JP5998499B2 - Extension tube - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to an extension tube for transporting a fluid, which can be suitably used when administering a semi-solid fluid to a patient .

  Enteral nutrition therapy is known as a method of administering nutrition or a drug to a patient who is difficult to send food from the oral cavity to the stomach due to trauma of the esophagus or oral cavity, disease or surgery. In enteral nutrition therapy, a nutrient (generally, “a” Called enteral nutrient).

  If the nutrients administered in this enteral nutrition therapy are low-viscosity liquids, the nutrients may flow back from the stomach to the esophagus, causing pneumonia, or diarrhea because the nutrients are not absorbed by the body. There is a problem such as.

  Therefore, in order to prevent the above problems, in the enteral nutrition therapy, a semi-solid nutrient having a reduced fluidity (that is, having a higher viscosity) by adding a tromi agent or a thickener to the nutrient is used. Often used.

  When performing enteral nutrition therapy, a container storing a nutrient and a catheter (for example, a PEG catheter) placed in a patient are connected by an extension tube. FIG. 6 is a view showing an example of a conventional extension tube 100 connected to a container 110 storing a nutrient. A female connector 101 provided at one end (upstream end) of the extension tube 100 is connected to a male connector 112 at the lower end of the container 110. The male connector 102 at the other end (downstream end) of the extension tube 100 is connected to a connector 119 provided at the upstream end of a catheter (eg, PEG catheter, not shown) placed in the patient. In FIG. 6, reference numeral 103 is a flexible pump tube. The female connector 101 and the pump tube 103 are connected by a first tube 104. The male connector 102 and the pump tube 103 are connected by a second tube 105. A clamp 106 that opens and closes the first tube 104 is provided on the first tube 104.

  Since the semi-solidified nutrient has low fluidity, it is difficult to allow the semi-solid nutrient to flow into the patient's body from the container 110 through the extension tube 100 and the catheter in this order only by the action of gravity.

  Therefore, the roller is rolled on the pump tube 103 from the first tube 104 side to the second tube 105 side while crushing the pump tube 103 with a roller (not shown) pressed against the outer surface of the pump tube 103. An injection device has been proposed (see, for example, Patent Documents 1 and 2). According to such an injection device, the nutrient in the pump tube 103 can be moved toward the patient as the roller moves. Therefore, even if the fluidity of the nutrient is low, it is possible to administer the nutrient to the patient.

  By the way, when performing enteral nutrition therapy, it is not preferable that air is injected into a patient's body. Therefore, prior to performing enteral nutrition therapy, an operation called priming for filling at least a part of the extension tube 100 with a nutrient is performed.

JP 2009-106359 A JP 2009-226209 A

  However, in the configuration of FIG. 6, it is difficult to perform priming on the extension tube 100 in which no nutrient is introduced, particularly when the fluidity of the nutrient is low. This is because a large negative pressure cannot be generated in the extension tube 100 only by the roller moving only the pump tube 103 which is a part of the extension tube 100, and as a result, the nutrient having low fluidity. This is considered to be because it cannot be introduced into the extension tube 100.

  If the nutrient is stored not in an open container such as the container 110 but in a syringe, for example, the nutrient can be introduced into the extension tube by pushing the plunger of the syringe. However, when a large-capacity syringe capable of storing all nutrients to be administered to a patient is used as a syringe, a large force is required to push the plunger. On the other hand, when a small-capacity syringe is used as the syringe, it is necessary to subdivide the nutrient into a plurality of syringes, which complicates the administration operation to the patient.

The present invention solves the above-described conventional problems. That is, an object of the present invention is to provide an extension tube capable of easily performing a fluid priming operation .

Prolongation tube of the present invention, the fluids that have been stored in the container with an extension tube for transferring the catheter placed in the patient, the first connector and connectable to a port of the vessel, the catheter A connectable second connector; a flow path connecting the first connector and the second connector; and a flow path for transferring the fluid; a flexible pump tube provided on the flow path; And a connector that can be attached to and detached from the second connector. The connector includes a third connector that communicates with the flow path and can connect a syringe in an airtight manner, and a fourth connector that can be attached to and detached from the second connector . An engagement structure that engages with the second connector so that the second connector and the fourth connector are not separated while having a gap between the second connector and the fourth connector. Is provided.

  According to the present invention, the container in which the fluid is stored and the extension tube are connected, and the syringe is hermetically connected to the extension tube. Therefore, even when the fluidity of the fluid is low, a negative pressure sufficient to cause the fluid to flow into the extension tube can be generated by pulling the plunger of the syringe. Therefore, the fluid can be easily primed into the extension tube.

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of an extension tube according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a view showing an example of a container for storing a fluid to which the extension tube of the present invention is connected. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of the extension tube according to the second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of the extension tube according to the third embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of an extension tube according to Embodiment 4 of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a view showing an example of a conventional extension tube used when performing enteral nutrition therapy. 7A is a plan view of a connector constituting an extension tube according to Embodiment 5 of the present invention, FIG. 7B is a half sectional front view thereof, and FIG. 7C is a half sectional side view thereof. FIG. 8 is a front view of the second connector constituting the extension tube according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 9A is a half sectional front view showing a temporarily connected state between the second connector and the fourth connector in Embodiment 5 of the present invention, and FIG. 9B is a half sectional side view thereof. FIG. 10A is a half sectional front view showing a main connection state of the second connector and the fourth connector in Embodiment 5 of the present invention, and FIG. 10B is a half sectional side view thereof.

Prolongation tube of the present invention, the fluids that have been stored in the container with an extension tube for transferring the catheter placed in the patient, the first connector and connectable to a port of the vessel, the catheter A connectable second connector; a flow path connecting the first connector and the second connector; and a flow path for transferring the fluid; a flexible pump tube provided on the flow path; And a connector that can be attached to and detached from the second connector. The connector includes a third connector that communicates with the flow path and can connect a syringe in an airtight manner, and a fourth connector that can be attached to and detached from the second connector . An engagement structure that engages with the second connector so that the second connector and the fourth connector are not separated while having a gap between the second connector and the fourth connector. Is provided.

In prolongation tube of the present invention described above, the pre-Symbol third connector and the fourth connector, which is preferably molded integrally. Thereby, the manufacturing cost of a connection tool can be reduced. In addition, the connection tool can be reduced in size.

In the extension tube of the present invention, the second connector and the fourth connector are engaged with the second connector so that the second connector and the fourth connector are not separated while having a gap between the second connector and the fourth connector. engagement structure, that provided in the fourth connector. Thus, in a state where the engagement structure of the fourth connector is engaged with the second connector 12 (temporary connection state), sterilization gas is introduced into the gap between the second connector and the fourth connector to perform sterilization treatment. It can be carried out. Further, since the engagement structure of the fourth connector is engaged with the second connector 12, it is possible to prevent the second connector and the fourth connector from separating due to vibration during transportation after the sterilization process.

  In the above, the connection state of the second connector and the fourth connector can be changed between a temporary connection state in which the engagement structure is engaged with the second connector and a main connection state in which the engagement structure is airtightly connected. Is preferred. Accordingly, the extension tube can be sterilized in the temporarily connected state, stored while maintaining the sterilized state, and switched to the fully connected state during the priming operation.

  The engagement structure may be a protrusion that engages with a step formed on the outer peripheral surface of the second connector. Thereby, the engagement structure of a simple structure can be provided in a 4th connector.

In prolongation tube above SL of the present invention, the connecting device preferably comprises a partial Kibe and fifth connector. In this case, it is preferable that the third connector, the fourth connector, and the fifth connector communicate with the branch portion. The extension tube includes a first opening / closing means for opening and closing the flow path between the third connector and the branching section or the third connector, and the flow path between the fifth connector and the branching section or the first. 5 It is preferable to further comprise a second opening / closing means for opening / closing the connector .

  In the above, the fifth connector is preferably connectable to the catheter. Thereby, after a priming operation, a fluid can be administered to a patient without removing the syringe from the extension tube.

  Below, this invention is demonstrated in detail, showing suitable embodiment. However, it goes without saying that the present invention is not limited to the following embodiments. For convenience of explanation, the drawings referred to in the following description show only the main members necessary for explaining the present invention in a simplified manner among the constituent members of the embodiment of the present invention. Therefore, the present invention can include any member not shown in the following drawings. In addition, the dimensions in the following drawings do not faithfully represent actual dimensions, dimension ratios, and the like.

(Embodiment 1)
FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of an extension tube 1 according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. As illustrated, the extension tube 1 includes a tube main body 10 and a connector 41 that can be attached to and detached from the tube main body 10. The tube body 10 includes a first connector 11, a second connector 12, and a first tube 21, a pump tube 25, and a second tube 22 therebetween.

  The first connector 11 is connected to a port 72 through which the fluid flows out of the container 70 in which the fluid is stored.

  An example of the container 70 is shown in FIG. The container 70 includes a bottomed cylindrical container body 71 that stores a fluid. The container main body 71 can be integrally manufactured by injection molding or the like using a material having shape retaining properties, for example, a resin material such as polypropylene or polycarbonate. A port 72 through which the fluid flows out is provided at the lower end of the container body 71. The container 70 is an open container in which the upper side of the container body 71 is opened. A lid 73 for opening and closing the upper opening is provided at the upper end of the container body 71. Furthermore, a handle 74 for suspending the container 70 with the port 72 facing down is provided.

  As long as the first connector 11 can be connected to the port 72 so that there is no leakage of fluid and air (that is, liquid-tight and air-tight), the configuration is not limited. For example, any known connector Can be used. In general, it is preferable to have a female shape into which the port 72 can be inserted. The material of the first connector 11 is not particularly limited. For example, a hard resin material that does not substantially deform such as polypropylene, polycarbonate, ABS resin, or hard polyvinyl chloride, or a soft and flexible material such as soft polyvinyl chloride or polybutadiene. A resin material having flexibility can be used. An engaging structure (for example, a claw and a claw fits with each other) engages with the first connector 11 and the port 72 so that the connection between the first connector 11 and the port 72 is maintained even when a tensile force is applied. A matching groove) may be provided. Even if the first connector 11 is composed of two parts, a female member into which the port 72 is inserted and a holding member that holds the female member and has an engagement structure that engages with the port 72. Good.

  The second connector 12 is connected to a connector 90 provided at the upstream end of the catheter placed in the patient. As the catheter, for example, a catheter used in enteral nutrition therapy is preferable, and a nasal catheter passed from the patient's nasal cavity to the stomach or duodenum, a PEG catheter inserted into the patient's gastric fistula, and the like can be exemplified. As long as the second connector 12 can be connected to the connector 90 so that there is no leakage of fluid (that is, liquid-tight), the configuration is not limited, and for example, any known connector can be used. it can. Generally, it is preferable to have a male shape that can be inserted into a connector (female connector) 90 at the upstream end of the catheter. The material of the second connector 12 is not particularly limited, and for example, a hard resin material that does not substantially deform such as polypropylene, polycarbonate, ABS resin, and hard polyvinyl chloride can be used. An engagement structure (for example, a nail and a nail fit into each other) engages with the second connector 12 and the connector 90 so that the connection between the second connector 12 and the connector 90 is maintained even when a tensile force is applied. A matching groove) may be provided.

  The first tube 21 and the second tube 22 are preferably flexible and transparent, and the material thereof is not particularly limited. For example, rubber, polyvinyl chloride, polypropylene, polybutadiene, polyurethane, silicone, polyacetic acid are used. Ethyl is preferred, and among these, polyvinyl chloride is particularly preferred.

  The pump tube 25 is incorporated into an infusion device for transferring the fluid in the container 70 toward the patient. As the injection device, it is preferable to include a mechanism that can crush the pump tube 25 with a roller or the like and move the crushed portion from the first tube 21 side to the second tube 22 side. 2 can be exemplified. However, any injection device other than these may be used. The pump tube 25 can be elastically deformed by the pressure applied to the outer peripheral surface thereof so that the inner peripheral surface is in close contact, and when the pressure is released, the negative pressure generated in the pump tube 25 causes the container to It is necessary to have an elastic recovery force that allows the fluid in 70 to be sucked into the pump tube 25. Furthermore, it is necessary to have such durability that such mechanical characteristics do not change even when pressure is repeatedly applied from the injection device. Moreover, it is preferable that the pump tube 25 is transparent or translucent (that is, has translucency) so that the state of the fluid inside thereof can be observed. The material of the pump tube 25 is not particularly limited, but rubber, polyvinyl chloride, polypropylene, polybutadiene, polyurethane, silicone, and polyethyl acetate are preferable, and among these, polyvinyl chloride is particularly preferable.

  The first tube 21, the pump tube 25, and the second tube 22 are connected in this order from the first connector 11 side toward the second connector 12 side, and flow between the first connector 11 and the second connector 12. A flow path through which animals are transferred is formed.

  On the 1st tube 21, the 1st clamp 31 is provided as an opening-and-closing means which can switch repeatedly opening and closing of the flow path through which a fluid is transferred. In this example, the first clamp 31 is provided on the first tube 21, but may be provided on the second tube 22. The structure and material of the 1st clamp 31 are arbitrary, For example, a well-known clamp can be used.

  The configuration of the tube body 10 is not limited to the above. A conventionally known extension tube 100 shown in FIG. 6 can also be used.

  The connection tool 41 includes the third connector 13 at one end and the fourth connector 14 at the other end.

  The configuration of the third connector 13 is not limited as long as it can be airtightly connected to the male luer 82 at the tip of the syringe 80, and is appropriately set according to the specifications of the male luer 82. In general, it is preferable to have a female shape into which the male luer 82 can be inserted. For example, the third connector 13 may have a tapered surface on the inner peripheral surface thereof. Thereby, it can slip-connect with the syringe provided with the male luer 82 whose outer peripheral surface is a taper surface. Furthermore, the third connector 13 may have a male screw on its outer peripheral surface. Thereby, the screw lock connection with the syringe provided with the internal thread around the male luer 82 can be performed.

  If the 4th connector 14 can be airtightly connected with the 2nd connector 12 of the tube main body 10, and can be repeatedly attached or detached with respect to the 2nd connector 12, there will be no restriction | limiting in the structure. In general, it is preferable to have a female shape into which the second connector 12 can be inserted. For example, it may have a female shape having the same shape as the connector 90 of the catheter connected to the second connector 12.

  The material of the third connector 13 and the fourth connector 14 is not particularly limited. For example, a hard resin material that does not substantially deform such as polypropylene, polycarbonate, ABS resin, hard polyvinyl chloride, or the like, such as soft polyvinyl chloride, polybutadiene, or the like. A resin material having flexibility and flexibility such as the above can be used.

  In the connection tool 41 of FIG. 1, the third connector 13 and the fourth connector 14 are formed by integral molding using the same material. Thereby, since the connection tool 41 can be manufactured by one injection molding, the manufacturing cost of the connection tool 41 can be reduced. Moreover, the connection tool 41 can be reduced in size.

  However, the connection tool of the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the third connector 13 and the fourth connector 14 may be connected by a flexible tube. In this case, the tube and one of the third connector 13 and the fourth connector 14 are integrally formed of a flexible material, and the other of the third connector 13 and the fourth connector 14 is connected thereto. Also good. As a result, the degree of freedom of material selection for the third connector 13 and the fourth connector 14 is improved, and the number of parts constituting the connector can be reduced.

  A priming method using the extension tube 1 of the first embodiment configured as described above will be described below.

[Priming method 1A]
In the priming method 1A, priming is performed using only the syringe 80.

  First, the first connector 11 of the tube body 10 is connected to the port 72 of the container 70. At this time, the flow path of the tube body 10 is closed by the first clamp 31. The connector 41 may be connected to the second connector 12 of the tube body 10 or may not be connected.

  Next, the fluid is injected into the container 70 while the container 70 is suspended with the port 72 facing downward. There are no particular restrictions on the fluid, but for example, a fluid substance such as a nutrient used for enteral nutrition therapy, a contrast agent used when performing X-ray imaging, a hyaluronic acid injected into a joint, etc. If there is no restriction in particular. Further, the viscosity is not particularly limited. For example, it is difficult to perform priming only by the action of gravity, and it is preferable to have a certain degree of viscosity because the effect of the present invention is remarkably exhibited. Specifically, the viscosity of the fluid is preferably 1000 mPa · s or more. The upper limit of the viscosity of the fluid varies depending on the mechanical characteristics of the pump tube 25 and the like, but is generally preferably 50000 mPa · s or less.

  Next, the tube body 10 and the syringe 80 are connected via the connection tool 41. When the connection tool 41 is not connected to the tube body 10, the second connector 12 and the fourth connector 14 of the connection tool 41 are connected. Then, the male luer 82 of the syringe 80 is connected to the third connector 13 of the connector 41. There is no restriction | limiting in the structure of the syringe 80, For example, a well-known syringe can be selected arbitrarily and can be used. The syringe 80 includes a substantially cylindrical outer cylinder 81 provided with a male luer 82 at one end, and a plunger (also referred to as a piston) 83 inserted into the outer cylinder 81 so as to be able to be taken in and out. When connecting the male luer 82 of the syringe 80 to the third connector 13 of the connector 41, the plunger 83 is pushed into the outer cylinder 81.

  Next, the first clamp 31 is released, and the flow path of the extension tube 1 is opened. Subsequently, the plunger 83 of the syringe 80 is pulled. Since the port 72 to the syringe 80 of the container 70 are airtightly connected, the flow path in the extension tube 1 becomes negative pressure according to the pulling amount of the plunger 83. The fluid in the container 70 is introduced into the extension tube 1 by this negative pressure. Preferably, the fluid is introduced until substantially all of the tube body 10 from the first connector 11 to the second connector 12 is filled with the fluid. However, it is preferable not to introduce a fluid into the connector 41.

  The capacity of the syringe 80 is preferably the same as or larger than the internal volume of the extension tube 1. When the capacity of the syringe 80 is so large, a large negative pressure can be generated. Therefore, since the fluid can be quickly flowed into the extension tube 1, the priming operation can be completed in a short time. Further, the fluid can be introduced into the extension tube 1 to the above-described degree with a small number of pulling operations (preferably one pulling operation) of the plunger 83.

  If the fluid cannot be sufficiently introduced into the extension tube 1 by one pulling operation of the plunger 83, the following operation is performed. After the plunger 83 is pulled, the first clamp 31 closes the flow path. Next, the syringe 80 is separated from the extension tube 1. Specifically, the second connector 12 and the fourth connector 14 are separated. Alternatively, the male luer 82 of the syringe 80 and the third connector 13 may be separated. Next, the plunger 83 of the syringe 80 is pushed into the outer cylinder 81. Next, the syringe 80 is communicated with the extension tube 1. Then, the plunger 83 is pulled. Repeat the above operations as necessary.

  After introducing the fluid into the tube body 10 up to the second connector 12, the flow path is closed by the first clamp 31.

  This completes the priming operation.

  Thereafter, the second connector 12 and the fourth connector 14 are separated, and the connector 90 of the catheter placed in the patient is connected to the second connector 12. Next, the pump tube 25 of the extension tube 1 is attached to the injection device. Next, the first clamp 31 is released, and the flow path of the extension tube 1 is opened. Then, the fluid in the container 70 is administered to the patient by operating the injection device.

[Priming method 1B]
In the priming method 1A described above, the priming operation was completed using only the syringe 80. In contrast, in the priming method 1B, the priming operation is completed by using the syringe 80 and the injection device together.

  The priming method 1B is the same as the priming method 1A until the operation of pulling the plunger 83 of the syringe 80. However, in the priming method 1 </ b> B, the fluid is introduced into only a part of the tube body 10 using the syringe 80. Next, the flow path is closed by the first clamp 31. Next, the second connector 12 and the fourth connector 14 are separated, and the second connector 12 is opened. Next, the pump tube 25 of the extension tube 1 is attached to the injection device. Next, the first clamp 31 is released, and the flow path of the extension tube 1 is opened. Then, the tube body 10 is filled with the fluid up to the second connector 12 by operating the injection device.

  This completes the priming operation.

  Thereafter, the connector 90 of the catheter placed on the patient is connected to the second connector 12. The infusion device is then operated to administer the fluid in container 70 to the patient.

  According to the priming method 1B in which priming is completed using the injection device subsequent to the syringe 80, a part of the priming operation is performed by the injection device. Therefore, the plunger operation of the syringe 80 is performed due to low fluidity of the fluid. If a large force is required, the burden on the operator is reduced.

  In the priming method 1B, it is preferable to introduce the fluid into the tube body 10 using the syringe 80 until at least the first tube 21 is filled with the fluid, and further until the pump tube 25 is filled with the fluid. When the pump tube 25 is attached to the injection device, the amount of air in the portion of the extension tube 1 closer to the container 70 than the injection device (preferably free of air) is advantageous for the priming operation using the injection device. It is.

  As described above, according to the first embodiment, the container 70 in which the fluid is stored and the extension tube 1 are connected, and the syringe 80 is airtightly connected to the downstream end of the extension tube 1. Therefore, even when the fluidity of the fluid is low, the pulling operation of the plunger 83 can generate a negative pressure sufficient to cause the fluid to flow into the extension tube 1. Therefore, the semi-solidified fluid can be easily primed into the extension tube 1.

  In the first embodiment, since the extension tube 1 is composed of two parts, that is, the tube main body 10 and the connection tool 41, the conventional extension tube (for example, the extension tube 100 in FIG. 6) is used as it is as the tube main body 10. Can be used. Therefore, the priming method according to the first embodiment can be performed only by adding the connector 41 and the syringe 80. Therefore, the priming method of the first embodiment is low in cost.

  In the first embodiment, when the fluidity of the fluid is so low that the fluid hardly flows by the action of gravity alone, the first clamp 31 can be omitted.

(Embodiment 2)
FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of the extension tube 2 according to the second embodiment of the present invention. The same components as those of the extension tube 1 of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof is omitted. Hereinafter, the second embodiment will be described with a focus on differences from the first embodiment.

  As illustrated, the extension tube 2 includes a tube main body 10 and a connector 42 that can be attached to and detached from the tube main body 10.

  The tube body 10 includes a first connector 11, a second connector 12, and a first tube 21, a pump tube 25, and a second tube 22 therebetween. The configuration of the tube body 10 is the same as that of the first embodiment.

  The connection tool 42 includes three tubes 23 a, 23 b, and 23 c that are in communication with each other via the branch portion 52. The tubes 23a, 23b, and 23c preferably have flexibility and transparency, and the material thereof is not particularly limited. For example, the same as the first and second tubes 11 and 12 described in the first embodiment. Materials can be used.

  There is no restriction | limiting in particular in the material of the branch part 52, For example, resin materials, such as a polyvinyl chloride, a polybutadiene, an ABS resin, a polycarbonate, a polypropylene, can be used.

  A third connector 13 that can be airtightly connected to the male luer 82 at the distal end of the syringe 80 is connected to the distal end of the tube 23a. On the tube 23a, the 2nd clamp 32 is provided as an opening-and-closing means which can open and close the inside of the tube 23a repeatedly. The configuration and material of the second clamp 32 are arbitrary, and for example, a known clamp can be used.

  A fourth connector 14 that can be airtightly connected to the second connector 12 of the tube main body 10 and can be repeatedly attached to and detached from the second connector 12 is connected to the tip of the tube 23b.

  The fifth connector 15 is connected to the tip of the tube 23c. The shape and material of the fifth connector 15 are not particularly limited, but are preferably the same as those of the second connector 12.

  The fifth connector 15 can be hermetically sealed with a sealing member 15s as an opening / closing means. The sealing member 15s can be repeatedly attached to and detached from the fifth connector 15. The material of the sealing member 15s is not particularly limited, but for example, a hard resin material that does not substantially deform such as polypropylene, polycarbonate, hard polyvinyl chloride, and silicone, and softness such as soft polyvinyl chloride and silicone, and the like. A resin material having flexibility can be used.

  A priming method using the extension tube 2 of the second embodiment configured as described above will be described below.

[Priming method 2A]
In the priming method 2A, priming is performed using only the syringe 80.

  First, the first connector 11 of the tube body 10 is connected to the port 72 of the container 70. At this time, the flow path of the tube body 10 is closed by the first clamp 31. The connector 42 may be connected to the second connector 12 of the tube body 10 or may not be connected.

  Next, the fluid is injected into the container 70 while the container 70 is suspended with the port 72 facing downward.

  Next, the tube body 10 and the syringe 80 are connected via the connection tool 42. When the connection tool 42 is not connected to the tube body 10, the second connector 12 and the fourth connector 14 of the connection tool 42 are connected. Then, the male luer 82 of the syringe 80 is connected to the third connector 13 of the connector 42. At this time, the plunger 83 is pushed into the outer cylinder 81. Moreover, the 2nd clamp 32 is open | released and the 3rd connector 13 and the 4th connector 14 are connected via tubes 23a and 23b. Further, the fifth connector 15 is sealed with a sealing member 15s.

  Next, the first clamp 31 is released, and the flow path of the extension tube 2 is opened. Subsequently, the plunger 83 of the syringe 80 is pulled. Since the port 72 of the container 70 to the syringe 80 are airtightly connected, the flow path in the extension tube 2 becomes a negative pressure according to the pulling amount of the plunger 83. Due to this negative pressure, the fluid in the container 70 is introduced into the extension tube 2. Preferably, the fluid is introduced until substantially all of the tube body 10 from the first connector 11 to the second connector 12 is filled with the fluid.

  After introducing the fluid into the tube body 10 up to the second connector 12, the flow path is closed by the first clamp 31.

  In the above, a fluid may be further introduced into the branching part 52. Thereby, the amount of air injected into the patient's body can be further reduced.

  This completes the priming operation.

  Thereafter, the sealing member 15s is removed from the fifth connector 15, and the fifth connector 15 is connected to the connector 90 of the catheter placed in the patient. Further, the tube 23 a is closed by the second clamp 32.

  Next, the pump tube 25 of the extension tube 2 is attached to the injection device. Next, the first clamp 31 is released, and the flow path of the extension tube 2 is opened. Then, the fluid in the container 70 is administered to the patient by operating the injection device.

[Priming method 2B]
In the priming method 2A described above, the priming operation was completed using only the syringe 80. In contrast, in the priming method 2B, the priming operation is completed by using the syringe 80 and the injection device together.

  The priming method 2B is the same as the priming method 2A until the operation of pulling the plunger 83 of the ringe 80. However, in the priming method 2 </ b> B, the fluid is introduced into only a part of the tube body 10 using the syringe 80. Next, the flow path of the tube 23 a is closed with the second clamp 32. Next, the pump tube 25 of the extension tube 1 is attached to the injection device. Next, the sealing member 15s is removed from the fifth connector 15, and the fifth connector 15 is opened. Then, the tube body 10 is filled with the fluid up to the second connector 12 by operating the injection device. Furthermore, it is preferable to introduce the fluid into the fifth connector 15. Thereby, the amount of air injected into the patient's body can be further reduced.

  This completes the priming operation.

  Thereafter, the catheter connector 90 placed on the patient is connected to the fifth connector 15. The infusion device is then operated to administer the fluid in container 70 to the patient.

  According to the priming method 2B in which priming is completed using the injection device subsequent to the syringe 80, since the priming operation is partially performed by the injection device, the plunger operation of the syringe 80 is performed because the fluidity of the fluid is low. If a large force is required, the burden on the operator is reduced. Further, since the fluid can be introduced up to the fifth connector 15, the amount of air injected into the patient's body can be reduced.

  In the priming method 2B, it is preferable to introduce the fluid into the tube body 10 using the syringe 80 until at least the first tube 21 is filled with the fluid, and further until the pump tube 25 is filled with the fluid. When the pump tube 25 is attached to the injection device, the amount of air in the portion of the extension tube 1 closer to the container 70 than the injection device (preferably free of air) is advantageous for the priming operation using the injection device. It is.

  As described above, according to the second embodiment, the container 70 in which the fluid is stored and the extension tube 2 are connected, and the syringe 80 is communicated with the extension tube 2 in an airtight manner. Therefore, even when the fluidity of the fluid is low, a pulling operation of the plunger 83 can generate a negative pressure sufficient to cause the fluid to flow into the extension tube 2. Therefore, the semi-solidified fluid can be easily primed into the extension tube 2.

  In the second embodiment, since the extension tube 2 is composed of two parts, that is, the tube main body 10 and the connection tool 42, a conventional extension tube (for example, the extension tube 100 in FIG. 6) is used as the tube main body 10 as it is. Can be used. Therefore, the priming method according to the second embodiment can be performed only by adding the connection tool 42 and the syringe 80. Therefore, the priming method of the second embodiment is low cost.

  Further, in the second embodiment, since the connector 42 includes the fifth connector 15 that can connect the connector 90 of the catheter, the syringe 80 is used when the fluid is administered to the patient after the priming operation. Need not be removed from the extension tube 2.

  In the above example, instead of the second clamp 32, a sealing member that can hermetically seal the third connector 13 and can be repeatedly attached to and detached from the third connector 13 may be used. Although the structure of such a sealing member is arbitrary, for example, it may be the same as a sealing member 13s (see FIG. 4) described later.

  In the above example, instead of the sealing member 15s, a clamp capable of repeatedly opening and closing the inside of the tube 23a may be provided on the tube 23c. The configuration of such a clamp is arbitrary, but may be the same as the second clamp 32, for example.

  In the second embodiment, after the priming operation is completed, the second connector 12 and the fourth connector 14 may be separated, and the second connector 12 may be connected to the connector 90 of the catheter placed in the patient. Thus, when removing the connection tool 42 at the time of administration of the fluid, the second clamp 32 can be omitted in the connection tool 42. Moreover, the 3rd connector 13 and the 4th connector 14 should just be connected, and the branch part 52, the tube 23c, the 5th connector 15, and 15s of sealing members can be abbreviate | omitted. Moreover, it is preferable not to introduce a fluid into the connector 42 to be removed after the priming operation.

  Except for the above, the second embodiment is the same as the first embodiment.

One Example of the priming using the extension tube 2 shown in FIG. 3 is shown. The tube main body 10 having an internal volume of about 50 milliliters (50 × 10 ⁻⁶ m ³ ) and the connector 42 were connected in order to the port 72 of the container 70. A nutrient having a viscosity of 20,000 mPa · s was injected into the container 70. A syringe 80 having an overscale of up to 50 ml (50 × 10 ⁻⁶ m ³ ) was connected to the third connector 13 of the connector 42. When priming was performed according to the procedure described in the priming method 2A, the fluid could be introduced to the second tube 22 by one pulling operation of the plunger 83.

(Embodiment 3)
FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of the extension tube 3 according to the third embodiment of the present invention. The same components as those of the extension tube 1 of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof is omitted. Hereinafter, the third embodiment will be described focusing on differences from the first embodiment.

  As illustrated, the extension tube 3 includes the first connector 11, the second connector 12, the first tube 21, the pump tube 25, and the first connector 11 in the same manner as the tube body 10 of the first and second embodiments. 2 tubes 22.

  In the third embodiment, the branch portion 53 including the third connector 13 is provided between the first tube 21 and the pump tube 25. The third connector 13 communicates with the first tube 21 and the pump tube 25 via the branch portion 53. The material of the branch part 53 is not particularly limited, but the same material as that of the branch part 52 described in the second embodiment can be used.

  The configuration of the third connector 13 is not limited as long as it can be airtightly connected to the male luer 82 at the tip of the syringe 80, and is appropriately set according to the specifications of the male luer 82.

  In FIG. 4, the third connector 13 is integrally formed with the branch portion 53, but the third connector 13 and the branch portion 53 communicate with each other via a flexible tube or the like, as in the second embodiment. May be.

  The second connector 12 can be hermetically sealed with a sealing member 12s as an opening / closing means. The third connector 13 can also be hermetically sealed with a sealing member 13s as an opening / closing means. The sealing members 12s and 13s can be repeatedly attached to and detached from the second and third connectors 12 and 13. The material of the sealing members 12s and 13s is not particularly limited. For example, a hard resin material that does not substantially deform such as polypropylene, polycarbonate, hard polyvinyl chloride, or silicone, or a soft material such as soft polyvinyl chloride or silicone, for example. A resin material having flexibility and flexibility can be used.

  A priming method using the extension tube 3 of the third embodiment configured as described above will be described below.

[Priming method 3A]
In the priming method 3A, priming is performed using only the syringe 80.

  First, the first connector 11 of the extension tube 3 is connected to the port 72 of the container 70. The third connector 13 and the male luer 82 of the syringe 80 are connected. At this time, the plunger 83 is pushed into the outer cylinder 81. The second connector 12 is sealed with a sealing member 12s. The first clamp 31 is released, and the flow path of the extension tube 3 is opened.

  Next, the fluid is injected into the container 70 while the container 70 is suspended with the port 72 facing downward.

  Next, the plunger 83 of the syringe 80 is pulled. Since the flow path in the extension tube 3 is hermetically sealed, the flow path in the extension tube 3 becomes negative pressure according to the pulling amount of the plunger 83. The fluid in the container 70 is introduced into the extension tube 3 by this negative pressure. The fluid passes through the branch part 53 and flows into the syringe 80. After a predetermined amount of fluid is introduced into the syringe 80, the flow path is closed by the first clamp 31.

  Next, the sealing member 12 s is removed from the second connector 12. Then, the plunger 83 of the syringe 80 is pushed into the outer cylinder 81. The fluid passes through the branch portion 53 and flows into the pump tube 25 of the extension tube 3. It is preferable to push the plunger 83 until the fluid reaches the second connector 12.

  This completes the priming operation.

  Thereafter, the second connector 12 is connected to the connector 90 of the catheter placed in the patient. When the fluid remains in the syringe 80, the plunger 83 is pushed in and the fluid in the syringe 80 is discharged. Next, the syringe 80 is removed from the third connector 13, and the third connector 13 is sealed with the sealing member 13s.

  Next, the pump tube 25 of the extension tube 3 is attached to the injection device. Next, the first clamp 31 is released, and the flow path of the extension tube 3 is opened. Then, the fluid in the container 70 is administered to the patient by operating the injection device.

[Priming method 3B]
In the priming method 3A described above, the priming operation was completed using only the syringe 80. In contrast, in the priming method 3B, the priming operation is completed using the syringe 80 and the injection device in combination.

  First, the first connector 11 of the extension tube 3 is connected to the port 72 of the container 70. The third connector 13 and the male luer 82 of the syringe 80 are connected. At this time, the plunger 83 is pushed into the outer cylinder 81. The pump tube 25 of the extension tube 3 is attached to the injection device. The flow path of the pump tube 25 is closed by the injection device. The 1st clamp 31 is cancelled | released and the flow path of the extension tube 3 is opened. The second connector 12 is opened.

  Next, the fluid is injected into the container 70 while the container 70 is suspended with the port 72 facing downward.

  Next, the plunger 83 of the syringe 80 is pulled. Since the flow path in the extension tube 3 is hermetically sealed, the flow path in the extension tube 3 becomes negative pressure according to the pulling amount of the plunger 83. The fluid in the container 70 is introduced into the extension tube 3 by this negative pressure. It is preferable to introduce the fluid until just before the fluid flows into the branch portion 53.

  Next, the flow path of the extension tube 3 is closed by the first clamp 31. And the syringe 80 is removed from the 3rd connector 13, and the 3rd connector 13 is sealed with the sealing member 13s.

  Next, the first clamp 31 is released, and the flow path of the extension tube 3 is opened. Then, by operating the injection device, the extension tube 3 is filled with the fluid up to the second connector 12.

  This completes the priming operation.

  Thereafter, the second connector 12 is connected to the connector 90 of the catheter placed in the patient. The infusion device is then operated to administer the fluid in container 70 to the patient.

  In the priming method 3B, the sealing member 12s for sealing the second connector 2 is not necessary.

[Priming method 3C]
In the priming method 3C, similarly to the priming method 3B, the priming operation is completed by using the syringe 80 and the injection device together.

  First, the first connector 11 of the extension tube 3 is connected to the port 72 of the container 70. The third connector 13 and the male luer 82 of the syringe 80 are connected. At this time, the plunger 83 is pushed into the outer cylinder 81. Moreover, the 1st clamp 31 is cancelled | released and the flow path of the extension tube 3 is opened. The second connector 12 is sealed with a sealing member 12s.

  Next, the fluid is injected into the container 70 while the container 70 is suspended with the port 72 facing downward.

  Next, the plunger 83 of the syringe 80 is pulled. Since the flow path in the extension tube 3 is hermetically sealed, the flow path in the extension tube 3 becomes negative pressure according to the pulling amount of the plunger 83. The fluid in the container 70 is introduced into the extension tube 3 by this negative pressure. It is preferable to introduce the fluid until just before the fluid flows into the branch portion 53.

  Next, the flow path of the extension tube 3 is closed by the first clamp 31. And the syringe 80 is removed from the 3rd connector 13, and the 3rd connector 13 is sealed with the sealing member 13s.

  Next, the pump tube 25 of the extension tube 3 is attached to the injection device. Next, the first clamp 31 is released, and the flow path of the extension tube 3 is opened. Further, the sealing member 12s is removed from the second connector 12, and the second connector 12 is opened. Then, by operating the injection device, the extension tube 3 is filled with the fluid up to the second connector 12.

  This completes the priming operation.

  Thereafter, the second connector 12 is connected to the connector 90 of the catheter placed in the patient. The infusion device is then operated to administer the fluid in container 70 to the patient.

  According to the priming methods 3B and 3C in which priming is completed using the injection device subsequent to the syringe 80, a part of the priming operation is performed by the injection device. When a large force is required for the plunger operation, the burden on the operator is reduced.

  As described above, according to the third embodiment, the container 70 storing the fluid and the extension tube 3 are connected, and the syringe 80 is communicated with the extension tube 3 in an airtight manner. Therefore, even when the fluidity of the fluid is low, the pulling operation of the plunger 83 can generate a negative pressure sufficient to cause the fluid to flow into the extension tube 3. Therefore, the semi-solidified fluid can be easily primed into the extension tube 3.

  Unlike Embodiments 1 and 2, in Embodiment 3, for example, after administration of a nutrient to a patient, a liquid (or fluid) other than a nutrient such as water is used via the third connector 13 using a syringe 80. Can be administered to a patient.

  In the second embodiment, a relatively large connecting tool 42 is required separately from the tube main body 10. On the other hand, in the third embodiment, a large component corresponding to the connection tool 42 is not required. Therefore, the configuration of the extension tube 3 can be simplified.

  In the third embodiment, in FIG. 4, the branch portion 53 is provided on the first connector 11 side than the pump tube 25, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the first connector 11, the second connector 12, It can be provided at any position on the flow path between. For example, you may provide in the 2nd connector 12 side rather than the pump tube 25. FIG. It is preferable that the first clamp 31 is provided on the flow path between the first connector 11 and the branch portion 53.

  In the third embodiment, instead of the sealing member 12s, a clamp that can repeatedly open and close the flow path of the fluid is provided in a portion (for example, the second tube 22) on the second connector 12 side of the branching portion 53. May be. The configuration of such a clamp is arbitrary, but may be the same as the first clamp 31, for example.

  Except for the above, the third embodiment is the same as the first embodiment.

(Embodiment 4)
FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of the extension tube 4 according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. The same components as those of the extension tube 3 of the third embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof is omitted. Hereinafter, the fourth embodiment will be described focusing on differences from the third embodiment.

  Similar to the third embodiment, the fourth embodiment also includes a branch portion 54 between the first tube 21 and the pump tube 25. However, unlike the third embodiment, in the fourth embodiment, the third connector 13 and the branch portion 54 are connected via a flexible tube 24.

  The material of the branch part 54 is not particularly limited, but the same material as that of the branch parts 52 and 53 described in the second and third embodiments can be used.

  The configuration of the third connector 13 is not limited as long as it can be airtightly connected to the male luer 82 at the tip of the syringe 80, and is appropriately set according to the specifications of the male luer 82. The third connector 13 may be formed integrally with the tube 24 using the same material as the tube 24.

  On the tube 24, the 3rd clamp 33 is provided as an opening-and-closing means which can open and close the inside of the tube 24 repeatedly. The configuration and material of the third clamp 33 are arbitrary, and for example, a known clamp can be used.

  A priming method using the extension tube 4 of the fourth embodiment configured as described above will be described below.

[Priming method 4A]
In the priming method 4A, priming is performed using only the syringe 80.

  First, the first connector 11 of the extension tube 4 is connected to the port 72 of the container 70. The third connector 13 and the male luer 82 of the syringe 80 are connected. At this time, the plunger 83 is pushed into the outer cylinder 81. The 3rd clamp 33 is cancelled | released and the flow path of the tube 24 is opened. The second connector 12 is sealed with a sealing member 12s. The first clamp 31 is released, and the flow path of the extension tube 4 is kept open.

  Next, the fluid is injected into the container 70 while the container 70 is suspended with the port 72 facing downward.

  Next, the plunger 83 of the syringe 80 is pulled. Since the flow path in the extension tube 4 is hermetically sealed, the flow path in the extension tube 4 becomes negative pressure according to the pulling amount of the plunger 83. The fluid in the container 70 is introduced into the extension tube 4 by this negative pressure. The fluid passes through the branch portion 54 and flows into the syringe 80. After a predetermined amount of fluid is introduced into the syringe 80, the flow path is closed by the first clamp 31.

  Next, the sealing member 12 s is removed from the second connector 12. Then, the plunger 83 of the syringe 80 is pushed into the outer cylinder 81. The fluid passes through the branch portion 54 and flows into the pump tube 25 of the extension tube 4. It is preferable to push the plunger 83 until the fluid reaches the second connector 12.

  This completes the priming operation.

  Thereafter, the second connector 12 is connected to the connector 90 of the catheter placed in the patient. When the fluid remains in the syringe 80, the plunger 83 is pushed in and the fluid in the syringe 80 is discharged. Next, the flow path of the tube 24 is closed with the third clamp 33.

  Next, the pump tube 25 of the extension tube 4 is attached to the injection device. Next, the first clamp 31 is released, and the flow path of the extension tube 4 is opened. Then, the fluid in the container 70 is administered to the patient by operating the injection device.

[Priming method 4B]
In the priming method 4A described above, the priming operation was completed using only the syringe 80. In contrast, in the priming method 4B, the priming operation is completed using the syringe 80 and the injection device in combination.

  First, the first connector 11 of the extension tube 4 is connected to the port 72 of the container 70. The third connector 13 and the male luer 82 of the syringe 80 are connected. At this time, the plunger 83 is pushed into the outer cylinder 81. The 3rd clamp 33 is cancelled | released and the flow path of the tube 24 is opened. The pump tube 25 of the extension tube 4 is attached to the injection device. The flow path of the pump tube 25 is closed by the injection device. The 1st clamp 31 is cancelled | released and the flow path of the extension tube 4 is opened. The second connector 12 is opened.

  Next, the fluid is injected into the container 70 while the container 70 is suspended with the port 72 facing downward.

  Next, the plunger 83 of the syringe 80 is pulled. Since the flow path in the extension tube 4 is hermetically sealed, the flow path in the extension tube 4 becomes negative pressure according to the pulling amount of the plunger 83. The fluid in the container 70 is introduced into the extension tube 4 by this negative pressure. It is preferable to introduce the fluid until just before the fluid flows into the branch portion 54.

  Next, the flow path of the tube 24 is closed by the third clamp 33.

  Next, the injection device is operated to fill the extension tube 4 with the fluid to the second connector 12.

  This completes the priming operation.

  Thereafter, the second connector 12 is connected to the connector 90 of the catheter placed in the patient. The infusion device is then operated to administer the fluid in container 70 to the patient.

  In the priming method 4B, the sealing member 12s for sealing the second connector 2 is not necessary.

[Priming method 4C]
In the priming method 4C, similarly to the priming method 4B, the priming operation is completed by using the syringe 80 and the injection device together.

  First, the first connector 11 of the extension tube 4 is connected to the port 72 of the container 70. The third connector 13 and the male luer 82 of the syringe 80 are connected. At this time, the plunger 83 is pushed into the outer cylinder 81. The 3rd clamp 33 is cancelled | released and the flow path of the tube 24 is opened. The 1st clamp 31 is cancelled | released and the flow path of the extension tube 4 is opened. The second connector 12 is sealed with a sealing member 12s.

  Next, the fluid is injected into the container 70 while the container 70 is suspended with the port 72 facing downward.

  Next, the plunger 83 of the syringe 80 is pulled. Since the flow path in the extension tube 4 is hermetically sealed, the flow path in the extension tube 4 becomes negative pressure according to the pulling amount of the plunger 83. The fluid in the container 70 is introduced into the extension tube 4 by this negative pressure. It is preferable to introduce the fluid until just before the fluid flows into the branch portion 54.

  Next, the flow path of the tube 24 is closed by the third clamp 33.

  Next, the pump tube 25 of the extension tube 4 is attached to the injection device. Next, the sealing member 12s is removed from the second connector 12, and the second connector 12 is opened. Then, by operating the injection device, the extension tube 4 is filled with the fluid up to the second connector 12.

  This completes the priming operation.

  Thereafter, the second connector 12 is connected to the connector 90 of the catheter placed in the patient. The infusion device is then operated to administer the fluid in container 70 to the patient.

  According to the priming methods 4B and 4C in which priming is completed by using the injection device subsequent to the syringe 80, a part of the priming operation is performed by the injection device. When a large force is required for the plunger operation, the burden on the operator is reduced.

  In the priming methods 4B and 4C, the clamp 31 can be omitted.

  As described above, according to the fourth embodiment, the container 70 in which the fluid is stored and the extension tube 4 are connected, and the syringe 80 is communicated with the extension tube 4 in an airtight manner. Therefore, even when the fluidity of the fluid is low, a pulling operation of the plunger 83 can generate a negative pressure sufficient to cause the fluid to flow into the extension tube 4. Therefore, the semi-solidified fluid can be easily primed into the extension tube 4.

  Unlike Embodiments 1 and 2, in Embodiment 4, for example, after administration of nutrients to a patient, a liquid (or fluid) other than nutrients such as water is used via the third connector 13 using a syringe 80. Can be administered to a patient.

  In the second embodiment, a relatively large connecting tool 42 is required separately from the tube main body 10, whereas in the fourth embodiment, a large component corresponding to the connecting tool 42 is not required. Therefore, the configuration of the extension tube 4 can be simplified.

  In the fourth embodiment, since the third clamp 33 is provided on the tube 24 that connects the third connector 13 and the branching portion 54, the syringe 80 is moved to the first when the fluid is administered to the patient after the priming operation. 3 There is no need to remove from the connector 13.

  As described in the third embodiment, also in the fourth embodiment, the branching portion 54 can be provided at an arbitrary position on the flow path between the first connector 11 and the second connector 12. For example, the branch portion 54 may be provided closer to the second connector 12 than the pump tube 25. The first clamp 31 is preferably provided on the flow path between the first connector 11 and the branch portion 54.

  In FIG. 5, the third clamp 33 is provided on the tube 24, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, instead of the third clamp 33, similarly to the third embodiment, a sealing member that hermetically seals the third connector 13 and can be repeatedly attached to and detached from the third connector 13 may be used.

  Except for the above, the fourth embodiment is the same as the third embodiment.

  The above first to fourth embodiments are merely examples. The present invention is not limited to these Embodiments 1 to 4, and can be modified as appropriate.

  For example, the container 70 in which the fluid is stored, which is used in the first to fourth embodiments, is an open-type container whose inside communicates with the outside, but the present invention is stored in a container other than this. It can also be applied to the priming of different fluids. For example, the container may be a sealed flexible bag (so-called pouch) or a syringe. However, the present invention can prime the extension tube even when using an open container that is difficult to prime by applying pressure to the fluid in the container. That is, it is preferable that the container is an open container since the effect of the present invention is remarkably exhibited.

(Embodiment 5)
When using the extension tube 1 of Embodiment 1 (see FIG. 1) in the medical field, it is necessary to perform priming first as described above. Therefore, it is desirable that the second connector 12 of the tube body 10 and the fourth connector 14 of the connector 41 are delivered to a medical institution in a pre-connected state. Moreover, in order to perform priming using the syringe 80, the second connector 12 and the fourth connector 14 need to be connected in an airtight manner.

  However, when the extension tube 1 and the connection tool 41 are sterilized with a sterilization gas such as EO (ethylene oxide), the second connector 12 and the fourth connector 14 are There is a problem that sterilization gas cannot enter the fitting portion with the fourth connector 14 and the fitting portion cannot be sterilized.

  Therefore, the connection state between the second connector 12 and the fourth connector 14 is airtight enough to allow priming to be performed between the temporary connection state in which a sterilization gas can enter between the connectors 12 and 14. It is desirable to be able to easily switch to the main connection state connected to.

  In the fifth embodiment, a configuration of the connection tool 41 that enables this will be described.

  FIG. 7A is a plan view of the connector 41 constituting the extension tube according to the fifth embodiment, FIG. 7B is a half sectional front view thereof, and FIG. 7C is a half sectional side view thereof. 7B and 7C, the external shape of the connection tool 41 is shown on the left side, and the cross-sectional view along the plane including the central axis 41 a of the connection tool 41 is shown on the right side.

  As described in the first embodiment, the connection tool 41 includes the third connector 13 connected to the male luer 82 at the tip of the syringe 80 at one end, and is connected to the second connector 12 of the tube body 10 at the other end. A fourth connector 14 is provided. A pair of gripping portions 411 projecting outward in the radial direction is formed on the outer peripheral surface on the fourth connector 14 side so that the connector 41 can be easily gripped. However, the shape of the grip portion 411 is not limited to this, and may be an arbitrary shape. Further, the grip portion 411 may be omitted.

  The inner peripheral surface 130 of the third connector 13 may have any shape as long as it can be airtightly connected to the male luer 82 at the tip of the syringe 80. For example, a 6/100 tapered surface conforming to ISO594-1 may be used.

  The shape of the inner peripheral surface 140 of the fourth connector 14 is arbitrary as long as it can be airtightly connected to the second connector 12 of the tube body 10.

  FIG. 8 is a front view of the second connector 12. The insertion portion 120 on the distal end side of the second connector 12 is inserted into the fourth connector 14 of the connector 41 and the connector 90 (see FIG. 1) provided at the upstream end of the catheter. On the outer peripheral surface of the insertion portion 120, eight minute taper portions 121 a to 121 h and a tip taper portion 122 are provided from the base end side (the side to which the second tube 22 (see FIG. 1) is connected) toward the tip end side. Adjacent to each other. Each of the small taper portions 121a to 121h includes a tapered surface whose outer diameter decreases as it approaches the tip. The taper angles of the respective tapered surfaces of the eight minute taper portions 121a to 121h are substantially the same. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 8, the contour line viewed from the front of the minute taper portions 121a to 121h forms a plurality of steps having a substantially saw-tooth shape. The portions forming the maximum diameters of the minute taper portions 121 a to 121 h and the tip taper portion 122 are arranged along a straight line indicated by a one-dot chain line 125 inclined with respect to the longitudinal direction of the second connector 12. That is, when viewed macroscopically, the outer peripheral surface of the insertion portion 120 is a tapered surface along the alternate long and short dash line 125 whose outer diameter decreases as it approaches the tip.

  As shown in FIGS. 7B and 7C, the inner peripheral surface 140 of the fourth connector 14 of the connector 41 is a tapered surface whose inner diameter increases on the opening side (the side on which the second connector 12 is inserted). . The taper angle of the taper surface of the inner peripheral surface 140 is set to be substantially the same as the taper angle of the macroscopic taper surface of the insertion portion 120 of the second connector 12 described above. Four engaging protrusions 141 are formed on the inner peripheral surface 140. As shown in FIG. 7A, the four engaging protrusions 141 are discretely arranged at equiangular intervals with respect to the central axis 41a. Further, as shown in FIGS. 7B and 7C, the four engagement protrusions 141 are arranged in the vicinity of the opening at substantially the same position in the direction of the central axis 41a.

  A method of connecting the fourth connector 14 and the second connector 12 of the connection tool 41 configured as described above will be described.

  9A is a half sectional front view showing a temporarily connected state between the fourth connector 14 and the second connector 12, and FIG. 9B is a half sectional side view thereof. Actually, the second tube 12 is connected to the second connector 12 (see FIG. 1), but the illustration of the second tube 22 is omitted in these drawings in order to simplify the drawing. In this temporary connection state, the insertion portion 120 of the second connector 12 is inserted relatively shallowly into the fourth connector 14. Specifically, the minute taper portion 121 a on the most proximal side of the second connector 12 is exposed outside the fourth connector 14.

  In the temporary connection state, a slight gap is formed between the insertion portion 120 of the second connector 12 and the inner peripheral surface 140 of the fourth connector 14. Since sterilization gas can be introduced into this gap, the outer peripheral surface of the insertion portion 120 can be sterilized.

  On the other hand, the engagement protrusion 141 of the fourth connector 14 engages with one of the steps formed on the outer peripheral surface of the insertion portion 120 of the second connector 12 (in this example, the maximum diameter portion of the minute taper portion 121c). ing. Therefore, the second connector 12 and the fourth connector 14 in the temporarily connected state are prevented from being separated due to vibration during transportation.

  The extension tube 1 of the fifth embodiment is delivered to a medical institution such as a hospital with the second connector 12 and the fourth connector 14 connected in a temporarily connected state. When performing enteral nutrition therapy or the like, a medical institution operator pushes the second connector 12 deeply into the fourth connector 14 to bring the second connector 12 and the fourth connector 14 into a main connection state.

  FIG. 10A is a half sectional front view showing a main connection state of the second connector and the fourth connector in Embodiment 5 of the present invention, and FIG. 10B is a half sectional side view thereof. Actually, the second tube 12 is connected to the second connector 12 (see FIG. 1), but the illustration of the second tube 22 is omitted in these drawings in order to simplify the drawing. In this fully connected state, the insertion portion 120 of the second connector 12 is inserted sufficiently deep into the fourth connector 14. As can be easily understood by comparing with FIG. 9A and FIG. 9B, the minute taper portion 121 a on the most proximal side of the second connector 12 is also inserted into the fourth connector 14.

  In this connection state, the minute taper portions 121 a to 121 h and the tip taper portion 122 formed in the insertion portion 120 are in close contact with the inner peripheral surface of the fourth connector 14. Thereby, the 2nd connector 12 and the 4th connector 14 are connected airtightly. As a result, as described in the first embodiment, the fluid can be primed into the extension tube 1 using the syringe 80.

  Further, the engagement protrusion 141 of the fourth connector 14 is in pressure contact with one of the steps formed on the outer peripheral surface of the insertion portion 120 of the second connector 12 (in this example, the minute taper portion 121a). Therefore, even if an external force such as tension acts on the extension tube 1 during the priming operation, the second connector 12 and the fourth connector 14 in the main connection state are prevented from being unintentionally separated.

  After the priming is completed, the second connector 12 and the fourth connector 14 in the main connection state can be separated by pulling the second connector 12 and the connection tool 41 strongly.

  As described above, according to the fifth embodiment, the second connector 12 is engaged with the second connector 12 so that the two connectors 12 and 14 are not separated while having a gap between the second connector 12 and the fourth connector 14. A combined structure (engagement protrusion 141) is provided on the fourth connector 14. Therefore, in a temporarily connected state in which the second connector 12 and the fourth connector 14 are engaged, a sterilization gas can be introduced into the gap between the connectors 12 and 14 to perform sterilization. Further, since the second connector 12 and the fourth connector 14 are engaged with each other, the second connector 12 and the fourth connector 14 are prevented from being separated due to vibration during transportation. As a result, it is possible to reduce the possibility that bacteria and the like adhere to the insertion portion 120 of the sterilized second connector 12 exposed to the outside.

  When the insertion portion 120 of the second connector 12 is inserted into the fourth connector 14, a change in insertion resistance force when the minute taper portion 121 c of the second connector 12 gets over the engaging protrusion 141 of the fourth connector 14 (click feeling). The operator can feel it. Therefore, the operator can easily connect the second connector 12 and the fourth connector 14 in a proper temporary connection state.

  The fifth embodiment described above is merely an example. The present invention is not limited to the above example, and can be modified as appropriate.

  The shape of the outer peripheral surface of the insertion portion 120 of the second connector 12 may be any shape that can be fluid-tightly connected to the connector 90 (see FIG. 1) provided at the upstream end of the catheter. It is not limited. For example, the number of microtapered portions formed in the insertion portion 120 does not have to be eight as in the above example, and may be larger or smaller (including zero). The distal end of the insertion portion 120 may also have a shape other than the distal tapered portion.

  The shape of the inner peripheral surface 140 of the fourth connector 14 is not limited as long as it can be fluid-tightly connected to the insertion portion 120 of the second connector 12 and has a shape other than the tapered surface shape shown in the above example. May be.

  The engagement structure that can be engaged with the second connector 12 provided in the fourth connector 14 can be changed according to the shape of the second connector 12, and the four engagement protrusions 141 as in the above example are used. It is not limited. When the engagement protrusions 141 are provided as the engagement structure, the number is not limited to four, and may be more or less. However, the number of the engagement protrusions 141 is preferably 2 or more in the circumferential direction in order to obtain a stable engagement state with the second connector 12. When two or more engagement protrusions 141 are provided in the circumferential direction, the engagement protrusions 141 are arranged at equal angular intervals with respect to the central axis 41a in order to obtain a stable engagement state with respect to the second connector 12. preferable. A plurality of types of engagement protrusions having different protrusion amounts (distance to the center axis 41a) and positions in the direction of the center axis 41a may be provided as the engagement structure. As the engagement structure, a recess (for example, a groove) into which the step portion of the second connector 12 is inserted may be provided instead of the protrusion. The engagement structure may be continuous in the circumferential direction so as to surround the central axis 41a. However, it is preferable that the engaging structure is discrete or divided in the circumferential direction because the sterilizing gas passes through the discontinuous portion of the engaging structure and the sterilizing effect is improved. The engaging structure may engage with a portion other than the insertion portion 120 of the second connector 12.

  In the connection tool 41 of the above example, the third connector 13 and the fourth connector 14 are integrally formed. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and as described in Embodiment 1, for example, the third connector 13 The connector 13 and the fourth connector 14 may be connected by a flexible tube.

  The connection tool 41 of the fifth embodiment can be used as the connection tool 41 constituting the extension tube 1 described in the first embodiment.

  The field of application of the present invention is not particularly limited, but can be preferably used for priming prior to injecting a low-fluidity semi-solid fluid such as nutrients, contrast agents, and hyaluronic acid into a patient. .

1, 2, 3, 4 Extension tube 10 Tube body 11 First connector 12 Second connector 12s Sealing member (fourth opening / closing means)
13 third connector 13s sealing member (third opening / closing means)
14 Fourth connector 141 Engagement protrusion (engagement structure)
15 5th connector 15s Sealing member (second opening / closing means)
21 1st tube 22 2nd tube 23a, 23b, 23c Tube 24 Tube 25 Pump tube 31 1st clamp (5th opening-and-closing means)
32 Second clamp (first opening / closing means)
33 Third clamp (third opening / closing means)
41, 42 Connector 52, 53, 54 Branch 70 Container 72 Container port 80 Syringe 90 Catheter connector

Claims (6)

An extension tube for transferring the fluid stored in the container to a catheter placed in the patient,
A first connector connectable to the port of the container;
A second connector connectable to the catheter;
A flow path that connects the first connector and the second connector and that transports the fluid;
A flexible pump tube provided on the flow path;
A connector that can be attached to and detached from the second connector;
The connector includes a third connector that communicates with the flow path and can connect a syringe in an airtight manner, and a fourth connector that can be attached to and detached from the second connector ,
An engagement structure that engages with the second connector so that the second connector and the fourth connector are not separated while having a gap between the second connector and the fourth connector. An extension tube characterized in that it is provided . Before SL and the third connector and the fourth connector, the extension tube of claim 1 which is molded integrally. Claim 1 which is capable of changing the temporary connection state in which the engagement structure is engaged with the second connector, to the present connection state of being connected hermetically, the connection between the second connector and the fourth connector Extension tube as described in. The engagement structure, the second connector extension tube according to claim 1 with the step formed on the outer peripheral surface is a projection that engages the. It said connecting device is provided with a partial Kibe a fifth connector,
The third connector, the fourth connector, and the fifth connector communicate with the branch portion,
The extension tube is
A first opening / closing means for opening / closing the flow path between the third connector and the branch portion or the third connector;
The flow path or the second switching means and the further extension tube as claimed in Bei obtain claim 1 for opening and closing the fifth connector between the fifth connector and the branch portion. The extension tube according to claim 5 , wherein the fifth connector is connectable to the catheter.

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