Multi-chamber syringe

Abstract

Systems and methods for multi-chamber syringes are described. In some embodiments, the multi-chamber syringe includes a housing having an internal cavity and first and second plungers at least partially disposed within the internal cavity. The first and second plungers are slidably displaceable relative to the housing and are associated with first and second chambers, respectively. A barrier is disposed at least partially between the first and second plungers to form the first and second chambers. The barrier is slidably displaceable relative to the plungers and barrel to selectively place in fluid communication the first and second chambers containing first and second substances, respectively. When the barrier is displaced, the first and second substances mix within a combined volume of the first and second chambers. The mixed substance can be dispensed from the combined volume by displacing the first plunger, the second plunger, and the barrier.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority under 35 USC § 119(e) to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 046,200, filed June 30, 2020, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0002] Field

[0002] The disclosed embodiments relate to a multi-chamber syringe. [Background technology]

[0003]

[0003] A conventional syringe may include a hollow plastic barrel and a plunger. By depressing the plunger, a substance disposed within the interior cavity of the barrel may be dispensed from the syringe. By retracting the plunger, a substance may be drawn into the barrel. Syringes are often used in the medical community to dispense known amounts of a substance to a target site. For example, a syringe may be used to inject a precise volume of a therapeutic agent into a patient, or a syringe may be used to deliver a hemostatic matrix to a bleeding site. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0004] In some embodiments, a multi-chamber syringe includes a housing having an internal cavity, first and second plungers, and a barrier. The first plunger and the second plunger are at least partially disposed within the internal cavity of the housing and are slidably displaceable relative to the housing. The barrier is at least partially disposed within the internal cavity of the housing between the first plunger and the second plunger, and the barrier is slidably displaceable relative to the first plunger and the second plunger.

[0005]

[0005] In some embodiments, the method includes displacing a barrier to place a first chamber containing a first substance in fluid communication with a second chamber containing a second substance, mixing the first substance and the second substance within a combined volume of the first and second chambers, and displacing a first plunger associated with the first chamber, a second plunger associated with the second chamber, and the barrier to dispense the mixed first and second substances from the combined volume.

[0006] In some embodiments, a multi-chamber syringe includes a housing having an internal cavity, a barrier, and first and second plungers. The barrier is at least partially disposed within the internal cavity of the housing and configured to selectively separate a first chamber of the internal cavity from a second chamber of the internal cavity. The first plunger is at least partially disposed within the first chamber and is slidably displaceable relative to the housing. The second plunger is at least partially disposed within the second chamber and is slidably displaceable relative to the housing. The first plunger, the barrier, and the second plunger are configured to form a combined plunger for displacing a substance within the combined volumes of the first and second chambers.

[0007]

[0007] It should be appreciated that the above concepts, and additional concepts described below, may be arranged in any suitable combination, as the disclosure is not limited in this respect. Furthermore, other advantages and novel features of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description of various non-limiting embodiments when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0008]

[0008] The accompanying drawings are not intended to be to scale. In the drawings, each identical or nearly identical component shown in various figures may be represented by a similar reference numeral. For clarity, not every component may be referenced in every figure. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1A]

[0009] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of one embodiment of a multi-chamber syringe. [Figure 1B]

[0010] 1B is a front schematic view of the barrel of the multi-chamber syringe of FIG. 1A before the barrier is displaced. FIG. [Figure 1C]

[0011] 1B is a front schematic view of the barrel of the multi-chamber syringe of FIG. 1A after the barrier has been displaced. FIG. [Figure 2A]

[0012] FIG. 1 is a front view of one embodiment of a multi-chamber syringe when a first substance is drawn into a first chamber by displacing a first plunger. [Figure 2B]

[0013] 2B is a front view of the multi-chamber syringe of FIG. 2A after the barrier has been displaced to allow mixing of the first substance and the second substance. FIG. [Figure 2C]

[0014] 2B is a front view of the multi-chamber syringe of FIG. 2A when the first plunger and the second plunger are displaced together to dispense the mixed first and second substances from the syringe. FIG. [Figure 3]

[0015] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a multi-chamber syringe. [Figure 4]

[0016] FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of one embodiment of a multi-chamber syringe. [Figure 5]

[0017] FIG. 1 is a front cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a multi-chamber syringe. [Figures 6A-6I]

[0018] 1 illustrates one embodiment of a method of operating a multi-chamber syringe. [Figure 7A-7C]

[0019] 10A-10C are top cross-sectional views of different embodiments of protrusions configured to promote mixing within a multi-chamber syringe. [Figures 8A-8E]

[0020] 1 illustrates an embodiment of a multi-chamber syringe with a combination plunger. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010]

[0021] As described above, syringes can be used to deliver substances to a specific location. In some cases, multiple substances can be mixed before delivery. For example, many hemostatic agents include a dry component and a liquid component, which can benefit from one or more mixing steps before use. Of course, syringes that deliver mixtures of multiple substances can be used in areas other than medical. For example, syringes can be used in the construction, manufacturing, and / or hobby communities, such as when applying two-part epoxies. Thus, it should be appreciated that the present disclosure is not limited to any particular application.

[0011]

[0022] Mixing multiple substances prior to delivery using a syringe can be associated with several challenges. First, the mixing process can involve sequential, complex steps that can be physically demanding, require user dexterity, and / or be difficult to perform. For example, some mixing procedures may require manually transferring the substance back and forth between two (or more) syringes multiple times to ensure proper mixing and dispensing. Furthermore, the mixing process can be associated with long mixing times, which can delay the use of the mixed substance. Delays due to mixing can be particularly problematic during surgery, when rapid administration of, for example, a hemostatic agent may be desired. Furthermore, the mixing process can result in clogged syringes or lumens if mixing is not performed in the proper ratio or for the proper time. Furthermore, adverse results can result from other variables related to the mixing process, such as, but not limited to, details of the mixing environment (e.g., temperature, humidity, light), properties of the substances (of the substances being mixed and / or the container or containers in which the substances are mixed), and other variables.

[0012]

[0023] In view of the above, the present inventors have recognized and appreciated the advantages of a multi-chamber syringe configured to allow mixing of multiple substances within the syringe itself. A multi-chamber syringe may be a "ready-to-use" option that reduces the number of mixing steps and shortens mixing time compared to traditional mixing procedures. Furthermore, a multi-chamber syringe may be easier and more convenient to use compared to traditional syringes. Furthermore, a multi-chamber syringe may reduce the amount of waste generated during a mixing procedure because a single container may be used compared to using multiple traditional chambers and potentially additional mixing equipment.

[0013]

[0024] In some embodiments, a multi-chamber syringe may include a syringe with multiple chambers, each configured to hold a different substance. The chambers may be separated by one or more movable barriers. Displacing a barrier located between two chambers may allow the substances disposed in the two chambers to be mixed. Furthermore, the process of sliding and displacing the barrier may generate turbulence in the substance disposed adjacent to the barrier within the chamber, thereby promoting more thorough mixing of the substances. In this manner, a multi-chamber syringe with movable barriers separating multiple chambers may be associated with faster, simpler, and more consistent mixing of two or more substances in a solution compared to conventional mixing procedures involving conventional syringes.

[0014]

[0025] In one embodiment, a method of operating a multi-chamber syringe can include displacing a first plunger to draw a first substance into a first chamber. Drawing the substance into the chamber can include moving the plunger proximally along the longitudinal axis of the syringe. Without wishing to be bound by theory, displacing a plunger associated with a chamber of the syringe increases the volume of the chamber, thereby generating a negative gauge pressure. This negative pressure can in turn draw the substance through an opening in the chamber, e.g., a nozzle of the syringe. After the first substance is drawn into the chamber, a barrier disposed between the first and second chambers can be displaced to fluidly connect the first and second chambers to each other and release a second substance disposed in the second chamber. In some embodiments, the barrier can be displaced in the same direction as the first plunger. The first substance and the second substance can then mix together within the combined region of the first and second chambers of the syringe. As described further below, mixing can be promoted by generating turbulence within the material adjacent the barrier when the barrier is displaced. Optionally, a first plunger associated with the first chamber, a second plunger associated with the second chamber, and the barrier can then be displaced distally or in other suitable directions relative to one another to dispense the mixed material from the nozzle of the syringe. In some embodiments, the barrier can be coupled to the first plunger and / or the second plunger prior to dispensing the mixed material.

[0015]

[0026] In some embodiments, a multi-chamber syringe can include multiple chambers. As the present disclosure is not limited in this respect, it should be appreciated that a multi-chamber syringe can include two, three, four, five, or any suitable number of chambers. Furthermore, it should be appreciated that the chambers of a multi-chamber syringe can be of any suitable shape. As the present disclosure is not limited in this respect, the chambers of a multi-chamber syringe can be cylindrical, annular, prismatic, or any other suitable shape. Relatedly, as the present disclosure is not limited to any particular chamber shape, the cross-section of a chamber of a multi-chamber syringe taken perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the syringe can be circular, elliptical, oval, toroidal, triangular, rectangular, or any other suitable shape.

[0016]

[0027] In some embodiments, a multi-chamber syringe can include a first chamber and a second chamber arranged in a nested arrangement, with the first chamber disposed within the second chamber. For example, the first chamber can be substantially cylindrical and disposed within the second chamber, which can be substantially annular. Thus, the first chamber can be an inner chamber, while the second chamber can be an outer chamber. The first and second chambers can be separated by a movable barrier, which can be annular or tubular. Two or more selected from the group of the first chamber, the barrier, the second chamber, and the injection barrel can be concentric and / or coaxial. For example, in some embodiments, the barrier can be coaxial with the injection barrel. In some embodiments, the barrier can be coaxial with the first plunger, and the first plunger can be at least partially disposed within the barrier. In some embodiments, the first plunger can be coaxial with the second plunger. Of course, a multi-chamber syringe with these chambers in a nested arrangement can include three chambers; the present disclosure is not so limited. Additionally, a multi-chamber syringe may include nested chambers that may not be circular, annular, or otherwise radially symmetric. For example, a first chamber including a rectangular cross-section with rounded corners may be positioned within a second chamber including an oval cross-section. It should be appreciated that a multi-chamber syringe in which the chambers are arranged in a nested manner may include chambers of any suitable shape, as the present disclosure is not so limited.

[0017]

[0028] In some embodiments, a multi-chamber syringe may include chambers that are adjacent to each other and thus not nested within each other. In embodiments with two chambers, the first chamber may be adjacent to the second chamber. It should be appreciated that a multi-chamber syringe may include any suitable number of chambers of any suitable shape that are adjacent to each other, as the present disclosure is not limited in this respect. In some embodiments, a multi-chamber syringe may include a combination of nested and lateral arrangements of chambers. For example, a first chamber may be adjacent to a second chamber, both of which are disposed within a third chamber. A first planar barrier may separate the first and second chambers, while a second annular barrier may separate the first and second chambers from the third chamber.

[0018]

[0029] In view of the above, it should be appreciated that a multi-chamber syringe may include any suitable number, shape and arrangement of chambers, as the present disclosure is not limited in this respect.

[0019]

[0030] In some embodiments, a multi-chamber syringe may include one or more barriers disposed between the chambers of the syringe. The barriers may be movable relative to the barrel of the syringe. Removal of a barrier disposed between two chambers may allow materials disposed within the two chambers to mix because the two chambers are no longer physically separated. In some embodiments, the act of displacing a barrier between the chambers of a multi-chamber syringe may be associated with improved mixing of materials disposed within the chambers. Without wishing to be bound by theory, the displacement of a barrier may impart shear forces to one or more materials in contact with the barrier. Shear forces applied to a fluid material may be associated with turbulence and / or turbulent mixing. Increasing turbulence may be associated with improved mixing quality and / or reduced mixing time. Without wishing to be bound by theory, the amount of turbulence generated may be associated with the rate at which the barrier is removed, fluid viscosity, fluid density, the gap distance between the chamber wall and the barrier, and / or additional variables related to the barrier and / or one or more materials in contact with the barrier. In some embodiments, as described in more detail below, the barrier may include surface features configured to promote turbulent mixing. It should be recognized that, as used herein, the term "fluid" may refer to any state of matter that possesses fluid properties. Non-limiting examples include liquids, gases, suspensions, gels, and / or flowable solids (e.g., powders), each of which may be used in any of the embodiments described herein.

[0020]

[0031] In some embodiments, a multi-chamber syringe may include one or more plungers configured to dispense and / or draw substances into a chamber. Each chamber of the syringe may be associated with a separate plunger. However, in some embodiments, the present disclosure is not limited with respect to the relative number of chambers and plungers, such that a single plunger may be associated with multiple chambers, or multiple plungers may be associated with a single chamber.

[0021]

[0032] In some embodiments, the plunger and / or barrier may be selectively engaged and locked together to form a plunger assembly. For example, after a barrier separating a first chamber and a second chamber is slidably displaced to allow mixing of a first substance and a second substance, the barrier may be engaged with and optionally locked to a first plunger and / or a second plunger to form a combination plunger. Depression of the combination plunger may dispense the mixed substance from the combined volumes of the first and second chambers. It should be appreciated that the combination plunger may include any suitable number of plungers and / or barriers, such as a plunger-and-barrier combination, a two-plunger combination, a barrier-and-two-plunger combination, or any other suitable combination, as the present disclosure is not limited in this respect. In some embodiments, the barrier and one or more plungers may be configured to lock together using tabs and slots, a friction fit, a magnetic coupling, a spring-loaded protrusion configured to be received in a recess, and / or any other suitable mechanism configured to allow coupling of the plunger and barrier. It should be appreciated that any portion of the bond can be disposed on either the barrier or the plunger. For example, in some embodiments, the barrier can include a tab and the plunger can include a slot configured to receive the tab. In some embodiments, the plunger can include a tab and the barrier can include a slot configured to receive the tab. As such, the present disclosure is not limited with respect to the type of bond or the particular placement of the bond between the barrier and plunger.

[0022]

[0033] In some embodiments, a multi-chamber syringe may include one or more gaskets configured to provide a seal and prevent unwanted fluid communication between different regions of the syringe. The one or more gaskets may be disposed between the first plunger and the barrier, between the barrier and the second plunger, between the second plunger and the barrel, between the barrier and the interior wall of one or more chambers, or any other suitable component of the multi-chamber syringe, as the disclosure is not so limited. For example, an O-ring may be disposed between the barrier and the plunger. However, it should be appreciated that the gasket may comprise any suitable material in any suitable shape configured to create a seal, as the disclosure is not limited in this respect. In some embodiments, different surfaces of components of a multi-chamber syringe may include coatings and / or pieces of material configured to facilitate sealing between different chambers. For example, a plunger head may include an elastomeric material, such as rubber, configured to create a watertight seal when positioned adjacent to another surface. Additionally or alternatively, the surface may include an elastomeric coating configured to facilitate sealing when the plunger and / or barrier contact the surface. For example, the distal inner surface of one or more portions of the barrel may include an elastomeric material configured to provide a seal when the barrier contacts the seal.

[0023]

[0034] In some embodiments, a substance may be disposed in one or more chambers of a multi-chamber syringe. The substance may include any suitable substance in any suitable form, as the present disclosure is not limited in this respect. The substance may be a solid, liquid, gas, gel, suspension, or any other suitable form. A single chamber may contain multiple substances, such as a mixture of two liquid substances or a solid suspended in a liquid substance. Thus, mixing of substances from different chambers of a multi-chamber syringe (e.g., upon removal of a barrier) may include mixing of solids, liquids, gases, or any other form of substance. The resulting mixed substance may similarly be a solid, liquid, gas, suspension, gel, flowable matrix, or any other suitable form of substance.

[0024]

[0035] In some embodiments, the first and / or second substances may comprise a therapeutic compound, a carrier such as saline, and / or any other suitable substance. The therapeutic compound may include, but is not limited to, thrombin, a hemostatic substance, a combination of the above, and / or any other suitable agent. For example, the first substance in the first chamber may comprise saline or a mixture of saline and thrombin, and the second substance in the second chamber may comprise a hemostatic substance, such as collagen. The hemostatic substance may be in the form of a powder, sheet, and / or fabric. In some embodiments, the substance may comprise, at least in part, dextran. However, it should be appreciated that any suitable substance may be contained in any chamber of the multi-chamber syringe, as the present disclosure is not limited in this respect.

[0025]

[0036] A therapeutic compound for purposes of this application may correspond to any suitable substance, including, but not limited to, any drug, agent, pharmaceutical, imaging agent, and / or biologic, such as a protein, an antisense molecule, and a gene therapy viral vector, as the present disclosure is not so limited. When a therapeutic compound is present at a particular locus in an "effective amount," it means that the concentration of the therapeutic compound is at least trace amounts and is sufficient to achieve a desired purpose, such as enabling detection of the therapeutic compound in a subject for diagnostic purposes, treating a disease or condition in the subject, and / or enhancing treatment of a disease or condition in the subject. In some embodiments, an effective amount of a particular therapeutic compound is present in an amount sufficient to reduce or alleviate one or more symptoms associated with a particular condition.

[0026]

[0037] In some embodiments, the multi-chamber syringe may include one or more protrusions and / or surface features configured to promote mixing. As described above, sliding displacement of the barrier may be associated with generating turbulence in the fluidic material adjacent to the barrier. The protrusions and / or surface features on the movable barrier (or any other component of the multi-chamber syringe) may be configured to increase the amount of turbulence generated. As the disclosure is not limited in this respect, the protrusions and / or surface features may include fins, recesses, dimples, ribs, or any other suitable protrusions and / or surface features. The protrusions and / or surface features may be disposed on any suitable component and / or surface of the multi-chamber syringe, including, but not limited to, the barrier, plunger, barrel, nozzle, and / or barrel tip. For example, a distal portion of the barrier may include one or more mixing fins configured to generate turbulent mixing when the barrier is displaced relative to a material disposed in a chamber adjacent to the barrier. As the disclosure is not limited in this respect, it should be appreciated that the protrusions and / or surface features may promote mixing without generating turbulence.

[0027]

[0038] In some embodiments, a multi-chamber syringe may include one or more functional coatings on any suitable surface of the syringe to provide various desired functions. For example, the coating may be disposed on the inner surface of the barrel, the outer surface of the barrier, and / or any other suitable surface of the syringe. In some embodiments, the coating may include a hydrophobic coating. The hydrophobic coating may facilitate improved mixing of one or more substances disposed within the syringe when a barrier between two chambers containing different substances is removed. Without wishing to be bound by theory, the hydrophobic coating may prevent substances disposed within a chamber from adhering to the chamber surface, thereby allowing for the production of a more homogeneous mixture. Of course, other coatings may be included in the multi-chamber syringe in addition to or instead of a hydrophobic coating. Thus, it should be appreciated that any suitable coating may be included on any suitable surface of any suitable portion of the multi-chamber syringe, as the present disclosure is not so limited.

[0028]

[0039] With reference to the figures, specific, non-limiting embodiments are described in further detail. It should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to only the specific embodiments described herein, and that the various systems, components, features, and methods described with respect to these embodiments can be used individually and / or in any desired combination.

[0029]

[0040] FIG. 1A is an isometric view of one embodiment of a multi-chamber syringe 100. The syringe 100 includes a housing and a first plunger 110 disposed at least partially within an interior cavity of the housing. In the illustrated embodiment, the housing is the barrel 102 of the syringe 100. The first plunger 110 is slidably displaceable relative to the barrel 102. A proximal portion of the barrel 102 includes a barrel flange 104. In some embodiments, the barrel flange can assist a user in gripping and / or manipulating the syringe. For example, the barrel flange can be configured to receive or be grasped by one or more fingers of a user's hand when the user operates the syringe. In the illustrated embodiment, a distal portion of the barrel 102 includes a nozzle 106 or other suitable outlet. In some embodiments, displacing one or more plungers relative to the syringe housing can dispense a substance disposed within the housing from the nozzle. In the illustrated embodiment, the proximal portion of the first plunger 110 includes a first plunger flange 112. In some embodiments, the plunger flange can assist a user in gripping and / or manipulating a portion of the plunger within the syringe. For example, the plunger flange can be configured to receive the thumb of a user's hand when the user actuates the syringe. In the illustrated embodiment, the distal portion of the first plunger 110 includes a first plunger head 114. The plunger head can include one or more elastomeric portions, gaskets, O-rings, or any other suitable structure configured to provide a seal between the plunger head and a body with which the plunger head can be positioned to form a sliding seal.

[0030]

[0041] The multi-chamber syringe 100 further includes a barrier 130 disposed at least partially within the interior cavity of the barrel 102. The barrier 130 is slidably displaceable relative to both the barrel 102 and the first plunger 110 in a distal direction along the longitudinal axis of the syringe 100. However, embodiments in which the barrier is movable in different directions are also contemplated. A proximal portion of the barrier 130 may include a barrier flange 132. In some embodiments, the barrier flange may assist a user in grasping and / or manipulating the position of the barrier within the syringe.

[0031]

[0042] 1B and 1C are schematic diagrams of the multi-chamber syringe 100 of FIG. 1A before and after the barrier 130 has been displaced (respectively). When the barrier 130 is in its initial, sealed configuration, as shown in FIG. 1B, a distal portion 134 of the barrier 130 may contact and form a seal with the distal inner surface of the barrel 102 or other suitable inner surface. As described above, the barrier may be displaced proximally along the longitudinal axis of the syringe to move the barrier to its non-sealing configuration. In this manner, the barrier 130 is configured to selectively separate different chambers of the internal cavity. That is, the barrier 130 partially defines first and second chambers within the internal cavity of the barrel 102. The first chamber 140 is at least partially bounded by the inner surface of the barrier 130, the distal surface of the barrel 102, and the distal surface of the first plunger 110, e.g., the surface of the first plunger head 114. Correspondingly, second chamber 150 is at least partially bounded by the outer surface of barrier 130, the distal surface of barrel 102, the inner surface of barrel 102, and the distal surface of second plunger (not explicitly shown). First substance 142 is disposed within first chamber 140, and second substance 152 is disposed within second chamber 150. As shown in FIG. 1C , when barrier 130 is retracted proximally relative to the barrel's interior cavity, distal portion 134 of barrier 130 loses contact with the distal inner surface of barrel 102, thereby breaking the seal. As a result, first chamber 140 and second chamber 150 are disposed in fluid communication with each other to form a combination volume, which displaces the barriers toward a sufficient displaced configuration to allow first substance 142 and second substance 152 to mix within combination volume 160 into mixed substance 162.

[0032]

[0043] 2A-2C illustrate one embodiment of a mixing sequence involving a multi-chamber syringe 100. The syringe 100 includes a barrel 102 that includes a nozzle 106 or other outlet. The nozzle 106 of the barrel 102 is coupled to a vial 108. As shown in FIG. 2A, retracting a first plunger 110 of the syringe 100 draws a first substance 142 from the vial 108 through the nozzle 106 and into a first chamber 140 within the barrel 102 of the syringe 100. A second substance 152 is disposed within the second chamber 150. The first plunger 110 includes a first plunger flange 112 configured to be grasped by a user when drawing the first substance 142 from the vial 108. As shown in FIG. 2B, the barrier 130 of the syringe 100 can be displaced relative to the barrel 102. As the barrier 130 is displaced, the first substance 142 mixes with the second substance 152 to form a mixed substance 162 in the combination region 160. As the barrier 130 is displaced, the first plunger 110 is displaced along with the barrier 130 so that the first plunger head 114 does not move relative to the barrier 130. In other embodiments, the displacement of the barrier may include displacement of the barrier relative to the syringe housing, one or more plungers of the syringe, or any other portion of the syringe. As shown in FIG. 2C , the first syringe 110 is displaced relative to the barrier 130. Eventually, the first plunger 110 reaches a fully deployed position relative to the barrier 130. At this point, the first plunger head 114 is aligned with the second plunger head 124 of a second plunger (not shown) associated with the second chamber 150. The first plunger 110, the barrier 130, and the second plunger form a combined plunger. Displacing the combination plunger dispenses the mixed material 162 from the combination volume 160 through the nozzle 106 .

[0033]

[0044] 3-5 show various views of one embodiment of a multi-chamber syringe 100. The syringe 100 includes a barrel 102 having an interior volume. A distal portion of the barrel 102 includes a nozzle 106 or other outlet in fluid communication with the interior volume of the barrel, and a proximal portion of the barrel 102 may include a barrel flange 104. A first plunger 110 is at least partially disposed within the interior cavity of the barrel 102 and is slidably displaceable relative to the barrel 102. Additionally, a second plunger 120 is at least partially disposed within the interior cavity of the barrel 102 and is slidably displaceable relative to the barrel 102. In the illustrated embodiment, the second plunger is at least partially disposed around the first plunger. A barrier 130 is at least partially disposed between the first plunger 110 and the second plunger 120. As shown, in some embodiments, the barrier may be a tube disposed between and coaxial with the first plunger and the second plunger. Again, the barrier may form first and second chambers within the barrel with a seal formed between a distal portion of the barrier and the distal inner surface of the barrel that the distal portion of the barrier contacts. In some embodiments, the distal inner surface of the barrel may include a coating 103, such as an elastomeric coating, to assist in sealing the barrier.

[0034]

[0045] The first plunger 110 and the second plunger 120 are disposed in regions of the interior volume of the barrel 102 corresponding to the first and second chambers 140 and 150, respectively, such that movement of the plungers can change the volumes contained in the first and second chambers. In either case, a barrier is slidably displaceable relative to the first plunger 110, the second plunger 120, and the barrel to selectively isolate or place the first and second chambers in fluid communication with one another. As best shown in FIG. 5 , the first chamber 140 is in fluid communication with the nozzle 106 or other outlet of the syringe 100. Thus, proximal movement of the first plunger 110 relative to the barrier while in the initial sealed configuration can draw a first substance 142 into the first chamber. However, embodiments in which a first substance is already contained within the first chamber are also contemplated. Additionally, in the initial configuration, the second plunger 120 may be spaced from the distal inner surface of the barrel to define an initial volume of a second chamber 150 that may contain a second substance 152 disposed therein. The second volume may be isolated from the nozzle of the syringe until the barrier is displaced to the non-sealing configuration. The operation of these components is described in more detail below.

[0035]

[0046] In some embodiments, the first plunger, barrier, and second plunger can be configured to be displaceable individually along the longitudinal axis of the syringe relative to one another in a first mode of operation and together in unison with one another in a second mode of operation, as described in further detail below. For example, in one embodiment, the barrier can be selectively engageable with one or more plungers of a multi-chamber syringe, causing the syringe plunger and barrier to move in unison when dispensing a substance from the syringe. In the illustrated embodiment, the barrier 130 includes a locking structure, such as one or more tabs 138, configured to engage with the slot 128 or another suitable structure of the second plunger 120 when the barrier is moved proximally relative to the second plunger toward the unsealed configuration. Specifically, displacing the barrier 130 proximally moves the tab 138 proximally toward the slot 128 of the second plunger 120. Tab 138 engages slot 128 after moving a predetermined distance, thereby coupling barrier 130 to outer plunger 120. One or more leaf springs 129 are configured to lock tab 138 into slot 128. Thus, in some embodiments, upon dispensing of a substance from the syringe, the barrier is configured to engage a plunger to couple the barrier and one or more plungers together, so that they may move distally along the longitudinal axis of the syringe in unison with one another. Of course, while a particular lock for coupling the barrier and plungers is shown, the present disclosure is not limited to the illustrated tabs and slots. As such, any suitable locking configuration may be used, as described above. Additionally, embodiments are contemplated in which the barrier and one or more plungers are not locked together when in the unsealed configuration.

[0036]

[0047] In some cases, it may be desirable to prevent unintentional movement of the barrier from a sealed configuration to an unsealed configuration. As such, in some embodiments, the barrier 130 may include a barrier flange 132 disposed within a recess in the barrel 102, proximal to the barrel flange 104. Rotating the barrier 130 about the longitudinal axis disengages the barrier flange 132 from the recess in the barrel 102, thereby allowing the barrier to move freely along the longitudinal axis. However, any suitable lock, including a latch, detent, pin, or other configuration, may be used to prevent unintentional displacement of the barrier.

[0037]

[0048] To provide the desired seal, the multi-chamber syringe 100 may include several gaskets. As shown, the first plunger 110 includes a peripheral recess located on a distal portion of the first plunger. The recess is configured to receive a first plunger gasket 116 disposed between the first plunger 110 and the barrier 130. The second plunger 120 includes a first peripheral recess located on an outer surface of the second plunger that is configured to receive a second plunger gasket 126 disposed between the second plunger 120 and the barrel 102. Additionally, the second plunger 120 includes a second peripheral recess located on an inner surface of the second plunger that is configured to receive a barrier gasket 136 disposed between the second plunger 120 and the barrier 130. These gaskets allow the plunger and the barrier to move relative to one another while maintaining a desired seal. As noted above, the present disclosure is not limited to the particular type of gasket or seal used in the disclosed embodiments, and the gasket may be of any suitable material, size, or shape configured to provide a seal.

[0038]

[0049] 6A-6I illustrate one embodiment of a method for using a multi-chamber syringe similar to that described with respect to FIGS. 3-5. In FIG. 6A, a multi-chamber syringe 100 is coupled to a vial 108 through a valve 109 in fluid communication with a nozzle 106 of a barrel 102 of the syringe 100. As detailed above, the barrel 102 includes an internal cavity within which a first plunger 110, a second plunger 120, and a barrier 130 are disposed. A first chamber 140 is disposed within the internal cavity of the barrier and associated with the first plunger, and a second chamber 150 is disposed between the barrier and an inner surface of the barrier and associated with the second plunger. A first portion 142a of a first substance is initially disposed within the first chamber. A second substance 152 is disposed within the second chamber. A second portion 142b of the first substance is disposed within the vial 108. In some embodiments, the vial may contain thrombin, and the first chamber may initially contain saline. In some embodiments, the second chamber may contain dextran, a starch-based substance, and / or a collagen-based substance. It should be appreciated that any suitable substance may be placed in any chamber of the syringe and / or vial.

[0039]

[0050] In FIG. 6B, the first plunger 110 is displaced distally relative to the barrel 102. The barrel 102 includes a barrel flange 104 configured to assist a user in displacing the first plunger 110. As the first plunger is displaced, a first portion 142a of the first substance is dispensed from the first chamber 140 through the nozzle 106, through the open valve 109, and into the vial 108. The first portion 142a of the first substance mixes with the second portion 142b of the first substance to produce the first substance 142. In FIG. 6C, the vial 108 may be vibrated to facilitate further mixing. In some embodiments, saline may be injected into a vial containing thrombin (or any other suitable therapeutic liquid), and vibrating the vial may include swirling the vial to reconstitute the thrombin (or other fluid).

[0040]

[0051] In FIG. 6D, the first plunger 110 is retracted to draw the first substance 142 from the vial 108 into the first chamber 140. In FIG. 6E, the vial 108 is disconnected from the syringe 100. In FIG. 6F, the valve 109 is closed, thereby preventing the substance from exiting the nozzle 106 of the syringe 100. In some embodiments, the substance drawn into the syringe may include a mixture of saline and thrombin, although the present disclosure is not limited in this respect, as other substances and / or combinations of substances are also contemplated. It should be appreciated that some embodiments of methods of operating a multi-chamber syringe may not include the steps shown in FIGS. 6A-6E. That is, in some embodiments, the method may begin with the syringe in the state shown in FIG. 6F, where the syringe includes two or more chambers holding two or more substances ready to be mixed.

[0041]

[0052] In FIG. 6G , the barrier flange 132 formed on the proximal portion of the barrier 130 can be rotated out of the recess 105 in the barrel flange 104. After the barrier flange 132 is released from the recess 105, the barrier 130 is unlocked from the barrel 102 of the syringe 100 and is free to move axially. While a tab and slot configuration is shown in the embodiment of FIG. 6G , it should be appreciated that the present disclosure is not limited to this type of coupling. Rather, any suitable releasable coupling between the barrier and the syringe body can be used, such as, but not limited to, tab and slot, friction fit, magnetic coupling, spring-loaded protrusions configured to be received in recesses, and / or any other suitable mechanism configured to selectively allow or prevent movement of the barrier. 6H, barrier 130 is slidably displaced proximally until tab 138 of barrier 130 engages slot 128 of second plunger 120, thereby coupling barrier 130 and second plunger 120 so that they can move in unison while the combined plunger assembly is displaced distally. With the distal portion of barrier 130 no longer in contact with the distal inner surface of barrel 102, first chamber 140 and second chamber 150 are no longer separated, thereby allowing first substance 142 and second substance 152 to mix within combination volume 160 to create mixed substance 162.

[0042]

[0053] In FIG. 6I , the valve 109 is opened and the first plunger 110 is displaced distally. In the illustrated embodiment, the barrier 130 includes a lip 135 extending radially inward to engage a distal surface of the first plunger. Thus, distal movement of the first plunger correspondingly displaces the barrier distally. Due to the tab 138 of the barrier 130 engaging the slot 128 of the second plunger 120, as the barrier is displaced, the second plunger 120 is also displaced distally. In this manner, the first plunger 110, the barrier 130, and the second plunger 120 form a combination plunger configured to displace the mixed substance 162 from the combination volume 160. When the combination plunger is displaced, the mixed substance 162 is dispensed from the combination volume 160, through the nozzle 106, and out the open valve 109, thereby delivering the mixed substance 162 to a target location. In some embodiments, the distal portion of the plunger and the barrier may be shaped to form a surface that substantially matches the size and shape of the distal inner surface of the barrel. Of course, while particular structures for forming a combination plunger from a barrier and two plungers are illustrated, it should be understood that any suitable structure capable of functioning as a combination plunger for dispensing a substance from a syringe may be used.

[0043]

[0054] 7A-7C illustrate various embodiments of protrusions on a multi-chamber syringe configured to promote mixing. In the illustrated embodiment, protrusions 170 and 172 may be disposed on the inner and / or outer surfaces of the barrier 130 (shown in a top cross-sectional view). The barrier 130 is disposed within the interior cavity of the syringe barrel 102. As described above, protrusions and / or surface features, such as fins, recesses, dimples, or ribs, may be configured to promote turbulent mixing of materials within the multi-chamber syringe. The protrusions and / or surface features may be disposed on any suitable component and / or surface of the multi-chamber syringe, including, but not limited to, the barrier, plunger, barrel, and / or barrel nozzle. In the illustrated embodiment, the barrier 130 includes both a protrusion 170 that protrudes into the first chamber 140 adjacent to the barrier 130 and a protrusion 172 that protrudes into the second chamber 150 adjacent to the barrier 130. When the barrier 130 is displaced relative to substances disposed within the first and second chambers 140 and 150, the protrusions 170 and 172 may promote turbulence, thereby enhancing mixing between the substances.

[0044]

[0055] 8A-8E illustrate one embodiment of a multi-chamber syringe 100 that includes a combination plunger 180. The combination plunger 180 may be configured to manipulate substances disposed within multiple chambers of the multi-chamber syringe. The combination plunger 180 may include one or more features configured to receive the barrier 130. In this manner, the combination plunger 180 and the barrier 130 may form a nested and / or interlocking structure when both the combination plunger 180 and the barrier 130 are in the same relative position (e.g., fully retracted or fully deployed).

[0045]

[0056] 8A shows a side cross-sectional view of the multi-chamber syringe 100 with the barrier 130 deployed and the combination plunger 180 retracted. The combination plunger 180 may include a connecting portion 182 connecting an inner portion 184 and an outer portion 186 of the combination plunger 180. The inner portion 184 of the combination plunger 180 may be associated with an inner chamber of the multi-chamber syringe 100. The outer portion 186 of the combination plunger 180 may be associated with an outer chamber of the multi-chamber syringe 100. Of course, it should be recognized that the combination plunger 180 may include multiple portions of any suitable shape and / or arrangement, which may depend at least in part on the corresponding shape and / or arrangement of the multi-chamber syringe.

[0046]

[0057] In Figure 8B, when the barrier 130 is displaced relative to the barrel 102, the barrier 130 retracts into a recess in the combination plunger 180, forming an interlocking structure. Figure 8C shows the interlocking structure of the combination plunger 180 and the barrier 130 in the deployed position. The interlocking structure may allow for rapid depression and / or dispensing of a substance from the syringe 100. Figures 8D-8E show cross-sectional views of the bottom of a multi-chamber syringe as shown in Figure 8A. These views facilitate revealing the structural features that allow the combination plunger 180 to be positioned on both the interior and exterior sides of the barrier 130.

[0047]

[0058] While the present teachings have been described in conjunction with various embodiments and examples, it is not intended that the present teachings be limited to such embodiments or examples. Rather, the present teachings encompass various alternatives, modifications, and equivalents, as will be recognized by those skilled in the art. Accordingly, the foregoing description and drawings are by way of example only.

Claims

1. A multi-chamber syringe, a housing including an interior cavity; a first plunger at least partially disposed within the interior cavity of the housing, the first plunger being slidably displaceable relative to the housing; a second plunger at least partially disposed within the interior cavity of the housing, the second plunger being slidably displaceable relative to the housing; and a barrier disposed at least partially within the interior cavity of the housing between the first plunger and the second plunger, the barrier defining a first chamber bounded by a first surface of the barrier and a second chamber bounded by a second surface of the barrier in a first configuration, the barrier being slidably displaceable relative to the first plunger and the second plunger in a second configuration to promote mixing of a volume of the first chamber with a volume of the second chamber.

2. The multi-chamber syringe of claim 1 , wherein the barrier is selectively engageable with the first plunger and / or the second plunger.

3. A multi-chamber syringe as described in claim 1, further comprising a first substance disposed within the first chamber.

4. The multi-chamber syringe of claim 3 , wherein the first substance comprises a saline solution.

5. A multi-chamber syringe as described in claim 3, further comprising a second substance disposed within the second chamber.

6. 6. The multi-chamber syringe of claim 5, wherein the second material comprises one or more selected from the group consisting of dextran, a starch-based material, and a collagen-based material.

7. The multi-chamber syringe of claim 1 , wherein the housing is annular and the barrier is annular.

8. The multi-chamber syringe of claim 7 , wherein the barrier is coaxial with the housing.

9. The multi-chamber syringe of claim 1 , wherein the first plunger is cylindrical.

10. 10. The multi-chamber syringe of claim 9, wherein the barrier is annular, and the barrier is coaxial with the first plunger.

11. 10. The multi-chamber syringe of claim 9, wherein the second plunger is annular.

12. 12. The multi-chamber syringe of claim 11, wherein the second plunger is coaxial with the first plunger.

13. 10. The multi-chamber syringe of claim 1, further comprising one or more gaskets between two or more selected from the group consisting of the first plunger, the barrier, the second plunger, and the housing.

14. The multi-chamber syringe of claim 1 , wherein the barrier is configured to lock with the first plunger and / or the second plunger when displaced to the second configuration.

15. 6. The multi-chamber syringe of claim 5, further comprising one or more protrusions formed on the barrier, the protrusions configured to promote mixing of the first substance and the second substance.

16. A multi-chamber syringe, a housing including an interior cavity; a barrier at least partially disposed within the internal cavity of the housing, the barrier configured to separate a first chamber of the internal cavity from a second chamber of the internal cavity in a first configuration, the barrier being slidably displaceable in a second configuration to facilitate mixing of a first volume of the first chamber and a second volume of the second chamber; a first plunger at least partially disposed within the first chamber, the first plunger being slidably displaceable relative to the housing; and a second plunger at least partially disposed within the second chamber and slidably displaceable relative to the housing, the first plunger, the barrier, and the second plunger being engaged to form a combination plunger for displacing material in a combined volume where the first and second volumes are mixed; A multi-chamber syringe comprising:

17. 17. The multi-chamber syringe of claim 16, wherein the barrier is annular and the first plunger is at least partially disposed within the barrier.

18. 17. The multi-chamber syringe of claim 16, wherein the second plunger is annular and the barrier is at least partially disposed within the second plunger.

19. 20. The multi-chamber syringe of claim 18, wherein the barrier is annular and the first plunger is at least partially disposed within the barrier.

20. 17. The multi-chamber syringe of claim 16, further comprising one or more gaskets between two or more selected from the group consisting of the first plunger, the barrier, the second plunger, and the housing.

21. 17. The multi-chamber syringe of claim 16, wherein the barrier includes one or more tabs, and the first plunger and / or the second plunger include one or more slots configured to receive the one or more tabs.

22. 17. The multi-chamber syringe of claim 16, further comprising a hydrophobic coating on one or more surfaces of the syringe.

23. A multi-chamber syringe as described in claim 1, wherein the first plunger, the second plunger and the barrier are each configured to be independently displaceable in a first operating mode, and configured to move integrally in a second operating mode.

24. A multi-chamber syringe as described in claim 16, wherein the first plunger, the second plunger and the barrier are each configured to be independently displaceable in a first operating mode, and are engaged to form the combined plunger in a second operating mode.

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