 and / or collar 122 (as well as other components disclosed herein), including polymers, plastics, metals, glass, and the like. In some embodiments, the adapter 300 can be made from a material that is harder than the material of the collar 122. The material and geometry can be configured to allow the adapter 300 to slide over the step 120 without deforming or damaging the step 120 or the adapter 300 (e.g., flange or protrusion 308) in a manner that would prevent the adapter 300 from being retained on the connector 100. This can be achieved by component sizing, flexibility of the geometry, flexibility of the material of construction, or any combination thereof.

[0036] FIG. 8 illustrates a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of an adapter 300. The adapter 300 can have a proximal portion 302 with one or more slits 330, which can facilitate bending of the proximal portion 302 when the adapter 300 is coupled onto the connector 100. In some cases, multiple slits 330 can be used, which can separate the proximal portion 302 into two or more sections. The embodiment of FIG. 6B also includes a slit 330. The proximal portion 302 can have two or more separate arms. For example, FIG. 8 illustrates an adapter 300 with a first section 332a (e.g., a first arm) and a second section 332b (e.g., a second arm), where the first section 332a and the second section 332b are separated by a slit 330, and the adapter 300 can have another slit on the opposite side of the slit seen in FIG. 8. The adapter 300 can have two arms, three arms, four arms, five arms, six arms, or any other suitable number of separate arms. In some embodiments, the proximal portion 302 can be a continuous unbroken sidewall (eg, annular sidewall).

[0037] In some embodiments, the adapter 300 can be removable from the connector 100. FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of an adapter 300 coupled to the connector 100, where the adapter 300 is configured to be removable from the connector 100. The adapter 300 can have one or more arms 334a, 334b ​​that can be manipulated (e.g., pushed or pulled) to apply a force that causes the proximal portion 302 of the adapter 300 to bend laterally outward. This can facilitate disengagement of the flange 308 or step on the protrusion 310 from the step on the projection 114, allowing the adapter 300 to be moved distally relative to the connector 100 for disconnection. Features of the removable adapter 300 can use the slit 330 of FIG. 8 or separate sections 332a, 332b or arms that can facilitate bending of the proximal portion 302 for disengagement. In some embodiments, a continuous proximal portion 302 can also be used. As shown in FIG. 9, the first arm 334a can be disposed on a first side of the adapter and the second arm 334b ​​can be disposed on a second side of the adapter 300. The arms 334a, 334b ​​can extend outwardly and distally from the adapter body 303 (e.g., from a portion of the adapter 300 where the proximal portion 302 transitions into the distal portion 304, from a proximal portion of the distal portion 304, or any other suitable location). To disconnect the adapter 300 from the connector 100, a user can apply a force as shown by the arrows in FIG. 9, which can be directed laterally inward and / or distally, for example, by pinching the arms 334a, 334b ​​together between the thumb and fingers of one hand and, in some cases, pulling the adapter 300 and connector 100 apart while holding the connector 100 with the other hand. This force can be transmitted through the adapter to move opposing portions or protrusions of flange 308 apart, allowing step 310 to disengage from step 120 in order to remove adapter 300 from connector 100.Pushing arm 334a laterally inward can move arm 332a (shown in FIG. 8 ) laterally outward, and / or pushing arm 334b ​​laterally inward can move arm 332b (shown in FIG. 8 ) laterally outward. In some embodiments, the adapter can include only one arm 334a, or any suitable number of arms can be used, such as two arms, three arms, four arms, or more. In some embodiments, one or more arms 334a, 334b ​​can be used when attaching adapter 300 to connector 100. For example, a user can push one or more arms 334a, 334b ​​laterally inward while advancing protrusion 114 into adapter 300, such that proximal portion 302 of adapter 300 bends or otherwise displaces to facilitate insertion of second portion 116b of protrusion 114 into proximal portion 302 of adapter 300. One or more of the arms 334a, 334b ​​can be released to allow the flange 308 or protrusion to engage the connector 100 as discussed herein. In some embodiments, the adapter 300 can be configured such that once coupled to the connector 100, it is not removable therefrom.

[0038] In some cases where the connector 100 is coupled to the connector 200 using the collar 122 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 5 ), unintended rotation of the collar 122 relative to the body portion 112 (or relative to the protrusion 114) of the connector 100 can cause leakage in the connection between the connectors 100, 200. For example, the collar 122 and / or the body portion 112 can be accidentally bumped or pressed or otherwise contacted in a manner that can cause the collar 122 to rotate relative to the body portion 112. When the collar 122 initially rotates relative to the body portion 112 or protrusion 114, frictional engagement between the male luer 110 and the female luer 204 can prevent the proximal portion 202 from rotating with the collar 122. Thus, collar 122 may rotate relative to proximal portion 202, which may cause proximal portion 202 to move distally away from connector 100 due to the threaded engagement between threads 128, 206, which may cause male luer 110 to disengage from female luer 204, which may result in leakage. In some cases, rotation of collar 122 relative to body portion 112 or protrusion 114 may cause connector 200 to move distally until it is completely disengaged from connector 100.

[0039] In some embodiments, the adapter 300 can be configured to prevent unintended rotation relative to the body portion 112 or the protrusion 114. FIG. 10 illustrates an example embodiment of a connector 100 coupled to an adapter 300 configured to prevent rotation of the adapter 300 relative to the body portion 112 of the connector 100. The adapter 300 can include a shroud 336, which can be configured to cover or at least partially surround the body portion 112 and / or the protrusion 114 of the connector 100. The shroud 336 can prevent the body portion 112 from being struck or otherwise manipulated in a manner that would cause it to rotate relative to the adapter 300. The shroud 336 can extend proximally beyond the proximal end of the body portion 112 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 10 ), or the shroud 336 can extend substantially flush with the proximal end of the body portion 112. In some embodiments, the shroud 336 can extend proximally to cover only a portion (e.g., a majority) of the body portion 112 without extending all the way to the proximal end of the body portion 112. The shroud 336 can extend from the distal portion 302 of the adapter 300 (e.g., from a proximal portion of the distal portion 304, or any other suitable location), or from a portion of the adapter 300 where the proximal portion 302 transitions into the distal portion 304. The shroud 336 can extend from a location on the body of the adapter 300 distal to the collar 122 and / or a location on the body of the adapter 300 distal to a surface or step 318 configured to limit distal movement of the collar 122. The inner diameter of the shroud 336 can be greater than the outer diameter of the body portion 112, which can be greater than the outer diameter of the collar 122. The inner diameter of shroud 336 may be large enough to receive a distal portion of collar 122 within a recess between proximal portion 302 of adapter 300 and shroud 336 .

[0040] FIG. 11 illustrates a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of the connector 100 attached to an adapter 300 including a shroud 336 similar to FIG. 10. The adapter 300 can include a flange 338 or protrusion configured to engage the body portion 112 of the connector to couple the adapter 300 to the connector 100. The flange 338 or protrusion can extend laterally inward from the inside of the shroud 336 (e.g., at the proximal end of the shroud 336). The shroud 336 can move proximally relative to the connector 100 such that the flange 338 or protrusion can pass through the collar 122 and / or the body portion 112 until it reaches the proximal end of the body portion 112, at which point the flange 338 or protrusion can snap-fit ​​into engagement with the proximal end of the body portion 112 to attach the adapter 300 to the connector 100. In some embodiments, the adapter 300 does not engage the protrusion 114 (e.g., the step 120). 11, the proximal portion 302 configured to engage the protrusion 114 can be omitted. The shroud 336 can be the proximal portion of the adapter 300 configured to engage the connector 100.

[0041] FIG. 12 illustrates an example embodiment of a connector 100 coupled to an adapter 300 with a sealing element 340 configured to form a substantially fluid-tight seal between the adapter 300 and the connector 100. In some embodiments, the sealing element 340 can be an O-ring or a gasket. The O-ring sealing element 340 can be located on an inner recess (e.g., an annular recess) of the proximal portion 302 of the adapter 300 or on an outer recess (e.g., an annular recess) of the protrusion 114 of the connector 100. The sealing element 340 can be compressed between the inside of the proximal portion 302 of the adapter 300 and the outside of the protrusion 114. In some embodiments, multiple sealing elements 340 (e.g., O-rings) can be used, which can improve the seal or act as a backup or fail-safe. In some embodiments, the adapter 300 can have a slit 330 similar to that discussed in connection with FIG. 8, but the slit can stop before reaching the sealing element 340.

[0042] FIG. 13 illustrates an example embodiment of an adapter 300 coupled to a connector 100 that does not include a collar 122. The embodiment of FIG. 13 can function similarly to other embodiments disclosed herein, except that the collar 122 can be omitted. FIG. 14 illustrates an example embodiment of a connector 100 coupled to a connector 200 having features similar to the adapter 300 incorporated into the proximal portion 202 of the connector 200. In FIG. 14, the proximal portion 202 is the only portion of the connector 200 shown, and other components of the connector 200 are omitted from the figure. The other components of the connector 200 can have features similar to the embodiments disclosed in the '611 patent. In FIG. 14, the collar 122 is omitted from the connector 100, but some embodiments of the connector 100 can include the collar 122, or any of the other features disclosed herein. The proximal portion 202 of the connector 200 can include a female luer 204, which can have a tapered inner surface configured to substantially seal with the outer tapered surface of the male luer 110. The proximal portion 202 can include an engagement portion 250, which can extend proximally of the female luer 204. The engagement portion 250 can have similar features as the proximal portion 302 of the adapter 300 in the embodiments disclosed herein. The engagement portion 250 can have one or more sidewalls, which can at least partially enclose an internal chamber. The engagement portion 250 can have an overall shape of a hollow cylinder. The engagement portion 250 can have a flange 252 or protrusion, for example at its proximal end, which can form a step 254 that can engage with the step 120 on the projection 114 to couple, for example, the connector 100 to the proximal portion 202 of the connector 200. The engagement portion 250 can include any combination of various other features disclosed in connection with the adapter 300, such as a release element, one or more slits, one or more sealing elements, or a shroud. The adapter 300 can also include any suitable combination of these features.

[0043] FIG. 15 shows an example embodiment of the connector 100 coupled to the proximal portion 202 of the connector 200. The proximal portion 202 can have an engagement portion 250, which can have similar features to the embodiment of the engagement portion disclosed in connection with FIG. 14. In some embodiments, the male luer 110 and the female luer 204 can be omitted. The protrusion 114 of the connector 100 and / or the inside of the proximal portion 202 of the connector 200 can have one or more sealing elements 256, which can include O-rings or gaskets. The O-ring sealing element 256 can be located in a recess (e.g., an annular recess) on the inside of the proximal portion 202 of the connector 200 or on a recess (e.g., an annular recess) on the outside of the protrusion 114 of the connector 100. The sealing element 256 can be compressed between the inside of the proximal portion 202 of the connector 200 and the outside of the protrusion 114. In some embodiments, multiple sealing elements 256 (e.g., O-rings) can be used.

[0044] 16 illustrates one embodiment of a connector 100 coupled to a connector 200 having one or more arms 150 that engage with an engagement portion 250 of a proximal portion 202 to couple the connectors 100, 200. The engagement portion 250 of the connector 200 can have a step 260 that can be defined by a recess 262 (e.g., an annular recess). The connector 100 has one or more arms 150 or annular shroud that can extend distally and can be spaced from a protrusion 114 such that the engagement portion 250 of the connector 200 can be received into a recess between the protrusion 114 and the one or more arms 150 or shroud. The arms can extend from the protrusion 114, or from the body portion 112, or from any other suitable location on the connector 100. One or more of the arms 150 or shrouds can have a laterally inwardly extending flange 152 or protrusion that can be configured to engage a step 260 on the connector 200 to couple the connectors 100, 200. The connector 100 can include various features disclosed herein such as a release mechanism, one or more sealing elements, one or more slits, etc. for the engagement feature.

[0045] 17A-17F illustrate an example embodiment of a process for coupling a connector 200 to another connector 100 using an adapter 300. In some embodiments, the adapter 300 can be coupled first to the connector 100 and then to the connector 200. In FIG. 17A, a user can access the adapter 300. In some cases, the user can open a blister pack or other sealed package that contains the adapter 300. The adapter 300 can be fitted with a cap 350. The cap 350 can have an engagement feature 352 (e.g., flanges, lugs, protrusions, or threads) configured to engage with the threads 324 of the adapter 300. For example, the cap 350 can be threaded onto the distal side 304 of the adapter 300. The cap 350 can have a sidewall 354, which can at least partially or completely surround an internal cavity. The sidewall 354 can be generally cylindrical in shape. The sidewalls 354 can have ribs or texture, as discussed herein, to facilitate gripping by a user, for example, when removing the cap 350. The cap 350 can have an open bottom side 356. The cap 350 can have a closed top side 358.

[0046] In FIG. 17B, the adapter 300 can be coupled to the connector 100. The adapter 300 can be advanced axially onto the male luer 110 of the connector 100. The male luer 110 of the connector 100 can be inserted into the proximal end 302 of the adapter 300 and can extend through the interior of the adapter 300. The end of the male luer 110 can extend beyond the distal end of the adapter 300. In some cases, once the adapter 300 is attached to the connector 100, the male luer 110 can be inserted into the cap 350. As the adapter 300 is advanced, the male luer 110 can extend through the open end 356 of the cap 350 and can extend into the interior cavity of the cap 350. The adapter 300 can be advanced onto the connector 100, for example, by the flange 308 or protrusion fitting onto the step 120 on the connector 100, until the adapter 300 is attached onto the connector 100. A user can push the collar 122 of the connector 100 proximally to create space for, for example, the adapter 300 to couple with the connector 100, exposing, for example, the step 120. In some embodiments, as the adapter 300 is advanced proximally onto the connector 100, the adapter 300 can push the collar 122 proximally. As the adapter 300 is advanced proximally onto the connector 100, the proximal portion 302 of the adapter 300 can extend into the internal cavity of the collar 122. The adapter 300 can be pushed onto the male luer 110 with an axial motion until it snap-engages with the connector 100. In some cases, the adapter 300 can be rotatable during engagement and / or after being coupled to the connector 100, but rotation of the adapter 300 does not cause engagement or disengagement between the adapter 300 and the connector 100. FIG. 17C shows the adapter 300 coupled to the connector 100.

[0047] In FIG. 17D, the cap 350 can be removed from the adapter 300. For example, a user can grip the sidewall 354 of the cap 350 and rotate the cap 350 to loosen it from the adapter 300. A user can also grip the outside of the distal portion 304 of the adapter 300, which can have ridges or texture to facilitate gripping. In some embodiments, removing the cap 350 from the adapter 300 can also disengage the cap 350 from the connector 100. For example, removing the cap 350 can pull the male luer 110 of the connector 100 out of the internal cavity of the cap 350. In some embodiments, the cap 350 can also be removed prior to coupling the adapter 300 to the connector 100.

[0048] In FIG. 17E, connector 200 can be coupled to adapter 300. A user can access connector 200, for example, by opening a blister pack or other sealed package that houses connector 200. Connector 200 can include a proximal portion 202 with threads 206 configured to engage threads 324 of adapter 300. A user can rotate connector 200 relative to adapter 300 and / or rotate adapter 300 relative to connector 200 such that threads 206 engage threads 324 to advance connector 200 onto connector 100 and adapter 300. A user can grip the outside of a distal portion of adapter 300 and / or the outer housing of connector 200 to provide rotation. As the connector 200 advances proximally and / or the connector 100 and adapter 300 advance distally, the male luer 110 of the connector 100 can engage with the female luer bore 204, thereby forming a substantially fluid-tight seal between the connector 100 and the connector 200. The user can rotate the connector 200 relative to the adapter 300 until one or more breakable tabs of the connector 200 break. In this state, the connector 200 can, for example, spin freely in both directions, such that the connector 200 is not easily removable from the connector 100 and adapter 300. FIG. 17F shows the connector 200 coupled to the adapter 300 and connector 100, for example in a free-spinning or non-removable configuration. The user can connect another connector or other medical device to the distal end (e.g., male end) of the connector 200. In some embodiments, the connector 200 may already be coupled to another connector or medical device at its distal end before being coupled to the adapter 300 and connector 100.

[0049] 18A-18D illustrate another example embodiment of a method for coupling connector 200 to connector 100 using adapter 300. In some embodiments, adapter 300 can be coupled to connector 200 first and then to connector 100. In FIG. 18A, a user can access adapter 300 and connector 200. A user can attach adapter 300 to connector 200. For example, a user can insert an end of proximal portion 202 into a distal end of adapter 300, and a user can rotate connector 200 relative to adapter 300 and / or rotate adapter 300 relative to connector 200 such that threads 206 engage threads 324. In some embodiments, a user can continue to rotate connector 200 relative to adapter 300 in a first direction (e.g., clockwise) until one or more breakable tabs of connector 200 break, thereby placing connector 200 in a free spin configuration. In the free spinning configuration, the connector 200 will not come off the adapter 300 even if the housing of the connector 200 rotates relative to the adapter 300 in a second direction (e.g., counterclockwise). FIG. 18B shows the connector 200 coupled to the adapter 300. The adapter 300 of FIG. 18 may also have a cap 350, which may be removed before the adapter 300 is coupled to the connector 200. In some embodiments, the connector 200 and / or the adapter 300 may have a stop configured to prevent the adapter 300 from rotating too far onto the proximal portion 202 of the connector 200. The stop may position the adapter 300 on the proximal portion 202 of the connector 200 such that the female luer 204 of the connector 200 sealingly engages the male luer 110 of the connector 100 when the adapter 300 engages (e.g., mates with) the connector 100. The stop can be the end of threads 324 and / or 206, or the stop can be a distal end of adapter 300 that abuts against a surface of connector 200, or the like.

[0050] In FIG. 18C, the adapter 300 and connector 200 can be coupled to the connector 100. The male luer 110 of the connector 100 can be inserted through the proximal end of the adapter 300. The adapter 300 and connector 200 can be advanced axially until the adapter engages the connector 100, for example, by a snap-fit ​​engagement. For example, as discussed herein, the flange 308 or protrusion can engage the step 120 to retain the adapter 300 on the connector 100. When the adapter 300 engages the connector 100, it can push the collar 122 in a proximal direction, for example, allowing the adapter 300 to engage the step 120. Once the adapter 300 is coupled to the connector 100, a proximal portion of the adapter 300 can be inserted into the distal end of the collar 122. FIG. 18D shows the connector 200 and adapter 300 coupled to the connector 100.

[0051] In some embodiments, the adapter 300 can be pre-attached to the connector 200. Thus, FIG. 18A can be omitted. In some cases, a user can access the connector 200 with the adapter 300 already attached. In some embodiments, the adapter 300 can be omitted and a snap engagement mechanism can be incorporated into the proximal portion 202 of the connector 200, similar to, for example, FIGS. 14-16. In some embodiments, the connector 200 does not have one or more breakable tabs and the proximal portion 202 can always be in a free spin configuration relative to the housing of the connector 200.

[0052] When adapter 300 couples connector 200 to connector 100, adapter 300 can spin freely in both directions relative to connector 100. The housing of connector 200 can spin freely in both directions relative to adapter 300. In some cases, proximal portion 202 of connector 200 can rotate with adapter 300. For example, after one or more breakable tabs are broken, proximal portion 202 of connector 200 can spin freely in both directions relative to the housing of connector 200. The housing of connector 200 can spin freely in both directions relative to connector 100.

[0053] Various alternatives and combinations of the disclosed features may be used, and the ratios and proportions of the sizes of the various components, edges, and surfaces shown in the figures are intended to form part of this disclosure even when not specifically discussed.

[0054] Unless the context clearly dictates otherwise, words such as "comprise," "comprising," "include," "including," and the like, throughout the description and claims, should be interpreted in an inclusive sense, i.e., "including, but not limited to," rather than an exclusive or exhaustive sense. The words "coupled" or "connected," as used throughout this specification, refer to two or more elements, which may be connected by a direct connection or by one or more intermediate elements. In addition, the words "herein," "on," "herein," and words of similar import, when used in this application, shall refer to this application as a whole and not to any particular portion of this application. Where the context permits, words using the singular or plural in the detailed description may also include the plural or singular, respectively. The word "or" in reference to a list of two or more items is intended to cover all of the following interpretations of this word, i.e., any of the items in the list, all of the items in the list, and any combination of the items in the list. All numerical values ​​provided herein are intended to include similar values ​​within the limits of measurement error.

[0055] Although the present disclosure includes several embodiments and examples, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that its scope extends beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments to other alternative embodiments and / or uses, as well as obvious modifications and equivalents thereof. In addition, while several variations of the embodiments have been shown and described in detail, other modifications will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art based on the present disclosure. It is also contemplated that various combinations or subcombinations of the specific features and aspects of the embodiments may be made and still fall within the scope of the present disclosure. It should be understood that various features and aspects of the disclosed embodiments may be combined with or substituted for one another to form various modes of the embodiments. Any method disclosed herein need not be performed in the order described. It is therefore not intended that the scope should be limited by the specific embodiments described above.

[0056] In particular, conditional language such as "can," "may," "might," or "possible," unless specifically stated otherwise or understood otherwise within the context as used, is generally intended to convey that some embodiments include certain features, elements, and / or steps, while other embodiments do not. Thus, such conditional language is generally not intended to suggest that features, elements, and / or steps are in any way required by one or more embodiments, or that one or more embodiments necessarily include logic for determining whether those features, elements, and / or steps will be included or performed in any particular embodiment, with or without user input or prompting. Any headings used herein are for the convenience of the reader only and are not meant to limit the scope.

[0057] Furthermore, the devices, systems, and methods described herein may be subject to various modifications and alternative forms, specific examples of which are shown in the drawings and described in detail herein. However, it should be understood that the disclosure is not limited to the specific forms or methods disclosed, but rather covers all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives that fall within the spirit and scope of the various implementations described. Furthermore, any particular feature, aspect, method, property, characteristic, quality, attribute, element, etc. disclosed herein in relation to one implementation or embodiment can be used in all other implementations or embodiments described herein. Any method disclosed herein does not have to be performed in the order described. Although the methods disclosed herein may include some actions performed by a physician, these methods may also include, explicitly or implicitly, any third-party instruction of these actions.

[0058] Ranges disclosed herein encompass any overlaps, subranges, and combinations thereof. Words such as "up to," "at least," "greater than," "less than," "between," and the like, are inclusive of the recited number. Numbers preceded by terms such as "about" or "approximately" are inclusive of the recited number and should be interpreted in accordance with the context (e.g., as precisely as reasonably possible under the circumstances, e.g., ±5%, ±10%, ±15%, etc.). For example, "about 3.5 mm" includes "3.5 mm". Phrases preceded by terms such as "substantially" are inclusive of the recited phrase and should be interpreted in accordance with the context (e.g., as closely as reasonably possible under the circumstances). For example, "substantially constant" includes "constant". Unless otherwise specified, all measurements are at standard conditions, including ambient temperature and pressure. [Explanation of symbols]

[0059] 100 Connectors 102 Proximal end 104 Distal end 106 Fluid Path 108 Conduit 110 Male Lure 112 Main body part 114 Protrusion 116 Extended part 116a First Section 116b Second Section 118 Steps 120 steps 122 Color 126 Side wall 128 threads 130 Distal part 132 Engagement part 134 Step 150 Arm 152 Flange 200 Connectors 202 Proximal part 204 Female Lure 206 thread 250 Engagement part 252 Flange 254 Step 256 Sealing elements 260 steps 262 Recess 300 Adapter 302 Proximal part 304 Distal part 306 Inner diameter 308 Flange 310 Steps 312 Tapered surface 314 Outer diameter 316 Outer diameter 318 Step 320 Length 322 distance 324 thread 326 Inner diameter 330 Slit 332a Arm 332b Arm 334a First Arm 334b Second Arm 336 Shroud 338 Flange 340 Sealing elements 350 Cap 352 Joint mechanism 354 Sidewall 356 Open bottom side 358 Latch top side

Claims

1. a proximal end with a proximal opening; a distal end with a distal opening; a fluid path between the proximal end and the distal end; The main body part and a protrusion extending distally from the body portion, the protrusion including a proximal step formed between the body portion and the protrusion, the protrusion including a distal step, the protrusion including a male luer with a tapered outer surface configured to engage a tapered inner surface of a female luer; a collar disposed between the proximal step and the distal step and substantially surrounding the protrusion, the collar having internal threads; An adapter, a proximal portion having one or more protrusions extending inwardly and engaging the distal step on the protrusion to couple the adapter to the protrusion; a distal portion having an internal thread; an adapter including:

2. A medical connector, comprising:

2. The medical connector of claim 1 , wherein the proximal portion of the adapter is between the protrusion and the collar.

3. The medical connector of claim 1 , wherein the proximal portion of the adapter fits inside the collar without engaging the internal threads of the collar.

4. The medical connector of claim 1 , wherein the one or more protrusions include an annular flange.

5. 10. The medical connector of claim 1, wherein the adapter includes one or more arms configured to, when manipulated, apply a force that displaces the one or more prongs to facilitate disengagement of the adapter from the prongs.

6. The medical connector of claim 1 , wherein the proximal portion of the adapter includes one or more slits.

7. The medical connector of claim 1 , including a sealing element between the adapter and the prong.

8. The medical connector of claim 7 , wherein the sealing element comprises an O-ring or a gasket.

9. The medical connector of claim 1 , wherein the adapter includes a shroud extending proximally to substantially cover the body portion.

10. A medical connector as described in claim 1, wherein the female thread of the collar is configured to engage with a thread on another medical connector, and the female thread of the adapter is configured to engage with the same thread on the same other medical connector.

11. A medical connector as described in claim 1, wherein the proximal portion of the adapter has an outer diameter smaller than the inner diameter of the collar so that the proximal portion of the adapter fits into a recess between the collar and the protrusion, and the distal portion of the adapter has an outer diameter larger than the inner diameter of the collar so that the adapter provides a stop for distal movement of the collar.

12. Accessing a first medical connector, the first medical connector comprising: a proximal end with a proximal opening; a distal end with a distal opening; a fluid path between the proximal end and the distal end; main body part, a protrusion extending distally from the body portion, the protrusion including a step, the protrusion including a male luer with a tapered outer surface configured to engage a tapered inner surface of a female luer; and a collar substantially surrounding the protrusion, the collar having internal threads; and accessing an adapter, said adapter comprising: a proximal portion having one or more inwardly extending protrusions; and Distal portion with internal threads and coupling the adapter to the first medical connector, inserting the protrusion into the proximal portion of the adapter; and advancing the adapter axially in a proximal direction until the one or more protrusions engage the step on the protrusion; coupling the adapter to the first medical connector by A method comprising:

13. The method of claim 12 , wherein the proximal portion of the adapter is inserted into the collar as the adapter is advanced axially.

14. Accessing a second medical connector, the second medical connector comprising: a distal end with a distal opening; a proximal end with a proximal opening, the proximal end including a female luer and male threads; and A fluid path between the proximal end and the distal end and coupling the second medical connector to the adapter, inserting the proximal end of the second medical connector into the distal portion of the adapter; and rotating the second medical connector relative to the adapter such that the male threads on the proximal end of the second medical connector engage the female threads on the distal portion of the adapter such that the male luer of the first medical connector sealingly engages the female luer of the second medical connector. coupling the second medical connector to the adapter by The method of claim 12 further comprising:

15. 15. The method of claim 14, further comprising further rotating the second medical connector relative to the adapter such that one or more breakable elements on the second medical connector break to transition the second medical connector to a free spin configuration.

16. Accessing a first medical connector, the first medical connector comprising: a distal end with a distal opening; a proximal end with a proximal opening, the proximal end including a female luer and male threads; a fluid pathway between the proximal end and the distal end; and An adapter, a distal portion having internal threads that engage the external threads of the proximal end; and a proximal portion having one or more protrusions Including, adapter, and Accessing a second medical connector, the second medical connector comprising: a proximal end with a proximal opening; a distal end with a distal opening; a fluid path between the proximal end and the distal end; main body part, a protrusion extending distally from the body portion, the protrusion including a step, the protrusion including a male luer with a tapered outer surface; and a collar substantially surrounding the protrusion, the collar having internal threads; and coupling the second medical connector to the adapter, inserting the protrusion into the proximal portion of the adapter; and advancing the adapter axially in a proximal direction relative to the second medical connector until the one or more protrusions engage the step on the projection and such that the male luer of the second medical connector sealingly engages the female luer of the first medical connector. coupling the second medical connector to the adapter by A method comprising:

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