Importance

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Abstract

An improved valve assembly is provided for the distal end of a catheter, and particularly a central venous catheter for controlling fluid passage from the catheter to the blood flow passage in which it is inserted, and flow in the opposite direction. A relatively thin sheath wall covers the distal fluid opening of the catheter, and includes a slit for responding rapidly to pressure differentials on either side of the slit opening to allow fluid passage, as required. In addition, the distal end of the catheter, and the side walls thereof adjacent the end, are covered by a thin sheath which serves to impart a small degree of thickness or 'body' to the end of the catheter except at the opening thereof. More importantly, with the arrangement here the integrity of the catheter wall is far less compromised.

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First Claim