SPOTLIGHT
UV-resistant tubing
A company offers transparent tubing that protects light-sensitive IV fluids from UV exposure by blocking more than 90% of UV light at wavelengths between 220 and 450 nm. The tubing minimizes decomposition of active ingredients in drugs. Transparency enables visual inspection of transfused fluids. Two types of sets are available for use with infusion pumps and systems. The sets can be incorporated into custom IV kits. B. Braun Medical Inc., Melsungen, Germany.
Inflation check valves
One-way inflation valves that are activated by a luer-taper syringe are suitable for inflating and deflating balloons, cuffs, or cushions. The valves give positive closure and integrate a high-integrity seal, resulting in a low leakage rate of not more than 3 ml of air per 24 hours at 2 m of water-gauge pressure. Manufactured on high-speed automated equipment, each valve is function tested. Bespak, King’s Lynn, Norfolk, UK.
IV filters
Self-priming and positively charged adult IV filters support a flow rate of 25 ml/min at 36-in. water-column height. Each HiFlo filter has a polyethersulfone (PES) hydrophobic membrane and a PTFE hydrophobic vent. Made from an alcohol- and lipid-resistant modified acrylic, the housing allows for visual clarity during use. The filters come with a choice of tube or socket ports that eliminate the need for adapters or fittings. The self-priming 0.2-µm filters have tube ports with a 0.120-in. OD, and are also available with 0.150-in.-ID socket ports. The positive-charged 0.2-µm filters come with 0.120-in.-OD tube ports or 0.150- in.-ID socket ports. Qosina, Edgewood, NY, USA
Fluoroplastic introducers
A company offers fluoroplastic-tipped tubes that can be used as IV or needle introducers. The tubes are available with either a tapered or bevelled end to assist in IV insertion. The introducers can be supplied in PTFE, FEP, and PFA, and can be laser marked for identification purposes. All of the company’s products are compliant with USP Class VI specifications. Parker/TexMed, Fort Worth, TX, USA.
Luer-activated stopcock
A needle-free luer-activated stopcock eliminates the need for caps and combines the safety of a closed system with a leak-free aseptic port. The needleless access port can be swabbed in order to maintain a sterile barrier and reduce the risk of contamination. The stopcock is lipid resistant and free of latex and DEHP. It also has a low priming volume and minimal dead space. Halkey-Roberts Corp., St. Petersburg, FL, USA.
Stainless-steel cannulae
A company specializes in the processing of stainless-steel cannulae. Available in lengths ranging from 20 to 70 mm, the cannulae are quality checked by an automatic system that confirms the bevel and length of each product. Sizes range from 0.25 to 8.00 mm OD and 0.07 to 0.60 mm ID. Various types of single-use needles can be produced. Handle S.A., Mazamet, France.
Check valves
Antisiphon, bidirectional, and needle-free check valves are offered with various connections and opening pressures. The valves feature a secure design for use in IV filtration and contain a high-throughput membrane. The company produces a range of products that can be incorporated into a variety of medical devices used in IV infusion therapy, anaesthesia, parenteral feeding, blood and fluid sampling, and oncology. The company is certified to ISO 13485. NP Medical Inc., Clinton, MA, USA.
Male luer fitting
A closed male luer fitting designed to ISO 594 specifications has an internal mechanism that causes the luer to seal itself upon disconnection from a mating connector. The mechanism prevents exposure to potentially biohazardous infusates. When used in conjunction with a needle-free valve connector, the fitting provides a closed system for accessing IV systems. Cardinal Health, Creedmoor, NC, USA.
Extruded tubing
With more than four decades of experience, a firm produces custom and stock extruded silicone tubing for IV delivery. The company stocks tubing made from silicone and other materials at 11 locations throughout the world. Stock silicone products are tested to meet the guidelines of US FDA, United States Pharmacopeia Class VI, and the European Pharmacopoeia. The company is certified to ISO 9001:2000, ISO 13485, ISO 14001, ISO 14664-1, and ISO 10993-1, and offers CE marking according to Directive 93/42/CEE. Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics, Saint-Quentin Fallavier, France.
