Pressure Spike Absorption System

Abstract

To provide a system for providing safe management of a fluid pressure inside an intravenous (IV) treatment tube.SOLUTION: A pressure spike absorption system includes: a housing including a cavity, a first tube passage, a first holding bore, a second tube passage, and a second holding bore; and an expandable reservoir including a first end portion and a second end portion.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a system for providing safe management of fluid pressure within intravenous (IV) treatment tubing, and more particularly to a device and method for capturing and dispensing a fluid pressure bolus within an IV set. [Background technology]

[0002] IV injections are used to administer IV fluids into a patient's veins through tubing fluidly connected to the patient's veins. IV fluids are injected through flexible plastic tubing, with one end connected to a fluid source and the other end connected to the hub of an IV catheter or extension tubing. The plastic tubing is often part of an IV set, which includes IV tubing, an access port, and an outlet port. The IV set can be connected to a fluid source, which can be an IV bag containing the fluid. The fluid can be a medication that is directed from the fluid source through the IV set into the patient's veins. The fluid can be infused into the patient through a needle or catheter connected to the outlet port of the IV set. It should be understood that the pressure spike absorption system of the present disclosure can be used with an IV set or any fluid delivery system.

[0003] An access port connected to the IV tubing can be used to administer additional or different fluids to the patient. For example, medications can be injected into the IV tubing to achieve a bolus. IV boluses are commonly used when rapid administration of medication is required, such as when drugs that cannot be diluted, such as many cancer chemotherapy drugs, are administered, and in emergency situations when the therapeutic goal is to achieve peak drug levels in the patient's bloodstream. IV boluses can also be used when an IV drip is not necessary and / or possible.

[0004] To achieve an IV bolus, a caregiver fluidly connects a fluid source to the IV tubing. For example, a syringe can be connected to the IV tubing through an access port. The caregiver presses the syringe plunger for a period of time, injecting the fluid from the syringe into the IV tubing. The IV tubing can be referred to as microbore tubing and can have an internal diameter of approximately 10 mm or less. Because the IV tubing restricts the flow of the injected fluid, the caregiver must press the syringe plunger with a greater level of force and for a longer period of time compared to injecting fluid into tubing with a larger internal diameter or internal volume. The greater level and duration of force required to inject the fluid requires increased physical exertion by the caregiver. Furthermore, the force level and duration can increase in proportion to the viscosity of the fluid being injected.

[0005] An IV bolus can create a pressure spike within the IV set compared to the normal pressure within the IV set. For example, applying one pound of force to the plunger of a one cubic centimeter syringe can produce an output of 40 pounds per square inch by the syringe. When pressure is directed at the IV set, the physical integrity of the IV set can be compromised, resulting in a leak in the IV tubing or other parts of the IV set. Summary of the Invention

[0006] In accordance with at least some embodiments disclosed herein, it is recognized that while fluids can be injected into an IV set, certain problems arise when a bolus is administered within the IV set. For example, pressure spikes within the IV set can damage portions of the IV set, causing leaks, potentially resulting in the loss of valuable medication and exposing caregivers and / or patients to harmful substances.

[0007] Some embodiments disclosed herein relate to the recognition that when fluid is injected into an IV set, the caregiver must inject the fluid from a syringe over a period of time, which prevents the busy caregiver from attending to other tasks or patients.

[0008] The embodiments disclosed herein also relate to the recognition that caregivers must exert significant physical force to push a syringe plunger into a syringe and overcome flow restrictions in the IV tubing. The caregiver may repeat this process multiple times per work shift and for multiple patients, thereby exacerbating the physical exertion required and causing injury to the caregiver.

[0009] Thus, in some embodiments, a pressure spike absorption device is provided that prevents damage to an IV set caused by an IV bolus. For example, some embodiments can reduce the pressure spike of a bolus within an IV set. Thus, the present disclosure allows for the capture of fluid injected into an IV set so that the increased pressure is diverted away from other portions of the IV set.

[0010] In some embodiments, a pressure spike absorption device is provided that allows for the dispensing of captured fluid from the pressure spike absorption device at a constant rate and / or pressure. Thus, the present disclosure allows for a predictable rate of introduction of fluid into an IV set or patient.

[0011] In some embodiments, a pressure spike absorption device is provided that prevents injury to a caregiver injecting fluid into an IV set. For example, some embodiments can reduce the force required to inject fluid into an IV set. Thus, fluid injected into an IV set can be received by a device of the present disclosure, which offers less resistance to pressure increases compared to other portions of the IV set and / or IV tubing.

[0012] Additionally, some embodiments of the present disclosure may provide interchangeable, modular portions of the system to achieve specific characteristics. For example, interchangeable housings and / or expandable reservoirs may be combined to achieve a desired size or shape. Thus, interchangeable portions of the system may be selected to interface with IV tubing having a specific cross-sectional width and / or shape profile.

[0013] Additionally, interchangeable housings and / or expandable reservoirs can be combined to achieve desired system performance. Thus, interchangeable portions of the system can be selected to have either a particular fluid capacity of the housing and / or expandable reservoir, a particular expansion rate of the expandable reservoir, and a particular compression rate of the expandable reservoir.

[0014] Additional features and advantages of the subject technology will be set forth in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the subject technology. The advantages of the subject technology will be realized and attained by the structure particularly pointed out in the specification and the embodiments thereof as well as the accompanying drawings.

[0015] It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory and are intended to provide further explanation of the subject technology.

[0016] Various features of exemplary embodiments of the invention are described below with reference to the drawings, which are intended to illustrate, but not limit, the invention. The drawings include the following figures: [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0017] [Figure 1] 1 is a cross-sectional perspective view of a pressure spike absorption system connected with a tube according to some embodiments. FIG. [Figure 2]1 is a cross-sectional view of a housing of a pressure spike absorption system according to some embodiments. [Figure 3] 1 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a cap of a pressure spike absorption system according to some embodiments. [Figure 4] 1 is a cross-sectional view of an expandable reservoir of a pressure spike absorption system, according to some embodiments. [Figure 5] FIG. 1 illustrates an exploded view of a pressure spike absorption system and tubing according to some embodiments. [Figure 6A] 1 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a pressure spike absorption system connected to a tube, according to some embodiments. [Figure 6B] 1 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a pressure spike absorption system connected to a tube, according to some embodiments. [Figure 7] 10 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a pressure spike absorption system and a housing for an IV tube, according to some embodiments. [Figure 8] 10 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a pressure spike absorption system and a housing for an IV tube, according to some embodiments. [Figure 9] 1 is a diagram of a fluid delivery system having a pressure spike absorption system, according to some embodiments. [Figure 10] 1 is a diagram of a fluid delivery system having a pressure spike absorption system, according to some embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0018] It is understood that various configurations of the subject technology will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure, and that various configurations of the subject technology have been shown and described by way of example. As will be recognized, the subject technology is capable of other different configurations, and its several details can be modified in various other respects without departing from the scope of the subject technology. Accordingly, the summary, drawings, and detailed description are to be regarded as illustrative in nature, and not as restrictive.

[0019] The detailed description set forth below is intended as a description of various configurations of the subject technology and is not intended to represent the only configurations in which the subject technology may be practiced. The accompanying drawings are incorporated herein and constitute a part of the detailed description. The detailed description includes specific details for the purpose of providing a thorough understanding of the subject technology. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the subject technology may be practiced without these specific details. In some instances, well-known structures and components are shown in block diagram form to avoid obscuring the concepts of the subject technology. Similar components are labeled with the same element numbers for ease of understanding.

[0020] Pressure spike absorption system 100 can be used with an intravenous fluid delivery system such as an IV set, although it should be understood that pressure spike absorption system 100 can be used with other fluid delivery systems. However, for clarity and brevity, this disclosure will refer primarily to IV sets.

[0021] 1 illustrates a pressure spike absorption system 100 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. The pressure spike absorption system 100 may include a housing 102, an expandable reservoir 104, and a cap 106. The pressure spike absorption system 100 is connected to a first portion of tubing 110 and a second portion of tubing 112.

[0022] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the vent passage 108 of the pressure spike absorption system 100 allows gas to enter and exit the cavity of the housing 102 during expansion and contraction of the expandable reservoir 104 .

[0023] When fluid is injected into tubing 110 and 112, for example, when medication is injected into the IV set to introduce medication into an IV drip, the pressure within the IV set increases due to the increased fluid volume within the IV set. The increased pressure can be accommodated by pressure spike absorption system 100, allowing expandable reservoir 104 to offer less resistance to the pressure than the rest of the IV set.

[0024] The pressure causes the expandable reservoir 104 to expand, increasing its internal volume. The increased internal volume of the expandable reservoir 104 accommodates the increased fluid volume. By accommodating the increased fluid volume, and therefore the increased pressure, the pressure spike absorption system 100 reduces resistance to flow during the injection of fluid into the IV set and prevents the increased pressure from causing damage to other parts of the IV set.

[0025] 2 shows a cross-sectional view of the housing 102 of the pressure spike absorption system 100. The housing 102 is configured to receive at least a portion of the expandable reservoir 104 within a cavity of the housing. The housing 102 can limit the expansion of the expandable reservoir 104 and can protect the expandable reservoir 104 from unintentional contact with foreign objects that may damage or affect the performance of the expandable reservoir 104.

[0026] The housing 102 may include a first portion 120, a second portion 122, a cavity 126, a first retaining bore 128, and a first tube passage 132. The first portion 120 and the second portion 122 may comprise opposing portions of the housing 102. In some embodiments, the first portion 120 and the second portion 122 may be positioned adjacent to one another.

[0027] The housing 102 can be shaped as a tube or cylinder and can have a cross-sectional profile that includes regular or irregular shapes. For example, the cross-sectional profile can include a circle, an oval, a square, a rectangle, a triangle, or any combination thereof. The housing 102 can be monolithically formed as a single piece or can be formed of multiple pieces connected together.

[0028] The housing 102 can be configured to limit the volume of fluid received by the pressure spike absorption system 100 by restricting the expansion of the expandable reservoir 104. To limit the volume of fluid received by the system 100, the housing 102 can be sized to correspond to the volume of fluid received by the pressure spike absorption system 100. For example, a pressure spike absorption system 100 intended to receive a small volume of fluid may be configured with a smaller expandable reservoir 104 compared to a pressure spike absorption system 100 intended to receive a relatively large volume of fluid. Thus, a pressure spike absorption system 100 intended to receive a smaller expandable reservoir 104 may have a smaller housing 102 compared to a pressure spike absorption system 100 intended to receive a larger expandable reservoir 104.

[0029] The inner surface 124 of the housing can form a cavity 126 for the expandable reservoir. The cavity 126 can be formed within a portion of the housing 102 and configured to extend around the outer surface of the expandable reservoir 104, or a portion thereof. The cavity 126 can extend from the second portion 122 of the housing toward the first portion 120 of the housing. The cavity 126 can extend from an end of the housing 102 at either the first portion 120 or the second portion 122 toward the other of the first portion 120 or the second portion 122. In some embodiments, the cavity 126 extends between the first portion 120 and the second portion 122. Furthermore, the cavity 126 can extend through either the first portion 120 or the second portion 122 of the housing 102.

[0030] The cavity 126 can have a length L1 extending between the first portion 120 and the second portion 122. The length L1 can be at least about 1.0 inch and / or not more than about 6.0 inches. Additionally, the length L1 can also be between about 2.0 inches and about 4.0 inches.

[0031] The cavity 126 can have a cross-sectional profile transverse to the housing axis A1 extending between the first portion 120 and the second portion 122. The cross-sectional profile of the cavity 126 can include a regular or irregular shape. The shape of the cross-sectional profile can include any of a circle, an oval, a square, a rectangle, a triangle, or a combination thereof. The cross-sectional profile of the cavity 126 can have a width W1 extending between opposing interior surfaces of the cavity. The width W1 can be at least about 0.25 inches and / or not more than about 2.0 inches. Additionally, the width W1 can also be between about 0.5 inches and 1.0 inches.

[0032] The size of cavity 126 can be described by the volume defined by the inner surface 124 of the housing that forms cavity 126. Cavity 126 can have a volume of at least about 0.25 cc and / or no more than about 15 cc. Additionally, the volume can also be from about 1 cc to about 6 cc.

[0033] When the expandable reservoir 104 is positioned within the housing 102, the space between the exterior surface of the expandable reservoir 104 in the unconstrained orientation and the interior surface of the housing 102 defines a differential volume. The differential volume may designate the volume that the pressure spike absorption system 100 is intended to accommodate. The differential volume may be at least about 0.25 cc and / or no more than about 10 cc, or from about 0.5 cc to about 5 cc. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the differential volume is 3 cc.

[0034] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the volume or differential capacity of cavity 126 can be a ratio to the volume of expandable reservoir 104. For example, the volume or differential capacity of the cavity can be at least about 10% and / or up to about 150% greater than the volume of expandable reservoir 104. Additionally, the volume or differential capacity of the cavity can be about 25% to about 50% greater than the volume of expandable reservoir 104.

[0035] The first retention bore 128 of the housing 102 is configured to receive a portion of the expandable reservoir 104. The first retention bore 128 retains a portion of the expandable reservoir 104 and limits movement of the expandable reservoir relative to the housing 102.

[0036] The first retaining bore 128 can be formed by the inner surface of the housing 102. The first retaining bore 128 extends from the cavity 126 toward the housing first portion 120. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the first retaining bore 128 can extend from the cavity 126 through the outer surface of the housing 102.

[0037] The first retention bore 128 can have a shape, or cross-sectional profile, corresponding to the shape of the expandable reservoir 104. For example, the cross-sectional profile of the first retention bore 128 can be the same as or approximately the same as the cross-sectional profile of the outer surface of the expandable reservoir 104. The first retention bore 128 can have a length L2 extending between the cavity 126 and the first portion 120 of the housing 102. The length L2 of the retention bore corresponds to the length of the expandable reservoir 104 that it can hold therein. In some embodiments, the length L2 of the retention bore is a ratio to the length L3 of the expandable reservoir 104. For example, the length L2 of the retention bore 128 can be at least about 1% and / or not more than about 49% of the length L3 of the expandable reservoir 104. Furthermore, the length L2 of the retention bore can also be about 20% to about 30% of the length L3 of the expandable reservoir 104.

[0038] When the expandable reservoir 104 is connected to the pressure spike absorption system 100, a portion of the expandable reservoir 104 is positioned within the first retention bore 128. The expandable reservoir 104 is positioned within the first retention bore 128 such that an outer surface of the expandable reservoir engages against an inner surface of the housing along the first retention bore 128. The engagement between the expandable reservoir 104 and the first retention bore 128 resists movement of the expandable reservoir 104 relative to the housing 102. The first retention bore 128 can resist movement of the expandable reservoir 104 along the housing axis A1 and / or can resist rotational movement of the expandable reservoir 104 about the housing axis A1.

[0039] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, a first retaining bore extends from the cavity 126 toward the first portion 120 of the housing, and a second retaining bore extends from the cavity 126 toward the second portion 122 of the housing.

[0040] The housing 102 includes a transition surface 130 between the cavity and the retention bore to prevent damage to the expandable reservoir 104 during reservoir expansion and return of the expandable reservoir to an unconstrained orientation. The transition surface 130 creates a gradual transition between the inner surface of the housing at the cavity and the inner surface of the housing at the first retention bore 128. The gradual transition of the inner surface of the housing 102 reduces the possibility of stress points in the expandable reservoir engaged with the housing 102.

[0041] The transition surface 130 can be formed by the inner surface 124 of the housing 102 between the cavity 126 and the first retaining bore 128. The transition surface 130 can be shaped with a cross-sectional width that tapers between the cavity 126 and the first retaining bore 128. The cross-sectional width of the inner surface 124 can taper from the cavity 126 to the first retaining bore 128. In some aspects of the present disclosure, the cross-sectional width of the cavity 126 is greater than the cross-sectional width of the first retaining bore 128, causing the inner surface 124 to taper from the cavity 126 to the first retaining bore 128.

[0042] A first tube passage 132 in the housing 102 may allow a portion of the tubing to extend into the housing 102. The first tube passage 132 provides a passage through the housing that allows the IV tubing to travel through the housing and connect with either the housing 102 or the expandable reservoir 104.

[0043] A first tube passage 132 extends between the cavity 126 and the outer surface of the housing 102. The first tube passage 132 can extend from the first retaining bore 128 toward the housing first portion 120. The first tube passage 132 can be aligned with the first retaining bore 128 such that a passage extends through each of the first tube passage 132 and the first retaining bore 128. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the axis A1 extends through the first tube passage 132 and the first retaining bore 128.

[0044] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, a first tube passage 132 is positioned between the first and second portions 120, 122 of the housing and extends from the cavity 126 to the exterior surface of the housing 102.

[0045] The first tube passage 132 can have a cross-sectional width that allows the inserted tube to move relative to the housing 102. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the first tube passage 132 includes a cross-sectional width that is approximately the same as the cross-sectional width of the tube, thereby providing an interference fit between the tube and the first tube passage 132.

[0046] In some embodiments, the cross-sectional profile of the first tube passage 132 is smaller than the cross-sectional profile of the expandable reservoir 104. Thus, as the IV tubing moves away from the housing, the portion of the expandable reservoir 104 connected to the IV tubing engages against the housing, resisting retraction of the IV tubing or separation of the IV tubing from the pressure spike absorption system 100.

[0047] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the housing 102 includes a vent passage 108. The vent passage 108 allows gas to enter and exit the housing 102. Gas can be displaced from the housing 102 when the expandable reservoir 104 increases in size or moves toward an expanded orientation. When the expandable reservoir retracts or moves toward an unconstrained orientation, the vent passage 108 allows gas to move into the housing 102.

[0048] The vent passage 108 can be shaped as an opening that extends through the housing. The vent passage 108 can extend between an inner surface of the housing and an outer surface of the housing. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the vent passage 108 extends from the cavity to the outer surface of the housing.

[0049] A portion of the vent passage 108 can be positioned along a portion of the housing 102 that forms the cavity 126, thereby allowing gas to travel toward or away from the housing. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the pressure spike absorption system 100 comprises two or more vent passages 108. For example, a first vent passage 108 can be positioned proximate the first portion 120 of the housing, and a second vent passage 108 can be positioned proximate the second portion 122 of the housing.

[0050] The vent passage 108 can be sized to limit the rate of gas transfer between the cavity and the atmosphere adjacent the exterior surface of the housing, and as a result, the vent passage 108 can be configured to regulate the expansion rate of the expandable reservoir 108.

[0051] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the vent passage 108 can be any of a passage, bore, channel, and groove extending between the cavity 126 and the atmosphere adjacent the exterior surface of the pressure spike absorption system 100. The vent passage 108 can be a passage extending through either the first portion 120 or the second portion 122 of the housing. The vent passage 108 can be a channel extending along the surface of any of the cavity 126, the first retaining bore 128, and the first tube passage 132. In some aspects, the vent passage 108 can be any of a passage extending through the cap 106 and a channel extending along the surface of the cap 106.

[0052] The housing 102 can include a material configured to resist deformation during intended use of the pressure spike absorption system 100. For example, the material of the housing 102 can be rigid relative to the expandable reservoir 104. The housing 102 can be more rigid than the expandable reservoir 104, such that the housing 102 resists changing shape or size when the expandable reservoir 104 is urged relative to the housing during expansion. Furthermore, the material of the housing 102 can be selected to limit or prevent expansion of the expandable reservoir 104 beyond a threshold. The material of the housing 102 can be any of plastic, metal, glass, rubber, composites, and any combination thereof.

[0053] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the housing 102, or portions thereof, can be capable of changing shape. For example, the housing material can be configured to maintain the housing shape up to a certain pressure and then be propelled or biased by an expandable reservoir. Portions of the housing can be flexible relative to other portions of the housing, or portions of the housing can be movable relative to other portions of the housing.

[0054] The housing 102 can protect the expandable reservoir 104 from damage by preventing contact with the expandable reservoir 104 by foreign objects or people. Contact with the expandable reservoir 104 by sharp or abrasive objects can tear, cut, or pierce the expandable reservoir 104, causing a leak in the IV set. In another aspect of the present disclosure, the housing 102 can prevent damage to the expandable reservoir 104 that could tear the expandable reservoir 104 by resisting unwanted expansion of the expandable reservoir 104. In yet another aspect of the present disclosure, the housing 102 maintains the shape of the expandable reservoir 104, thereby preventing bending or kinking of the reservoir, which could affect the intended performance of the system or damage to the expandable reservoir 104.

[0055] The housing 102 is connected with the expandable reservoir 104 and the cap 106 to form the pressure spike absorption system 100. The expandable reservoir 104 is positioned within a cavity 126 of the housing, and the cap 106 is connected to the housing 102 and the expandable reservoir 104. The pressure spike absorption system 100 can be assembled with a first portion of the expandable reservoir 104, which has a first opening, positioned in a first retention bore 128 of the housing. The cap 106 can be connected to the housing 102 such that a second portion of the expandable reservoir, which has a second opening, is positioned in the retention bore of the cap 106. When the pressure spike absorption system 100 is assembled, a third portion of the expandable reservoir is positioned within the cavity 126.

[0056] Referring to FIG. 3 , a cross-sectional view of cap 106 of pressure spike absorption system 100 is shown. Cap 106 is configured to connect with housing 102 to enclose cavity 126 and retain a portion of expandable reservoir 104. Cap 106 can connect with either expandable reservoir 104 or IV tubing to retain pressure spike absorption system 100 together with the IV tubing. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, removable cap 106 can allow for modular assembly of pressure spike absorption system 100. For example, portions of pressure spike absorption system 100 can be assembled interchangeably with one another and with an IV set.

[0057] The cap 106 may be molded as a cover or plug that connects with the housing 102 to enclose the cavity 126 and / or engage the expandable reservoir 104. The cap 106, or portions thereof, may extend over the exterior surface of the housing 102 and along the interior surface 124. The cap may also be molded as a cover that extends over the exterior surface of the housing 102.

[0058] The cap 106 may include a first end portion 202 and a second end portion 204 opposite the first end portion 202. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the cap 106 includes a second retaining bore 208 and a second tube passage 210 of the pressure spike absorption system 100. A cap axis B1 extends between the first end portion 202 and the second end portion 204.

[0059] The first end portion 202 includes a lip 206 that extends radially outward relative to the cap axis B1. A surface 214 of the lip facing the second end portion 204 can engage the second part 122 of the housing.

[0060] The first end portion 202 can have a cross-sectional profile transverse to the cap axis B1. The cross-sectional profile of the first end portion 202 can be the same as the cross-sectional profile of the housing 102, such that the radially outer surface of the lip 206 is flush with or aligned with the radially outer surface of the housing 102 when the cap is connected thereto.

[0061] A cap second end portion 204 can extend from the first end portion 202. The second end portion 204 can have a cross-sectional profile transverse to the cap axis B1. The cross-sectional profile of the second end portion 204 can be the same as the cross-sectional profile of the cavity 126, such that the radially outer surface of the second end portion 204 engages against the housing inner surface 124 when the cap is connected to the housing 102. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the second end portion 204 can have a width W2 extending between the opposing outer surfaces of the cap. The width W2 of the cap can be the same as or approximately the same as the width W1 of the cavity.

[0062] The engagement of the second end portion 204 with the housing can resist separation of the cap 106 from the housing 102. The cap 106 can be connected to the housing 102 by an interference fit between a radially outer surface of the cap's second end portion 204 and the housing's inner surface 124. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the cap 106 and the housing 102 are connected to one another by any of an interference fit, welding, adhesive, and mechanical connection. For example, the cap 106 can be glued or welded to the housing 102. In yet another example, the cap 106 and the housing 102 can include mating threads, corresponding pins and grooves, or mechanical connections.

[0063] The cap 106 may include a second retention bore 208 configured to receive a portion of the expandable reservoir 104. The second retention bore 208 may be configured to provide the same functions and features as the first retention bore 128 described above. Accordingly, some details and functions of the retention bore will not be repeated here for the sake of brevity.

[0064] The second retaining bore 208 can be formed by the inner surface of the cap 106. The second retaining bore 208 extends from the end of the second end portion 204 toward the first end portion 202. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the second retaining bore 208 can extend through the first end portion 202 and the second end portion 204.

[0065] The second retention bore 208 functions similarly to the first retention bore 128 and can receive and / or retain a portion of the expandable reservoir 104. Thus, like the first retention bore 128, the second retention bore 208 can be shaped to have a cross-sectional profile that is the same as or approximately the same as the cross-sectional profile of the outer surface of the expandable reservoir 104.

[0066] The length L4 of the second retention bore 208 can be approximately the same as the length L2 of the first retention bore 128. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the second retention bore 208 can have a different length or width than the first retention bore 128. For example, a cap 106 having a second retention bore length L4 greater than the first retention bore length L2 can be used to receive a longer portion of the expandable reservoir 104 relative to the first retention bore 128. Similarly, a cap 106 having a second retention bore length L4 less than the first retention bore length L2 can be used to receive a shorter portion of the expandable reservoir 104 relative to the first retention bore 128. Using a cap having a second retention bore length longer or shorter than the first retention bore length to receive a smaller or larger portion of the expandable reservoir 104, respectively, can be used.

[0067] The cap 106 can include a transition surface 212 to prevent damage to the expandable reservoir 104 during reservoir expansion and return of the expandable reservoir to the unconstrained orientation. The cap transition surface 212 can be configured to provide the same functions and features as the housing transition surface 130 described above. Accordingly, some details and functions of the transition surface 212 will not be repeated here for the sake of brevity.

[0068] The transition surface 212 can be positioned along a portion of the second retaining bore 208. The transition surface 212 can be shaped as a chamfer along the surface of the second retaining bore 208. In some aspects of the present disclosure, the transition surface 212 is a concave portion of the end face of the cap 106.

[0069] The transition surface 212 can have a cross-sectional width that is greater than the cross-sectional width of the second retention bore 208. The cross-sectional width of the transition surface 212 tapers from the second end portion 204 to the first end portion 202 of the cap.

[0070] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the cross-sectional width of the second retaining bore 208 tapers from the cap's second end portion 204 toward the first end portion 202. For example, the second retaining bore 208 can have a first cross-sectional width proximal to the cap's second end portion 204 that is approximately equal to the cross-sectional width of the cavity 126, and a second cross-sectional width proximal to the first end portion 202 that is smaller than the first cross-sectional width.

[0071] The cap 106 may include a second tube passage 210 extending through the cap 106 to allow a portion of the tube to extend into the housing 102. The second tube passage 210 may be configured to provide the same functions and features as the first tube passage 132 described above. Accordingly, some details and functions of the retaining bore will not be repeated here for the sake of brevity.

[0072] The second tube passage 210 extends between the first end portion 202 and the second end portion 204 of the cap 106. The second tube passage 210 can extend from the second retaining bore 208 toward the first end portion 202 of the cap 106. The second tube passage 210 can be aligned with the second retaining bore 208 such that a passage extends through each of the second tube passage 210 and the second retaining bore 208. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the axis B1 extends through the second tube passage 210 and the second retaining bore 208.

[0073] The second tube passage 210 can allow a segment of tubing to be inserted through the cap 106. For example, a portion of IV tubing can travel through the second tube passage 210 and connect with a portion of the expandable reservoir 104.

[0074] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the second tube passage 210 is shaped as a notch or channel extending through a portion of the cap 106. For example, the second tube passage 210 can be a channel extending from the radially outer surface toward the cap axis B1 between the first end portion 202 and the second end portion 204 of the cap 106. In some aspects, the second tube passage 210 extends through a portion of the housing 102. For example, the second tube passage 210 can be either a passage or a channel through the second portion 122 of the housing.

[0075] The cap 106 may comprise a material configured to resist deformation during use of the pressure spike absorption system 100. For example, the material of the cap 106 may be of approximately the same or similar hardness as the housing 102. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the cap 102 comprises a material having a lower hardness than the housing 102, allowing the cap 102 to partially deform while the cap 106 is connected to the housing 102, resulting in an interference fit with the housing 102.

[0076] When the cap 102 is connected with the housing 106, a second portion of the expandable reservoir 104, including the second opening, extends into the second retention bore 208. Thus, the first retention bore 128 can receive the first portion of the expandable reservoir 104, and the second retention bore 208 can receive the second portion of the expandable reservoir 104. The second retention bore 208 can prevent movement of the expandable reservoir 104 relative to the housing 102 and the cap 106. For example, when the portions of the expandable reservoir 104 are positioned within the first retention bore 128 and the second retention bore 208, movement of the expandable reservoir 104 along an axis between the first and second retention bores is limited.

[0077] 4, there is shown a cross-sectional view of the expandable reservoir 104 of the pressure spike absorption system 100. The expandable reservoir 104 is configured to receive a fluid, such as a liquid or gas, and to expand and deform to accommodate an increase in fluid.

[0078] The expandable reservoir 104 may be shaped as a tube having a first opening 302, a second opening 304, and a passageway 306 in fluid communication with the first and second openings. The passageway 306 may extend between the first opening 302 and the second opening 304. The first opening 302 and the second opening 304 are in fluid communication with the passageway 306, thereby allowing fluid to enter or exit the passageway 306 through either the first or second opening. Although the expandable reservoir 104 is shown as having a tubular shape, the expandable reservoir and / or cavity may be any regular or irregular shape, including any of a sphere, a square, a rectangle, and an oval.

[0079] The expandable reservoir 104 can have a cross-sectional profile transverse to the expandable reservoir axis C1 extending between the first portion 120 and the second portion 122. The cross-sectional profile can be circular, although the cross-sectional profile can also include any of circular, oval, square, rectangular, triangular, and combinations thereof. The cross-sectional profile can be constant along the length of the expandable reservoir 104 or can vary along the length of the expandable reservoir 104.

[0080] The expandable reservoir passageway 306 can have a cross-sectional width W3 approximately equal to the cross-sectional width of the outer surface of the IV tubing to allow a portion of the IV tubing to move into the passageway 306. To allow for an interference fit between the expandable reservoir 104 and the IV tubing, the cross-sectional width W3 of the passageway 306 at the first opening 302 and the second opening 304 can be the same as the cross-sectional width of the outer surface of the IV tubing.

[0081] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the cross-sectional width W3 of the passageway is greater than the cross-sectional width of the outer surface of the IV tubing, such that a gap or space exists between the inner surface of the expandable reservoir 104 and the outer surface of the IV tubing. The gap may allow for the use of adhesive or other bonding materials to connect the IV tubing to the expandable reservoir 104. In some aspects, both the expandable reservoir 104 and the IV tubing can be configured to contract or expand to allow for connection between the IV tubing and the expandable reservoir 104. For example, a portion of the IV tubing can be inserted through the first opening 302 or the second opening 304, and then the expandable reservoir 104 with the IV tubing therein, or a portion thereof, can be reduced in size to engage the IV tubing.

[0082] The expandable reservoir passageway 306 can be sized to allow a volume of fluid to be received therein. The expandable reservoir can be sized to receive the volume when in the unconstrained and / or expanded orientations. The volume can be at least about 0.25 cc and / or no more than about 10 cc, or from about 0.5 cc to about 5 cc. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the passageway 306 can have a volume of 3 cc.

[0083] The expandable reservoir 104 includes a material configured to elastically deform toward an expanded orientation and return to an unconstrained orientation. By allowing the expandable reservoir 104 to deform and return to the unconstrained orientation, the material is resilient or provides some resistance to deformation. For example, the material of the expandable reservoir 104 can have a durometer that allows a particular rate of expansion of the expandable reservoir 104 and / or return to the unconstrained orientation. The material can be configured with a durometer hardness such that when the expandable reservoir 104 is in the expanded orientation, fluid therein is directed out of the pressure spike absorption system 100 at a particular rate.

[0084] While the expandable reservoir 104 can have first and second openings, in some embodiments, the expandable reservoir 104 can have a single opening that fluidly communicates with the passageway or cavity. An expandable reservoir with a single opening can allow fluid to enter the passageway and expand the expandable reservoir to accommodate increased pressure in the IV set. When the force of the expandable reservoir overcomes the internal fluid pressure, the expandable reservoir returns toward its unconstrained orientation, directing fluid out of the opening. An upstream flow control valve positioned between the fluid access port and the expandable reservoir can prevent backflow of fluid toward the access port.

[0085] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the expandable reservoir 104, or a portion of the expandable reservoir between the first opening 302 and the second opening 304, includes either a bellows and / or a fold. For example, in some embodiments, the expandable reservoir 104 may have one or more folds extending between the first and second openings along the expandable reservoir axis C1. In other embodiments, the one or more folds extend around the expandable reservoir axis C1 and along the periphery of the passageway 306. The one or more folds may unfold or expand when pressure is applied to the passageway 306, increasing the volume within the expandable reservoir.

[0086] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the expandable reservoir 104 includes a ridge that can resist further movement of the expandable reservoir 104 relative to the housing 102 and / or IV tubing. The ridge extends away from the outer surface of the expandable reservoir axis C1 and can engage against the housing 102. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the ridge extends from the inner surface of the expandable reservoir 102 and can engage against IV tubing inserted therein.

[0087] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the expandable reservoir 104 includes alignment features 310. The alignment features 310 may be any of dimples, depressions, channels, grooves, and ridges that allow a portion of the expandable reservoir 104 to change shape and / or orientation. For example, the expandable reservoir 104 may have grooves extending in its outer surface about the expandable reservoir axis C1 proximate each of the first opening 302 and the second opening 304. When pressure is directed at the passage 306, the portion of the expandable reservoir 104 between the grooves can expand more easily radially outward relative to the portion of the expandable reservoir 104 between the grooves and the first opening 302 and the second opening 304. In some aspects, the alignment features 310 may be markings on the inner and / or outer surfaces of the expandable reservoir 104 that allow the position of the expandable reservoir 104 relative to the housing 102 to be observed.

[0088] The expandable reservoir 104 can include a restraining mechanism that resists radial expansion. The restraining mechanism can be a wire that can extend along the expandable reservoir between the first opening 302 and the second opening 304. In some embodiments, the restraining mechanism can be a material having a lattice or mesh shape that extends along the outer surface of the expandable reservoir 104. In another embodiment, the restraining mechanism can be a tubular structure that extends along the outer surface of the expandable reservoir 104.

[0089] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the pressure spike absorption system 100 includes a spring or lever that can resist radial expansion of the expandable reservoir 104. For example, the spring or lever can extend from the inner surface 124 of the housing toward the expandable reservoir 104. When the expandable reservoir 104 is in the expanded orientation, the outer surface of the expandable reservoir 104 can engage against the spring or lever. The force of the spring or lever on the expandable reservoir 104 can direct the expandable reservoir 104 radially inward, thereby directing fluid out of the passageway 306.

[0090] 5, an exploded view of pressure spike absorption system 100 is shown. It should be understood that the following description illustrates the assembly and cooperation between the portions of pressure spike absorption system 100. Thus, assembly of pressure spike absorption system 100 can include any of the following descriptions in any variation or sequence.

[0091] Pressure spike absorption system 100 can be connected to an existing section of IV tubing or a fluid delivery system. For example, the tubing can be cut to form a first section of tubing 110 and a second section of tubing 112. The ends of the first and second sections of tubing 110 and 112 can then be connected to pressure spike absorption system 100. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, pressure spike absorption system 100 can be connected to IV tubing, for example, as part of an IV set or a fluid delivery system.

[0092] To connect the pressure spike absorption system 100 with a tube, the tube 110 is inserted through the housing 102. The tube 110 can be inserted through the housing 102 from the first portion 120 toward the second portion 122 of the housing. Once inserted through the housing 102, the end portion of the tube 110 travels through the tube passage 132, the first retaining bore 128, and the cavity 126. Once the end portion of the tube 110 extends through the second portion 122 of the housing, the tube 110 can be connected to the expandable reservoir 104.

[0093] The tube 110 can be connected to the expandable reservoir 104 by inserting an end portion of the tube 110 through the first opening 302 of the expandable reservoir. The tube 110 can be moved through the first opening 302 and into the passageway 306 such that the outer surface of the tube 110 extends along the inner surface of the expandable reservoir 104. The portion of the tube 110 within the passageway 306 is identified by a dashed line in FIG. 5. The end portion of the tube 110 extends a distance D1 from the first opening 302 of the expandable reservoir.

[0094] Another portion of the tube 112 is inserted through the cap 106. The tube 112 is inserted through the cap 106 by moving an end portion of the tube 112 through the tube passage 210 and the second retaining bore 208 from the first end portion 202 toward the second end portion 204. Once the tube 112 extends through the second end portion 204 of the cap, the tube 112 can be connected to the expandable reservoir 104.

[0095] The tube 112 can be connected to the expandable reservoir 104 by inserting an end portion of the tube 112 through the second opening 304 of the expandable reservoir. The tube 112 can be moved through the second opening 304 and into the passageway 306 such that the outer surface of the tube 112 extends along the inner surface of the expandable reservoir 104. Similar to the portion of the tube 110 inserted through the first opening 302, the portion of the tube 112 can extend into the passageway 306 a distance D1.

[0096] The cap 106 can be moved toward the expandable reservoir 104 so that a portion of the expandable reservoir adjacent the second opening 304 is positioned within the second retention bore 208 and the second opening 304 of the expandable reservoir is aligned with the second tube passage 210.

[0097] The expandable reservoir 104 and a portion of the cap 106 can be moved into the housing cavity 126 such that the portion of the expandable reservoir adjacent the first opening 302 is positioned within the first retention bore 128 and the first opening 302 is aligned with the first tube passage 132. When the cap 106 is connected with the housing 102, the expandable reservoir 104 extends between the first retention bore 128 and the second retention bore 208.

[0098] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the expandable reservoir 104 is first inserted into the housing 102, and then the cap 106 is connected to the housing. Once the cap 106 is connected to the housing 102, the second end portion 204 of the cap is inserted into the housing 102 and a portion of the expandable reservoir 104 is received in the second retention bore 208.

[0099] 6A and 6B, there are shown cross-sectional views of the pressure spike absorption system 100. Figure 6A shows the expandable reservoir 104 in an unconstrained orientation, and Figure 6B shows the expandable reservoir 104 in an expanded orientation.

[0100] In the unconstrained orientation, a portion of the expandable reservoir 104 adjacent the first opening 302 is positioned within the first retention bore 128, and the first opening 302 is aligned with the first tube passage 132. A portion of the tube 110 extends through the first tube passage 132 and connects with the expandable reservoir first opening 302.

[0101] Another portion of the expandable reservoir 104 adjacent the second opening 304 is connected to the cap 106. Another portion of the expandable reservoir is connected to the cap 106 such that the second opening 304 is aligned with the second tube passage 210. A portion of the tube 112 extends through the second tube passage 210 and is connected to the second opening 304 of the expandable reservoir.

[0102] The outer surface of the expandable reservoir 104 and the inner surface 124 of the housing are spaced apart or separated to allow the expandable reservoir 104 to move, i.e., expand, toward the inner surface of the housing. The space between the outer surface of the expandable reservoir 104 and the inner surface 124 of the housing defines the volume of the pressure spike absorption system 100. The housing vent 108 allows gas to be directed out of the housing 102 as the expandable reservoir 104 expands and allows gas to be drawn into the housing 102 as the expandable reservoir 104 moves toward its unconstrained orientation.

[0103] When connected to the tubing of an IV set or other fluid delivery system, the expandable reservoir 104 can deform and release pressure and resistance from other parts of the IV set or system. For example, when fluid is injected into the IV set, the fluid is not immediately injected into the patient, and therefore pressure increases within the IV set. The increased fluid pressure may act on the portion of the IV set with the least resistance. In some instances, the increased pressure may cause the IV set to damage and leak, resisting the force of injecting fluid into the IV set.

[0104] As shown in FIG. 6B, the expandable reservoir may offer less resistance compared to the rest of the IV set, so the expandable reservoir deforms or moves to an expanded orientation to relieve pressure. As the expandable reservoir deforms, the volume of the passageway 306 increases, allowing fluid to be accommodated therein. By deforming to accommodate fluid, pressure is relieved or redirected from the rest of the IV set, which could otherwise cause damage. Additionally, the deformation of the expandable reservoir 104 allows fluid to be injected into the IV set with less resistance.

[0105] In the expanded orientation, the force of the expandable reservoir 104 is directed against the fluid in the passageway 306, and the force urges the expandable reservoir 104 toward the unconstrained orientation. For example, the force of the expandable reservoir 104 can be directed toward the expandable reservoir axis C1.

[0106] When pressure is no longer directed at the expandable reservoir 104, or when the force of the expandable reservoir 104 is greater than the force of the fluid engaged against the passageway 306, the expandable reservoir 104 can move toward an unconstrained orientation. As the expandable reservoir 104 moves toward an unconstrained orientation, the volume of the passageway 306 becomes smaller, thereby directing fluid out of the expandable reservoir 104.

[0107] In embodiments of the present disclosure, the pressure spike absorption system 100 can include any of the features or any combination of features described in this disclosure. Referring to Figures 7 and 8, an embodiment of a housing having the features described in this disclosure is shown.

[0108] 7 shows a cross-sectional view of a housing 402 having a first portion 404 and a second portion 406, and a cavity 408 extending through the first and second portions. Each of the first portion 404 and the second portion 406 includes a cap 410 connected thereto.

[0109] The cavity 408 can reduce manufacturing complexity by limiting variations in the shape and / or cross-section of the passageway through the housing 402. Additionally, the housing 402 can allow for wider manufacturing tolerances because critical size tolerances can be limited to the cap 410.

[0110] In some embodiments, the housing 402 can include an opening 412 extending between the inner and outer surfaces of the housing 402. The opening 412 can be an elongated passageway extending between the first portion 404 and the second portion 406. In some embodiments of the present application, a portion of the housing 402 between the first portion 404 and the second portion 406 includes a mesh or lattice structure with a plurality of openings.

[0111] Opening 412 can allow for venting of cavity 408. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, opening 412 can allow for observation of the cavity and / or the expandable reservoir. For example, opening 412 can allow for observation and determination of whether the expandable reservoir is in an unconstrained or expanded orientation.

[0112] In some embodiments, opening 412 can function like a window and can include a transparent pane that resists movement of objects through opening 412, but allows for observation within the housing. In aspects of the present disclosure, any portion of, or the entire pressure spike absorption system can be formed from a transparent material to allow for observation within the cavity.

[0113] In some embodiments, the pressure spike absorption system is modular or modifiable. Because the housing, the cap of the first portion 404, and the cap of the second portion 406 can all be interchangeable or modular, the pressure spike absorption system can be configured for use with different pressure and / or volume caps and / or for use with various expandable reservoirs and IV tubing. For example, the cap of the first portion 404 can be selected to allow a first IV tubing having a first cross-sectional diameter to travel therethrough. The cap of the second portion 406 can be selected to allow a second IV tubing having a second cross-sectional diameter that is different from the first cross-sectional diameter to travel therethrough. Thus, the pressure spike absorption system can be used to transition a portion of an IV set from IV tubing having a first cross-sectional diameter to IV tubing having a second cross-sectional diameter.

[0114] 8 illustrates a housing 452 having two or more portions that can be connected to one another. The housing 452 can have a first portion 454 and a second portion 456 that can be connected to one another to form a cavity, a retaining bore, a tube passage, and / or a vent passage. In some embodiments, either the first portion 454 or the second portion 456 forms a portion of the cavity 458, a portion of the retaining bore 460, a portion of the tube passage 462, and a portion of the vent passage 464.

[0115] The first and second housing portions 454, 456 can be connected to one another using any fastening or joining method or mechanism. The first and second portions can include complementary pins and pockets or snaps and pawls. The first and second portions can be joined to one another with adhesive or welding. In some embodiments, a retainer, such as a band, can extend over or around the outer surfaces of the first and second housing portions 454, 456. The first and second housing portions 454, 456 can be connected to one another by a living hinge 466, allowing movement of the first portion 454 relative to the second portion 456.

[0116] A pressure spike absorption system having a housing 452 with a first portion 454 and a second portion 456 can be assembled by first connecting an expandable reservoir between portions of IV tubing. The expandable reservoir is then positioned within a portion of a cavity 458, with a first portion of the expandable reservoir positioned within a portion of a retaining bore 460, such that the first portion of the tubing extends through a first tubing passage 462. A second portion of the expandable reservoir is positioned within another portion of a retaining bore 460, such that the second portion of the tubing extends through another tubing passage 462. The first and second portions of the housing can then be connected to each other, enclosing the expandable reservoir within the cavity 458. The first and second portions of the housing can be connected to each other by moving or rotating the first portion of the housing 454 toward the second portion of the housing 456.

[0117] The pressure spike absorption system can include a flow control valve for resisting fluid movement toward the pressure spike absorption system. The flow control valve can allow fluid to move from the access port of the IV set toward the pressure spike absorption system and prevent fluid from moving from the pressure spike absorption system toward the access port. The flow control valve can resist fluid movement toward the access port when the expandable reservoir moves from the expanded orientation toward the unconstrained orientation. By resisting fluid movement toward the access port, fluid is directed toward the patient.

[0118] 9 and 10, a fluid delivery system having a flow control valve is shown. The fluid delivery system may include a fluid source 500, such as a medication bag, an access port 502, and a pressure spike absorption system 504. The fluid source 500, the access port 502, and the pressure spike absorption system 504 may be fluidly connected to each other and to a patient 510 by tubing 512.

[0119] 9 , an embodiment of a pressure spike absorption system 504 can include a flow control valve 506 and an expandable reservoir 508. The flow control valve 506 can be incorporated into either the housing or the expandable reservoir of the pressure spike absorption system 504. For example, the flow control valve can be fluidly connected to a tube passageway and / or a retaining bore in a first portion of the housing. When fluid is directed from a fluid source 500 or an access port 502 toward the pressure spike absorption system 504, the fluid moves through the flow control valve 506 and into a passageway of the expandable reservoir 508. When the expandable reservoir 508 moves toward its unconstrained orientation, the flow control valve 506 resists movement of fluid from the expandable reservoir 508 toward the access port 502. Thus, the fluid moves toward the patient 510.

[0120] 10 , a flow control valve 506 can be connected to the fluid delivery system between the access port 502 and the pressure spike absorption system 504. For example, the flow control valve 506 can be fluidly connected to tubing 512 between the access port 502 and the pressure spike absorption system 504. When fluid is directed from the fluid source 500 or the access port 502 toward the pressure spike absorption system 504, the fluid moves through the flow control valve 506 and into the pressure spike absorption system 504. When the expandable reservoir 508 moves toward the unconstrained orientation, the flow control valve 506 resists movement of fluid from the pressure spike absorption system 504 toward the access port 502. Thus, the fluid moves toward the patient 510.

[0121] Description of the subject matter as a clause For convenience, various examples of aspects of the present disclosure will be described as numbered clauses (1, 2, 3, etc.). These are provided as examples and do not limit the subject technology. Identification of figures and reference numbers is provided below merely as an example and for purposes of explanation, and the clauses are not limited by these identifications.

[0122] Clause 1. A pressure spike absorption system comprising: a housing having a cavity and a first tube passage extending from the cavity through a first portion of the housing to an outer surface of the housing; a cap connected to a second portion of the housing, the cap having a second tube passage extending from the cavity through an outer surface of the cap; and an expandable reservoir having a passage extending between a first opening and a second opening, the expandable reservoir positioned within the cavity with the first opening aligned with the first tube passage and the second opening aligned with the second tube passage.

[0123] Clause 2. A pressure spike absorption system as described in clause 1, wherein the housing has a first retaining bore extending from the cavity toward the first tube passage, and the cap has a second retaining bore extending from the cavity toward the second tube passage.

[0124] Clause 3. A pressure spike absorption system as described in Clause 2, wherein a first portion of the expandable reservoir having the first opening is positioned in the first retaining bore, a second portion of the expandable reservoir having the second opening is positioned in the second retaining bore, and a third portion of the expandable reservoir between the first and second portions is positioned within the cavity.

[0125] Clause 4. The pressure spike absorption system of clause 1, wherein the cavity extends through the second portion of the housing toward the first portion of the housing.

[0126] Clause 5. The pressure spike absorption system of clause 1, wherein the interior surface of the housing includes a cross-sectional width that tapers from the cavity toward the first tube passage.

[0127] Clause 6. The pressure spike absorption system of clause 1, wherein the inner surface of the cap includes a cross-sectional width that tapers from the cavity toward the second tube passage.

[0128] Clause 7. The pressure spike absorption system of clause 1, wherein the housing includes a vent passage extending from the cavity to the exterior surface of the housing.

[0129] Clause 8. The pressure spike absorption system of clause 1, wherein the cap has a first end portion and a second end portion, the second end portion being positioned in the cavity of the housing.

[0130] Clause 9. The pressure spike absorption system of clause 1, comprising a flow control valve fluidly connected to said expandable reservoir.

[0131] Clause 10. A pressure spike absorption system comprising: an intravenous tube having an access port and an exit port; a housing having a cavity, a first tube passage extending from the cavity through a first portion of the housing, and a second tube passage extending from the cavity through a second portion of the housing; and an expandable reservoir positioned within the cavity and fluidly connecting with the intravenous tube between the access port and the exit port, the expandable reservoir having a first opening, a second opening, and a passage extending between the first and second openings, wherein when fluid is injected through the access port, the fluid is directed into the passage and causes the expandable reservoir to move from an unconstrained orientation toward an expanded orientation.

[0132] Clause 11. The pressure spike absorption system of clause 10, wherein an outer surface of the expandable reservoir is spaced from an inner surface of the housing in the unconstrained orientation.

[0133] Clause 12. The pressure spike absorption system of clause 10, wherein an outer surface of the expandable reservoir engages against an inner surface of the housing in the expanded orientation.

[0134] Clause 13. The pressure spike absorption system of clause 10, wherein when the expandable reservoir moves from the expanded orientation toward the unconstrained orientation, the fluid is directed from the passageway toward the outlet port.

[0135] Clause 14. The pressure spike absorption system of clause 10, comprising a first retaining bore extending between said cavity and said first tube passage, and a second retaining bore extending between said cavity and said second tube passage.

[0136] Clause 15. The pressure spike absorption system of clause 14, wherein in the unconstrained orientation and the expanded orientation, a first portion of the expandable reservoir having the first opening is positioned in the first retaining bore, a second portion of the expandable reservoir having the second opening is positioned in the second retaining bore, and a third portion of the expandable reservoir between the first and second portions is positioned within the cavity.

[0137] Clause 16. The pressure spike absorption system of clause 14, comprising a cap having a first end portion and a second end portion, the second retaining bore and the second tube passage extending through the cap.

[0138] Clause 17. The pressure spike absorption system of clause 15, wherein the second end portion is configured to extend into the cavity of the housing.

[0139] Clause 18. The pressure spike absorption system of clause 10, wherein the passage of the expandable reservoir includes a first volume in the unconstrained orientation and a second volume greater than the first volume in the expanded orientation.

[0140] Clause 19. The pressure spike absorption system of clause 10, further comprising a flow control valve connected between the access port and the expandable reservoir, the flow control valve resisting movement of fluid from the expandable reservoir toward the access port.

[0141] Clause 20. The pressure spike absorption system of clause 10, wherein the housing includes a vent passage extending from the cavity to an outer surface of the housing, the vent passage configured to allow gas to move out of the cavity when the expandable reservoir moves from the unconstrained orientation toward the expanded orientation and to allow gas to move into the cavity when the expandable reservoir moves from the expanded orientation toward the unconstrained orientation.

[0142] Further considerations In some embodiments, any clause herein can depend on any one of the independent clauses or any one of the dependent clauses. In an aspect, any clause (e.g., a dependent or independent clause) can be combined with any other clause or clauses (e.g., a dependent or independent clause). In an aspect, a claim can include some or all of the words (e.g., steps, actions, means, or components) recited in a clause, sentence, phrase, or paragraph. In an aspect, a claim can include some or all of the words recited in one or more clauses, sentences, phrases, or paragraphs. In an aspect, some words in each clause, sentence, phrase, or paragraph can be deleted. In an aspect, additional words or elements can be added to a clause, sentence, phrase, or paragraph. In an aspect, the subject technology can be implemented without utilizing some of the components, elements, functions, or operations described herein. In an aspect, the subject technology can be implemented using additional components, elements, functions, or operations.

[0143] The foregoing description is provided to enable one skilled in the art to practice the various configurations described herein. While the subject technology has been specifically described with reference to various diagrams and configurations, it should be understood that these are for purposes of illustration only and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the subject technology.

[0144] There may be many other ways to implement the subject technology. The various functions and elements described herein may be partitioned differently than shown without departing from the scope of the subject technology. Various modifications to these configurations will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic principles defined herein may be applied to other configurations. Thus, many changes and modifications to the subject technology may be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the subject technology.

[0145] It is understood that the specific order or hierarchy of steps in the processes disclosed is an illustration of example approaches. Based on design preferences, it is understood that the specific order or hierarchy of steps in the processes can be rearranged. Some of the steps may be performed simultaneously. The accompanying method claims present elements of the various steps in a sample order, and are not intended to be limited to the specific order or hierarchy presented.

[0146] As used herein, the phrase "at least one of," following a list of items, when followed by the word "and" or "or" separating any of the items, modifies the first item as a whole, and not each member (i.e., each item) of the list. The phrase "at least one of" does not require the selection of at least one of each item in the list; rather, the phrase allows for a meaning including at least one of any one of the items, and / or at least one of any combination of the items, and / or at least one of each of the items. By way of example, the phrase "at least one of A, B, and C" or "at least one of A, B, or C" refers, respectively, to A only, B only, or C only, any combination of A, B, and C, and / or at least one of each of A, B, and C.

[0147] Terms such as "top," "bottom," "front," "rear," etc., as used in this disclosure, should be understood to be relative to any frame of reference, rather than the typical gravitational frame of reference. Thus, top, bottom, front, and rear surfaces may extend upward, downward, diagonally, or horizontally in the gravitational frame of reference.

[0148] Furthermore, to the extent that terms such as "include," "have," and the like are used in this specification or the claims, such terms are intended to be inclusive in the same manner as the term "comprise" when interpreted as such when used as a transitional term in the claims.

[0149] In one or more embodiments, the terms "about," "substantially," and "approximately" may provide an industry-standard tolerance for relativity between their corresponding terms and / or items.

[0150] The word "exemplary" is used herein to mean "serving as an example, instance, or illustration." Any embodiment described herein as "exemplary" is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments.

[0151] Reference to an element in the singular is intended to mean "one or more," not "one and only one," unless otherwise specified. Masculine pronouns (e.g., his) include feminine and neuter (e.g., her and its), and vice versa. The term "some" refers to one or more. Underlined and / or italicized headings and subheadings are used for convenience only, do not limit the subject technology, and are not to be referenced in connection with interpreting the description of the subject technology. All structural and functional equivalents to the elements of the various configurations described throughout this disclosure that are known or later become known to those skilled in the art are expressly incorporated herein by reference and are intended to be encompassed by the subject technology. Furthermore, nothing disclosed herein is intended to be made available to the public, regardless of whether such disclosure is expressly cited in the above description.

[0152] While the detailed description contains many specifics, these should not be construed as limiting the scope of the subject technology, but merely as illustrating different examples and aspects of the subject technology. It should be understood that the scope of the subject technology includes other embodiments not discussed in detail above. Various other modifications, changes, and alterations may be made in the arrangement, operation, and details of the methods and apparatus of the subject technology disclosed herein without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Unless otherwise indicated, reference to an element in the singular is intended to mean "one or more," not "one and only one," unless explicitly stated. Additionally, a device or method need not address every problem solvable (or possess every advantage attainable) by different embodiments of the present disclosure to be encompassed within the scope of the present disclosure. The use of "can" and its derivatives herein should be understood to mean "possible" or "optionally," as opposed to positive capability.

Claims

1. 1. A pressure spike absorption system comprising: a housing having a cavity, a first tube passage extending through a first end portion of the housing, a first retaining bore extending from the cavity to the first tube passage, a second tube passage extending through a second end portion of the housing, and a second retaining bore extending from the cavity to the second tube passage; an expandable reservoir having a first end having a first opening, a second end having a second opening, and an inner surface forming a passageway extending between the first opening and the second opening, the expandable reservoir being disposed within the cavity, the first end of the expandable reservoir extending into the first retention bore, the inner surface of the expandable reservoir configured to engage a portion of a first tube extending through the first tube passageway and into the first retention bore, and the second end of the expandable reservoir extending into the second retention bore, the inner surface of the expandable reservoir configured to engage a portion of a second tube extending through the second tube passageway and into the second retention bore; A pressure spike absorption system comprising:

2. 2. The pressure spike absorption system of claim 1, wherein either the first end portion or the second end portion of the housing has a cap that defines the respective first or second tube passage and the respective first or second retaining bore.

3. The pressure spike absorption system of claim 2 , wherein at least a portion of the cap is disposed within the cavity.

4. The pressure spike absorption system of claim 1 , wherein either the first retention bore or the second retention bore has a cross-sectional width that tapers in a direction away from the cavity.

5. The pressure spike absorption system of claim 1 , wherein the housing includes an opening between the first end portion and the second end portion that extends from the cavity to an exterior surface of the housing.

6. The pressure spike absorption system of claim 1 , wherein the cross-sectional width of the cavity tapers toward either the first retaining bore or the second retaining bore.

7. The pressure spike absorption system of claim 1 , wherein the housing includes a vent passage extending from the cavity to an exterior surface of the housing.

8. 1. A pressure spike absorption system comprising: a housing having a cavity, a first tube passage extending through a first end portion of the housing, a first retaining bore extending from the cavity to the first tube passage, a second tube passage extending through a second end portion of the housing, and a second retaining bore extending from the cavity to the second tube passage; an expandable reservoir having a first end with a first opening, a second end with a second opening, and an interior surface forming a passageway extending between the first opening and the second opening, the expandable reservoir being disposed within the cavity, the first end of the expandable reservoir extending into the first retention bore and the second end of the expandable reservoir extending into the second retention bore; an intravenous tubing having a terminal portion extending through either the first tube passage or the second tube passage, an outer surface of the intravenous tubing engaging the inner surface of the expandable reservoir along one of the first retention bore or the second retention bore; A pressure spike absorption system comprising:

9. The pressure spike absorption system of claim 8 , wherein the housing includes a vent passage extending from the cavity to an exterior surface of the housing.

10. The pressure spike absorption system of claim 8 , wherein the intravenous tubing is coupled to the expandable reservoir by an interference fit.

11. The pressure spike absorption system of claim 8 , wherein the cross-sectional width of the cavity tapers toward either the first retaining bore or the second retaining bore.

12. 9. The pressure spike absorption system of claim 8, wherein either the first end portion or the second end portion of the housing has a cap that defines the respective first or second tube passage and the respective first or second retaining bore.

13. The pressure spike absorption system of claim 12 , wherein at least a portion of the cap is disposed within the cavity.

14. The pressure spike absorption system of claim 8 , wherein an outer surface of the first end of the expandable reservoir is engaged against the first retaining bore.

15. 9. The pressure spike absorption system of claim 8, wherein the first end of the expandable reservoir is positioned between the intravenous tubing and a portion of the housing that defines the first retention bore.

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