Patent ID: 6423050
Filing Date: 2002-07-23
Classification: A61M

Abstract:
A method of preserving the operative condition of an implanted vascular access catheter having inner and outer ends, between the uses of gaining access to the vascular system of a patient, the method of comprising:inserting an anticoagulant agent through the catheter outer end to drive any blood in the catheter back into the patient vascular system and to fill an inner portion of the catheter with the anticoagulant agent; then inserting a seperating substance into the catheter to fill a central portion of the catheter; and then inserting an antimicrobial agent into the catheter to fill an outer portion of the catheter, the preceding insertion steps being performed without discharging the agents or the substance from the inner end of the catheter, whereby the separating substance separates the anticoagulant agent from the antimicrobial agent.