Apparatus and method for cutting and closing a medical tube

A device with holding and sealing mechanisms simplifies the adjustment and sealing of medical tubing for local drug delivery systems, addressing the challenge of manual plug insertion and leak prevention, ensuring secure and efficient drug delivery.

WO2026073601A1PCT designated stage Publication Date: 2026-04-09HERAEUS MEDICAL GMBH
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Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
WO · WO
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2025-08-06
Publication Date
2026-04-09

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

The challenge of securely and easily adjusting the length of medical tubing for local drug delivery systems in patients with varying bone and soft tissue sizes, particularly under operating room conditions, is complicated by the difficulty of manually inserting and sealing small plugs to prevent leaks.

Method used

A device comprising a holding device, storage device, and sealing device that secures and seals medical tubing through friction and positive locking mechanisms, allowing for easy cutting and sealing without manual handling, using a single device to simplify the process.

Benefits of technology

Enables safe, precise, and efficient cutting and sealing of medical tubing, reducing the risk of leaks and contamination, and ensuring consistent drug delivery by eliminating the need for manual insertion and sealing.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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    Figure EP2025072608_09042026_PF_FP_ABST
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Abstract

The invention relates to an apparatus for closing, preferably cutting and closing, a medical tube. The invention further relates to an associated use, and to a method. An apparatus (10) for closing a medical tube (1) comprises a holding device (12) for holding a medical tube (1), a storage device (20) for storing a tube closure (7), and a closure device (22) for closing the tube (1), held in the holding device (12), by means of a tube closure (7) located in the storage device (20).
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Description

[0001] 2024PF00125

[0002] Device and method for cutting and sealing a medical tube

[0003] Description

[0004] The invention relates to a device for closing, preferably for cutting and closing, a medical tube. The invention further relates to an associated use and a method.

[0005] In certain diagnoses such as osteomyelitis / osteitis, it is beneficial to apply local agents such as antibiotics in addition to systemic antibiotic therapy after successful surgical debridement. This can prevent tissue reinfection. Local drug delivery systems include collagen sponges, polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) beads, polymethyl methacrylate spacers, and calcium sulfate elements containing active ingredients such as antibiotics, e.g., gentamicin. Typically, the active ingredients are water-soluble and are released by contact with aqueous bodily fluids such as blood and wound exudate. Release occurs through diffusion. Therefore, the initial concentration is very high and decreases significantly over time. Ideally, however, a continuous, relatively constant release of the active ingredient over a period of days to weeks would be desirable.

[0006] To achieve this, European patent EP 3 795 196 B1 proposes a system for local drug release comprising a tube with a multitude of slotted valves. The valves open when liquid is forced into the tube above a certain pressure threshold, allowing for a uniform release of the liquid through each valve or along the entire length of the tube. When the pressure is released, the valves close again. This enables repeated release of liquid through the tube with its pressure-dependent, selectively opening and closing valves. The liquid contains, for example, a solution, suspension, and / or emulsion of at least one active ingredient.

[0007] The first end of the tube, located inside the patient, is sealed with a stopper to prevent uncontrolled leakage of the fluid. The stopper must reliably withstand the pressure within the tube. The fluid is introduced into the second end of the tube, located outside the patient. The valves are typically positioned from the first end to a midpoint along the tube.

[0008] However, the bone and soft tissue areas to be treated vary in size from patient to patient. Therefore, it is necessary to adjust the length of the tubing. This adjustment is generally achieved by cutting the tubing. Typically, the first end of the tubing is cut off, creating a new first end. Valves will still be present up to the (new) first end of the tubing. The shortened tubing must then be sealed with a plug. For standard tubing diameters of < 4 mm, the plug typically has an outer diameter of < 3 mm. It is preferable to perform the shortening and sealing intraoperatively to adjust the tubing to the optimal length based on the patient's individual anatomy.

[0009] Secure and pressure-resistant placement of the very small plug is extremely difficult manually, especially under operating room conditions, e.g., while wearing rubber gloves. The plug can fall out. Furthermore, it is possible that the plug will not be fully inserted, leading to leaks.

[0010] The object of the invention is to enable simple and safe insertion of the plug, especially under operating room conditions.

[0011] The problem is solved by the device according to claim 1 and the use and method according to the dependent claims. Advantageous embodiments are specified in the subclaims.

[0012] To solve the problem, a device for sealing a medical hose is used. The device may include a holding device for the medical hose. The device may include a storage device for a hose closure. The device may include a sealing device for sealing the hose held in the holding device with a hose closure located in the storage device.

[0013] The device allows for the closure of a tubular system for local drug delivery, particularly for intraoperative closure. The holding device secures the tubing while it is closed with the tube closure. Specifically, it prevents axial displacement. This eliminates the need for manual holding, making the process safer and easier. The holding is achieved primarily through frictional and / or positive contact between one or more parts of the holding device and the outer wall of the tubing. In other words, the holding device secures the tubing.

[0014] The storage device securely stores and / or holds the hose connector, preventing it from falling out or being dropped. In a simple example, the storage device holds the hose either externally or internally to the device, preventing it from being lost. Specifically, the storage device is designed to hold the hose connector securely in place, either by friction or form. For example, the storage device includes a cavity to accommodate the hose connector. In one embodiment, the hose connector can be pressed into the hose without the user coming into contact with it, for example, by moving it directly from the storage device into the end of the hose. This prevents contamination of the hose connector. The device can include the hose connector, particularly within the storage unit.The hose closure is made primarily of plastic and / or rubber.

[0015] In one embodiment, the hose closure is a plug that can be pressed into the end of the hose. The press-fit area of ​​the plug, located inside the hose after insertion, can have an oversize dimension, at least in some regions. This ensures a particularly tight connection between the hose and the plug. The press-fit area can have a circular cylindrical shape, at least in some regions. For example, the press-fit area can have a cylindrical section with an enlarged diameter that is larger than the inner diameter of the hose. Adjacent to the enlarged section in the longitudinal direction, there can be a region with a smaller diameter, which may correspond approximately to the inner diameter of the hose. Alternatively, the entire press-fit area can have the enlarged diameter.A conical section may be present, for example, at the front, which is pressed into the hose first. This can facilitate and / or improve the pressing process. There may be one or more conical sections located further back. The plug may have one or more positive locking elements, such as rearward and / or outward-facing detent elements or hooks that engage the inner wall of the hose, thus providing positive locking protection against the plug being forced out of the hose. Several positive locking elements may be arranged circumferentially. In particular, the positive locking elements project radially less than the wall thickness of the hose beyond the adjacent outer surface of the plug, typically less than half the wall thickness. This helps prevent damage to the hose.

[0016] The sealing device closes the hose. This eliminates the need for manual closing, making the process safer and easier. The sealing device is preferably designed to close a hose according to EP 3 795 196 B1. In particular, the sealing device is designed to close the hose while it is held by the holding device.

[0017] In one embodiment, the device further comprises a cutting device for severing the hose. In particular, the closing device is configured to close an end of the hose produced by the cutting device.

[0018] This method makes shortening the hose particularly easy and safe. Manual cutting with scissors or a knife is unnecessary. Potential errors, such as uneven or messy cuts, contamination, and the risk of injury from tools are eliminated. Using the medical hose is significantly simplified because only a single device is needed to shorten and seal it.

[0019] The cutting device includes, in particular, a blade for cutting the hose. This allows for a simple and precise cut. The blade is positioned inside the cutting device to prevent injuries. The blade can be angled, for example, relative to a specific direction of movement, to enable a smooth and even cut with constant force. However, any other cutting device can also be used, such as a hot wire, a laser, etc.

[0020] In particular, the finished end can be sealed. Preferably, the hose only needs to be positioned once relative to the device, and then the cutting and sealing can take place. Typically, the cutting and sealing can be carried out within a short time, for example, within a few seconds. The cutting can be performed without the hose being held in the holding device, or while the hose is being held in the holding device.

[0021] In one embodiment, the device is arranged so that the hose is held by the holding device during the cutting process. This means the hose preferably only needs to be held or gripped once to enable cutting and sealing. This allows for particularly fast cutting and sealing.

[0022] In one embodiment, the closure device has a pressing element for pressing the hose closure onto or into the hose. In particular, the pressing element is movable along a longitudinal axis of the hose.

[0023] In particular, the closure device is designed to push or press the hose closure into one end of the hose. The pressing element can be configured to move the hose closure from the storage device directly along its longitudinal axis towards and / or into the hose. The pressing element can have the form of a rod with any cross-section, with a free end of the rod serving as the pressing surface. The pressing element can extend along the longitudinal axis of the hose closure.

[0024] In one embodiment, the device has a first movement device, wherein the device is configured such that a first movement of the first movement device triggers the holding of the hose and / or the cutting of the hose.

[0025] In particular, the device comprises a base body. The first motion device can be moved relative to the base body, typically from a starting position to a target position. The first movement is preferably a linear movement. The first motion device can therefore be displaced. The first movement is, in particular, perpendicular to a channel of the device and / or to the longitudinal axis of the hose. The longitudinal axis of the hose refers to a point on the hose within the device. In particular, the hose is located within the device in a straight orientation.

[0026] Part of the holding device can be operatively connected to the first moving device, for example, by being part of the first moving device itself. The first movement of the first moving device can result in the hose being held. In particular, the hose is positioned relative to the device beforehand, for example, by inserting the hose into the channel. If the holding device has two legs between which the hose can be held by friction and / or positive locking, the two legs can be connected to the first moving device and moved towards the hose by the first movement in order to hold the hose between the legs after the movement. The legs of the holding device are, in particular, oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the channel and / or the hose.

[0027] The cutting device can be operatively connected to the first moving device, for example, by being part of the first moving device. The first movement of the first moving device can cause the hose to be cut. In particular, the hose is positioned relative to the device beforehand, as described. If the cutting device has a blade for cutting the hose or is designed as a blade, the blade can be connected to the first moving device and moved towards the hose by the first movement to cut it. The blade is oriented, in particular, perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the channel and / or the hose.

[0028] If both holding and cutting are triggered by the first movement, the holding device and the cutting device are preferably arranged such that, during the first movement, the holding device comes into contact with the hose first. This allows the hose to be held initially. Only then does the cutting device come into contact with the hose to cut it. Alternatively, the cutting device can come into contact with the hose first to cut it, before the hose is held for sealing. Both steps, holding and cutting, can also occur simultaneously. The target position is only reached once the hose has been cut. Two steps are performed with a single user action.

[0029] This makes holding and cutting particularly easy and quick.

[0030] The base body typically comprises a housing that can be gripped manually by the user. The base body can be made essentially or entirely of plastic. The base body typically has a length of at least 8 cm, preferably at least 10 cm, and / or at most 30 cm, preferably at most 25 cm. The base body typically has a width and / or height of at least 3 cm, preferably at least 5 cm, and / or at most 20 cm, preferably at most 15 cm. The base body may have a first recess in which the first movement device can be at least partially received. The base body may have a second recess in which the second movement device can be at least partially received.

[0031] The terms "first," "second," etc., serve only to conceptually distinguish between potentially multiple objects or steps with otherwise identical designations. The presence of a first movement device does not necessarily imply the presence of a second movement device. Similarly, the presence of a second movement does not necessarily imply that a first movement has occurred or will occur.

[0032] In one embodiment, the device has a second movement device, wherein the device is configured such that a second movement of the second movement device triggers the closing of the hose and / or the releasing of the hose.

[0033] The second movement mechanism can be moved relative to the base body, typically from a starting position to a target position. The second movement is preferably linear; that is, the second movement mechanism can be displaced. In particular, the second movement is parallel to the channel of the device and / or to the longitudinal axis of the hose.

[0034] Part of the closure device, in particular the pressing element, can be operatively connected to the second movement device, for example, by being part of the second movement device itself. The second movement of the second movement device can cause the hose closure to be pressed into the hose. For example, a pressing element can be moved to the end of the hose to press in a plug. In particular, the first movement device performs a prior movement. A pressing element of the closure device is, in particular, aligned parallel to the longitudinal axis of the channel and / or the hose.

[0035] Releasing the hose means detaching it from the position held by the retaining device. The released hose can then be moved out of the device, or the device can be removed from the released hose.

[0036] Part of the holding device can be operatively connected to the second movement device. The second movement of the second movement device can cause the hose to be released. For example, a wedge may be present to move two legs of the holding device apart in order to release the hose. The second movement device can be operatively connected to the wedge or encompass the wedge.

[0037] If both the closing and opening are triggered by the second movement, the closing mechanism and the wedge are preferably arranged such that, during the second movement, the closing mechanism closes the end first, and only then does the wedge come into contact with the holding device to release the hose. The target position is only reached once the hose is released. Two steps are performed by a single user action. This makes closing and releasing particularly simple and quick.

[0038] If the first and second movement devices are present, the hose can be held, cut, sealed, and released in two simple steps. This enables a particularly simple procedure.

[0039] In one embodiment, the device is arranged such that the first motion device can only perform the first movement, while any other movement of the first motion device is blocked.

[0040] For example, movement in the opposite direction is blocked before or after the first movement. This prevents incorrect operation. Repeated execution of the first movement is also preferably blocked. The first movement can be a guided movement. One or more guide elements, such as grooves, can be present along which corresponding form elements of the first movement device can move. Any movement that does not occur along the guide elements is thus blocked. A first stop can be present that blocks movement of the first movement device in the opposite direction to the first movement. A second stop can be present that prevents movement beyond the end of the first movement. A first locking mechanism can be present that locks the first movement device in its target position and thus holds it there.

[0041] In one embodiment, the device is arranged such that the second motion device can only perform the second movement, while any other movement of the second motion device is blocked.

[0042] The second motion device can only perform the second movement. For example, after the second movement, movement in the opposite direction is blocked. This prevents incorrect operation. Repeated execution of the second movement is also preferably blocked. The second movement can be a guided movement. One or more guide elements, such as grooves, can be present, along which corresponding form elements of the second motion device can move. Any movement that does not occur along the guide elements is thus blocked. A third stop can be present that blocks movement of the second motion device in the opposite direction to the second movement. A fourth stop can be present that prevents movement beyond the end of the second movement.A second locking mechanism may be present, which locks the second movement device in its target position and thus holds it there.

[0043] In one embodiment, the device is arranged such that the second movement of the second movement device can only be carried out after the first movement of the first movement device has been carried out.

[0044] In particular, the second movement can only begin after the hose has been cut and / or after the first moving device has reached its target position. This reliably prevents operator error.

[0045] In one embodiment, the device includes a blocking mechanism that blocks the second movement of the second moving device until the hose has been severed. For example, the first moving device can be operatively connected to the blocking mechanism in such a way that the blockage is released when at least part of the blade has reached a predetermined position, which is located, for example, behind the hose along the direction of movement of the blade.

[0046] In one embodiment, the device has a channel into which the hose can be inserted to be held by the holding device, to be closed by the closing device and / or to be cut by the cutting device.

[0047] The channel is an elongated cavity for receiving the hose. The channel is at least partially open and / or at least partially closed along its longitudinal direction. The channel can have a cylindrical cross-section. The hose can be inserted or pushed into the channel. Preferably, the channel is open only at one or both ends, so that the hose is pushed into the channel. A marking and / or a viewing window can be provided on the outside of the device to make the position of the blade visible, particularly in relation to the channel. The hose can then be pushed into or through the channel until the end to be produced and sealed is located in the area of ​​the marking. Subsequently, the hose can be cut and sealed.

[0048] In one embodiment, the holding device has two legs between which the hose can be held by friction and / or form-fitting means. In this embodiment, the holding device can be described as a fork.

[0049] The legs are moved, in particular, perpendicular to the hose. The space between the legs can be tapered, thus facilitating the insertion of the hose into the space and / or so that, when the legs move relative to the hose, a position is reached in which the hose is held. The legs can be different sections of a single component. Such a design of the holding device can clamp the hose and can therefore also be referred to as a clamping device.

[0050] On the side of one or both legs facing the hose, there is typically a contact surface that makes contact with the hose and thus holds it in place. The contact surface can have a smooth or textured surface. The contact surface can be designed for frictional retention. The contact surface can also have one or more positive locking elements, such as locking elements or hooks, that engage with the outer wall of the hose and thus provide positive locking protection against the plug being pulled out of the hose. The positive locking elements are typically arranged so that they prevent the hose from moving out of the device along its longitudinal axis. The positive locking elements are therefore typically arranged transversely to the longitudinal extent of the legs. However, the holding device can also have the positive locking elements independently of its two-leg configuration.For example, the holding device can have a holding surface of any shape that incorporates the positive locking elements.

[0051] The holding device can include a support to brace the hose against the movement of the legs. The support is typically connected to the base body. The legs are thus moved relative to the support and the hose. This prevents the hose from being bent by the legs and improves the holding force. The support can be positioned so that, in the target position of the legs, it is located at least partially between them. The support can have a contact area for contacting the hose. This contact area can be adapted to the outer shape of the hose.

[0052] In one embodiment, the device includes a release mechanism for releasing the hose held in the holding device. The release mechanism serves to release the hose from the position held by the holding device. The release mechanism can be operatively connected to the second movement mechanism to release the hose when the second movement is executed. In the case of two arms, the release mechanism can include a wedge.

[0053] In one embodiment, the device has a wedge that can be moved between the legs. This allows the legs to be moved apart to release the held hose. This embodiment allows for particularly easy release of the hose.

[0054] A wedge is a component with one or two inclined surfaces for contacting the legs. As the wedge moves, an increasing, outward force is exerted on one or both legs. The wedge can be approximately symmetrical to move both legs equally. Typically, at least one leg, preferably both legs, is flexible enough for the wedge to move the legs apart sufficiently to release the hose. The wedge can be located at one end of an elongated element. The elongated element can have any cross-sectional area. The wedge and / or the elongated element can be aligned and / or moved parallel to the longitudinal axis of the hose. The wedge and / or the elongated element can be oriented approximately or exactly perpendicular to the direction of extension of the legs.The wedge, and in particular the elongated element, can be operatively connected to the second movement device in order to be moved together with it.

[0055] In one embodiment, the device comprises a component assembly that includes the wedge and the pressing element. The component assembly is, in particular, displaceable along the longitudinal axis of the hose and / or the device. The wedge and pressing element can be rigidly connected to each other, in particular manufactured as a single piece.

[0056] The assembly can be operatively connected to the first moving device in such a way that it also performs the first movement of the first moving device. For example, an elongated element with a wedge can be arranged in the second channel such that the first moving device moves the assembly along with it. Alternatively or additionally, the pressing element can be arranged in the first channel such that the first moving device moves the assembly along with it. The assembly can thus be moved by the first moving device transversely to the direction of extension of the pressing element and / or the hose. In this way, the pressing element can be aligned with the cut end of the hose.

[0057] The assembly can be operatively connected to the second moving device in such a way that it performs the second movement of the second moving device together with it. For example, the assembly comprises a contact surface on a side facing away from the wedge and the pressing element, and the second moving device comprises a shear surface on the side facing the assembly. During the execution of the second movement, the shear surface can then push the contact surface forward in such a way that the assembly moves along with it. In this way, the pressing element can press the hose closure into the hose. In one embodiment, the cutting device has a blade for cutting the hose. In another embodiment, the device has a shear element, which is operatively connected to the blade, for pushing a severed section of hose, particularly laterally.

[0058] The push element is connected to the blade, preferably via a further component. In particular, the blade and the push element are arranged on the first movement device or can be coupled to it. The push element moves the severed hose section away from its original position. Specifically, the hose section is displaced transversely to the longitudinal extent of the hose. This releases the end of the hose to be closed. In this way, closing is particularly easy. The blade is preferably made of metal.

[0059] In particular, a counter-element is present, which is connected to the base body. The blade is then moved relative to the hose and the counter-element. The counter-element prevents the blade from laterally displacing the hose. The counter-element can be positioned at an angle to the blade's direction of movement to enable a particularly simple and precise cut.

[0060] In one embodiment, the first movement device is designed in two parts. A first part of the first movement device can comprise the holding device. Alternatively or additionally, a second part of the first movement device can comprise the separating device and / or the storage device.

[0061] The first and second parts are connected and can perform the first movement together. The first and second parts can be manufactured as a single piece. A section of the base body can be located between the first and second parts in the starting and / or target positions.

[0062] In one embodiment, the first motion device includes a first channel. The first channel can be arranged in the second part of the first motion device. When the first motion device is in its starting position, the first channel is aligned, in particular, parallel to, but axially offset from, the channel of the device. When the first motion device is in its target position, the first channel is aligned, in particular, with the channel of the device. The first channel of the first motion device can serve as a storage device for the hose closure.

[0063] The first channel can have a circular cylindrical cross-section.

[0064] In one embodiment, the first motion device includes a second channel. The second channel may be arranged in the second part of the first motion device. The second channel is, in particular, aligned parallel to, but axially offset from, the channel of the device in both the initial and target positions of the first motion device. If a first channel is present, the first channel and the second channel are typically arranged parallel but spaced apart from each other. The second channel serves, in particular, to receive and / or guide a wedge that moves the legs of the holding device apart, as described below, and / or an elongated element comprising the wedge. The second channel may have a circular cylindrical cross-section. The cross-section of the second channel may be larger than the cross-section of the first channel.

[0065] In one embodiment, the device, particularly the base body, comprises a locking element that axially closes the first channel, preferably in the direction of the blade. The locking element can be located in the area of ​​the base body situated between the two parts of the first movement mechanism. The locking occurs particularly when the first movement mechanism is in its starting position. The first channel can also be closed on the opposite axial side, for example, by means of the push element. The locking mechanism prevents the hose closure from falling out. Preferably, the locking mechanism can only be released by moving the first movement mechanism.

[0066] In one embodiment, the second movement device and / or the base body of the device defines a third channel. The third channel is, in particular, axially aligned with the channel of the device or represents an extension of the channel of the device. The hose can, in particular, be guided along a straight line through the channel of the device and the third channel. Specifically, the third channel has, at least in a region facing the channel of the device, a cross-section of an elongated slot or oval. Alternatively or additionally, the channel of the device between the second movement device and the first movement device can have such a cross-section. In this way, the cut hose with the push element can be moved transversely to its longitudinal extent within the respective channel and stored in a position that is not aligned with the hose to be sealed.

[0067] In one embodiment, the base body, the first motion mechanism, and / or the second motion mechanism are made of plastic or at least comprise plastic. In another embodiment, the housing of the device is made of plastic. In yet another embodiment, the entire device, with the exception of a few elements such as the blade, is made of plastic. In particular, a thermoplastic material is used.

[0068] Another aspect of the invention is a system comprising a device according to the invention and a medical tube. In particular, the system also includes the tube closure.

[0069] Another aspect of the invention is the use of a device for closing a medical tube. In particular, the device is a device according to the invention. Preferably, the device is used to cut the tube before closing it. All features, advantages, and embodiments of the device described above also apply to its use, and vice versa.

[0070] Another aspect of the invention is a method for sealing a medical tube using a device, particularly one according to the invention. The method may include cutting the tube held in the device's holding assembly with a cutting device of the device. The method may further include sealing the tube held in the device's holding assembly with a hose closure located in the device's storage unit. All features, advantages, and embodiments of the device and its use described above apply equally to the method, and vice versa.

[0071] The procedure may include some or all of the following steps in any combination and order:

[0072] Inserting the hose into the canal,

[0073] Holding the hose with the holding device,

[0074] Cutting the hose using the cutting device,

[0075] Moving the detached hose section by means of a push element, - closing the hose with the closing device, in particular by pressing in a plug, especially from the storage device, In particular releasing the held hose, pulling out the hose together with the closing device.

[0076] In particular, the insertion is carried out in such a way that the plug does not protrude beyond the manufactured end of the hose, for example, it is flush with the end of the hose.

[0077] Operating the device may involve some or all of the following steps in any combination:

[0078] Inserting the hose into the canal,

[0079] Performing the first movement of the first moving device,

[0080] Performing the second movement of the second movement device, pulling out the hose along with the locking device.

[0081] Exemplary embodiments of the invention are explained in more detail below, also with reference to figures. Features of the exemplary embodiments can be combined individually or in multiples with the claimed subject matter, unless otherwise specified. The claimed scope of protection is not limited to the exemplary embodiments.

[0082] They show:

[0083] Figure 1: a perspective drawing of a device,

[0084] Figures 2 and 3: cutaway perspective drawings of a device,

[0085] Figure 4: a sectional drawing of a device,

[0086] Figures 5 and 6: cutaway perspective drawings of a device,

[0087] Figure 7: a sectional drawing of a device,

[0088] Figures 8 and 9: partially cutaway perspective drawings of a device in use,

[0089] Figure 10: a sectional drawing of a device in use,

[0090] Figure 11: sectional perspective drawings of a device in use, and Figure 12: another sectional drawing of a device in use

[0091] Figure 1 shows a device 10 according to the invention. The device comprises a base body 40, a first motion device 41, and a second motion device 42. The base body includes a channel 54 into which a medical tube 1 has been inserted. The channel 54 extends along a longitudinal axis 3. Whenever an axial direction, etc., is mentioned, reference is made to this longitudinal axis. The first motion device 41 can be moved perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 3. The direction of the first movement is indicated on the first motion device 41 by an arrow labeled "1". The first motion device 41 comprises two interconnected parts, namely a first part 51 and a second part 52, which are rigidly connected to each other. The second motion device 42 can be moved parallel to the longitudinal axis 3.The direction of the second movement is indicated on the second movement device 42 by an arrow labelled with “2”.

[0092] Figure 2 shows a similar representation, in which the lower left area of ​​the device 10 is cut off. It shows that the first part 51 of the first motion device 41 has two legs 15 of a holding device 12. When the first motion device 41 performs the first movement, the legs 15 move towards the hose 1 and grip it between them. A stop 14 is attached to or formed on the base body 40 of the device and prevents the hose 1 from being pushed laterally away from the legs 15. Thus, the hose 1 can be clamped between the legs 15 and held in place. The hose 1 is now axially immobilized.

[0093] Figure 3 shows a similar representation, in which a larger area of ​​the device 10 is cut off at the bottom left. It shows that the second part 52 of the first movement device 41 has a blade 31 of a cutting device 30. When the first movement device 41 performs the first movement, the blade 31 moves towards the hose 1 and cuts the hose 1 perpendicular to its longitudinal axis. A counter element 32 is attached to or formed on the base body 40 of the device and prevents the hose 1 from being pushed laterally away from the blade 31. This allows the hose 1 to be cut cleanly. Figure 4 shows the shape of the blade 31 and the counter element 32 in a sectional drawing with an axial view. Figure 5 shows a similar representation to Figure 3, in which an even larger area of ​​the device 10 is cut off at the bottom left.It is shown that the second part 52 of the first movement device 41 has a push element 34 axially behind the blade 31, which can be designed as a form element of the first movement device 41. The push element 34 serves to push the cut hose section along the direction of the first movement in order to release the cut end of the hose 1. This is discussed in more detail in Figures 11 to 13.

[0094] Figures 6 and 7 show similar representations, in which an even larger area of ​​the device 10 is cut off at the bottom left. It can be seen that the second motion device 42 comprises several axially aligned elongated shaped elements 37 in the form of webs, which are slidable in corresponding grooves 36 of the base body. In this way, a guided movement of the second motion device 42 relative to the base body 40 can occur. The movement of the first motion device can, in principle, occur in the same way.

[0095] In the area of ​​the second movement device 42, there is an axially oriented third channel 57, which has the cross-section of an elongated hole. The detached hose section can be moved laterally in the third channel 57 as described. Figure 7 also shows a second locking mechanism 39, which locks the second movement device 42 after the second movement is completed, so that no further movement is possible. Preferably, a first locking mechanism (not shown) of analogous design is provided, which locks the first movement device after the first movement is completed, so that no further movement is possible. The first locking mechanism and / or the second locking mechanism 39 can have one or more locking elements. In the case of multiple locking elements, locking can occur at different positions, thus enabling particularly secure locking or fixation.The first locking mechanism and / or the second locking mechanism 39 can be released.

[0096] Figure 8 shows the device in a sectional view from above along the plane of the channel 54 in which the hose 1 is located. The view shows the situation after the insertion of the hose 1, but before the execution of the first movement 43 and the second movement 44, indicated by the respective arrows. In other words, both the first movement device 41 and the second movement device 42 are in their respective starting positions. To avoid repetition, reference is made to the previous figures and their respective descriptions.

[0097] It can be seen that the second part 52 of the first movement device 41 has a first channel 55, which serves as a storage device 20 for the hose closure 7, which is exemplified here as a plug 8. The first channel 55 is closed on the right side by the axially oriented pressing element 24. The first channel 55 is closed on the left side by the locking element 59, which is the area of ​​the base body 40 located axially between the first part 51 and the second part 52. The plug 8 is thus held securely in place. In this area of ​​the base body 40, there is also another axially oriented channel 58.

[0098] The second part 52 further comprises a second channel 56 in which an axially oriented elongated element 17 with a wedge 17 located at its tip is situated (see also Figure 10). The elongated element 18 and the wedge 17 together have, by way of example, the shape of the shaft and tip of a slotted screwdriver. The elongated element 18, the wedge 17, and the pressing element 24 are designed as a single assembly 26, for example, manufactured in one piece.

[0099] It can be seen that during the first movement 43, the hose 1 is cut by the blade 31. The blade 31 is typically designed such that, during the first movement, it is moved completely through the hose or to the position of the hose prior to cutting. In this way, the formed end of the hose can be released. After cutting, the arms 15 of the holding device reach the hose and grip or hold it. The sequence of process steps is illustrated in the following figures and explained below.

[0100] Figure 8 shows an optional locking mechanism designed as follows: The second movement 44 of the second movement device 42 can only be executed after the first movement 43 of the first movement device 41 has been executed. This is ensured by the fact that, in the illustrated initial position 45 of the first movement device 41, the wedge 17 would abut the locking element 59 if the second movement device 42 were moved along arrow 44. The second movement device would move the assembly 26, comprising the elongated element 18 with the wedge 17 and the pressing element 24, to the left, thereby pressing the wedge 17 against the locking element 59. Only when the assembly 26, together with the first movement device 41, has been moved along the direction of arrow 43, do the second channel 56 and the channel 58 in the base body 40, as well as the first channel 55 and the channel 54 in the base body, align (see Figures 8 and 11).

[0101] Figures 9 to 11 show the state after the first movement has been executed. The first moving device 41 is in its target position 46. The blade 31 has passed through the hose 1, thus releasing the produced end 5 of the hose. The shortened hose is held by the holding device, specifically by the legs 15 and the counter element 14. It can be seen that the severed hose section 2 has been displaced by the push element 34 in the third channel 57 parallel to the longitudinal axis and has thus been moved away from the axis of the shortened hose 1. The second part 52 has moved the assembly 26 along with it, so that the channel 59 is aligned with the elongated element 18 and the wedge 17. In addition, the pressing element 24 and the plug 8 are aligned with the shortened hose 1.

[0102] Figures 12 and 13 show the state after the second movement 44 has been executed. The second movement device 42 is now also in its target position 46. Figure 13, in particular, shows that a shear surface 28 of the second movement device 42 has contacted a contact surface 27 of the assembly 26, thus moving the assembly 26 axially. Initially, the plug 8 was pressed into the manufactured end 5 of the hose by means of the pressing element 24. Subsequently, as the second movement continued, the wedge 17 came into contact with at least one leg 15 to move the legs 15 apart. This is visible in Figure 12. In this way, the hose 1 has been released and can now be pulled out of the device axially, together with the pressed-in plug 8.

[0103] Both the first movement device 41 and the second movement device 42 are now locked in place, so that no further movement is possible. This prevents incorrect operation. In particular, the device is intended for single use. Reference numeral list

[0104] Hose 1

[0105] Hose section 2

[0106] Longitudinal axis 3

[0107] End 5

[0108] Hose cap 7

[0109] Plug 8

[0110] Device 10

[0111] Holding device 12

[0112] Abutment 14

[0113] Thigh 15

[0114] Wedge 17

[0115] Oblong element 18

[0116] Storage facility 20

[0117] Locking device 22

[0118] Press element 24

[0119] Building unit 26

[0120] Contact area 27

[0121] Shear surface 28

[0122] Separating device 30

[0123] Blade 31

[0124] Counter element 32

[0125] Shear element 34

[0126] Nut 36

[0127] Form element 37

[0128] Second locking mechanism 39

[0129] Base body 40 first movement device 41 second movement device 42 first movement 43 second movement 44

[0130] Starting position 45

[0131] Target position 46

[0132] Part One 51

[0133] Part Two 52

[0134] Channel 54

[0135] Channel 55

[0136] Channel 56

[0137] Third Channel 57

[0138] Channel 58

[0139] Locking element 59

Claims

2024PF00125 Claims 1. Device (10) for closing a medical tube (1), comprising a holding device (12) for holding a medical tube (1), a storage device (20) for storing a tube closure (7) and a closing device (22) for closing the tube (1) held in the holding device (12) with a tube closure (7) located in the storage device (20).

2. Device (10) according to the preceding claim, wherein the device (10) further comprises a cutting device (30) for cutting the hose (1), wherein the closing device (22) is configured to close an end (5) of the hose (1) produced by the cutting device (30).

3. Device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the closure device (22) has a pressing element (24) for pressing the hose closure (7) into the hose (1).

4. Device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the device (10) has a first movement device (41), wherein the device (10) is arranged such that a first movement (43) of the first movement device (41) triggers the holding of the hose (1) as well as the cutting of the hose (1).

5. Device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the device (10) has a second movement device (42), wherein the device (10) is arranged such that a second movement (44) of the second movement device (42) triggers the closing of the hose (1) as well as the releasing of the hose (1).

6. Device (10) according to one of claims 4 and 5, wherein the device (10) is configured such that the first motion device (41) can only perform the first movement (43), with any other movement of the first motion device (41) being blocked, and / or wherein the device (10) is configured such that the second motion device (42) can only perform the second can perform movement (44), whereby any other movement of the second motion device (42) is blocked.

7. Device (10) according to claims 4 and 5, wherein the device (10) is arranged such that the second movement (44) of the second movement device (42) can only be carried out after the first movement (43) of the first movement device (41) has been carried out.

8. Device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the device (10) has a channel (54) into which the hose (1) can be inserted to be held by the holding device (12), to be closed by the closing device (22) and / or to be cut by the cutting device (30).

9. Device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the holding device (12) has two legs (15) between which the hose (1) can be held in a force-fit and / or form-fit manner.

10. Device (10) according to the preceding claim, wherein the device (10) has a wedge (17) which can be moved between the legs (15) to move the legs (15) apart and thus release the held hose (1).

11. Device (10) according to the preceding claim and claim 3, wherein the device (10) comprises a construction unit (26) which includes the wedge (17) and the pressing element, wherein the construction unit (26) is movable along a longitudinal axis (3) of the hose (1).

12. Device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the cutting device (30) has a blade (31) for cutting the hose (1), wherein the device (10) has a push element (34) operatively connected to the blade (31) for pushing a cut-off hose piece (2).

13. Device (10) according to one of claims 4 to 10, wherein the first motion device (41) is designed in two parts, wherein a first part (55) of the first motion device (41) comprises the holding device (12) and a second part (56) of the first movement device (41) comprises the separating device (30) and / or the storage device (20).

14. Use of a device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 13 for closing a medical tube (1), wherein the device (10) is used in particular for cutting the tube (1) before closing.

15. Method for closing a medical tube (1) with a device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, comprising: Optionally, the hose (1) held in the holding device (12) of the device (10) can be cut with a cutting device (30) of the device (10). Closing the hose (1) held in the holding device (12) of the device (10) with a hose closure (7) located in the storage device (20) of the device (10).

Citation Information

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