Importance

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Abstract

An implantable fluid flow control device is assembled in a process wherein a first base is provided having a snap-fit barbed connector which defines a fluid passageway and a spline offset from the barbed connector, and a second base having a connector receptacle which defines another passageway and a spline receiving slot. The barbed connector is inserted into the receptacle, and simultaneously the spline is slidably received within the spline receiving slot in a manner preventing tensile and torsional movement between the bases. The coupled bases are placed in a holding fixture, and brought into close proximity with a heated element to fuse the first and second bases together. A pair of housing bodies are placed over, respectively, the first and second bases such that the bases and the housing bodies cooperatively define a fluid flow path through the flow control device. In particular, the housing and the first base cooperate to provide a reservoir for flushing fluid through the device by application of percutaneous manual pressure to the device, and the housing and the second base cooperate to provide a siphon control device. A valve is situated between the flushing reservoir and the siphon control device within the fluid flow path to control passage of fluid through the device.

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First Claim