System and method for intraveous administration of fluids and / or medication

Abstract

A medication administration system for safely administrating medication to a patient. The system includes an arrangement of lines, flow regulating device, and securement valve with the securement valve being mounted in parallel in regards to the flow regulating device. The system generally comprises a one-way pressure valve adapted to be in fluid communication with an infusion bag and with an input and output of a fluid regulating device and a timer valve adapted to be in fluid communication with an infusion bag and a blood vessel of a patient, wherein the one-way pressure valve and the timer valve each forms a by-pass circuit of the fluid regulating device. Additionally, the system includes a permanently mounted auto-refill syringe configured to perform multiple rinsing cycles by generating negative pressure to draw fluid and inject it into the primary circuit through a check valve, ensuring efficient fluid administration and reducing contamination risks.

Description

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR INTR VEOUS ADMINISTRATION OF FLUIDS AND / OR MEDICATIONCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] The present patent application claims the benefits of priority of United States Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 552,076, entitled “SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR INTRAVEOUS ADMINISTRATION OF FLUIDS AND / OR MEDICATION” and filed at the United States Patent and Trademark Office on February 9, 2024, the content of which is incorporated herein by reference.FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The present invention generally relates to systems and methods for administrating medication or fluids to a patient. More specifically, the present invention relates to systems and methods for intravenous administrating of fluids and / or medication to a patient.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] Intravenous administration systems are vital in healthcare, facilitating the direct delivery of fluids, and namely medications into patients. Medication administration systems are critical for diverse treatments, ranging from emergency care to long-term therapies.

[0004] Recent innovations have improved flow regulation, catheter security, and overall patient comfort. Despite advancements, challenges persist, including infection risks and dosing errors.

[0005] US patent application published under no. US 2010 / 0217232 Al discloses an intravenous fluid administration apparatus comprising first and second constituent conduits that provide parallel paths from a proximal conduit to a distal conduit. Such device allows a flow when a fluid pressure difference across a pressure responsive valve between the paths exceeds a threshold and to prevent such flow when the difference does not exceed the threshold. While such system may allow a flow of liquid from the fluid bag 1 to an injection port 7, air or air bubbles may remain in one of the paths when flushing the system, thus creating a risk of inserting air into the veins of a patient.

[0006] As such, to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art devices, a novel system and method for intravenous administration of fluids and / or medication allowing a bypass of a flow regulating system when administrating intravenous medication to a patient while reducing risk of inserting air into veins of a patient is disclosed.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0007] The aforesaid and other objectives of the present invention are realized by generally providing a novel, patient-centric intravenous administration system, ensuring enhanced safety, precision, and ease of use in clinical settings. The system may be purged only by opening the regulating device to allow a flow of fluid from the bag to the outlet of the system. As such, the purge is performed using common and / or standard practices in the field by opening the fluid regulating device. Furthermore, the purge does not require expelling any air from the system as the by-pass valve are not in contact with any air but only in fluid communication with the system.

[0008] In one aspect of the invention, a system for administration of a fluid in a patient is provided. The system generally comprises a one-way pressure valve adapted to be in fluid communication with an infusion bag and with an input and output of a fluid regulating device and a timer valve adapted to be in fluid communication with an infusion bag and a blood vessel of a patient, wherein the one-way pressure valve and the timer valve each forms a by-pass circuit of the fluid regulating device. The system is configured to allow a complete purge of the lines and of the by-pass assembly using only the regulating device.

[0009] In one aspect of the invention, the regulating device is a permanently mounted autorefill system, initially locked in an empty state, configured to perform multiple rinsing cycles by creating negative pressure to draw solution and inject the solution into a primary circuit through a check valve. A system circuit allows multiple rinsing cycles to be performed through either manual or automated operations of the auto-refill syringe. An accessory circuit remains closed by a check valve that prevents the solution from flowing under gravity, but that opens when external pressure, such as from a syringe, surpasses the gravitational force. The check valve may be connected to the circuit through side anastomosis with a common wall between the circuit upward of the regulating device and the circuit downward of the regulating device. In another aspect of the invention, a part or the whole fluid line connected to the regulating device is immersed within the line at the outlet of the regulating device in fluid communication with the blood vessel of the patient.

[0010] In another aspect of the invention, the system optimizes air purging, ensures precise laminar flow for fluid administration, and easily integrates into existing clinical protocols without requiring additional training. Furthermore, the system generally aims at reducing contamination risks by eliminating the need for multiple syringe connections, utilizing a permanently mounted syringe for all rinsing procedures.

[0011] In a further aspect of the invention, an overall intravenous administration system is provided. The system comprises an auto-refdl system. The auto-refdl system is preferably permanently mounted. The auto-refdl system comprises novel bypass mechanisms and enhanced compatibility with standard clinical practices.

[0012] The disclosed purging mechanism may be integrated in current standard practices of healthcare providers, and generally aims at simplifying clinical integration by minimizing the need to adopt new protocols, while also allowing the connection of multiple accessory circuits to the main circuit through the lateral wall interface.

[0013] In a further aspect of the invention, a system for administrating medication to a patient is provided. The system comprises a one-way pressure valve fluidly connectable to an infusion bag and to an input and output of a fluid regulating device and a timer valve fluidly connectable to an infusion bag and a blood vessel of the patient, wherein the one-way pressure valve and the timer valve each forms a by-pass circuit of the fluid regulating device.

[0014] The one-way pressure valve may connect to lines of fluid as a side-by-side anastomosis or the timer valve may connect to lines of fluid as a side-by-side anastomosis.

[0015] The system may further comprise a first line fluidly connected to a first inlet of the system and fluidly connectable to the infusion bag, a second line fluidly connected to a first outlet of the system and fluidly connectable to an inlet of a fluid regulating device, a third line fluidly connected to a second inlet of the system and fluidly connectable to an outlet of a fluid regulating device and a fourth line fluidly connected to a second outlet of the system and fluidly connectable to a blood vessel of the patient, wherein the one-way pressure valve allows a bypass from the first line to the fourth line when a negative pressure is present in the fourth line. The timer valve may allow a by-pass from the first line to the fourth line when opened. The timer valve may be manually operable. The timer valve may allow the by-pass during a predetermined period of time. The timer valve may be a monostable valve or may allow purging of the system by only opening the regulating device.

[0016] The system may further comprise a self-filling assembly fluidly connected to a line of fluid of the system. The automatic self-filling assembly may comprise a negative pressure chamber adapted to perform a plurality of rinsing drawing fluid in the self-filling assembly and inject the drawn liquid in a fluid line of the system. The self-filling assembly may comprise a one-way valve allowing liquid to be injected in the fluid line of the system.

[0017] The self-filling assembly may comprise a plunger sealingly fitting in the negative pressure chamber, a resilient member pulling the plunger and a locking assembly to maintainthe plunger in a locked position. The bypass circuit may be integrated into a modular housing for use with existing intravenous administration systems.

[0018] In yet another aspect of the invention, a bypass valve assembly may comprise a first inlet fluidly connectable to an infusion bag, a first outlet fluidly connectable to an inlet of a fluid regulating device, a second inlet fluidly connectable to an outlet of the fluid regulating device, a second outlet fluidly connectable to an intravenous fluid line and a one-way valve adapted to fluidly bypass the first outlet and the second inlet.

[0019] The bypass valve assembly may comprise a timer valve for by-passing the regulating device during a period of time. The timer valve may be adapted to momentarily by-pass the regulating device. The timer valve may comprise a movable element enabling fluid flow when moved in a first position and stopping fluid flow in the when moved in a second position. The movable element may comprise a resilient plunger positioned within a sealed cavity, the plunger being configured to open upon user activation and resiliently return to a closed position. The timer valve may comprise a mechanism that returns the valve to a close state after a predefined period of time. The mechanism may comprise a spring-loaded actuator that automatically returns the movable element to a closed position.

[0020] The bypass valve assembly may comprise a first flexible membrane between the inlets and outlets allowing a flow of liquid when a pressure gradient is created within the first inlet and outlet. The bypass valve assembly may comprise a second flexible membrane adjacent to the first membrane, the second membrane comprising an aperture and being adapted to pulled away from the first membrane to allow a flow of liquid when a pressure gradient is created within the first inlet and outlet.

[0021] The bypass valve assembly may further comprise a sealed container fillable with a fluid comprising the inlets and outlets, a fluid line in fluid communication with the first inlet and the first outlet and a by-pass pressure valve within the sealed container controlling flow in the fluid line, the by-pass pressure valve allowing fluid to flow in the container when the by-pass pressure valve is open. The by-pass pressure valve may automatically open when a pressure difference is created between the first inlet and the second outlet. The by-pass pressure valve may allow fluid to flow in the fluid line when the by-pass pressure valve is closed. The by-pass pressure valve may allow fluid to flow in the fluid line when the by-pass pressure valve is closed. The bypass valve assembly may comprise a timer valve for by -passing the regulating device during a period of time.

[0022] In a further aspect of the invention, a method for administrating medication to a patient is provided. The method comprises bypassing a fluid regulating device fluidly connected to an infusion bag and an intravenous fluid line connectable to a blood vessel of a patient by automatically allowing a direct flow of fluid between the infusion bag and the blood vessel during a period of time triggered by a pressure difference.

[0023] The method may further comprise activating the fluid regulating device to purge the system without introducing air into the intravenous fluid line or activating a timer valve to allow the direct flow of fluid between the infusion bag and the blood vessel during a predetermined period of time. The method may further comprise a monostable mechanism reverting the timer valve to a closed position after activation or detecting patient flow rate or pressure conditions and adjusting the timer valve operation accordingly.

[0024] The method may further comprise creating a negative pressure in the intravenous fluid line to bypass the fluid regulating device. The method may comprise creating the negative pressure in the intravenous fluid line by pulling a syringe connected to the intravenous fluid line. The method may further comprise removing residual medication using an auto-refdl syringe to rinse the circuit.

[0025] Other and further aspects and advantages of the present invention will be obvious upon an understanding of the illustrative embodiments about to be described or will be indicated in the appended claims, and various advantages not referred to herein will occur to one skilled in the art upon employment of the invention in practice.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0026] The above and other objects, features and advantages of the invention will become more readily apparent from the following description, reference being made to the accompanying drawings in which:

[0027] FIG. 1 is a side elevation view of an embodiment of a prior art regulating device mounted to a medication administration system.

[0028] FIG. 2 is a schematic view of an embodiment of a system for intravenous administration of fluids in accordance with the principles of the present invention.

[0029] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a system for intravenous administration of fluids in accordance with the principles of the present invention.

[0030] FIG. 4 is a side perspective view of the system for intravenous administration of fluids of FIG. 3.

[0031] FIG. 5 is transparent exploded view of the system for intravenous administration of fluids of FIG. 3 showing inner pipes or tubes.

[0032] FIG. 6 is transparent top view of the system for intravenous administration of fluids of FIG. 4 showing flows of liquid.

[0033] FIG. 7 is a perspective exploded view of an embodiment of a one-way trigger valve adapted to by-pass the flow of a regulator of a system for intravenous administration of fluids in accordance with the principles of the present invention.

[0034] FIG. 8 is a perspective exploded view of another embodiment of a one-way trigger valve adapted to by-pass the flow of a regulator of a system for intravenous administration of fluids in accordance with the principles of the present invention.

[0035] FIG. 9 is a perspective sectional view of the one-way pressure valve of FIG. 7.

[0036] FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective sectional view of the one-way pressure valve of FIG.7.

[0037] FIG. 11 is a perspective exploded view of another embodiment of a monostable valve adapted to allow passage of liquid when not triggered for used in a system for intravenous administration of fluids in accordance with the principles of the present invention.

[0038] FIG. 12 is a side view of an embodiment of a timer valve adapted to gradually close the debit of liquid flowing through the bypass of a system for intravenous administration of fluids in accordance with the principles of the present invention, the timer valve being shown open.

[0039] FIG. 13 is a side view of the timer valve of FIG. 12, the timer valve being shown in a close state.

[0040] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a protective assembly adapted to protect against unintentional use of a regulation valve or device for a system for intravenous administration of fluids in accordance with the principles of the present invention.

[0041] FIG. 15 is a side view of the protective assembly of FIG. 14.

[0042] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a system for intravenous administration of fluids in accordance with the principles of the present invention.

[0043] FIG. 17 is a cross-section view of a timer valve of the system for intravenous administration of fluids of FIG. 16.

[0044] FIG. 18 is a cross-section elevation view of a by-pass pressure valve of the system for intravenous administration of fluids of FIG. 16 being shown in a closed configuration.

[0045] FIG. 19 is a cross-section elevation view of the by-pass pressure valve of FIG. 18 being shown in a semi open configuration.

[0046] FIG. 20 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a system for intravenous administration of fluids with a timer valve shown in a close configuration in accordance with the principles of the present invention.

[0047] FIG. 21 is a perspective view of the system for intravenous administration of fluids of FIG. 20 shown in close configuration.

[0048] FIG. 22 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a pressure valve as shown in FIG. 20.

[0049] FIG. 23 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a timer valve in accordance with the principles of the present invention.

[0050] FIG. 24 is a cross-section elevation view of the timer valve of FIG. 23 shown in close configuration.

[0051] FIG. 25 is a cross-section elevation view of the timer valve of FIG. 23 shown in an open configuration in accordance with the principles of the present invention.

[0052] FIG. 26 is a perspective view of a further embodiment of a system for intravenous administration of fluids in accordance with the principles of the present invention.

[0053] FIG. 27 is a perspective view of an inner portion of the timer valve of FIG. 26.

[0054] FIG. 28 is a side elevation view of yet another embodiment of a timer valve adapted to gradually close the debit of liquid in accordance with the principles of the present invention, the timer valve being shown closed.

[0055] FIG. 29 is a side view of the timer valve of FIG. 28, the timer valve being shown in an open state.

[0056] FIG. 30 is a side view of an inner portion of the timer valve of FIG. 28.

[0057] FIG. 31 is a front elevation view of an embodiment of a self-filling rinsing mechanism in accordance with the principles of the present invention and shown in an unlocked position.

[0058] FIG. 32 is a front elevation view of the self-filling rinsing mechanism of FIG. 31 shown in a locked position.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0059] A novel system and method for intravenous administration of fluids and / or medication will be described hereinafter. Although the invention is described in terms of specific illustrative embodiments, it is to be understood that the embodiments described herein are by way of example only and that the scope of the invention is not intended to be limited thereby.

[0060] Referring to FIG. 1, a prior art regulating device 1 mountable to a medication administration system is illustrated. The regulating device 1 is typically connected to an infusion bag 2 through a first tube. The liquid in the infusion bag 2 is inputted in the regulating device 1. The infusion bag 2 contains liquid to be injected in the patient blood vessels. The regulating device 1 is also ultimately connected to a patient through a second tube. As such, the regulating device 1 may be used to control the flow of the liquid moving from the infusion bag 2 to the patient.

[0061] Referring to FIG. 2, an embodiment of a system for intravenous administration of fluids and / or medication 100 is schematically illustrated. In some embodiments, fluids and / or medication may be directly or indirectly injected in any part of the body of a patient using the system 100. As an example, the system 100 may be used to inject fluids in a patient during noninvasive surgical procedures. The system 100 is generally adapted to by-pass the regulating device 1, thus creating a direct flow of liquid from the infusion bag 2 to the line or tube 3 ultimately reaching the patient. The said by-pass generally aims at allowing purging the line without adding air in the said system. The system 100 also prevents a user to unintendedly keep the regulating device 1 in a high debit or open state after the medication has been injected in the line 3 flowing to the patient. The system 100 further aims at allowing purging the system without introducing air.

[0062] In the illustrated embodiment, the medication administration system 100 comprises a regulating device 1, a by-pass pressure valve 120, a timer valve 130 and self-filling mechanism 150. The timer valve 130 may be embodied as a monostable valve, a valve allowing only passage of a predetermined volume of liquid or an automatically controlled valve. The system 100 comprises an input line 105 fluidly connecting the infusion bag to inputs of the by-pass pressure valve 120 and of the timer valve 130. A first line 103 of the by-pass pressure valve 120 is fluidly connected to the input of the regulating device 1. The output of the regulating device 1 is fluidly connected to a second input of the by-passe pressure valve 120 through a second line 104. A second output of the by-pass pressure valve 120 and an output of the timer valve 130 are ultimately and fluidly connected to the blood vessels of the patient 3 through anoutput line 102. The lines 114 and 112 create parallel flows between the by-pass pressure valve 120 and the timer valve 130. The self-filling mechanism 150 may be integrated at different positions in the system as long as it is included in the parallel flow line.

[0063] Referring now to FIGS. 3 to 6, a physical embodiment of a system for intravenous administration of fluids and / or medication 100 is illustrated. In the illustrated embodiment, the system further comprises a housing 140 for the different lines 102, 103, 104 and 105 and for the different valves 120 and 130.

[0064] The device 100 generally comprises inlets 112 and 114 connected to lines 105 and 104, respectively, and outlets 113 and 115 connected to lines 103 and 102, respectively.

[0065] Referring now to FIG. 7, an embodiment of a one-way trigger valve 120 adapted to bypass the flow of a regulator 1 of a system for intravenous administration of fluids 100 is illustrated. The valve 120 comprises inlets and outlets 121, 122, 123 and 124. The pairs of inlet / outlets 121 / 122 and 123 / 124 are fluidly connected through tube or pipe. In normal operations, the pipes allow a constant and uninterrupted flow of liquid. In such an embodiment, the valve 120 comprises a female portion 125 forming an inner receptacle 127 and a male portion 126 receivable by the said receptacle 127. The valve 120 comprises a flexible membrane 128 allowing a flow of liquid when a pressure gradient is created within the tubes of the inletoutlet 121 / 122, such as a vacuum or an increased pressure. As such, when a user creates a pressure gradient between the lines 105 and 102, such as when a syringe is used to retrieve liquid from the said line 105. As such, the membrane 128 is pulled toward the line 102, allowing a flow of liquid to pass through the valve 120, thus by-passing the regulating device 1.

[0066] Referring now to FIGS. 8-10, another embodiment of a one-way trigger valve 220 adapted to by-pass the flow of a regulator 1 of a system for intravenous administration of fluids 100 is illustrated. The valve 120 comprises inlets and outlets ports 221, 222, 223 and 224. The pairs of inlet / outlets 221 / 222 and 223 / 224 are fluidly connected through a tubular member or inner area of the valve 220. In normal operations, the pipes allow a constant and uninterrupted flow of liquid through the pairs of inlet / outlets 221 / 222 and 223 / 224. In such an embodiment, the valve 220 comprises a first portion 226 forming an inner receptacle and a second portion 226 receivable by the first portion 226. The valve 220 comprises a flexible membrane 227 allowing a flow of liquid when a pressure gradient is created within the tubes of the inlet-outlet 221 / 222. The valve 220 further comprises a second membrane 228 comprising an aperture or opening 229. As such, when a user creates a pressure gradient in the line 102, such as when a syringe is used to retrieve liquid from the bag 2, the membrane 228 is pulled away from themembrane 229, thus allowing a flow of liquid to pass through the valve 220, thus by-passing the regulating device 1.

[0067] The timer valve 230 is typically used for injecting a bolus or for multidose syringes. As such, it allows to momentarily by-pass the regulating device 1 in the system 100 by letting a volume of liquid to pass from the infusing bag 2, through line 105, toward the patient 3, through line 102. As such, the injected dose may flow toward the patient through the additional volume of liquid. As the timer valve automatically reverts to the close state, it aims at reducing human error of letting the regulating device at maximum flow, as a user may forget to close the regulating valve after increasing the debit.

[0068] Referring now to FIG 11, an embodiment of a timer valve 130 is illustrated. The illustrated timer valve 130 is embodied as a monostable valve. Such valve generally allows the valve to be normally closed and may be adapted when triggered by the user. As such, the valve 130 generally comprises a body 133 having an inlet 131 and an outlet 132. The body 133 further comprises a recess 139 adapted to receive a resilient plunger 134, typically made of a soft material, such as silicone. The plunger 134 typically comprises a handle or elongated portion 135 adapted to be pulled by a user. The valve 130 further comprises a cover 136 mountable to the body 133. When closed, the cover 136 and the body 133 form the cavity 139 adapted to let the plunge 134 moves up and down. The cover 136 typically comprise an aperture 137 allowing passage of the pulling portion 135. The body 133 further comprises apertures 138 in fluid connection with the inlet 131 and outlet 132. In use, a user pulls or manipulates the plunger 134, such as by pulling the handle 135. When the plunger 134 is moved, the apertures 138 are exposed thus letting a flow of liquid from the inlet 131 to the outlet 132. Understandably, any other embodiment of monostable valve 130 may be used within the scope of the present invention.

[0069] Referring now to FIGS. 12 and 13, an embodiment of a timer valve 230 being always closed and to be opened momentarily. The timer valve 230 comprises an inlet 231 and an outlet 232. The inlet 231 may be embodied as an opening or cut in the tube of the input line 105. The outlet 232 may be embodied as an opening or cut in the tube of the output line 102.

[0070] The valve 230 further comprises a flexible and / or collapsible membrane 234. The membrane 234 is typically shaped as a tunnel or cylinder when expanded. The membrane 234 is fluidly connected at one end to the inlet 231 and at another end to the outlet 232. The valve 230 further comprising a collapsing or compressing member 235 adapted to maintain the membrane 234 collapsed to block passage of the liquid through the valve 230. In the illustratedembodiment, the collapsing member is curve member covering the membrane 234 in close mode and allowing expansion of the membrane 234 when in open mode. The membrane 234 may be progressively collapsed. The valve 230 may be used in a sterile environment. In use, a user pulls on the collapsible member 235 to create an empty volume under the said member 235. As the membrane 234 is now free, the liquid fdls up the membrane 234, flowing from the inlet 231 to the outlet 232. When the collapsible member 235 is closed, the flow is progressively stopped and normal operations (i.e. through the regulating device 1) of the system 100 are resumed.

[0071] In other embodiments, any other mechanism or timer valve may use allowing a predetermined volume of liquid to flow directly from the infusion bag 2 to the patient 3 when triggered by a user or automatically activated through any automated means, such as but not limited, to a mechanical mechanism or a controller. The closing of the timer valve may be based on conditions of the patient, such as but not limited to a change in the medical condition of the patient, a change in the medical treatment and / or a change in the conditions with the lines.

[0072] Still referring to FIG. 12, an embodiment of a by-pass valve 220 is illustrated. The bypass valve 220 forms a side-to-side anastomosis between the lines 105 / 103 and the lines 104 / 102. As such, when a pressure gradient is present between the lines 105 and 102, the fluid crosses the membrane 228 to directly flows from line 105 to line 102. As such, no air is introduced in the system 100, thus allowing the purge of the said system 200.

[0073] Referring to FIG. 14 and 15, In yet other embodiments, an embodiment of a protective assembly 150 adapted to protect against unintentional use of a regulation valve is illustrated. The protective assembly 150 generally comprises a surface 151 covering the regulating device 10. The protective assembly 150 further comprise a mounting element 152 adapted to attach the protective assembly 150 to the device 100 for administration of medication. In the illustrated embodiment, the mounting element 152 comprises a rail to slidably mount the protective assembly to the device 100 or to the regulating device 1.

[0074] Referring to FIG. 16, in yet another embodiment, an administration system 100 comprising a timer valve 130, a by-pass pressure valve 120, and a regulating device 1 is illustrated. In such an embodiment, the bypass valve 120 forms a side-by-side anastomosis between the lines 102 / 103 and the lines 104 / 105.

[0075] Referring to FIG. 17, an embodiment of the by-pass pressure valve 120 is illustrated. The membrane 128 of the by-pass pressure valve 120 is between the lines 102 / 103 and 104 / 105.Each line comprises a cut off section or aperture 106 and 107 to form a side-by-side anastomosis.

[0076] Referring now to FIGS. 18 and 19, there is shown a timer valve 130 shown in close and open configuration. The timer valve 130 generally comprises a plunger 134 insertable in a cavity 139 of the body 133. The plunger 134 typically comprises a handle or elongated portion 135 adapted to be pulled by a user. When the plunger 134 is pulled from the body 133, an empty space in the cavity allows passage of the fluid through the opening 108 of a first line and through the opening (not shown) of the second line. The plunger 134, typically made of silicone, automatically reverts back in the close configuration after being pulled. As such, the timer valve 130 remains in a close configuration by default and is open when triggered by a user.

[0077] Referring to FIGS. 20 and 21, another embodiment of an administration system 100 comprising another embodiment of a pressure valve 320 and of a timer valve 230 is illustrated.

[0078] Referring now to FIG. 22, the pressure valve 320 comprises two side opening fluidly connected to the lines 102, 103, 104 and 105 through apertures 106 and 107 in the lines.

[0079] Referring to FIGS. 23 to 25, the timer valve 230 comprises a handle 235 attached to a body portion 234. The body portion 234 is received by a sleeve portion 237. As such, the body portion 234 may be rotated within the sleeve 237 by the user to either close or open the valve 230. The timer valve 230 further comprises an inlet portion 232 connectable to the line 105 fluidly connected the bag 2. The inlet portion 232 is in fluid communication with the inner chamber 238 of the body 234. The valve 230 further comprises an outlet 231 in fluid communication with the regulating device 1 and with the inner chamber 238. In a close configuration, the fluid flows from the bag 2 to the regulator through inlet 232, the chamber238 and the outlet 231.

[0080] The valve 230 further comprises an inlet portion 236 connectable to the outlet of the regulator 1 and to the second inner chamber 239. The valve 230 further comprises an outlet 233 in fluid communication with the patient and with the second inner chamber 239. In a close configuration, the fluid flows from the regulator 1 to the patient through inlet 236, the chamber239 and the outlet 233. The body 234 is shaped to ensure that the fluid does not flow between the chambers 238 and 239 in a close configuration.

[0081] As shown at FIG. 25, when the valve 230 is open, the body 234 blocks flows to the outlet 231 and allows flows between the inlet 232 and the outlet 233 toward the patient.

[0082] In some embodiments, the handle 235 is manually rotatable to open or close the valve 230 to change the configuration of the timer valve 230. In further embodiments, the valve 230 may comprise a mechanical mechanism adapted to rotate back the body 234 to close the valve 230. In an exemplary embodiment, the valve 230 may comprise a resilient member, such as a spring coil mechanism (not shown), positioned to rotate the body 234 to a close configuration when no rotating force is applied by a user. Therefore, the spring rate of the spring generally defines the timing or duration of the return of the valve 230 to a closed configuration. Understandably, additional known mechanism may be used to regulate the speed and / or duration of the closing of the timer valve 230.

[0083] Referring to FIG. 26, another embodiment of the administration system 300 is illustrated. The line 105 / 103 passes within the line 104 / 102. In the illustrated embodiment, the system 300 comprises a container 340 in connected to the line 104 returning from the regulating device 1 and connected to the line 102 towards the patient. As such, both the by-pass pressure valve 320 and the timer valve 330 are located within the container 242. Each of the valves 320 and 330 comprises an outlet allowing fluid to flow to the container 340 when the valve 320 or 330 is open. In operation, when no pressure gradient is created in the line 102 or if the timer valve 330 is closed, the fluid flows through the valves 320 and 330 toward the regulating device 1 to an inlet 342 of the container 340. The fluid exits the container 340 toward the patient through the outlet 343.

[0084] When pressure gradient or difference is created between the lines 102 and 105, the fluid exits the pressure valve 320 in the container 340 and exits through the outlet 343. When the timer valve 330 is opened, the fluid exits the timer valve 330 in the container 340 and exits through the outlet 343 toward the patient. Once the system is purged, no air or gas remains trapped in the system 300, such as within the valves 320 and 330. The side-by-side configuration of the valve ensure a no or limited space for air to remain trapped.

[0085] Referring now FIG. 27, the timer valve 330 is illustrated. The valve 330 comprises a body portion 334 and a handle 335. The body portion 334 comprises a slot or dent 338 allowing passage of the fluid when rotated.

[0086] Understandably, within the present invention, any know type of valve may be used as a pressure or unidirectional valve. Such pressure valve shall allow passage of fluid upon a predetermined difference in pressure level between input and output of the valve. Furthermore, within the present invention, any know type of timer valve may be used. The timer valve shall allow passage of a predetermined volume of fluid or shall allow manual control of the volumepassing through the valve. As such, the predetermined volume of fluid flowing to the patient is limited and thus aiming to avoid overloading the patient with liquid.

[0087] In yet other embodiments, the system may comprise a plurality of valves, such as a plurality of timer valves. The plurality of timer valves may be used to allow injection of a plurality of medications to a patient using the same system.

[0088] Referring now to FIGS. 28-30, yet another embodiment of a timer valve 230 comprising a gradual releasing assembly 160 adapted to gradually close the timer valve 230 is illustrated. In the illustrated embodiment, the releasing assembly 160 comprises a body 163, a plunger or other pushing mechanisml64 sealingly movable in relation with an inner portion 168. The inner portion 168 is generally fdled with a fluid having a thick consistence. The plunger 164 comprises a unidirectional valve 162, such as a valve with a flap, and an aperture 161. The releasing mechanism or timer 160 further comprises an elongated member 166, such as a member comprising teeth. The elongated member 166 is driven by a gear 439 pivotally mounted to an exterior portion of the valve body 233. The release assembly 160 comprises an activation plate 165 mounted over one end of a resilient member 167, such as a spring. The resilient member 167 is attached to the body 163 of the releasing assembly.

[0089] In use, the valve 230 remains in a close state unless a user applies a pressure on the activation plate or button 165. When a user applies a force on the activation plate 165, the resilient member 167 is compressed and the timer 160 is activated. By being compressed, the plunger rotates the body 233 of the valve 230, thus opening the valve 230. The thick fluid present in the inner chamber 168 passed through the unidirectional valve 162 of the plunger 164 toward an upper chamber 169. When the pressure of the user is released, the resilient member 167 slowly returns to the initial position to rotate and close the valve 230. The aperture 161 generally allows the thick liquid to return to the inner chamber 168, thus increasing the duration of the closing of the valve 230.

[0090] Referring now to FIGS. 31 32, an embodiment of a self-filling rinsing mechanism 150 is illustrated. The self-filling mechanism 150 generally allows an efficient and controlled rinsing process within a main circuit.

[0091] The self-filling rinsing mechanism or assembly 150 comprises an enclosure 151. The enclosure 151 is typically shaped a container for receiving a piston or a syringe. The enclosure 151 may contain a volume of liquid drawn from the system. The self-filling rinsing mechanism 150 further comprises a piston 156 sealingly fitting in the enclosure 151. When the piston 155 is retracted from the enclosure, a negative pressure or vacuum is created to draw liquid fromthe system. The self-filling rinsing mechanism 150 further comprises a resilient member 152, such as a spring-like component, to automatically fill the container 151 with the infused solution, such as but not limited to a connected solute bag. When compressed, the resilient member 152 creates a force to pulls the piston 156 out of the container 151. In the illustrated embodiment, the resilient member 152 is a spring surrounding the piston 156. The enclosure 151 and the inserted piston 156 are securely maintained in a position aligned with the line 105 using an attachment element 153 As illustrated, the attachment element 153 is connected to the tubing of the system, such as line 105.

[0092] In use, the self-filling mechanism 150 is initially locked in an empty position with the piston 156 being retained in the enclosure 151 to prevent any uncontrolled leakage or contamination. In such embodiment, the self-filling mechanism 150 comprises a locking mechanism or assembly 155. The locking assembly 155 maintains the piston 156 in a pushed position until activation. When the locking assembly 155 is triggered or activated, the piston 156 is released and upwardly pushed by the resilient member 152. As a consequence, a negative pressure is created within the enclosure 151 allowing it to autonomously draw the liquid from the infusion system. The self-filling assembly 150 may further comprise an attachment member 154 for mounting the self-filling assembly 150 to the line. Once the enclosure 151 is filled with the liquid, the liquid is expelled into the main circuit through a connection with the line. The injection may then be performed either manually by a healthcare professional or automatically through an integrated mechanism within the system.

[0093] The above-described process can be repeated multiple times to ensure thorough rinsing of the injected medication, eliminating the need for prefilled syringes or external syringe replacements. This the self-filling mechanism 150 generally aims at enhancing the efficiency, safety, and cleanliness of the rinsing procedure within the main circuit.

[0094] While illustrative and presently preferred embodiments of the invention have been described in detail hereinabove, it is to be understood that the inventive concepts may be otherwise variously embodied and employed and that the appended claims are intended to be construed to include such variations except insofar as limited by the prior art.

Claims

CLAIMS1) A system for administrating medication to a patient comprising: a one-way pressure valve fluidly connectable to an infusion bag and to an input and output of a fluid regulating device; and a timer valve fluidly connectable to an infusion bag and a blood vessel of the patient; wherein the one-way pressure valve and the timer valve each forms a by-pass circuit of the fluid regulating device.2) The system of claim 1, the one-way pressure valve connecting to lines of fluid as a side- by-side anastomosis.3) The system of claim 1, the timer valve connecting to lines of fluid as a side-by-side anastomosis.4) The system of claim 1 further comprising: a first line fluidly connected to a first inlet of the system and fluidly connectable to the infusion bag; a second line fluidly connected to a first outlet of the system and fluidly connectable to an inlet of a fluid regulating device; a third line fluidly connected to a second inlet of the system and fluidly connectable to an outlet of a fluid regulating device; and a fourth line fluidly connected to a second outlet of the system and fluidly connectable to a blood vessel of the patient; wherein the one-way pressure valve allows a by-pass from the first line to the fourth line when a negative pressure is present in the fourth line.5) The system of claim 4, the timer valve allows a by-pass from the first line to the fourth line when opened.6) The system of claim 5, the timer valve being manually operable.7) The system of claim 5, the timer valve allowing the by-passe during a predetermined period of time.8) The system of claim 1, the timer valve being a monostable valve.9) The system of claim 1 allowing purging of the system by only opening the regulating device.10) The system of claim 1 further comprising a self-filling assembly fluidly connected to a line of fluid of the system.11) The system of claim 10, the automatic self-filling assembly comprising a negative pressure chamber adapted to perform a plurality of rinsing drawing fluid in the selffilling assembly and inject the drawn liquid in a fluid line of the system.12) The system of claim 11, the self-filling assembly comprising a one-way valve allowing liquid to be injected in the fluid line of the system.13) The system of claim 1, the self-filling assembly comprising a plunger sealingly fitting in the negative pressure chamber, a resilient member pulling the plunger and a locking assembly to maintain the plunger in a locked position.14) The system of claim 1, the bypass circuit being integrated into a modular housing for use with existing intravenous administration systems.15) A bypass valve assembly comprising: a first inlet fluidly connectable to an infusion bag; aa first outlet fluidly connectable to an inlet of a fluid regulating device; a second inlet fluidly connectable to an outlet of the fluid regulating device; a second outlet fluidly connectable to an intravenous fluid line; and a one-way valve adapted to fluidly bypass the first outlet and the second inlet.16) The bypass valve assembly of claim 15 further comprising a timer valve for by-passing the regulating device during a period of time.17) The bypass valve assembly of claim 16, the timer valve being adapted to momentarily by-pass the regulating device.18) The bypass valve assembly of claim 16, the timer valve comprising a movable element enabling fluid flow when moved in a first position and stopping fluid flow in the when moved in a second position.19) The valve of claim 18, wherein the movable element comprises a resilient plunger positioned within a sealed cavity, the plunger being configured to open upon user activation and resiliently return to a closed position.20) The bypass valve assembly of claim 16, the timer valve comprising a mechanism that returns the valve to a close state after a predefined period of time.21) The bypass valve assembly of claim 20, wherein the mechanism comprises a spring- loaded actuator that automatically returns the movable element to a closed position.22) The bypass valve assembly of claim 15 comprising a first flexible membrane between the inlets and outlets allowing a flow of liquid when a pressure gradient is created within the first inlet and outlet.23) The bypass valve assembly of claim 22 comprising a second flexible membrane adjacent to the first membrane, the second membrane comprising an aperture and being adapted to pulled away from the first membrane to allow a flow of liquid when a pressure gradient is created within the first inlet and outlet.24) The bypass valve assembly of claim 15 further comprising: a sealed container fillable with a fluid comprising the inlets and outlets; a fluid line in fluid communication with the first inlet and the first outlet; and a by-pass pressure valve within the sealed container controlling flow in the fluid line, the by-pass pressure valve allowing fluid to flow in the container when the by-pass pressure valve is open.25) The bypass valve assembly of claim 24, the by-pass pressure valve automatically opening when a pressure difference is created between the first inlet and the second outlet.26) The bypass valve assembly of claim 24, the by-pass pressure valve allowing fluid to flow in the fluid line when the by-pass pressure valve is closed.27) The bypass valve assembly of claim 24, the by-pass pressure valve allowing fluid to flow in the fluid line when the by-pass pressure valve is closed.28) The bypass valve assembly of claim 24 further comprising a timer valve for by-passing the regulating device during a period of time.29) A method for administrating medication to a patient, comprising bypassing a fluid regulating device fluidly connected to an infusion bag and an intravenous fluid line connectable to a blood vessel of a patient by automatically allowing a direct flow of fluid between the infusion bag and the blood vessel during a period of time triggered by a pressure difference.30) The method of claim 29 further comprising activating the fluid regulating device to purge the system without introducing air into the intravenous fluid line.31) The method of claim 29 further comprising activating a timer valve to allow the direct flow of fluid between the infusion bag and the blood vessel during a predetermined period of time.32) The method of claim 31, a monostable mechanism reverting the timer valve to a closed position after activation.33) The method of claim 31, further comprising detecting patient flow rate or pressure conditions and adjusting the timer valve operation accordingly. 34) The method of claim 29 further comprising creating a negative pressure in the intravenous fluid line to bypass the fluid regulating device.35) The method of claim 34 further comprising creating the negative pressure in the intravenous fluid line by pulling a syringe connected to the intravenous fluid line.36) The method of claim 29 further comprising removing residual medication using an auto- refill syringe to rinse the circuit.

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