The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document.
The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge covers the following: Patent number, Date patent was issued, Date patent was filed, Title of the patent, Applicant, Inventor, Assignee, Attorney firm, Primary examiner, Assistant examiner, CPCs, and Abstract. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document (in Adobe Acrobat format, aka pdf). To download or print any patent click here.
Patent No.:
Date of Patent:
Oct. 31, 2000
Filed:
Feb. 01, 1999
Steven R Taylor, Salt Lake City, UT (US);
Arlin Dale Nelson, Sandy, UT (US);
Merit Medical Systems, Inc., South Jordan, UT (US);
Abstract
Systems and methods for isolating a pressure gauge from sources of potential contamination so that the pressure gauge may be reused in multiple medical procedures without having to be subjected to a sterilization procedure. The systems of the invention may include a syringe assembly having a pressure gauge removably attached to a syringe. The pressure gauge is isolated from sources of potential contamination in at least two ways. First, a flexible membrane separates a pressure transducer diaphragm of the pressure gauge from the pressurized fluid of the syringe. The flexible membrane prevents the pressure gauge from contacting the fluid and transmits pressure and forces from the fluid to the pressure gauge. Second, a substantially transparent disposable bag or film covers surfaces of the pressure gauge that would be otherwise exposed to human contact or other contaminants. During medical procedures, the pressure gauge maintains its sterile condition. After use, the pressure gauge may be removed from the syringe and subsequently used with a second syringe without an intervening sterilization procedure. The syringe assemblies may further include a balloon-tipped catheter for use in angioplasty and related medical procedures.