Patent Publication Number: US-2022218973-A1

Title: Connector for In-Line Selective Occlusion of Drainage Tube

Description:
PRIORITY 
     This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/135,480, filed Jan. 8, 2021, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety into this application. 
    
    
     SUMMARY 
     Briefly summarized, embodiments disclosed herein are directed to a valved connector for in-line selective occlusion of a drainage lumen to prevent pressure reflux during active clearance of dependent loops within fluid drainage systems. 
     Fluid drainage systems generally include a flexible drainage tube configured to provide fluid communication with a collection container. Due to the flexibility of the drainage tube, and/or normal patient movements, sections of positive incline can form, where drainage fluid can accumulate, termed “dependent loops.” Fluid caught in these dependent loops can lead to various problems. For example, fluid caught in the drainage tube fails to reach the collection container leading to inaccurate fluid output measurements and misdiagnosis of patients or mis-prescribing of drugs. For dependent loops in urine drainage systems, the bladder must push against the pressure of the dependent loop to further excrete urine. This can be uncomfortable for the patient and can lead to injury if the pressure is not alleviated in a timely manner. Further, stagnant fluid within the drainage tube can be a source of pathogens leading to an increased risk of catheter associated urinary tract infections (CAUTI). CAUTI can be highly detrimental to the patient as well as incurring increased costs for additional treatment. 
     Current practice is for clinicians to manipulate the tubing to urge the fluid caught in the dependent loop towards the collection container. If performed incorrectly, fluid reflux can occur causing infections and complications. Further, there is also an added responsibility on the clinician to perform the manipulation correctly and in a timely manner. Active drainage systems have been developed that introduce a positive air flow to a distal end of the drainage tube to urge fluid through the system to the collection container, clearing these dependent loops. However, the air pressure within the system can cause increased pressure within the patient bladder leading to reflux, increased discomfort and potentially introducing infections to the patient. 
     Disclosed herein is a connector for a fluid drainage system for coupling a catheter to a drainage tube including, a body defining a drainage lumen extending along a longitudinal axis from a distal portion to a proximal portion, a positive air pressure inlet, and a valve slidably engaged with a valve housing along the longitudinal axis between a first position and a second position wherein, the valve in the first position provides fluid communication between the distal portion and the proximal portion of the drainage lumen, and the valve in the second position occludes fluid communication between the proximal portion and the distal portion of the drainage lumen. 
     In some embodiments, the valve includes a valve plate defining a proximal face and a distal face, each extending perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, the distal face configured to engage a proximal end of the body in the second position and create a fluid tight seal therebetween. The valve includes one or more legs extending distally from the distal face and configured to slidably engage an inner surface of a valve recess disposed in the proximal end of the body. The leg further includes a pawl disposed at a distal end thereof and configured to engage a lip extending radially inwards from a rim of the valve recess, the pawl configured to prevent further proximal movement of the valve when in the first position. 
     In some embodiments, the connector further includes a biasing member configured to bias the valve towards the first position. In some embodiments, the connector further includes an inlet housing engaged with a proximal end of the valve housing, the inlet housing including the positive air pressure inlet. In some embodiments, an axis of the positive air pressure inlet is angled at 45o relative to the longitudinal axis. In some embodiments, an axis of the positive air pressure inlet is angled at 90o relative to the longitudinal axis. In some embodiments, an axis of the positive air pressure inlet defines an S-shape. The valve housing is formed of a transparent material. In some embodiments, the connector further includes a distal coupling disposed at a distal end of the body and configured to releasably engage a proximal end of the catheter to provide fluid communication between the catheter and the distal portion of the drainage lumen. In some embodiments, the distal coupling is one of a luer slip fit, threaded, spin-nut, interference fit, press-fit, or snap-fit coupling. The catheter is a Foley catheter configured to drain urine from a bladder of a patient. 
     In some embodiments, the connector further includes a proximal coupling disposed at a proximal end of the connector and configured to engage a distal end of the drainage tube, the drainage tube in fluid communication with a collection container. The proximal coupling is one of a luer slip fit, threaded, spin-nut, interference fit, press-fit, or snap-fit coupling. In some embodiments, the connector further includes a sample port or a pressure sensor port in fluid communication with the distal portion of the drainage lumen. The valve housing is engaged with the body in one of an interference fit, press-fit, snap-fit, or threadable engagement. The valve housing further includes an abutment extending radially inward from an inner surface and configured to abut against the valve in the first position to prevent any further proximal movement of the valve. 
     Also disclosed is a method of draining a fluid from a catheter to a collection container including, draining a fluid along a longitudinal axis of a connector, from a distal drainage lumen to a proximal drainage lumen, applying a pressurized fluid to an inlet of the connector, sliding a valve along the longitudinal axis from a first position to a second position, occluding fluid flow between the distal drainage lumen and the proximal drainage lumen, and urging the fluid from the proximal drainage lumen to the collection container. 
     In some embodiments, the method further includes creating a fluid-tight seal between a distal face of a valve plate of the valve, with a proximal end of the body, when the valve is in the second position to occlude fluid flow between the distal drainage lumen and the proximal drainage lumen. In some embodiments, the method further includes engaging a leg of the valve with an inner surface of a valve recess disposed in the proximal end of the body, the leg extending distally from the distal face. In some embodiments, the method further includes engaging a pawl disposed at a distal end of the leg, with a lip extending radially inwards from a rim of the valve recess to prevent further proximal movement of the valve when in the first position. In some embodiments, the method further includes biasing the valve towards the first position. In some embodiments, the method further includes an inlet housing engaged with a proximal end of the valve housing in one of an interference fit, press-fit, snap-fit, or threadable engagement, the inlet housing including the inlet providing fluid communication with the proximal drainage lumen. 
     In some embodiments, an axis of the inlet is angled at 45o relative to the longitudinal axis. In some embodiments, an axis of the inlet is angled at 90o relative to the longitudinal axis. In some embodiments, an axis of the inlet defines an S-shape. In some embodiments, the valve housing is formed of a transparent material. In some embodiments, the method further includes coupling a distal coupling disposed at a distal end of the body with a proximal end of the catheter to drain a fluid from the catheter to the distal drainage lumen. The distal coupling is one of a luer slip fit, threaded, spin-nut, interference fit, press-fit, or snap-fit coupling. The catheter is a Foley catheter configured to drain urine from a bladder of a patient. In some embodiments, the method further includes coupling a proximal coupling disposed at a proximal end of the connector with a distal end of the drainage tube, the drainage tube in fluid communication with a collection container. In some embodiments, the proximal coupling is one of a luer slip fit, threaded, spin-nut, interference fit, press-fit, or snap-fit coupling. 
     In some embodiments, the method further includes a sample port or a pressure sensor port in fluid communication with the distal portion of the drainage lumen. The valve housing is engaged with the body in one of an interference fit, press-fit, snap-fit, or threadable engagement. In some embodiments, the method further includes abutting the valve against an abutment in the first position to prevent any further proximal movement of the valve, the abutment extending radially inward from an inner surface of the valve housing. 
     Also disclosed is a fluid drainage system including, a catheter extending along a longitudinal axis, and a connector fluidly coupled to the catheter having, a body defining a distal drainage lumen, a valve housing defining a proximal drainage lumen, an inlet in fluid communication with the proximal drainage lumen, and a ball valve slidably engaged within the valve housing between a first position and a second position, the ball valve configured to occlude fluid communication between the valve housing and the body when a positive air pressure is provided at the inlet. 
     In some embodiments, the ball valve is configured to engage a proximal end of the body in the second position and create a fluid tight seal therebetween. In some embodiments, the fluid drainage system further includes an O-ring disposed between the ball valve and the body and configured to create a fluid tight seal therebetween when the ball valve is in the second position. The valve housing includes one or more fins extending radially inward to define a proximal drainage lumen diameter the same as a diameter of the ball valve. In some embodiments, the fluid drainage system further includes an inlet housing engaged with a proximal end of the valve housing, the inlet housing including the inlet extending therefrom. In some embodiments, an axis of the inlet is angled at 45° relative to the longitudinal axis. In some embodiments, an axis of the positive air pressure inlet is angled at 90° relative to the longitudinal axis. In some embodiments, an axis of the positive air pressure inlet defines an S-shape. In some embodiments, the valve housing is formed of a transparent material. 
     In some embodiments, the fluid drainage system further includes a distal coupling disposed at a distal end of the body and configured to releasably engage a proximal end of the catheter the distal coupling including one of a luer slip fit, threaded, spin-nut, interference fit, press-fit, or snap-fit coupling. In some embodiments, the fluid drainage system further includes a proximal coupling disposed at a proximal end of the connector and configured to engage a distal end of the drainage tube, the drainage tube in fluid communication with a collection container, the proximal coupling including one of a luer slip fit, threaded, spin-nut, interference fit, press-fit, or snap-fit coupling. In some embodiments, the catheter is a Foley catheter configured to drain urine from a bladder of a patient. 
     Also disclosed is a method of draining a fluid from a catheter to a collection container including, draining a fluid from a body of a connector to a valve housing of the connector, the body defining a distal drainage lumen and the valve housing defining a proximal drainage lumen, applying a pressurized fluid to an inlet of the connector, transitioning a ball valve from a first position disposed in a spaced apart relationship from a proximal end of the body, to a second position where the ball valve is engaged with the proximal end of the body, occluding fluid flow between the valve housing and the body, and urging the fluid from the proximal drainage lumen to the collection container. 
     In some embodiments, the method further includes creating a fluid-tight seal between the ball valve and the proximal end of the body. In some embodiments, the method further includes an O-ring disposed between the ball valve and the body and configured to create a fluid tight seal therebetween when the ball valve is in the second position. In some embodiments, the valve housing includes one or more fins extending radially inward to define a proximal drainage lumen diameter, the same as a diameter of the ball valve. In some embodiments, the method further includes an inlet housing engaged with a proximal end of the valve housing, the inlet housing including the inlet extending therefrom. In some embodiments, an axis of the inlet is angled between 45o and 90o relative to the longitudinal axis. In some embodiments, the valve housing is formed of a transparent material. In some embodiments, the catheter is a Foley catheter configured to drain urine from a bladder of a patient. 
    
    
     
       DRAWINGS 
       A more particular description of the present disclosure will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof that are illustrated in the appended drawings. It is appreciated that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the invention and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope. Example embodiments of the invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings in which: 
         FIG. 1  shows an exemplary fluid drainage system, in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein. 
         FIG. 2  shows a perspective view of a snap fit valve connector in a first position, in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein. 
         FIG. 3  shows a perspective view of a snap fit valve connector in a second position, in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein. 
         FIG. 4A  shows an exploded view of a snap fit valve connector, in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein. 
         FIG. 4B  shows close up detail of a snap fit valve of  FIG. 4A , in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein. 
         FIG. 5  shows a cross-section view of a snap fit valve connector in a first position, in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein. 
         FIG. 6  shows a cross-section view of a snap fit valve connector in a second position, in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein. 
         FIG. 7  shows a perspective view of a spring valve connector in a first position shown in wire frame, in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein. 
         FIG. 8  shows a side view of a spring valve connector, in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein. 
         FIG. 9  shows an exploded view of a spring valve connector, in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein. 
         FIG. 10  shows a cross-sectional view of a spring valve connector, in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein. 
         FIG. 11  shows a cross-sectional view of a spring valve connector in a first position, in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein. 
         FIG. 12  shows a cross-sectional view of a spring valve connector in a second position, in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein. 
         FIG. 13  shows a perspective view of a ball valve connector in a first position with an S-shaped inlet, in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein. 
         FIG. 14  shows a perspective view of a ball valve connector in a first position with a straight inlet, in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein. 
         FIG. 15  shows an exploded view of a ball valve connector, in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein. 
         FIG. 16  shows a lateral cross-section view of the connector shown in  FIG. 15 , in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein. 
         FIG. 17  shows a lateral cross-section view of the connector shown in  FIG. 15  with the ball bearing, in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein. 
         FIG. 18  shows a longitudinal cross-section view of a ball valve connector in a first position, in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein. 
         FIG. 19  shows a longitudinal cross-section view of a ball valve connector in a second position, in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein. 
     
    
    
     DESCRIPTION 
     Before some particular embodiments are disclosed in greater detail, it should be understood that the particular embodiments disclosed herein do not limit the scope of the concepts provided herein. It should also be understood that a particular embodiment disclosed herein can have features that can be readily separated from the particular embodiment and optionally combined with or substituted for features of any of a number of other embodiments disclosed herein. 
     Regarding terms used herein, it should also be understood the terms are for the purpose of describing some particular embodiments, and the terms do not limit the scope of the concepts provided herein. Ordinal numbers (e.g., first, second, third, etc.) are generally used to distinguish or identify different features or steps in a group of features or steps, and do not supply a serial or numerical limitation. For example, “first,” “second,” and “third” features or steps need not necessarily appear in that order, and the particular embodiments including such features or steps need not necessarily be limited to the three features or steps. Labels such as “left,” “right,” “top,” “bottom,” “front,” “back,” and the like are used for convenience and are not intended to imply, for example, any particular fixed location, orientation, or direction. Instead, such labels are used to reflect, for example, relative location, orientation, or directions. Singular forms of “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. 
     With respect to “proximal,” a “proximal portion” or a “proximal end portion” of, for example, a catheter disclosed herein includes a portion of the catheter intended to be near a clinician when the catheter is used on a patient. Likewise, a “proximal length” of, for example, the catheter includes a length of the catheter intended to be near the clinician when the catheter is used on the patient. A “proximal end” of, for example, the catheter includes an end of the catheter intended to be near the clinician when the catheter is used on the patient. The proximal portion, the proximal end portion, or the proximal length of the catheter can include the proximal end of the catheter; however, the proximal portion, the proximal end portion, or the proximal length of the catheter need not include the proximal end of the catheter. That is, unless context suggests otherwise, the proximal portion, the proximal end portion, or the proximal length of the catheter is not a terminal portion or terminal length of the catheter. 
     With respect to “distal,” a “distal portion” or a “distal end portion” of, for example, a catheter disclosed herein includes a portion of the catheter intended to be near or in a patient when the catheter is used on the patient. Likewise, a “distal length” of, for example, the catheter includes a length of the catheter intended to be near or in the patient when the catheter is used on the patient. A “distal end” of, for example, the catheter includes an end of the catheter intended to be near or in the patient when the catheter is used on the patient. The distal portion, the distal end portion, or the distal length of the catheter can include the distal end of the catheter; however, the distal portion, the distal end portion, or the distal length of the catheter need not include the distal end of the catheter. That is, unless context suggests otherwise, the distal portion, the distal end portion, or the distal length of the catheter is not a terminal portion or terminal length of the catheter. 
     To assist in the description of embodiments described herein, as shown in  FIG. 2 , a longitudinal axis extends substantially parallel to an axial length of the drainage lumen. A lateral axis extends normal to the longitudinal axis, and a transverse axis extends normal to both the longitudinal and lateral axes. 
     As used herein, the term “fluid” can include a gas, liquid, or combination thereof. Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by those of ordinary skill in the art. 
       FIG. 1  shows an exemplary drainage system (“system”)  10 , configured to drain a fluid from a patient. The system  10  generally includes a catheter  12 , a drainage tube (“tube”)  20 , and a collection container (“container”)  30 . Exemplary catheters  12  include indwelling catheters, Foley catheters, balloon catheters, peritoneal drainage catheters, or the like, and are configured to be inserted into an orifice within the body of a patient to drain a fluid therefrom. Exemplary fluids can include water, blood, plasma, urine, interstitial fluid, saliva, mucus, pus, or the like. In an embodiment, the catheter  12  can be inserted through the urethra and into a bladder of a patient to drain a fluid, e.g. urine, therefrom. However, it will be appreciated that embodiments disclosed herein can be used with various fluid drainage systems. The catheter  12  includes an eyelet  16  that provides fluid communication with a lumen  14  of the catheter  12 , and is configured to drain a fluid, e.g. urine, from a patient. 
     The drainage tube  20  extends from a distal end  26  to a proximal end  28  to define an axial length, and defines a lumen  24 . The distal end  26  of the tube  20  can be in fluid communication with a proximal  18  end of the catheter  12 . The proximal end  28  of the tube  20  can be in fluid communication with a collection container  30 , to provide fluid communication between the lumen  14  of the catheter  12  and the collection container  30 . The tube  20  can be formed of rubber, plastic, polymer, silicone, or similar suitable material. The collection container  30  can include a rigid container, a flexible collection bag, or similar suitable container for receiving a fluid, e.g. urine, drained from the catheter  12 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 1 , the flexibility of the drainage tube  20  can result in sections of the tube  20  providing a positive incline relative to the direction of fluid flow therethrough. These positive incline portions allow dependent loops  22  to form, which can lead to fluid pooling within the tube  20 . The fluid caught within the dependent loop  22  can result in various problems, including acting as a source for CAUTI causing agents and pathogens, inaccurate fluid output measurements, mis-diagnoses of patients, or the like. 
     In an embodiment, a pump or similar device can introduce a positive air pressure  40  into the tube lumen  24  to urge the residual fluid of the dependent loop  22  through the tube lumen  24  and into the collection container  30 . Exemplary pumps can include peristaltic pumps, diaphragm pumps, solenoid pumps, compressors, medical air lines, valve pumps, syringes, bellows, reciprocating pumps, combinations thereof, or the like. Before the positive air pressure  40  is introduced, the lumen  14  of the catheter  12  must be isolated to prevent the positive air pressure  40  flowing distally through the catheter  12  and into the patient, causing discomfort or trauma. 
       FIGS. 2-6  show various details of an embodiment of a snap-fit valve connector piece (“connector”)  100  disposed between the catheter  12  and the drainage tube  20 , and configured to automatically isolate a fluid path communicating with a catheter  12 , when a positive air pressure  40  is applied, to clear dependent loops  22 . The connector  100  extends along a longitudinal axis from a distal end  102  to a proximal end  104  and generally includes a connector body  110 , a valve housing  130 , and an inlet housing  140 . The connector  100  can further include a drainage lumen  120  extending longitudinally between the distal end  102  and the proximal end  104 . 
     A distal end  102  of the connector  100  can include a distal coupling  106  configured to releasably engage a proximal end of the catheter  12  and provide fluid communication between the lumen  14  of the catheter  12  and the drainage lumen  120  of the connector  100 . Similarly, the proximal end  104  of the connector  100  can include a proximal coupling  108  configured to releasably engage a distal end  26  of a drainage tube  20 , and provide fluid communication between the drainage lumen  120  of the connector  100  and the lumen  24  of the drainage tube  20 . One of the distal coupling  106  or the proximal coupling  108  can include luer slip fit, threaded connector, spin-nut, interference fit, press-fit, snap-fit, or similar connector configured to releasably couple the connector  100  to one of the catheter  12  or the drainage tube  20  with a fluid tight fitting. 
     The body  110  can define a substantially cylindrical shape extending along a longitudinal axis and can define a distal portion  120 A of the drainage lumen  120 . A proximal end  114  of the body  110  can include a valve recess  118 . In an embodiment, the valve recess  118  can define a larger diameter than the diameter of the drainage lumen, and can be configured to receive a portion of the snap-fit valve (“valve”)  150  therein. The valve  150 , or a portion thereof, can be slidably engaged with the valve recess  118  between a first position and a second position, as described in more detail herein. 
     In an embodiment, the connector  100  can further include a valve housing  130  coupled to a proximal end  114  of the body  110  in an interference fit, press fit, snap fit, or threadable engagement. The valve housing  130  defines a substantially cylindrical shaped valve cavity  132  extending along the longitudinal axis and aligned with the axis of the drainage lumen  120 . The valve cavity  132  can define a substantially circular cross-sectional shape, however it will be appreciated that other cross-sectional shapes are also contemplated. The valve cavity  132  can define a portion of the drainage lumen  120 . In an embodiment, the valve housing  130  can be formed from a transparent material to allow a user to observe a position of the valve  150  disposed therein, or a flow of fluid therethrough. 
     In an embodiment, the connector  100  further includes an inlet housing  140  coupled to a proximal end of the valve housing in an interference fit, press fit, snap fit, or threadable engagement. The inlet housing  140  defines a substantially cylindrical shaped inlet cavity  142  extending along the longitudinal axis and aligned with the axis of the drainage lumen  120 . The inlet cavity  142  can define a substantially circular cross-sectional shape, however it will be appreciated that other cross-sectional shapes are also contemplated. The inlet cavity  142  can define a portion of the drainage lumen  120 . In an embodiment, the valve cavity  132  and the inlet cavity  142  can co-operate to define a proximal portion  120 B of the drainage lumen  120 B. The inlet housing  140  can include an inlet  146  extending therefrom and configured to provide fluid communication between a pump, or similar source of positive air pressure  40  and the inlet cavity  142 . The inlet  146  can include a coupling configured to couple with a positive air pressure fluid line, or the like. Exemplary positive air pressure fluid lines can include, medical air lines, pumps, syringes, or the like. 
     In an embodiment, the inlet  146  can extend at an angle of between 30° and 90° relative to the longitudinal axis of the drainage lumen  120 . In an embodiment, the inlet  146  can extend at substantially 45° relative to the longitudinal axis of the drainage lumen  120 . However, greater or lesser angles are also contemplated. In an embodiment, the inlet  146  can define an “S-shaped” axial length. Advantageously, the angle and/or “S-shape” of the inlet  146  can direct the positive air pressure  40  towards the proximal portion  120 B of the drainage lumen  120  and into the drainage tube  20 , to urge a fluid flow therethrough. 
     In an embodiment, the connector  100  can further include a sample port  170  communicating with the drainage lumen  120  and extending perpendicular therefrom. In an embodiment, the sample port  170  can include a valve configured to control an access or a fluid flow therethrough. Exemplary valves can include check valves, one way valves, flap valves, duckbilled valves, combinations thereof, or the like. The sample port  170  can be configured to allow a clinician to sample a fluid disposed within the drainage lumen  120 . In an embodiment, the body  110  can further include a pressure sensor port  172  communicating with the drainage lumen  120  and extending perpendicular therefrom. In an embodiment, the pressure sensor port  172  can include a pressure sensor configured to detect a fluid pressure within the drainage lumen  120 . 
     In an embodiment, the connector  100  can further include a valve  150 , e.g. a “snap-fit valve”  150 . The valve  150  can include a plate  152  defining a disc shape and having a diameter that is greater than a diameter of the valve recess  118  at the distal end  114  of the body  110 , and less than a diameter of the valve cavity  132 . The plate  152  can define a distal face and a proximal face each extending perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. In an embodiment, the valve  150  can include one or more legs  154  extending perpendicular from a distal face of the valve plate  152 , i.e. extending distally along a longitudinal axis. As shown the valve  150  includes four legs  154  however, greater or lesser numbers of legs  154  are also contemplated. The leg(s)  154  can slidably engage the valve recess and can maintain the orientation of the plate  152  relative to the longitudinal axis as the valve  150  transitions between the first position and the second position. 
     In an embodiment, the valve leg  154  can include a pawl  156  disposed at a distal end of the leg  154  and configured to allow the distal end of the leg  154  to advance distally of a lip  158  of the valve recess  118 . Further, the pawl  156  can engage the lip  158  in a proximal direction and prevent the distal end of the leg  154  from passing proximally of the lip  158 . In an embodiment, the leg  154  can be formed of a resilient material that can allow the leg  154  to flex radially inwards as the pawl  156  is urged distally past the lip  158 . The one or more legs  154  can then flex radially outward such that the pawls  156  can engage the lip  158  and prevent any further proximal movement when the valve  150  is in the first position. As such, the valve  150  can engage the valve recess  118  in a snap-fit engagement. Advantageously, the snap-fit valve  150  can provide a simplified construction and assembly for the connector  100  reducing associated manufacturing costs. 
     In an embodiment, the valve  150  can be slidable along the longitudinal axis between a first position, as shown in  FIG. 5  and a second position, as shown in  FIG. 6 . In the first position, the valve plate  152  can be positioned in a spaced apart relationship from the proximal end  114  of the connector body  110 . The legs  154  can engage the inner surface of the valve recess  118  and maintain the orientation of valve plate  152  relative to the longitudinal axis. Further, the pawls  156  can engage the lip  158  of the valve recess  118  to prevent the valve  150  from sliding further proximally. As such, in the first position, a fluid can flow from the distal portion  120 A of the drainage lumen  120 , between the legs  154  and past the valve plate into the proximal portion  120 B of the connector  100  defined by the valve housing  130  and/or the inlet housing  140 . 
     In an embodiment, a pressurized air  40  can be provided to the inlet  146  and enter the proximal portion  120 B of the drainage tube. The increase in air pressure within the proximal portion  120 B can transition the valve  150  from the first position ( FIG. 5 ) to the second position ( FIG. 6 ), where the valve plate  152  engages a proximal end  114  of the connector body  110  and creates a fluid tight seal therebetween, preventing any further distal fluid flow. The pressurized fluid  40  can then increase the pressure within proximal portion  120 B urging fluid proximally through the drainage lumen  120 , through the lumen  24  of the drainage tube  20 , and into the collection container  30 , clearing any dependent loops  22 . 
     Once the dependent loops  22  have been cleared. The pressurized fluid  40  can be stopped, allowing the pressure within the proximal portion  120 B to return to atmospheric pressure. The weight of a fluid flow from the catheter  12  can then flow through the distal portion  120 A and transition the valve  150  from the second position ( FIG. 6 ) to the first position ( FIG. 5 ), allowing a fluid to flow proximally into the drainage tube  20 . 
     In an embodiment, a “spring valve” connector piece  200  can include a valve  250  and a biasing member  260  configured to bias the valve  250  towards the first position. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 7-12 , the connector  200  can define a drainage lumen  220 , extending from a distal end  202  to a proximal end  204 , and include a connector body  210  and a valve housing  230 , coupled to a proximal end  214  of the body  210 . Optionally the connector  200  can include an inlet housing, as described herein. The valve housing  230  can engage the connector body  210  in a threaded engagement, however other forms of attachment are also contemplated including interference fit, press-fit, snap-fit engagements, adhesive, bonding, welding, or the like. In an embodiment, the connector body  210  can define a distal portion  220 A of the drainage lumen and the valve housing  230  can define a valve cavity  232  that can define the proximal portion  220 B of the drainage lumen  120 . 
     In an embodiment, the valve housing  230  can further include an inlet  246  configured to provide a pressurized fluid  40  to the proximal portion of the drainage lumen  220 B. In an embodiment, the inlet  246  can extend at an angle of between 30° and 90° from the valve housing  230 . In an embodiment, the inlet  246  can define either a linear axis or a non-linear axis, e.g. an “S-shaped” axis. 
     In an embodiment, the connector body  210  can include a valve recess  218 , disposed at a proximal end thereof. The valve recess  218  can be configured to receive a portion of the valve therein. As described herein, in an embodiment, the valve  250  can include a valve plate  252  defining a proximal side and a distal side, and defining a substantially circular cross-sectional shape, when viewed along a longitudinal axis. The valve  250  can include one or more legs  254  extending distally from a distal side of the plate  252 . The legs  254  can slidably engage an inner surface of the recess  218 . The legs  254  can maintain alignment of the plate  252  relative to the longitudinal axis, i.e. that a face of the plate  252  extends substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis. 
     In an embodiment, a biasing member  260 , e.g. a compression spring, rubber grommet, or the like, can be disposed between the distal face of the plate  252  and a shoulder portion  216  of the recess  218 . The spring  260  can bias the valve towards the first position. In an embodiment, the valve housing  230  can further include an abutment  234  extending radially inwards from an inner surface of the valve cavity  232  and configured to abut against the proximal surface of the valve plate  252  when the valve is in the first position. The abutments  234  can prevent the valve  250  from further proximal advancement. To note, the position of the abutments  234  and the length of the legs  254  are configured such that the legs  254  maintain engagement with the recess  218  in both the first position and the second position. The connector body  210  can further include a sample port  270  and/or a pressure sensor port, as described herein. 
     In an exemplary method of use, the connector  200  can provide fluid communication, by way of the drainage lumen  220  between the catheter  12  and the drainage tube  20 . As shown in  FIG. 11 , the biasing member  260  can urge the valve  250  to the first position to allow a fluid to flow from the distal portion  220 A, between the legs  254  of the valve  250 , and into the proximal portion  220 B of the drainage lumen  220  defined by the valve housing  230 , and into the drainage tube  20 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 12 , a positive air pressure can be introduced at the inlet  246 . The increase in air pressure within the proximal portion  220 B of the drainage lumen  220  can overcome the force of the biasing member  260  and can urge the valve  250  from the first position to the second position. In the second position, the valve plate  252  can engage the proximal end  114  of the connector body  110  to create a fluid tight seal therebetween. As such, the valve plate  252  can prevent any distal fluid flow and allow the pressure within the proximal portion  220 B and the drainage tube lumen  24  to build and urge any fluid through the lumen and into the collection container  30 , clearing any dependent loops  22 . 
     When the flow of pressurized fluid  40  is ceased, the pressure within the proximal portion  220 B reduces, allowing biasing member  260  to transition the valve from the second position to the first position, and allow a fluid flow from the distal portion  220 A to the proximal portion  220 B. Advantageously, the biasing member  260  can ensure the valve returns to the first position once the air pressure  40  is ceased. This prevents the valve  250  from remaining in the second position after the air pressure  40  is ceased, inhibiting fluid flow from the catheter  12 . 
     In an embodiment, a “ball valve” connector piece  300  can include a ball-bearing valve  350  and, in an embodiment, an O-ring  360 . The ball bearing  350  can transition between a first position, to allow a fluid flow between a distal portion  320 A and a proximal portion  320 B of a drainage lumen  320 , and a second position to provide a fluid-tight seal to inhibit a distal fluid flow. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 13-17 , the connector  300  can define a drainage lumen  320 , extending along a longitudinal axis from a distal end  302  to a proximal end  304 . The connector  300  can include a connector body  310 , a valve housing  330 , and an inlet housing  340 . The valve housing  330  can be coupled to a proximal end  314  of the body  310  in an interference fit engagement. Similarly, the inlet housing  330  can be coupled to a proximal end of the valve housing  330  in an interference fit engagement. However other forms of attachment are also contemplated including threaded engagements, press-fit, snap-fit engagements, adhesive, bonding, welding, or the like. The connector body  310  can define a distal portion  320 A of the drainage lumen  320 . The valve housing  330  can define a valve cavity  332 , and the inlet housing  340  can define an inlet cavity  342 . The valve cavity  332  and the inlet cavity  342  assembly can define a proximal portion  320 B of the drainage lumen  320 . 
     The inlet housing  340  can include an inlet  346  configured to provide a pressurized fluid  40  to the proximal portion of the drainage lumen  320 B. In an embodiment, the inlet  346  can extend perpendicular from the valve housing  330 . In an embodiment, the inlet  346  can extend at an angle of between 30° and 90° relative to the longitudinal axis of the drainage lumen  320 . However, greater or lesser angles are also contemplated. In an embodiment, the inlet  346  can define a linear, non-linear, or “S-shaped” axis. The angle or axial shape of the inlet  346  can be configured to promote a proximal fluid flow through the proximal portion  320 B and into the drainage lumen  24 . 
     In an embodiment, as shown in  FIGS. 15-17 , the valve housing cavity  332  can include one or more fins  334  extending radially inward from an inner surface of the valve cavity  332  and extending longitudinally. The fin(s)  334  can extend radially inward to define an inner lumen diameter  336  that is less than the diameter of the valve housing cavity  332 . The inner lumen diameter  336  can define a diameter that is the same, or slightly larger than a diameter of the ball bearing  350 . As such, the ball bearing  350  can be received within the valve cavity  332  and the fin(s)  334  can maintain the ball bearing  350  in a spaced apart relationship from the inner surface of the valve housing cavity  332 . A fluid can flow through the valve housing cavity  332  between the fins  334 , the ball bearing  350  and the inner surface of the valve housing cavity  332 . In an embodiment, the shape of the fins  334  can reduce a surface contact area between the fin  334  and the ball bearing  350  to reduce friction and facilitate sliding or rolling of the ball bearing  350  between the first position and the second position. 
     As shown in  FIG. 19 , in an embodiment, the ball bearing  350  in the second position can engage a proximal end  314  of the connector body  310  and can form a seal therebetween to prevent a distal fluid flow from the proximal portion  320 B to the distal portion  320 A. The distal end of the connector body  314  can include a beveled or chamfered edge to receive a portion of the ball bearing  350  therein and create a seal. 
     In an embodiment, the connector  100  can further include an O-ring  360  disposed within valve cavity  332  and engaged with a proximal end  314  of the connector body  310 . The O-ring  360  can be formed of a compliant material such as a plastic, polymer, elastomer, rubber, silicone, or the like. The O-ring  360  can be configured to create a fluid-tight seal between the proximal end  314  of the connector body  310  and the ball bearing  350 , when the ball bearing  350  is in the second position. In an embodiment, the connector body  310  can further include a sample port  370  and/or a pressure sensor port, as described herein. 
     In an exemplary method of use, a connector  300  can be provided, as described herein and can provide fluid communication between the catheter  12  and the drainage tube  20  by way of the drainage lumen  320 . As shown in  FIG. 18 , with the ball bearing  350  in a first position a fluid can flow from the distal portion  320 A, through one or more openings between the fin(s)  334  and the ball bearing  350 , to the proximal portion  320 B. 
     In an embodiment, the inner lumen diameter  336  defined by the fins  334  can be smaller than a diameter of the ball bearing  350  at a proximal end of the valve housing  330  and can be larger than a diameter of the ball bearing  350  at a proximal end of the valve housing  330 . As such the ball bearing  350  can be prevented from engaging the distal end of the inlet housing  340  or creating a seal therebetween. In an embodiment, the valve housing  330  can include an abutment  338  or similar structure, extending radially inward into the inner lumen  336  and configured to prevent the ball bearing  350  from engaging the distal end of the inlet housing  340  and creating a seal therebetween. Advantageously, this can ensure a free proximal flow of fluid through the valve cavity  332 , and past the ball bearing  350 . 
     In an embodiment, as shown in  FIG. 19 , a positive air pressure  40  can be introduced at the inlet  346 . The increase in air pressure within the proximal portion  320 B of the drainage lumen  320  can urge the ball bearing  350  from the first position ( FIG. 18 ) to the second position ( FIG. 19 ). In the second position, the ball bearing  350  can engage the proximal end  114  of the connector body  110 , or the O-ring  360 , to create a fluid tight seal therebetween. As such, the ball bearing  350  can prevent any distal fluid flow and allow the pressure within the proximal portion  320 B, as well as the drainage tube lumen  24 , to build and urge any fluid through the lumen and into the collection container  30 , clearing any dependent loops  22 . 
     When the flow of pressurized fluid  40  is ceased, the pressure within the proximal portion  320 B reduces, allowing the weight of any fluid within the distal portion  320 A to transition the ball bearing  350  from the second position to the first position, and allow a fluid flow to the proximal portion  320 B. 
     Advantageously, embodiments of connectors  100 ,  200 ,  300  described herein, transitioning between the first position and the second position automatically isolates the catheter lumen  14  from the pressurized fluid  40  when the pressurized fluid is introduced. The connectors  100 ,  200 ,  300  prevent any pressurized fluid  40  from entering the catheter lumen  14 , causing trauma or discomfort. Further, the connectors  100 ,  200 ,  300  automatically restore patency to the drainage lumen when the pressurized air flow  40  is ceased. This allows fluid to flow from the catheter  12  to the drainage tube  20  preventing fluid build-up distally of the valve  150 . Advantageously, embodiments of the connector are configured to prevent accidental isolation of the catheter  12  for any longer than necessary which would quickly lead to fluid buildup and discomfort for the patient. This is important where the patient is incapacitated and cannot notify nursing staff or where the lack of fluid output may go unnoticed. 
     Further, embodiments of the connector do not require any active control inputs to operate the change in fluid flow paths. Instead the connector only requires the introduction of a positive air pressure  40  to the inlet of the connector. Advantageously, the connector can be used with various positive air pressure dependent loop clearance systems without requiring any communications coupling therebetween, facilitating automation of the dependent loop clearance systems. Moreover, embodiments of the connector do not require any manual input from the clinician to operate, freeing up nursing staff from having to open and close valves in a timely manner. 
     Advantageously, embodiments of the connector are designed in such a way to provide ease of manufacture and assembly, reducing associated costs. Further, components of the connectors described herein can be easily assembled and disassembled for cleaning and maintenance. 
     While some particular embodiments have been disclosed herein, and while the particular embodiments have been disclosed in some detail, it is not the intention for the particular embodiments to limit the scope of the concepts provided herein. Additional adaptations and/or modifications can appear to those of ordinary skill in the art, and, in broader aspects, these adaptations and/or modifications are encompassed as well. Accordingly, departures may be made from the particular embodiments disclosed herein without departing from the scope of the concepts provided herein.