Joseph E Todd

US Patent:

49648551, Oct 23, 1990

Filed:

Mar 31, 1989

Appl. No.:

7/331245

Inventors:

Joseph J. Todd - Irvine CA
Earl F. Robinson - El Toro CA
Rex O. Bare - Irvine CA

International Classification:

A61M 3900

US Classification:

604283

Abstract:

A connector is provided between an I. V. or syringe supply and a Y-tube for feeding liquid medication to a patient. The connector is an integrally formed tube having a recessed needle which is factory mounted into the distal end of the connector. At its proximal end, the tube wall of the connector defines a slot which, when rotated, will engage and form a secure lock with the sidearm portion of the Y-tube. A sterile septum is mounted within the Y-tube, and the needle penetrates the septum during use, thereby maintaining sterility. Also, since the needle is recessed, asccidental needle sticks will be reduced. In another embodiment, the connector tube wall defines an elongate recess, and a slotted closure cap is mounted at the proximal end of the connector. The connector is fitted over the Y-tube so that the cap slot and recess coincide with the junction of the Y-tube sidearm and the Y-tube. When the cap is turned, the slot will move out of coincidence with the recess and the sidearm, causing the connector and Y-tube to lock.