Method and apparatus for medical fluid transfer

Abstract

This invention relates to a method and apparatus for transferring a selected fluid in a selected direction to and from a selected body area of a medical patient. More particularly, this invention involves a surgically implanted catheter which is sealed at its proximal end with a material which may be repeatedly punctured by a needle and which reseals when the needle is removed. A needle attached through tubing to a suitable source or sink of the fluid pierces the seal and is latched thereto by suitable means. A noninvasive pump is provided to maintain a desired flow rate. To enhance seal life, a disposable seal portion may be provided having a needle which pierces the seal at the end of the catheter and is latched thereto and having a seal at its proximal end which may be pierced by the needle attached to the source or sink of fluid. When the seal on the disposable section wears out, this section may be removed and replaced, permitting the seal on the surgically implanted catheter to remain for an extended period of time. Various techniques are also provided for replacing the seal at the end of the catheter if necessary.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.