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Abstract

A continuous flow peritoneal dialysis system and process is disclosed which includes a source of sterilized peritoneal dialysis system in the form of a gravity feed head vessel (32). A by-pass valve (34) connects the head vessel to an inflow/outflow directional valve 40 which controls the inflow and outflow of the sterilized dialysis fluid to a peritoneal catheter (12). The peritoneal catheter is implanted into the peritoneal membrane (14) of the peritoneal cavity (15). A connectable/disconnectable inflow line (42) and outflow line (48) are connected to an inflow catheter (44) and outflow catheter (46), respectively, of the double peritoneal catheter (12). A pressure monitor (50) in the outflow line (48) monitors the pressure within the cavity (15) and adjusts the inflow and outflow accordingly to maintain a predetermined volume and pressure of dialysis fluid in the cavity to maintain the membrane (14) properly distended at all times for maximum dialysis efficiency and patient comfort. Secondarily, an outflow monitor (54) monitors the outflow and if need be, increases or decreases the inflow to the directional valve (40) by controlling a by-pass valve 34. Control of the level of dialysis fluid in the head vessel (32) is maintained by a level monitor (38) which also can operate the by-pass valve (34) to by-pass fluid to a drain tank (36). Sterile dialysis fluid flows through the cavity (15) in an open single-pass circuit and flows into the disposal and drain tank (36) upon passing through the cavity.

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First Claim