Flow based pressure isolation and fluid delivery system including flow based pressure isolation and flow initiating mechanism

A method of protecting a pressure transducer from fluid pressure damage using a pressure isolation mechanism comprising an inlet port, an isolation port, and an internal cavity wherein a free floating, fluid flow responsive valve member is disposed and adapted to engage a seal seat in the internal cavity, and a flow initiating mechanism comprising a flow initiating member is associated with the isolation port, the method comprising:

• associating the pressure transducer with the isolation port;
• placing a pressurizing device for delivering fluid under pressure in fluid connection with the inlet port;
• actuating the pressurizing device to cause fluid flow in the inlet port such that the free floating, fluid flow responsive valve member engages the seal seat to attain a closed position, to prevent fluid flow between the inlet port and the isolation port, and to prevent overpressure in the isolation port;
• and
• reading hemodynamic pressure signals with the pressure transducer transmitted at least in part through a body of the valve member or a portion thereof in the closed position,
• wherein the flow initiating member provides upstream volume capacitance to initiate fluid flow around the valve member such that the valve member operates to the closed position upon fluid flow initiation and operates to an open position upon fluid flow cessation.