US20140171922A1 - Catheter Valve and Methods of Using Same - Google Patents
Catheter Valve and Methods of Using Same Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20140171922A1 US20140171922A1 US14/185,328 US201414185328A US2014171922A1 US 20140171922 A1 US20140171922 A1 US 20140171922A1 US 201414185328 A US201414185328 A US 201414185328A US 2014171922 A1 US2014171922 A1 US 2014171922A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- valve
- tubular member
- catheter
- top portion
- bottom portion
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
Images
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
- A61M39/00—Tubes, tube connectors, tube couplings, valves, access sites or the like, specially adapted for medical use
- A61M39/22—Valves or arrangement of valves
- A61M39/28—Clamping means for squeezing flexible tubes, e.g. roller clamps
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
- A61M27/00—Drainage appliance for wounds or the like, i.e. wound drains, implanted drains
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
- A61M39/00—Tubes, tube connectors, tube couplings, valves, access sites or the like, specially adapted for medical use
- A61M39/22—Valves or arrangement of valves
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
- A61M39/00—Tubes, tube connectors, tube couplings, valves, access sites or the like, specially adapted for medical use
- A61M39/22—Valves or arrangement of valves
- A61M39/28—Clamping means for squeezing flexible tubes, e.g. roller clamps
- A61M39/283—Screw clamps
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
- A61M39/00—Tubes, tube connectors, tube couplings, valves, access sites or the like, specially adapted for medical use
- A61M39/22—Valves or arrangement of valves
- A61M39/28—Clamping means for squeezing flexible tubes, e.g. roller clamps
- A61M39/284—Lever clamps
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
- A61M5/00—Devices for bringing media into the body in a subcutaneous, intra-vascular or intramuscular way; Accessories therefor, e.g. filling or cleaning devices, arm-rests
- A61M5/14—Infusion devices, e.g. infusing by gravity; Blood infusion; Accessories therefor
- A61M5/168—Means for controlling media flow to the body or for metering media to the body, e.g. drip meters, counters ; Monitoring media flow to the body
- A61M5/16804—Flow controllers
- A61M5/16813—Flow controllers by controlling the degree of opening of the flow line
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T137/00—Fluid handling
- Y10T137/0318—Processes
- Y10T137/0402—Cleaning, repairing, or assembling
- Y10T137/0491—Valve or valve element assembling, disassembling, or replacing
- Y10T137/0514—Gate valve
Definitions
- the present invention relate to a valve and, in particular, to a valve for restricting the flow of a fluid there through.
- Catheters are commonly prescribed for patients that are unable to void their bladders without assistance.
- catheters comprise a tube placed through the urethra and into the bladder, which allows urine to continuously flow from the bladder. Because the flow of urine from the bladder is continuous, in order to prevent leakage and to collect urine, a collection device, such as, for example, a urine bag, or another device such as a valve, must be constantly in place on the external end of the catheter.
- a urine bag is not desirable because if a user wishes to remain mobile, the bag typically must be attached to a user's leg, which can be uncomfortable because of the bag's bulky nature both before and after it is filled.
- a valve is provided with a valve body, a tubular member and a slidable member.
- the valve body includes a top portion with an inclined sliding surface having a longitudinal slot forming a track and a bottom portion corresponding with the top portion.
- the tubular member includes walls defining a passageway extending through the valve body. The slidable member is disposed along the track and engageable with the walls of the tubular member.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a catheter valve.
- FIG. 2 is a top plan view of the catheter valve depicted in FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 3 is side view of the catheter valve depicted in FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 4 is an end view of the catheter valve depicted in FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A in FIG. 1 , with the catheter valve shown in the open position.
- FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A in FIG. 1 , with the catheter valve shown in the closed position.
- FIG. 7 is a further cross-sectional view taken along line A-A in FIG. 1 , with the catheter valve in the opened position.
- FIG. 8 is an exploded view of the catheter valve depicted in FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the catheter valve depicted in FIG. 1 , with the top portion of the valve body removed.
- FIG. 10 is a top perspective view of a further exemplary embodiment of a catheter valve.
- FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the catheter valve depicted in FIG. 10 , with the top portion of the valve body removed.
- FIG. 12 is a bottom perspective view of the catheter valve depicted in FIG. 10 , showing an expandable bellows.
- FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B in FIG. 10 , with an expandable bellows in the unexpanded state.
- FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B in FIG. 10 , with an expandable bellows in the expanded state.
- FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B in FIG. 10 , showing a desiccant pad prior to absorbing a fluid.
- FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B in FIG. 10 , showing a desiccant pad after absorbing a fluid.
- FIG. 17 is a bottom perspective view of a further exemplary embodiment of a catheter valve showing an embodiment of an attachment means.
- FIG. 18A is a top plan view of a further exemplary embodiment of a catheter valve showing visual markings on the valve body with the catheter valve in the closed position.
- FIG. 18B is a top plan view of a further exemplary embodiment of a catheter valve showing visual markings on the valve body with the catheter valve in the opened position.
- FIG. 19A is a top plan view of a further exemplary embodiment of a catheter valve showing visual markings on the valve body with the catheter valve in the closed position.
- FIG. 19B is a top plan view of a further exemplary embodiment of a catheter valve showing visual markings on the valve body with the catheter valve in the opened position.
- FIG. 20 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a catheter assembly.
- the catheter valve is generally referred to by the numeral 10 .
- the catheter valve 10 is preferably low-profile and allows the user or caregiver to selectively control the flow of urine from a catheter.
- a catheter can be, for example, a Foley-type catheter.
- This selective restriction of urine flow permits temporary sealing of the catheter without the need to be constantly tethered to a collection device such as a urine bag. Accordingly, a user can achieve improved mobility and comfort by temporarily detaching the collection device without either having to remove the catheter from the bladder or risking leakage.
- the valve 10 provides a user with increased mobility without the need for a collection device, by permitting the user to drain the catheter directly into a toilet or other receptacle through operation of the catheter valve 10 .
- proximal and distal refer to the portions of a device that are closest to and further away from an attending physician during insertion into a patient.
- a catheter such as a Foley catheter
- the distal end of the catheter is inserted into the patient's bladder, and the proximal end of the catheter remains outside of the patient after insertion.
- the catheter valve 10 comprises a valve body 12 having an inlet end 12 A, an outlet end 12 B, a longitudinal axis 13 , a tubular member 14 (see FIGS. 5-9 ), which includes a lumen that defines a passageway therethrough, a slidable member 16 , an inlet connector 18 on the inlet end 12 A of the valve body 12 , and an outlet connector 20 on an outlet end 12 B of the valve body 12 .
- valve body 12 is a two-piece structure that includes a top portion 24 and a bottom portion 26 , which can be joined together using any means known in the art including a snap or press-fit connection, adhesive connection, ultrasonic welding, etc.
- the valve body may be a unitary structure.
- the top portion 24 of the valve body 12 includes an inclined sliding surface 28 upon which the slidable member 16 is mounted.
- the inclined sliding surface 28 inclines at an angle “ ⁇ ,” which may preferably range from approximately 1° to 45° with respect to the longitudinal axis 13 , from the outlet connector 20 to the inlet connector 18 .
- the inclined sliding surface 28 includes a longitudinal slot 29 therein that is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis 13 of the valve body 1 when viewed from above, such as is depicted in FIG. 2 .
- the longitudinal slot 29 forms a track that permits the slidable member 16 to be operable between a first, open position (position “A” in the figures, see FIG.
- the inclined sliding surface 28 is at a maximum height above the interior base of the valve body 12 at position “A” and at a minimum height above the base at position “B.”
- the angle “ ⁇ ” of the inclined sliding surface 28 with respect to the longitudinal axis 13 ranges from approximately 3° to approximately 10°.
- inclined sliding surface 28 and the longitudinal slot 29 are depicted as being substantially straight and substantially aligned to the longitudinal axis 13 , as best seen in FIG. 2 , alternative embodiments may include an inclined sliding surface 28 and a corresponding longitudinal slot 29 that are curved and/or that are at an angle with respect to the longitudinal axis 13 , such as when viewed from above (i.e., the inclined sliding surface 28 and/or the longitudinal slot 29 can be skewed horizontally with respect to the longitudinal axis 13 ).
- any configuration of the inclined sliding surface 28 and longitudinal slot 29 is acceptable as long as such configuration permits the slidable member 16 to contact and releasably compress the tubular member 14 during the opening and closing of the catheter valve 10 .
- the tubular member 14 fluidly connects the inlet connector 18 to the outlet connector 20 thereby providing an internal passageway for fluid to flow through the valve body 12 from one end of the catheter valve 10 to the other.
- the tubular member 14 is a generally resilient flexible or semi-flexible tube that can be selectively fully compressed or released and uncompressed to either permit or restrict fluid flow therethrough.
- the flexible tubular member 14 may have a generally elongated cylindrical shape formed by walls that allow fluid to pass therethrough; however, other shapes are possible.
- the “wall” of the flexible tubular member 14 may refer to the opposing sides of a single flexible tubular member 14 defining a passageway.
- reference to “walls of flexible tubular member 14 ” can refer to opposing sides of a singular cylindrical structure and should not be interpreted as requiring two structurally independent and distinct walls.
- the tubular member 14 need not be tubular in nature (i.e., have a circular cross-section) and may have any geometric shape or construction that provides an internal fluid path for fluid to flow therethrough in an open condition and also permits the internal fluid path to be closed or obstructed upon moving of the slidable member 16 to the closed position, thereby compressing the walls towards each other and restricting flow of a fluid through the catheter valve 10 .
- the slidable member 16 may be of a two-piece construction, comprising a sliding top portion 30 and a sliding bottom portion 32 matable thereto.
- the sliding bottom portion 32 which contacts tubular member 14 , includes a curved or convex contact portion 33 that is adapted to minimize piercing or creasing of, or other damage to, the tubular member 14 .
- the sliding top portion 30 is designed to have a contour and surface that is easily graspable and manipulable by a user.
- the surface of the sliding top portion 30 may include ridges and/or may be made or coated with a non-slip material.
- the sliding top portion 30 and sliding bottom portion 32 may attach to one another via a tab portion 31 that extends through the longitudinal slot 29 in such a manner so that the inclined sliding surface 28 is sandwiched therebetween.
- the sliding top portion 30 and tab portion 31 of the sliding bottom portion 32 can be attached to each other using a snap- or press-fit connection, friction-fit connection, adhesives, or any other method known in the art.
- the sliding top portion 30 is moved in the longitudinal slot 29 along the inclined sliding surface 28 , the sliding bottom portion 32 moves in a corresponding manner.
- the slidable member 16 need not be a multi-component structure but may be of a unitary construction as well.
- the bottom portion 26 of the valve body 12 includes a raised structure 34 such as a ramp or other similar structure extending up from the base of the bottom portion 26 .
- a raised structure 34 such as a ramp or other similar structure extending up from the base of the bottom portion 26 .
- the tubular member 14 when the tubular member 14 is in place within the valve body 12 , at least a portion of the tubular member 14 is disposed along the raised structure 34 between the contact portion 33 of the slidable member 16 and the raised structure 34 of the bottom portion 26 of the valve body 12 .
- the flexibility of the tubular member 14 allows the tubular member 14 to bend in order to follow the profile of the raised structure 34 .
- the contact portion 33 of the slidable member 16 is at a maximum spacing from the base, with minimal to no engagement the tubular member 14 , thereby allowing the lumen or internal passageway of the tubular member 14 to remain generally open and unrestricted, permitting urine to flow through the catheter valve 10 .
- the contact portion 33 converges toward raised structure 34 on the bottom portion 26 of the valve body 12 thereby compressing the tubular member 14 .
- the slidable member 16 is moved entirely to the closed position, the slidable member 16 is at a point “B” on the inclined sliding surface 28 that is closest to the base, compressing the tubular member 14 , forcing the interior walls of the lumen into mutual contact with each other thereby fully closing or obstructing the internal passageway of the tubular member 14 and restricting the flow of fluid, such as urine, through the catheter valve 10 .
- a user may slide the slidable member 16 to any point along the inclined sliding surface 28 to selectively control the size of the fluid passageway in the lumen of the tubular member 14 , thereby controlling the rate at which fluid flows through the catheter valve 10 and hence, the rate at which the bladder empties.
- the valve body 12 may be formed without such a structure and instead the tubular member 14 can be disposed within the valve body 12 such that the tubular member 14 remains substantially flat and uncurved (see, e.g., the catheter valve embodiment depicted in FIGS. 13-16 ).
- Such a configuration operates similarly, such that, when the slidable member 16 moves from the opened position to the closed position along the inclined sliding surface 28 , the slidable member 16 converges toward the bottom portion 26 of the valve body (rather than the raised structure 34 ) thereby compressing the tubular member 14 and restricting the flow of fluid therethrough.
- the inlet connector 18 may be a male fitting with ridges 36 thereon that releasably attaches to the external end of a catheter.
- the outlet connector 20 may also be a male fitting with ridges 36 thereon that can be used to releasably attach to a collection device such as a urine bag, a drainage tube, a cap or the outlet connector 20 may be left open.
- the inlet and outlet connectors may be female fittings depending on the intended application of the catheter valve 10 .
- the inlet and outlet connectors may be any type of connector that provides for a leak-resistant connection and allows a user to easily attach and detach the catheter valve 10 to a catheter and/or collection or drainage device.
- connection may be a snap- or press-fit connection, a compression fit or friction fit connection or any other type of connection known in the art.
- inlet and outlet connectors need not be separate components and may instead be integrally molded or constructed with the valve body 12 , or tubular member 14 .
- FIGS. 10-16 depict additional exemplary embodiments of a catheter valve 210 , which includes a pressure relief valve 244 fluidly connected to a tubular member 218 (see FIGS. 13-16 ).
- a pressure relief valve 244 fluidly connected to a tubular member 218 (see FIGS. 13-16 ).
- urine will continuously accumulate in the catheter and bladder causing pressure in the bladder to build up. If the pressure is not periodically released, pressure in the bladder may increase to a level that may not be desirable. To avoid such a situation, if pressure reaches certain predetermined levels, the pressure relief valve 244 will actuate to provide a fluid path for the urine to flow from the bladder into a temporary reservoir, thereby lowering the built-up pressure. While the temporary reservoir is not intended as an alternative to periodically opening the catheter valve 210 to void the bladder or using a collection device such as a urine bag, it may serve to prevent accidents, discomfort or other unwanted consequences in the event that pressure builds up in the bladder to undesirable levels.
- the embodiments of a catheter valve 210 depicted in FIGS. 10-16 comprise a valve body 212 having top portion 214 , a bottom portion 216 , a tubular member 218 defining a lumen therein, a slidable member 220 with a contact portion 221 , an inlet connector 222 , and a longitudinal axis 224 .
- the top portion 214 of the valve body 212 includes an inclined sliding surface 226 with a longitudinal slot 228 therein.
- the longitudinal slot 228 forms a track 229 in which the slidable member 220 is slidably disposed.
- the catheter valve 210 opens and closes due to the convergence/divergence of the slidable member 220 toward/from the base 225 of the bottom portion 216 of the valve body 212 as the slidable member 220 slides along the inclined track 229 formed by the longitudinal slot 228 in the inclined sliding surface 226 .
- the contact portion 221 of the slidable member 220 is disposed at a greater distance from the base 225 of the bottom portion 216 when in the first or opened position, position “A,” than in the second or closed position, position “B.” Accordingly, when the slidable member 220 is moved along the track 229 towards the second position “B,” the distance between the contact portion 221 and the base of the bottom portion 216 gradually decreases. As this distance decreases, so does the space between the contact portion 221 and the base 225 with the tubular member 218 therebetween. Thus, as the slidable member 220 moves from position “A” to position “B,” the contact portion 221 compresses the tubular member 218 .
- the angle of the inclined sliding surface 28 , 226 surface may be reversed such that the inclined sliding surface 28 , 226 is at a minimum height above the interior base of the valve body 12 , 212 at position “A” and at a maximum height above the base at position “B.”
- the catheter valve 10 , 210 would be closed when the slidable member 16 , 220 is in position “A” and open when the slidable member 16 , 220 is in position “B.”
- the tubular member 218 lies flat along the base 225 of the bottom portion 216 .
- the present embodiments of the catheter valve include a pressure relief valve 244 to allow attenuation of increased bladder pressure.
- the pressure relief valve 244 connects the tubular member 218 to a temporary reservoir.
- the pressure relief valve 244 can be any type known to those skilled in the art that actuates at a predetermined pressure to open a fluid path to allow urine to flow from the bladder to the temporary reservoir.
- the temporary reservoir can be an expandable bellows 246 , which is depicted in FIG. 13 in an unexpanded state, such as prior to actuation of the pressure relief valve 244 . If, however, pressure in the bladder was to build to a level above the predetermined actuation pressure level of the pressure relief valve 244 , the valve 244 would actuate causing urine to flow through a catheter from the bladder, through the tubular member 218 and the pressure relief valve 244 , into the expandable bellows 246 causing the bellows 246 to expand as depicted in FIG. 14 .
- the temporary reservoir may be a desiccant material, for example, in the form of a desiccant pad 248 as depicted in FIG. 15 in the dry state prior to actuation of the pressure relief valve 244 .
- a desiccant material for example, in the form of a desiccant pad 248 as depicted in FIG. 15 in the dry state prior to actuation of the pressure relief valve 244 .
- pressure in the bladder was to build to a level above the actuation pressure of the pressure relief valve 244
- the valve 244 would actuate causing urine to flow through a catheter from the bladder, through the tubular member 218 and the pressure relief valve 244 , into the desiccant pad 248 causing the desiccant pad 248 to absorb the urine as depicted in FIG. 16 .
- desiccant materials may include silica gels, activated clay or molecular sieves.
- any of the previously described embodiments of the catheter valve 10 , 210 may also include an attachment means 300 that removeably secures the catheter valve 10 , 210 to a user's leg, clothing, or other structure.
- the attachment means 300 secures the catheter valve 10 , 210 and, optionally, any collection device, to allow a user to move about with the catheter valve 10 , 210 and any collection device hands-free.
- the attachment means 300 may include a clip structure, such as the example shown on the external bottom surface of the valve body 12 , 212 as shown in FIG. 17 .
- the attachment means 300 may be an adhesive pad, strap or other means for attaching the catheter valve to a body part, clothing or other structure.
- the valve body 12 , 212 , inlet connectors 18 , 222 and outlet connector 20 can be constructed from any rigid material such as, for example, rigid polymers including polypropylene, polystyrene, and polyamide.
- the tubular member 14 , 218 can be constructed from any flexible compressible material that maintains a fluid tight passageway during flexing and compression such as, for example, elastomeric polymers including latex, silicone, polyurethane, and polyvinyl chloride.
- the slidable member 16 , 220 can be constructed from any rigid material such as, for example, rigid polymers including polyoxymethylene and polyamide.
- the materials used to construct the catheter valve are not limited to those described above, which are only given by way of example.
- any of the previously described embodiments of the catheter valve 10 , 210 may include additional means to provide a user or caregiver with assurances that the catheter valve 10 , 210 is either in the fully opened or fully closed position.
- the catheter valve can include a means for producing an audible click, or tactile indication when the slidable member 16 , 220 is moved into either the first or open position, position “A” and/or the second or closed position, position “B.”
- the audible click or tactile indication informs the caregiver or user as to whether the slidable member 16 , 220 has reached the fully opened position “A” or the fully closed position “B” and thus, whether the catheter valve will permit or restrict the flow of urine.
- the sliding bottom portion 32 of the slidable member 16 may include a detent 50 on a first end and a second end.
- the bottom or interior surface of the inclined sliding surface 28 can include corresponding detents 52 adjacent positions “A” and “B.”
- the detents 50 on the slidable member 16 move over the detents 52 on the inclined sliding surface 28 thereby producing an audible click informing the user or caregiver that the catheter valve 10 , 210 is either in the fully opened or fully closed position.
- the detents can also serve to lock or hold the slidable member 16 in the fully opened or fully closed position.
- the catheter valve 10 may include visual indicators on the valve body 12 , 212 that indicates when the slidable member 16 , 220 is either (i) in the first or fully opened position, position “A,” and/or (ii) in the second or fully closed position, position “B.”
- the valve body 12 , 212 may include markings 350 which are of contrasting colors visible against the remainder of the valve body 12 , 212 , either on the inclined sliding surface 28 , 226 (see FIGS. 18A and 18B ) or adjacent to the inclined sliding surface 28 , 226 (see FIGS. 19A and 19B ).
- green may be included on the valve body 12 , 212 to indicate that the catheter valve 10 , 210 is in the opened position (see FIGS. 18B and 19B ) and red can be included on the valve body 12 , 212 to indicate that the catheter valve 10 , 210 is in the closed position (see FIGS. 18A and 19A ).
- the visual indicators included on the valve body 12 , 212 may be in the form of the numbers “1” and “0” or the letters “X” and “O” to indicate that the valve 10 , 210 is either opened or closed.
- any embodiments of the catheter valve 10 , 210 disclosed or contemplated herein may be provided as a stand-alone device, separately from a catheter, such as a Foley-type catheter, or it may be provided attached to a Foley catheter 56 , such as depicted in FIG. 20 .
- the Foley catheter 56 has a distal end 51 for insertion within a patient's bladder and a proximal end 53 adapted (i) to extend outside of the patient when the distal end 51 is inserted in the patient, and (ii) to couple to the inlet connector 18 , 222 of the catheter valve 10 , 210 .
- the inlet connector 18 , 222 of the catheter valve 10 should be connected to the distal end 51 of the Foley catheter 56 prior to insertion of the Foley catheter 56 into the patient in order to prevent leakage of urine from the Foley catheter 56 .
- the catheter valve 10 , 210 has a male fitting 58 located at its downstream end.
- the male fitting is preferred for situations where a user may wish to void their bladder directly into a receptacle, such as a toilet.
- a collection device such as a urine bag 54
- Urine bags that are designed to be mated directly to catheters, such as the Foley catheter 56 shown here also have a male distal fitting 60 at their distal end, which is adapted to mate to the proximal end 53 of the Foley catheter 56 .
- an adapter 62 is provided with two ends configured to mate to the valve 10 , 210 and the urine bag 54 . As shown in FIG. 20 , both ends have female fittings.
- the distal end 63 is adapted to mate to the male fitting 58 of the catheter valve 10 , 210
- the distal end 64 is adapted to distal fitting of a drain bag 54 .
- a user may freely move around without the need of a collection device such as a urine bag.
- the user may periodically void his/her bladder into a receptacle such as, for example, a toilet bowl, by simply grabbing the catheter valve 10 , 210 in one hand with his or her thumb positioned on the slidable member 16 , 220 , directing the catheter valve 10 , 210 over the receptacle and moving the slidable member 16 , 220 with his/her thumb from position “A” to position “B.”
- a receptacle such as, for example, a toilet bowl
- the catheter valve 10 , 210 is used with a collection device such as a urine bag, as may be the case at night when a user is sleeping, when the urine bag needs to be changed or the user desires to proceed without a urine bag, the user moves the slidable member 16 , 220 from position “A” to position “B” thereby closing the catheter valve 10 , 210 . Once closed, the user can then simply remove the urine bag without spilling or leaking urine. The user can now once again move around freely without a urine bag.
- the outlet of the catheter valve 10 , 210 may also be connected to a drainage tube (not shown), to aid in evacuation of the bladder into a receptacle.
- the catheter valve body 12 may be provided individually or in a kit with a Foley catheter and/or a collection device.
Landscapes
- Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Heart & Thoracic Surgery (AREA)
- Hematology (AREA)
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Anesthesiology (AREA)
- Biomedical Technology (AREA)
- Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- Animal Behavior & Ethology (AREA)
- General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Public Health (AREA)
- Veterinary Medicine (AREA)
- Pulmonology (AREA)
- Otolaryngology (AREA)
- External Artificial Organs (AREA)
- Orthopedics, Nursing, And Contraception (AREA)
Abstract
A valve is provided with a valve body, a tubular member and a slidable member. The valve body includes a top portion with an inclined sliding surface having a longitudinal slot forming a track and a bottom portion corresponding with the top portion. The tubular member includes walls defining a passageway extending through the valve body. The slidable member is disposed along the track and engageable with the walls of the tubular member.
Description
- This application is a continuation application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/485,127, filed May 31, 2012.
- The present invention relate to a valve and, in particular, to a valve for restricting the flow of a fluid there through.
- Catheters, particularly indwelling and suprapubic catheters, are commonly prescribed for patients that are unable to void their bladders without assistance. Such catheters comprise a tube placed through the urethra and into the bladder, which allows urine to continuously flow from the bladder. Because the flow of urine from the bladder is continuous, in order to prevent leakage and to collect urine, a collection device, such as, for example, a urine bag, or another device such as a valve, must be constantly in place on the external end of the catheter. However, use of a urine bag is not desirable because if a user wishes to remain mobile, the bag typically must be attached to a user's leg, which can be uncomfortable because of the bag's bulky nature both before and after it is filled. Also, its bulky nature makes it visible when worn with every day clothes. Because a user who is mobile is constantly moving, there is also the potential for the urine bag to leak or even worse, disconnect while in use, which may result in an embarrassing situation for the user. Moreover, prior valves have been complicated structures that require a wearer to use two hands or require great dexterity to actuate.
- Accordingly, there is a need for a device that can be used with a catheter to void the bladder that is discrete, resistant to leakage, easy to use, and comfortable when used in everyday life.
- A valve is provided with a valve body, a tubular member and a slidable member. The valve body includes a top portion with an inclined sliding surface having a longitudinal slot forming a track and a bottom portion corresponding with the top portion. The tubular member includes walls defining a passageway extending through the valve body. The slidable member is disposed along the track and engageable with the walls of the tubular member.
- Various other objects, features and many of the attendant advantages of the invention will be readily appreciated as the same becomes better understood by reference to the following detailed description of the preferred embodiment when considered in connection with the accompanying drawings, in which:
-
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a catheter valve. -
FIG. 2 is a top plan view of the catheter valve depicted inFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 3 is side view of the catheter valve depicted inFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 4 is an end view of the catheter valve depicted inFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A inFIG. 1 , with the catheter valve shown in the open position. -
FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A inFIG. 1 , with the catheter valve shown in the closed position. -
FIG. 7 is a further cross-sectional view taken along line A-A inFIG. 1 , with the catheter valve in the opened position. -
FIG. 8 is an exploded view of the catheter valve depicted inFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the catheter valve depicted inFIG. 1 , with the top portion of the valve body removed. -
FIG. 10 is a top perspective view of a further exemplary embodiment of a catheter valve. -
FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the catheter valve depicted inFIG. 10 , with the top portion of the valve body removed. -
FIG. 12 is a bottom perspective view of the catheter valve depicted inFIG. 10 , showing an expandable bellows. -
FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B inFIG. 10 , with an expandable bellows in the unexpanded state. -
FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B inFIG. 10 , with an expandable bellows in the expanded state. -
FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B inFIG. 10 , showing a desiccant pad prior to absorbing a fluid. -
FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B inFIG. 10 , showing a desiccant pad after absorbing a fluid. -
FIG. 17 is a bottom perspective view of a further exemplary embodiment of a catheter valve showing an embodiment of an attachment means. -
FIG. 18A is a top plan view of a further exemplary embodiment of a catheter valve showing visual markings on the valve body with the catheter valve in the closed position. -
FIG. 18B is a top plan view of a further exemplary embodiment of a catheter valve showing visual markings on the valve body with the catheter valve in the opened position. -
FIG. 19A is a top plan view of a further exemplary embodiment of a catheter valve showing visual markings on the valve body with the catheter valve in the closed position. -
FIG. 19B is a top plan view of a further exemplary embodiment of a catheter valve showing visual markings on the valve body with the catheter valve in the opened position. -
FIG. 20 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a catheter assembly. - In the figures, in which like numerals indicate like elements throughout, there is shown an embodiment of a catheter valve. The catheter valve is generally referred to by the
numeral 10. Thecatheter valve 10 is preferably low-profile and allows the user or caregiver to selectively control the flow of urine from a catheter. Such a catheter can be, for example, a Foley-type catheter. This selective restriction of urine flow permits temporary sealing of the catheter without the need to be constantly tethered to a collection device such as a urine bag. Accordingly, a user can achieve improved mobility and comfort by temporarily detaching the collection device without either having to remove the catheter from the bladder or risking leakage. In other cases, thevalve 10 provides a user with increased mobility without the need for a collection device, by permitting the user to drain the catheter directly into a toilet or other receptacle through operation of thecatheter valve 10. As used herein, the terms “proximal” and “distal” refer to the portions of a device that are closest to and further away from an attending physician during insertion into a patient. For example, with respect to a catheter, such as a Foley catheter, the distal end of the catheter is inserted into the patient's bladder, and the proximal end of the catheter remains outside of the patient after insertion. - Depicted in
FIGS. 1 through 9 is a first exemplary embodiment of thecatheter valve 10. As shown in the figures, thecatheter valve 10 comprises avalve body 12 having aninlet end 12A, anoutlet end 12B, alongitudinal axis 13, a tubular member 14 (seeFIGS. 5-9 ), which includes a lumen that defines a passageway therethrough, aslidable member 16, aninlet connector 18 on theinlet end 12A of thevalve body 12, and anoutlet connector 20 on anoutlet end 12B of thevalve body 12. In the present embodiment, thevalve body 12 is a two-piece structure that includes atop portion 24 and abottom portion 26, which can be joined together using any means known in the art including a snap or press-fit connection, adhesive connection, ultrasonic welding, etc. In alternative embodiments, the valve body may be a unitary structure. - As can best be seen in
FIGS. 5-7 , thetop portion 24 of thevalve body 12 includes an inclined slidingsurface 28 upon which theslidable member 16 is mounted. The inclined slidingsurface 28 inclines at an angle “θ,” which may preferably range from approximately 1° to 45° with respect to thelongitudinal axis 13, from theoutlet connector 20 to theinlet connector 18. The inclined slidingsurface 28 includes alongitudinal slot 29 therein that is substantially parallel to thelongitudinal axis 13 of thevalve body 1 when viewed from above, such as is depicted inFIG. 2 . Thelongitudinal slot 29 forms a track that permits theslidable member 16 to be operable between a first, open position (position “A” in the figures, seeFIG. 5 ) and a second, closed position (position “B” in the figures, seeFIG. 6 ) thereby allowing the user or caregiver to selectively operate thecatheter valve 10 between the open and closed position to allow or restrict the flow of a fluid, such as urine, through the catheter valve 10 (further operation of thecatheter valve 10 will be discussed below). As can be seen inFIGS. 5 and 6 , the inclined slidingsurface 28 is at a maximum height above the interior base of thevalve body 12 at position “A” and at a minimum height above the base at position “B.” Preferably, the angle “θ” of the inclined slidingsurface 28 with respect to thelongitudinal axis 13 ranges from approximately 3° to approximately 10°. - Although the inclined sliding
surface 28 and thelongitudinal slot 29 are depicted as being substantially straight and substantially aligned to thelongitudinal axis 13, as best seen inFIG. 2 , alternative embodiments may include an inclined slidingsurface 28 and a correspondinglongitudinal slot 29 that are curved and/or that are at an angle with respect to thelongitudinal axis 13, such as when viewed from above (i.e., the inclined slidingsurface 28 and/or thelongitudinal slot 29 can be skewed horizontally with respect to the longitudinal axis 13). Indeed, any configuration of the inclined slidingsurface 28 andlongitudinal slot 29 is acceptable as long as such configuration permits theslidable member 16 to contact and releasably compress thetubular member 14 during the opening and closing of thecatheter valve 10. - Turning now to the internal features of the
catheter valve 10, as can be seen inFIGS. 5-7 and 8, which is an exploded view of thecatheter valve 10, thetubular member 14 fluidly connects theinlet connector 18 to theoutlet connector 20 thereby providing an internal passageway for fluid to flow through thevalve body 12 from one end of thecatheter valve 10 to the other. Thetubular member 14 is a generally resilient flexible or semi-flexible tube that can be selectively fully compressed or released and uncompressed to either permit or restrict fluid flow therethrough. Theflexible tubular member 14 may have a generally elongated cylindrical shape formed by walls that allow fluid to pass therethrough; however, other shapes are possible. As used herein the “wall” of theflexible tubular member 14 may refer to the opposing sides of a singleflexible tubular member 14 defining a passageway. Thus, reference to “walls of flexibletubular member 14” can refer to opposing sides of a singular cylindrical structure and should not be interpreted as requiring two structurally independent and distinct walls. As will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, thetubular member 14 need not be tubular in nature (i.e., have a circular cross-section) and may have any geometric shape or construction that provides an internal fluid path for fluid to flow therethrough in an open condition and also permits the internal fluid path to be closed or obstructed upon moving of theslidable member 16 to the closed position, thereby compressing the walls towards each other and restricting flow of a fluid through thecatheter valve 10. - As best seen in
FIG. 8 , theslidable member 16 may be of a two-piece construction, comprising a slidingtop portion 30 and a slidingbottom portion 32 matable thereto. The slidingbottom portion 32, which contacts tubularmember 14, includes a curved orconvex contact portion 33 that is adapted to minimize piercing or creasing of, or other damage to, thetubular member 14. Moreover, the slidingtop portion 30 is designed to have a contour and surface that is easily graspable and manipulable by a user. By way of example, the surface of the slidingtop portion 30 may include ridges and/or may be made or coated with a non-slip material. - The sliding
top portion 30 and slidingbottom portion 32 may attach to one another via atab portion 31 that extends through thelongitudinal slot 29 in such a manner so that the inclined slidingsurface 28 is sandwiched therebetween. The slidingtop portion 30 andtab portion 31 of the slidingbottom portion 32 can be attached to each other using a snap- or press-fit connection, friction-fit connection, adhesives, or any other method known in the art. Thus, when the slidingtop portion 30 is moved in thelongitudinal slot 29 along the inclined slidingsurface 28, the slidingbottom portion 32 moves in a corresponding manner. As will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, theslidable member 16 need not be a multi-component structure but may be of a unitary construction as well. - As can be seen in
FIGS. 5-8 , thebottom portion 26 of thevalve body 12 includes a raisedstructure 34 such as a ramp or other similar structure extending up from the base of thebottom portion 26. Thus, as can also be seen in the figures, when thetubular member 14 is in place within thevalve body 12, at least a portion of thetubular member 14 is disposed along the raisedstructure 34 between thecontact portion 33 of theslidable member 16 and the raisedstructure 34 of thebottom portion 26 of thevalve body 12. As best seen inFIGS. 5 , 7 and 8, the flexibility of thetubular member 14 allows thetubular member 14 to bend in order to follow the profile of the raisedstructure 34. Accordingly, when theslidable member 16 is in the first, open position, position “A,” theslidable member 16 and hence, thecontact portion 33, is at a point on the inclined slidingsurface 28 that is spaced furthest from the base. Thus, thecontact portion 33 of theslidable member 16 is at a maximum spacing from the base, with minimal to no engagement thetubular member 14, thereby allowing the lumen or internal passageway of thetubular member 14 to remain generally open and unrestricted, permitting urine to flow through thecatheter valve 10. However, as theslidable member 16 is moved along the inclined slidingsurface 28 from position “A” to position “B,” thecontact portion 33 converges toward raisedstructure 34 on thebottom portion 26 of thevalve body 12 thereby compressing thetubular member 14. Thus, as depicted inFIG. 6 , when theslidable member 16 is moved entirely to the closed position, theslidable member 16 is at a point “B” on the inclined slidingsurface 28 that is closest to the base, compressing thetubular member 14, forcing the interior walls of the lumen into mutual contact with each other thereby fully closing or obstructing the internal passageway of thetubular member 14 and restricting the flow of fluid, such as urine, through thecatheter valve 10. - Instead of fully opening or fully closing the
catheter valve 10, a user may slide theslidable member 16 to any point along the inclined slidingsurface 28 to selectively control the size of the fluid passageway in the lumen of thetubular member 14, thereby controlling the rate at which fluid flows through thecatheter valve 10 and hence, the rate at which the bladder empties. - As an alternative to including a raised
structure 34, thevalve body 12 may be formed without such a structure and instead thetubular member 14 can be disposed within thevalve body 12 such that thetubular member 14 remains substantially flat and uncurved (see, e.g., the catheter valve embodiment depicted inFIGS. 13-16 ). Such a configuration operates similarly, such that, when theslidable member 16 moves from the opened position to the closed position along the inclined slidingsurface 28, theslidable member 16 converges toward thebottom portion 26 of the valve body (rather than the raised structure 34) thereby compressing thetubular member 14 and restricting the flow of fluid therethrough. - As depicted in the present embodiment, the
inlet connector 18 may be a male fitting withridges 36 thereon that releasably attaches to the external end of a catheter. Theoutlet connector 20 may also be a male fitting withridges 36 thereon that can be used to releasably attach to a collection device such as a urine bag, a drainage tube, a cap or theoutlet connector 20 may be left open. Alternatively, although not shown, the inlet and outlet connectors may be female fittings depending on the intended application of thecatheter valve 10. The inlet and outlet connectors may be any type of connector that provides for a leak-resistant connection and allows a user to easily attach and detach thecatheter valve 10 to a catheter and/or collection or drainage device. Such a connection may be a snap- or press-fit connection, a compression fit or friction fit connection or any other type of connection known in the art. Alternatively, the inlet and outlet connectors need not be separate components and may instead be integrally molded or constructed with thevalve body 12, ortubular member 14. -
FIGS. 10-16 , depict additional exemplary embodiments of acatheter valve 210, which includes apressure relief valve 244 fluidly connected to a tubular member 218 (seeFIGS. 13-16 ). In use, when thecatheter valve 210 is in the closed position, urine will continuously accumulate in the catheter and bladder causing pressure in the bladder to build up. If the pressure is not periodically released, pressure in the bladder may increase to a level that may not be desirable. To avoid such a situation, if pressure reaches certain predetermined levels, thepressure relief valve 244 will actuate to provide a fluid path for the urine to flow from the bladder into a temporary reservoir, thereby lowering the built-up pressure. While the temporary reservoir is not intended as an alternative to periodically opening thecatheter valve 210 to void the bladder or using a collection device such as a urine bag, it may serve to prevent accidents, discomfort or other unwanted consequences in the event that pressure builds up in the bladder to undesirable levels. - Similar to the previously disclosed embodiment, the embodiments of a
catheter valve 210 depicted inFIGS. 10-16 comprise avalve body 212 havingtop portion 214, abottom portion 216, atubular member 218 defining a lumen therein, aslidable member 220 with acontact portion 221, aninlet connector 222, and alongitudinal axis 224. As can best be seen inFIGS. 13-16 , thetop portion 214 of thevalve body 212 includes an inclined slidingsurface 226 with alongitudinal slot 228 therein. Thelongitudinal slot 228 forms atrack 229 in which theslidable member 220 is slidably disposed. Thus, as can best be seen inFIGS. 13-16 , thecatheter valve 210 opens and closes due to the convergence/divergence of theslidable member 220 toward/from thebase 225 of thebottom portion 216 of thevalve body 212 as theslidable member 220 slides along theinclined track 229 formed by thelongitudinal slot 228 in the inclined slidingsurface 226. - More specifically, the
contact portion 221 of theslidable member 220 is disposed at a greater distance from thebase 225 of thebottom portion 216 when in the first or opened position, position “A,” than in the second or closed position, position “B.” Accordingly, when theslidable member 220 is moved along thetrack 229 towards the second position “B,” the distance between thecontact portion 221 and the base of thebottom portion 216 gradually decreases. As this distance decreases, so does the space between thecontact portion 221 and the base 225 with thetubular member 218 therebetween. Thus, as theslidable member 220 moves from position “A” to position “B,” thecontact portion 221 compresses thetubular member 218. When the distance between thecontact portion 221 and thebase 225 of thebottom portion 216 is less than that of the diameter of thetubular member 218, the walls of thetubular member 218 are urged into mutual contact with each other until the lumen or internal passageway of thetubular member 218 is fully obstructed or closed as depicted at position “B” inFIGS. 13-16 . Thus, when theslidable member 220 is in position “B,” thecatheter valve 210 is fully closed thereby preventing fluid, such as urine, from flowing therethrough. - As will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, in all embodiments of the
catheter valve surface surface valve body catheter valve slidable member slidable member - Unlike in the previous embodiment of the catheter valve, there is no interior structure included on the
base 225 of thebottom portion 216 of thevalve body 212 to support thetubular member 218. Therefore, as can be seen inFIGS. 13-16 , thetubular member 218 lies flat along thebase 225 of thebottom portion 216. - As previously discussed, the present embodiments of the catheter valve include a
pressure relief valve 244 to allow attenuation of increased bladder pressure. As can be seen in the figures, thepressure relief valve 244 connects thetubular member 218 to a temporary reservoir. Thepressure relief valve 244 can be any type known to those skilled in the art that actuates at a predetermined pressure to open a fluid path to allow urine to flow from the bladder to the temporary reservoir. - In one embodiment, the temporary reservoir can be an expandable bellows 246, which is depicted in
FIG. 13 in an unexpanded state, such as prior to actuation of thepressure relief valve 244. If, however, pressure in the bladder was to build to a level above the predetermined actuation pressure level of thepressure relief valve 244, thevalve 244 would actuate causing urine to flow through a catheter from the bladder, through thetubular member 218 and thepressure relief valve 244, into the expandable bellows 246 causing thebellows 246 to expand as depicted inFIG. 14 . - In another embodiment, the temporary reservoir may be a desiccant material, for example, in the form of a
desiccant pad 248 as depicted inFIG. 15 in the dry state prior to actuation of thepressure relief valve 244. If, similar to the previous embodiment, pressure in the bladder was to build to a level above the actuation pressure of thepressure relief valve 244, thevalve 244 would actuate causing urine to flow through a catheter from the bladder, through thetubular member 218 and thepressure relief valve 244, into thedesiccant pad 248 causing thedesiccant pad 248 to absorb the urine as depicted inFIG. 16 . Examples of desiccant materials may include silica gels, activated clay or molecular sieves. - As depicted in
FIG. 17 , any of the previously described embodiments of thecatheter valve catheter valve catheter valve catheter valve valve body FIG. 17 . Alternatively, the attachment means 300 may be an adhesive pad, strap or other means for attaching the catheter valve to a body part, clothing or other structure. - The
valve body inlet connectors outlet connector 20, can be constructed from any rigid material such as, for example, rigid polymers including polypropylene, polystyrene, and polyamide. Thetubular member slidable member - Moreover, any of the previously described embodiments of the
catheter valve catheter valve slidable member slidable member - An example of a way to produce an audible click is depicted in
FIGS. 5-7 . The slidingbottom portion 32 of theslidable member 16 may include adetent 50 on a first end and a second end. The bottom or interior surface of the inclined slidingsurface 28 can includecorresponding detents 52 adjacent positions “A” and “B.” Thus, when theslidable member 16 is slid to position “A” or “B,” thedetents 50 on theslidable member 16 move over thedetents 52 on the inclined slidingsurface 28 thereby producing an audible click informing the user or caregiver that thecatheter valve slidable member 16 in the fully opened or fully closed position. - Referring now to
FIGS. 18A-19B , alternatively, or in combination with audible clicks, thecatheter valve 10 may include visual indicators on thevalve body slidable member valve body markings 350 which are of contrasting colors visible against the remainder of thevalve body surface 28, 226 (seeFIGS. 18A and 18B ) or adjacent to the inclined slidingsurface 28, 226 (seeFIGS. 19A and 19B ). For example, green may be included on thevalve body catheter valve FIGS. 18B and 19B ) and red can be included on thevalve body catheter valve FIGS. 18A and 19A ). Additionally or alternatively, the visual indicators included on thevalve body valve - Any embodiments of the
catheter valve FIG. 20 . As shown, the Foley catheter 56 has adistal end 51 for insertion within a patient's bladder and aproximal end 53 adapted (i) to extend outside of the patient when thedistal end 51 is inserted in the patient, and (ii) to couple to theinlet connector catheter valve catheter valve inlet connector catheter valve 10 should be connected to thedistal end 51 of the Foley catheter 56 prior to insertion of the Foley catheter 56 into the patient in order to prevent leakage of urine from the Foley catheter 56. - As shown in
FIG. 20 , thecatheter valve male fitting 58 located at its downstream end. The male fitting is preferred for situations where a user may wish to void their bladder directly into a receptacle, such as a toilet. However, in certain situations, such as at night, users may want to connect thecatheter valve urine bag 54, in order to avoid having to periodically void their bladder for an extended period of time. Urine bags that are designed to be mated directly to catheters, such as the Foley catheter 56 shown here, also have a maledistal fitting 60 at their distal end, which is adapted to mate to theproximal end 53 of the Foley catheter 56. For such situations, anadapter 62 is provided with two ends configured to mate to thevalve urine bag 54. As shown inFIG. 20 , both ends have female fittings. The distal end 63 is adapted to mate to the male fitting 58 of thecatheter valve drain bag 54. Once connected to theurine bag 54, thecatheter valve - In use, after a Foley catheter 56 is inserted through the urethra and into the bladder of a patient or user, with the
catheter valve catheter valve slidable member catheter valve slidable member slidable member catheter valve - If the
catheter valve slidable member catheter valve catheter valve - The
catheter valve body 12 may be provided individually or in a kit with a Foley catheter and/or a collection device. - Although specific embodiments have been shown and described herein for purposes of illustration and exemplification, it is understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that the specific embodiments shown and described may be substituted for a wide variety of alternative and/or equivalent implementations without departing from the scope of the present invention.
- This disclosure is intended to cover any adaptations or variations of the embodiments discussed herein.
Claims (19)
1. A valve comprising:
a valve body having a top portion with an inclined sliding surface with a longitudinal slot forming a track and a bottom portion corresponding with the top portion;
a tubular member having walls defining a passageway extending through the valve body; and
a slidable member disposed along the track and engageable with the walls of the tubular member.
2. The valve of claim 1 , wherein the slidable member includes an exterior portion adapted to be engaged by a user and an interior contact portion.
3. The valve of claim 1 , wherein the slidable member is at least partially disposed within the track and moves along the inclined sliding surface.
4. The valve of claim 2 , wherein the tubular member is disposed between the interior contact portion and the bottom portion.
5. The valve of claim 4 , wherein the interior contact portion extends away from the exterior portion and toward the bottom portion.
6. The valve of claim 1 , wherein opposing sides of the walls are urged toward each other when the slidable member engages one of the opposing sides.
7. The valve of claim 1 , wherein the angle of the inclined sliding surface with respect to a longitudinal axis is approximately 3-9°.
8. The valve of claim 1 , further comprising a pressure sensitive valve fluidly connected to the tubular member.
9. The valve of claim 1 , wherein the slidable member includes a movement indicator.
10. The valve of claim 9 , wherein the movement indicator is an audible click device.
11. The valve of claim 9 , wherein the movement indicator is a tactile indicator device.
12. The valve of claim 9 , wherein the movement indicator is a visual indicator device.
13. A valve comprising:
a valve body having a top portion with an inclined sliding surface with a longitudinal slot forming a track and a bottom portion corresponding with the top portion; and
a slidable member disposed along the track and having a sliding top portion and a sliding bottom portion with a curved contact portion.
14. The valve of claim 13 , wherein the sliding top portion and the sliding bottom portion attach to one another using a tab portion extending through the longitudinal slot such that the inclined sliding surface is sandwiched between the sliding top portion and the sliding bottom portion.
15. The valve of claim 13 , wherein the sliding top portion and tab portion are press-fit together .
16. The valve of claim 13 , wherein the sliding top portion moves the sliding bottom portion toward and away from the bottom portion when the top portion moves along the longitudinal slot.
17. A valve comprising:
a valve body having a top portion with an inclined sliding surface with a longitudinal slot forming a track and a bottom portion corresponding with the top portion and having base and a raised structure extending up from the base;
a slidable member disposed along the track and having an interior contact portion extending toward the base; and
a tubular member having walls defining a passageway extending through the valve body; and mutually engageable with the raised structure and the interior contact portion.
18. The valve of claim 17 , wherein at least a portion of the tubular member is disposed along the raised structure between the interior contact portion and the raised structure.
19. The valve of claim 17 , wherein the tubular member bends along a profile of the raised structure.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US14/185,328 US20140171922A1 (en) | 2012-05-31 | 2014-02-20 | Catheter Valve and Methods of Using Same |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US13/485,127 US8702681B2 (en) | 2012-05-31 | 2012-05-31 | Catheter valve and methods of using same |
US14/185,328 US20140171922A1 (en) | 2012-05-31 | 2014-02-20 | Catheter Valve and Methods of Using Same |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US13/485,127 Continuation US8702681B2 (en) | 2012-05-31 | 2012-05-31 | Catheter valve and methods of using same |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20140171922A1 true US20140171922A1 (en) | 2014-06-19 |
Family
ID=48471086
Family Applications (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US13/485,127 Expired - Fee Related US8702681B2 (en) | 2012-05-31 | 2012-05-31 | Catheter valve and methods of using same |
US14/185,328 Abandoned US20140171922A1 (en) | 2012-05-31 | 2014-02-20 | Catheter Valve and Methods of Using Same |
Family Applications Before (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US13/485,127 Expired - Fee Related US8702681B2 (en) | 2012-05-31 | 2012-05-31 | Catheter valve and methods of using same |
Country Status (2)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (2) | US8702681B2 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2013180866A1 (en) |
Cited By (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US11324526B2 (en) | 2018-02-02 | 2022-05-10 | Calyxo, Inc. | Devices and methods for minimally invasive kidney stone removal by combined aspiration and irrigation |
Families Citing this family (19)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20110190727A1 (en) * | 2010-02-02 | 2011-08-04 | Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc. | Intervascular catheter, system and method |
US20140378918A1 (en) * | 2011-12-31 | 2014-12-25 | Beijing Winsunny Harmony Science And Technology Co., Ltd. | Urine drainage device, drainage control device, drainage control system and voiding method |
HUE035533T2 (en) * | 2012-04-24 | 2018-05-02 | Dentsply Ih Ab | Apparatus including a conduit clamping device |
US20150216622A1 (en) * | 2014-02-05 | 2015-08-06 | Albert Vartanian | Ergonomically optimized, in-line water valve assembly for use with a dental handpiece |
CN105363107B (en) * | 2014-08-08 | 2020-01-07 | 维亚埃尔医疗耗材有限公司 | Airway adapter and inspiratory conduit system |
US10765853B2 (en) * | 2014-12-22 | 2020-09-08 | Cook Medicai Technologies LLC | Hemostatic valve system |
CN104958803B (en) * | 2015-06-03 | 2019-03-19 | 四川南格尔生物科技有限公司 | A kind of safety-type blood adopts blood transfusion apparatus |
CN107921205B (en) * | 2015-08-25 | 2020-10-16 | 株式会社村田制作所 | Fluid control device |
US11040186B2 (en) * | 2015-10-28 | 2021-06-22 | Becton, Dickinson And Company | Pinch clamp device |
US10589082B2 (en) | 2016-02-17 | 2020-03-17 | Becton, Dickinson And Company | Pinch clamp |
US9867731B2 (en) | 2016-05-04 | 2018-01-16 | Cheryl Mitts | Urine collection bag assembly |
GB2564448A (en) * | 2017-07-10 | 2019-01-16 | Conceptomed As | Fluid Transfer connectors |
DE102017217485A1 (en) * | 2017-09-29 | 2019-04-04 | Nanogate Medical Systems Gmbh | Catheter valve for one-handed operation |
US10016540B1 (en) | 2017-12-08 | 2018-07-10 | Healthcare Creations, Llc. | Modular surgical fluid control system and related methods |
DE102019100509B4 (en) * | 2019-01-10 | 2020-10-01 | Urovision Gesellschaft für medizinischen Technologie Transfer mbH | Catheter valve and closure device for a catheter valve |
US11351354B2 (en) | 2019-02-20 | 2022-06-07 | Becton, Dickinson And Company | Extension tube clamp providing positive displacement |
GB2593013A (en) * | 2019-02-28 | 2021-09-15 | Salts Healthcare Ltd | A valve for a urostomy appliance |
AU2020309482A1 (en) * | 2019-07-08 | 2021-12-16 | Hollister Incorporated | Urinary catheter drainage members that restrict fluid drainage |
BE1028171B1 (en) * | 2020-03-27 | 2021-10-25 | No2Covid Bv | A CONTROL VALVE FOR A BREATHING SYSTEM |
Citations (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4815477A (en) * | 1986-10-15 | 1989-03-28 | The Kendall Company | Urine meter drain container with large and small sample ports |
US20080029721A1 (en) * | 2004-08-25 | 2008-02-07 | Jms Co., Ltd. | Tube Clamp |
Family Cites Families (40)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US1959074A (en) | 1931-11-27 | 1934-05-15 | Bloxsom Robert Gerry | Tube clamp |
US2595511A (en) | 1948-10-29 | 1952-05-06 | Cutter Lab | Pinch valve |
US3099429A (en) | 1960-04-14 | 1963-07-30 | Baxter Laboratories Inc | Roller clamp for parenteral solution equipment |
US4306705A (en) | 1979-01-22 | 1981-12-22 | Svensson Jan A | Slide valve and coupler assembly |
NO800163L (en) | 1979-02-01 | 1980-08-04 | Ronald L Voller | Spændebånd. |
US4497468A (en) | 1982-04-26 | 1985-02-05 | Graphic Controls Corporation | Catheter patency flush flow controller |
US4492258A (en) | 1983-02-18 | 1985-01-08 | Whitman Medical Corporation | Sterile urine specimen collection |
DE3324699C1 (en) | 1983-07-08 | 1984-12-06 | B. Braun Melsungen Ag, 3508 Melsungen | Valve device |
US4662599A (en) | 1986-09-05 | 1987-05-05 | Baxter Travenol Laboratories, Inc. | Roller clamp having improved infeed section |
DK161733C (en) | 1989-03-14 | 1992-04-06 | Andersen Svend Plastic Ind | LOCK VALVE, ISAER DRAFT VALVE FOR COLLECTION BAGS, SUCH AS URIN BAGS |
US5090424A (en) | 1990-12-31 | 1992-02-25 | Uromed Corporation | Conformable urethral plug |
US5195997A (en) | 1991-11-27 | 1993-03-23 | Carns William A | Incontinent's aid |
US5300043A (en) | 1992-10-23 | 1994-04-05 | Smiths Industries Medical Systems, Inc. | Suction catheter valve |
US5338313A (en) | 1992-12-17 | 1994-08-16 | Thomas J. Fogarty, M.D. | Adjustable valve having a radially compressible sealing body |
GB9408567D0 (en) | 1994-04-29 | 1994-06-22 | Mediquest Products Ltd | A valve for urine drainage applications |
US6162201A (en) * | 1995-12-01 | 2000-12-19 | Cohen; Kenneth L. | Internal urinary catheter |
US5713877A (en) | 1996-06-05 | 1998-02-03 | Urocath Corporation | Indwelling magnetically-actuated urinary catheter, and method of its construction |
DE29707410U1 (en) | 1997-04-24 | 1997-10-16 | Caremed Vertriebsgesellschaft | Catheter valve |
EP0948971A1 (en) | 1998-04-07 | 1999-10-13 | Pharmelan Medizinprodukte AG | Catheter valve |
US7186245B1 (en) | 1999-06-29 | 2007-03-06 | Cheng Gordon C | Personal urine management system for human males |
GB0217390D0 (en) | 2002-07-26 | 2002-09-04 | Lee Helen | Liquid sampler and method |
US6913244B1 (en) | 2003-05-02 | 2005-07-05 | Gordon Edgar Atkinson | Urinary slide valve |
ATE385758T1 (en) | 2003-05-22 | 2008-03-15 | Unomedical As | ONE-WAY VALVE FOR REGULATING THE OUTFLOW OF URINE |
US7211074B2 (en) | 2003-08-12 | 2007-05-01 | Sherwood Services Ag | Valved catheter |
US8083728B2 (en) | 2004-03-18 | 2011-12-27 | C. R. Bard, Inc. | Multifunction adaptor for an open-ended catheter |
US20060095019A1 (en) | 2004-11-02 | 2006-05-04 | Dikeman W C | Urinary catheter |
US8382708B2 (en) | 2005-01-26 | 2013-02-26 | Mayser, Llc | Zero-pressure balloon catheter and method for using the catheter |
US7458957B2 (en) | 2005-03-17 | 2008-12-02 | William J. Dwyer | Universal valve for Foley type urinary catheter |
US7938807B2 (en) | 2007-01-12 | 2011-05-10 | Adapta Medical, Inc. | Devices and methods for securing catheter assemblies |
JP5175863B2 (en) | 2007-01-29 | 2013-04-03 | ホリスター・インコーポレイテッド | Apparatus and method for collecting urine samples |
US20090030378A1 (en) | 2007-07-25 | 2009-01-29 | Garcia Jr Raul | Medical in-line flow control clamp device |
US7875021B2 (en) | 2007-09-19 | 2011-01-25 | Nastaran Minassians | Closed specimen collection system |
WO2009046176A1 (en) | 2007-10-02 | 2009-04-09 | C. R. Bard, Inc. | Drainage catheter with one-way valve |
ES2436788T3 (en) | 2008-10-09 | 2014-01-07 | Nyxx Technologies Limited | Medical device |
US8025651B1 (en) | 2009-03-17 | 2011-09-27 | John Braun | Anti-backflow urinary device |
US8221388B2 (en) | 2009-04-22 | 2012-07-17 | Tyco Healthcare Group Lp | Biased clamping assemblies |
US8137337B2 (en) | 2009-06-24 | 2012-03-20 | Hakky Said I | Indwelling urinary catheter with self-retaining mechanism |
US8500684B2 (en) | 2009-09-18 | 2013-08-06 | Bruce A. Gardner | Balloon catheter |
CA2786339C (en) | 2010-01-29 | 2017-07-11 | Mbh-International A/S | A drainage valve and a collection bag assembly comprising said valve |
WO2011140600A1 (en) | 2010-05-11 | 2011-11-17 | Fwee Pty Ltd | Urine diversion device |
-
2012
- 2012-05-31 US US13/485,127 patent/US8702681B2/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
-
2013
- 2013-04-26 WO PCT/US2013/038406 patent/WO2013180866A1/en active Application Filing
-
2014
- 2014-02-20 US US14/185,328 patent/US20140171922A1/en not_active Abandoned
Patent Citations (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4815477A (en) * | 1986-10-15 | 1989-03-28 | The Kendall Company | Urine meter drain container with large and small sample ports |
US20080029721A1 (en) * | 2004-08-25 | 2008-02-07 | Jms Co., Ltd. | Tube Clamp |
Cited By (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US11324526B2 (en) | 2018-02-02 | 2022-05-10 | Calyxo, Inc. | Devices and methods for minimally invasive kidney stone removal by combined aspiration and irrigation |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
WO2013180866A1 (en) | 2013-12-05 |
US8702681B2 (en) | 2014-04-22 |
US20130324975A1 (en) | 2013-12-05 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US8702681B2 (en) | Catheter valve and methods of using same | |
US4968294A (en) | Urinary control valve and method of using same | |
US10898676B2 (en) | Urinary catheter having a conical proximal section | |
EP3996641B1 (en) | Fluid collection devices including an opening having an increased width | |
EP3986344B1 (en) | Fluid collection devices including a base securement area, and related systems and methods | |
US20210228401A1 (en) | Device for a male urinary incontinence device | |
US20240068587A1 (en) | Valve for Regulating the Flow of A Liquid | |
US9254218B2 (en) | External urinary catheter system | |
US8556873B2 (en) | Drainage valve and collection bag assembly comprising said valve | |
US20110054426A1 (en) | Female portable urinary collection device | |
EP2707640B1 (en) | Valve for regulating the flow of a liquid | |
EP0034607B1 (en) | Urinal | |
CA3158240A1 (en) | Catheter and click connector | |
WO2018081731A1 (en) | Non-invasive urine collection device | |
US11951028B2 (en) | Method for assembling a drain assembly and method for elimination of urine waste from an ostomy bag | |
US20040215158A1 (en) | In line hose connector | |
EP1894547A1 (en) | Ostomy coupling | |
US11701249B2 (en) | Drain asembly for elimination of urine waste from an ostomy bag | |
EP3281611B1 (en) | Urine collector device | |
US20120239006A1 (en) | External control valve for indwelling urethral catheters | |
US20220339024A1 (en) | Fluid collection devices including a base securement area, and related systems and methods | |
AU2019361666B2 (en) | Urine collection assembly, and guided urine collector and short guide tube for use therein | |
KR200182725Y1 (en) | Valve urethral catheter |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |