Importance

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Abstract

A one-way septum valve in a connector device to maintain sterility is provided. The device prevents the backward flow of blood and body fluids through the connector to an injection device such as a syringe, I.V. unit, and the like. The valve includes a slit, resilient septum mounted within the connector, and a moveable plug spaced a short distance from the septum and adapted to move forward slightly upon contact with the injection device. When the injection device is moved forward, it will contact and drive the plug a short distance into the septum causing it to open and deform inwardly. This enables fluid from the I.V. unit, syringe, etc., to be fed through the septum opening and into a patient. When the injection device is retracted out of contact with the plug, the septum resiliency forces the plug back out of the septum which then closes and seals. Any reverse pressure of blood or body fluid will cause the septum to move outwardly into contact with the plug, which will prevent further movement of the septum. Hence, the septum becomes, in effect, a one-way valve.

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First Claim