Patent ID: 6042561
Filing Date: 2000-03-28
Classification: A61M

Abstract:
A non-intravascular infusion access device for long-term continuous infusion of a therapeutic agent into the body, comprising:an elongate tubular porous membrane having a closed end and an open end, said membrane made of a substantially nonexpandable biocompatible material suitable for implantation within a non-intravascular location inside the body and having pores sized to allow the passage of the therapeutic agent through said membrane while preventing the passage of a member selected from the group consisting of bacteria and viruses;a conducting tubing having first and second open ends, said conducting tubing sized to permit infusion therethrough of a fluid containing the therapeutic agent, said open end of said tubular porous membrane attached to and in fluid communication with said first open end of said tubing whereby fluid infused through said conducting tubing is caused to flow through said porous membrane;an infusion delivery system including a fluid source containing the therapeutic agent; anda means for connecting the second open end of said conducting tubing to the infusion delivery system.