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In-line infiltration detection apparatus and method

  • US 4,959,050 A
  • Filed: 09/26/1988
  • Issued: 09/25/1990
  • Est. Priority Date: 09/26/1988
  • Status: Expired due to Term
First Claim
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1. An apparatus for detecting whether a fluid is being properly supplied to a patient through conduit means by a flow controller which is located upstream from the detection apparatus and which infuses fluid in a normal delivery pattern at any of a plurality of selected infusion rates through conduit means to the patient, comprising:

  • (a) means for diverting and accumulating a predetermined volume of the upstream flow from the flow controller for use as a test pulse;

    (b) means for delivering the test pulse of the fluid through the conduit means to the patient with the test pulse being distinguishable from the normal delivery pattern and with the test pulse creating a pressure wave response in the conduit means;

    (c) means for determining the area between a baseline and at least a portion of a pressure versus time curve representing the pressure wave response; and

    (d) means responsive to the magnitude of said area for detecting if the fluid is being improperly supplied by the conduit means to the patient.

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