Importance

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Abstract

A totally subcutaneously implantable infusion reservoir and pump system includes a variable capacity reservoir for receiving and storing fluid medication for delivery to a catheter which directs the medication to a specific infusion location in the body. In a preferred form of the invention, a control assembly is interposed between the reservoir and the catheter to facilitate and control the transfer of the medication from the reservoir to the catheter in a safe and efficient manner. This control assembly includes a normally closed valve and a pump, both of which are manually actuable by percutaneous pressure when subcutaneously implanted, and defines a portion of a fluid flow conduit between the reservoir and the catheter. Moreover, the control assembly is constructed to prevent the backflow of fluid from the catheter to the reservoir, as well as the unrestricted flow of medication through the control assembly when the normally closed valve is opened. This is accomplished by requiring at least two deliberate and sequential applications of selective pressure to the control assembly before any medication stored in the reservoir can be transferred to the catheter.

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First Claim