Patent Description:
IV infusion is used to administer an IV fluid into a vein of patient by means of tubing fluidly coupled to a vein of the patient. The IV fluids are infused through flexible, plastic tubing connected to a source of fluid at one end and to the hub of an IV catheter or extension tubing at the other end. The plastic tubing is often a portion of an IV set that includes IV tubing, an access port, and an outlet port. The IV set can be coupled with a fluid source, which can be an IV bag with a fluid therein. The fluid can be a medicament to be directed from the fluid source to the patient's vein through the IV set. The fluid can be injected into the patient through a needle or catheter coupled to the outlet port of the IV set. It should be understood that the pressure spike absorbing system of the present disclosure can be used with an IV set or any fluid delivery system.

An access port coupled with the IV tubing can be utilized to administer additional or a different fluid to the patient. For example, a medicament can be injected into the IV tubing to achieve a bolus. An IV bolus is commonly used when rapid administration of a medication is needed, such as in an emergency; when drugs that cannot be diluted, such as many cancer chemotherapeutic drugs, are administered; and when the therapeutic purpose is to achieve a peak drug level in the bloodstream of the patient. An IV bolus can also be utilized when an IV drip is not necessary and/or possible.

To achieve an IV bolus, a caregiver fluidly couples a fluid source with the IV tubing. For example, a syringe can be coupled to the IV tubing through an access port. The caregiver pushes the plunger of the syringe for a period of time to inject a fluid from the syringe into the IV tubing. The IV tubing can be referred to as microbore tubing, which can have an inner diameter of about <NUM> or less. Because the IV tubing creates a restriction to the flow of fluid being injected, the caregiver must push the syringe plunger with a greater level of force and for a longer period of time relative to injection of a fluid into tubing having a larger inner diameter or inner volume. The greater level of force, and longer period of time, required to inject the fluid requires increased physical exertion by the caregiver. Further, the level of force and period of time may increase relative to the viscosity of the fluid being injected.

The IV bolus can create a pressure spike within the IV set, relative to a normal pressure within the IV set. For example, one pound of force applied to the plunger of a one cubic centimeter syringe can generate output of <NUM> pounds per square inch by the syringe. The pressure is directed into the IV set where it can cause the physical integrity of the IV set to fail, resulting in a leak of the IV tubing or other portion of the IV set.

<CIT> relates to a surge pressure absorber which is adapted to absorb or reduce the surge pressure or liquid hammer caused by the stoppage of the flow of liquid.

<CIT> relates to an improved system for pumping emulsions and, more specifically, involves an improved method and apparatus for pumping comminuted foods and/or food emulsions at relatively high pressure to a filling device.

<CIT> relates to a system for collection and re-use of a fluid medium derived from the diversion of at least some of an injection of the medium to a selected site within a patient's body.

<CIT> relates to a flow regulating means that forms a portion of the patient controllable drug delivery system. The present invention also relates to a patient controllable drug delivery system and in particular relates to a system which allows for continuous infusion of a drug, while also allowing for separately controlled (by patient, physician or nursing staff) intermittent surges of the same drug. The system is particularly useful in the administration of analgesics.

<CIT> relates to a portable analgesic system which is attached to a patient's body.

<CIT> discloses a blood accumulator for use in single needle dialysis systems, which accumulator is provided with elastic walls so that expansion of the accumulator in an outward direction may take place and in the filled condition, the walls are stretched. After the blood input pump is stopped and a valve opened, blood makes its way at a controlled rate out of the accumulator past the dialysis diaphragm back to the patient's body.

In accordance with at least some embodiments disclosed herein is the realization that although a fluid can be injected into an IV set, certain problems occur when a bolus occurs within an IV set. For example, a pressure spike within the IV set can damage a portion of the IV set and cause a leak, losing valuable medicament, and potentially exposing a caregiver and/or patient to harmful substances.

Some embodiments disclosed herein relate to the realization that when fluid is injected into an IV set, a caregiver must inject the fluid from the syringe over a period of time. The time required to inject the fluid from the syringe prevents a busy caregiver from attending to other tasks or patients.

Embodiments disclosed herein also relate to the realization that when a caregiver must exert significant physical stress to push the syringe plunger into the syringe and overcome the flow restriction of the IV tubing. A caregiver may repeat this process multiple times per work shift, and for multiple patients, thereby exacerbating the required physical exertion and causing injury to the caregiver.

Accordingly, in some embodiments, a pressure spike absorbing device is provided that prevents damage to an IV set caused by an IV bolus. For example, some embodiments can reduce the pressure spike of a bolus within an IV set. As such, the present disclosure permits the capturing of fluid injected into an IV set such that the increased pressure is diverted from other portions of the IV set.

In some embodiments, a pressure spike absorbing device is provided that permits dispensing of the captured fluid from the pressure spike absorbing device at a consistent rate and/or pressure. As such, the present disclosure provides a predictable rate of introduction of the injected fluid into the IV set or to the patient.

In some embodiments, a pressure spike absorbing device is provided that prevents injury to a caregiver injecting a fluid into an IV set. For example, some embodiments can reduce the force required to inject a fluid into an IV set. As such, the fluid injected into the IV set can be received into a device of the present disclosure, which provides less resistance to an increase in pressure relative to other portions of the IV set and/or IV tubing.

Additionally, some embodiments of the present disclosure can provide interchangeable modular portions of the system to achieve specific characteristics. For example, interchangeable housings and/or expandable reservoirs can be combined to achieve a desired size or shape. As such, interchangeable portions of the system can be selected to couple with IV tubing having a specific cross-sectional width and/or shape profile.

Further, interchangeable housings and/or expandable reservoirs can be combined to achieve a desired system performance. As such, interchangeable portions of the system can be selected to have any of a specific fluid capacity of the housing and/or expandable reservoir, a specific rate of expansion of the expandable reservoir, and a specific rate of compression of the expandable reservoir.

Additional features and advantages of the subject technology will be set forth in the description below, and in part will be apparent from the description, or may be learned by practice of the subject technology. The advantages of the subject technology will be realized and attained by the structure particularly pointed out in the written description and embodiments hereof as well as the appended drawings.

It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory and are intended to provide further explanation of the subject technology.

Various features of illustrative embodiments of the invention are described below with reference to the drawings. The illustrated embodiments are intended to illustrate, but not to limit, the invention. The drawings contain the following figures:.

Accordingly, the summary, drawings, and detailed description are to be regarded as illustrative in nature and not as restrictive.

The detailed description set forth below is intended as a description of various configurations of the subject technology and is not intended to represent the only configurations in which the subject technology may be practiced. Like components are labeled with identical element numbers for ease of understanding.

Although the pressure spike absorbing system <NUM> can be used with an intravenous fluid delivery system such as an IV set, it should be appreciated that the pressure spike absorbing system <NUM> can be used with other fluid delivery systems. However, for clarity and brevity, the present disclosure will primarily refer to an IV set.

<FIG> illustrates a pressure spike absorbing system <NUM> according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. The pressure spike absorbing system <NUM> can comprise a housing <NUM>, an expandable reservoir <NUM>, and a cap <NUM>. The pressure spike absorbing system <NUM> is coupled with a first portion of a tubing <NUM> and second portion of a tubing <NUM>.

In some embodiments of the present disclosure, a vent passage <NUM> of the pressure spike absorbing system <NUM> permits a gas to exit and enter a cavity of the housing <NUM> during expansion and contraction of the expandable reservoir <NUM>.

When a fluid is injected into the tubing <NUM> and <NUM>, for example, when a medicament is injected into an IV set to introduce the medicament into an IV drip, the pressure within the IV set increases due to an increase in fluid volume within the IV set. The increased pressure can be received by the pressure spike absorbing system <NUM>, wherein the expandable reservoir <NUM> can provide less resistance to the pressure than other portions of the IV set.

The pressure causes the expandable reservoir <NUM> to expand and the inner volume therein to increase. The increased inner volume of the expandable reservoir <NUM> accommodates the increase in fluid volume. By accommodating the increase in fluid volume, and thus the increase in pressure, the pressure spike absorbing system <NUM> reduces the resistance to flow during injection of the fluid into the IV set and prevents the increase in pressure from causing damage to other portions of the IV set.

<FIG> illustrates a cross-sectional view of a housing <NUM> of the pressure spike absorbing system <NUM>. The housing <NUM> is configured to receive at least a portion of the expandable reservoir <NUM> within a cavity of the housing. The housing <NUM> can limit expansion of the expandable reservoir <NUM>, and can protect the expandable reservoir <NUM> from unintentional contact with a foreign object, which can damage or affect performance of the expandable reservoir <NUM>.

The housing <NUM> can include a first portion <NUM>, a second portion <NUM>, a cavity <NUM>, a first retaining bore <NUM>, and a first tubing passage <NUM>. The first portion <NUM> and the second portion <NUM> can comprise opposite portions of the housing <NUM>. In some embodiments, the first portion <NUM> and the second portion <NUM> can be positioned adjacent to each other.

The housing <NUM> can be shaped as a tube or cylinder, and can have a cross-sectional profile that includes a regular or irregular shape. For example, the cross-sectional profile can include any of a circle, oval, square, rectangle, triangle, or combination thereof. The housing <NUM> can be formed monolithically, as single piece, or can be formed of multiple pieces coupled together.

The housing <NUM> can be configured to limit the volume of fluid received into the pressure spike absorbing system <NUM> by restricting expansion of the expandable reservoir <NUM>. To limit the volume of fluid received into the system <NUM>, the housing <NUM> can have a size that corresponds to a volume of fluid to be received by the pressure spike absorbing system <NUM>. For example, a pressure spike absorbing system <NUM> that is intended to receive a small volume of fluid can be configured with a smaller expandable reservoir <NUM> compared to a pressure spike absorbing system <NUM> that is intended to receive a relatively larger volume of fluid. Thus, a pressure spike absorbing system <NUM> intended to receive a smaller expandable reservoir <NUM> can have a smaller housing <NUM> relative to a pressure spike absorbing system <NUM> intended to receive a larger expandable reservoir <NUM>.

An inner surface <NUM> of the housing can form a cavity <NUM> for the expandable reservoir. The cavity <NUM> can be formed within a portion of the housing <NUM>, and is configured to extend around an outer surface of the expandable reservoir <NUM>, or a portion thereof. The cavity <NUM> can extend from the second portion <NUM> of the housing toward the first portion <NUM> of the housing. The cavity <NUM> can extend from an end of the housing <NUM> at the first or second portion <NUM> or <NUM>, toward the other of the first or second portion <NUM> or <NUM>. In some embodiments, the cavity <NUM> extends between the first portion <NUM> and the second portion <NUM>. Further, the cavity <NUM> can extend through any of the first portion <NUM> and the second portion <NUM> of the housing <NUM>.

The cavity <NUM> can have a length L1 that extends between the first portion <NUM> and the second portion <NUM>. The length L1 can be at least about <NUM> inch and/or less than or equal to about <NUM> inches. Further, the length L1 can also be between about <NUM> inches and about <NUM> inches.

The cavity <NUM> can have a cross-sectional profile that is transverse to a housing axis A1 that extends between the first portion <NUM> and the second portion <NUM>. The cross-sectional profile of the cavity <NUM> can includes a regular or irregular shape. The shape of the cross-sectional profile can include any of a circle, oval, square, rectangle, triangle, or combination thereof. The cross-sectional profile of the cavity <NUM> can have a width W1 that extends between opposing inner surfaces of the cavity. The width W1 can be at least about <NUM> inch and/or less than or equal to about <NUM> inches. Further, the width W1 can also be between about <NUM> inch and <NUM> inch.

The size of the cavity <NUM> can be described by a volume defined by the inner surface <NUM> of the housing that forms the cavity <NUM>. The cavity <NUM> can have a volume of at least about <NUM> cc and/or less than or equal to about <NUM> cc. Further, the capacity can also be between about <NUM> cc and about <NUM> cc.

When an expandable reservoir <NUM> is positioned within the housing <NUM>, the space between an outer surface of the expandable reservoir <NUM>, in an unrestrained orientation, and the inner surface of the housing <NUM> defines a differential capacity. The differential capacity can designate the volume, which the pressure spike absorbing system <NUM> is intended to accommodate. The differential capacity can be at least about <NUM> cc and/or less than or equal to about <NUM> cc, or between about <NUM> cc and about <NUM> cc. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the differential capacity is <NUM> cc.

In some aspects of the present disclosure, the volume or differential capacity of the cavity <NUM> can be a ratio relative to a volume of the expandable reservoir <NUM>. For example, the volume or differential capacity of the cavity can be can be at least about <NUM>% and/or less than or equal to about <NUM>% larger than the volume of the expandable reservoir <NUM>. Further, the volume or differential capacity of the cavity can be can be between about <NUM>% and about <NUM>% larger than the volume of the expandable reservoir <NUM>.

A first retaining bore <NUM> of the housing <NUM> is configured to receive a portion of the expandable reservoir <NUM>. The first retaining bore <NUM> retains a portion of the expandable reservoir <NUM>, and restricts movement of the expandable reservoir relative to the housing <NUM>.

The first retaining bore <NUM> can be formed by an inner surface of the housing <NUM>. The first retaining bore <NUM> extends from the cavity <NUM> toward the first portion <NUM> of the housing. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the first retaining bore <NUM> can extend from the cavity <NUM> through an outer surface of the housing <NUM>.

The first retaining bore <NUM> can have a shape, or cross-sectional profile, that corresponds with a shape of the expandable reservoir <NUM>. For example, the cross-sectional profile of the first retaining bore <NUM> can be the same or about the same as a cross-sectional profile of an outer surface of the expandable reservoir <NUM>. The first retaining bore <NUM> can have a length L2 that extends between the cavity <NUM> and the first portion <NUM> of the housing <NUM>. The length L2 of the retaining bore corresponds to a length of the expandable reservoir <NUM> that can be retained therein. In some embodiments, the length L2 of the retaining bore is a ratio relative to length L3 of the expandable reservoir <NUM>. For example, the length L2 of the retaining bore <NUM> can be at least about <NUM>% and/or less than or equal to about <NUM>% of the length L3 of the expandable reservoir <NUM>. Further, the length L2 of the retaining bore can also be between about <NUM>% and about <NUM>% of the length L3 of the expandable reservoir <NUM>.

When an expandable reservoir <NUM> is coupled with the pressure spike absorbing system <NUM>, the a portion of the expandable reservoir <NUM> is positioned within the first retaining bore <NUM>. The expandable reservoir <NUM> is positioned within the first retaining bore <NUM> so that the outer surface of the expandable reservoir engages against the inner surface of the housing along the first retaining bore <NUM>. The engagement between the expandable reservoir <NUM> and the first retaining bore <NUM> resists movement of the expandable reservoir <NUM> relative to the housing <NUM>. The first retaining bore <NUM> can resists movement of the expandable reservoir <NUM> along the housing axis A1, and/or can resist rotational movement of the expandable reservoir <NUM> around the housing axis A1.

In some embodiments of the present disclosure, a first retaining bore extends from the cavity <NUM> toward the first portion <NUM> of the housing, and a second retaining bore extends from the cavity <NUM> toward the second portion <NUM> of the housing.

The housing <NUM> can include a transition surface <NUM> between the cavity and the retaining bore to prevent damage to the expandable reservoir <NUM> during expansion of the reservoir and return of the expandable reservoir to an unrestrained orientation. The transition surface <NUM> forms a gradual transition between an inner surface of the housing at the cavity and an inner surface of the housing at the first retaining bore <NUM>. The gradual transition of the inner surface of the housing <NUM> reduces the likelihood of creating a stress point on an expandable reservoir engaged against the housing <NUM>.

The transition surface <NUM> can be formed by an inner surface <NUM> of the housing <NUM> between the cavity <NUM> and the first retaining bore <NUM>. The transition surface <NUM> can be shaped with a cross-sectional width that tapers between the cavity <NUM> and the first retaining bore <NUM>. The cross-sectional width of the inner surface <NUM> can taper from the cavity <NUM> toward the first retaining bore <NUM>. In some aspects of the present disclosure, a cross-sectional width of the cavity <NUM> is greater than a cross-sectional width of the first retaining bore <NUM>, such that the inner surface <NUM> tapers from the cavity <NUM> toward the first retaining bore <NUM>.

A first tubing passage <NUM> of the housing <NUM> can permit a portion of tubing to extend into the housing <NUM>. The first tubing passage <NUM> provides a passage through the housing to permit an IV tubing to be moved through the housing and coupled with any of the housing <NUM> and the expandable reservoir <NUM>.

The first tubing passage <NUM> extends between the cavity <NUM> and an outer surface of the housing <NUM>. The first tubing passage <NUM> can extend from the first retaining bore <NUM> toward the first portion <NUM> of the housing. The first tubing passage <NUM> can be aligned with the first retaining bore <NUM> so that a passage extends through each of the first tubing passage <NUM> and the first retaining bore <NUM>. In some aspects of the present disclosure, the axis A1 extends through the first tubing passage <NUM> and the first retaining bore <NUM>.

In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the first tubing passage <NUM> is positioned between the first portion <NUM> and the second portion <NUM> of the housing, and extends from the cavity <NUM> to an outer surface of the housing <NUM>.

The first tubing passage <NUM> can have a cross-sectional width that permits a tubing inserted therethrough to move relative to the housing <NUM>. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the first tubing passage <NUM> includes a cross-sectional width that is about the same cross-sectional width of the tubing, thereby providing an interference fit between the tubing and the first tubing passage <NUM>.

In some aspects, the cross-sectional profile of the first tubing passage <NUM> is less than the cross-sectional profile of the expandable reservoir <NUM>. Thus, when the IV tubing is moved in a direction away from the housing, the portion of the expandable reservoir <NUM>, coupled to the IV tubing, engages against the housing to resist retraction of the IV tubing or separation of the IV tubing from the pressure spike absorbing system <NUM>.

In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the housing <NUM> comprises a ventilation passage <NUM>. The ventilation passage <NUM> permits a gas to move into and out of the housing <NUM>. A gas can be displaced from the housing <NUM> when the expandable reservoir <NUM> increases in size, or moves toward an expanded orientation. When the expandable reservoir retracts, or moves toward an unrestrained orientation, the ventilation passage <NUM> permit a gas to move into the housing <NUM>.

The ventilation passage <NUM> can be shaped as an opening that extends through the housing. The ventilation passage <NUM> can extend between an inner surface of the housing and an outer surface of the housing. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the ventilation passage <NUM> extends from the cavity to an outer surface of the housing.

A portion of the ventilation passage <NUM> can be positioned along a portion of the housing <NUM> forming the cavity <NUM>, thereby permitting a gas to move toward or away from the housing. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the pressure spike absorbing system <NUM> comprises more than one ventilation passage <NUM>. For example, a first ventilation passage <NUM> can be positioned proximal to the first portion <NUM> of the housing, and a second ventilation passage <NUM> can be positioned proximal to the second portion <NUM> of the housing.

The ventilation passage <NUM> can be sized to limit the rate of gas moving between the cavity and an atmosphere adjacent the outer surface of the housing. As a result, the ventilation passage <NUM> can be configured to regulate the rate of expansion of the expandable reservoir <NUM>.

In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the ventilation passage <NUM> can be any of a passage, a bore, a channel, and a groove that extends between the cavity <NUM> and an atmosphere adjacent an outer surface of the pressure spike absorbing system <NUM>. The ventilation passage <NUM> can be a passage that extends through any of the first portion <NUM> and the second portion <NUM> of the housing. The ventilation passage <NUM> can be a channel that extends along a surface of any of the cavity <NUM>, the first retaining bore <NUM>, and the first tubing passage <NUM>. In some aspects, the ventilation passage <NUM> can be any of a passage that extends through the cap <NUM>, and a channel that extends along a surface of the cap <NUM>.

The housing <NUM> can comprise a material that is configured to resist deformation during intended use of the pressure spike absorbing system <NUM>. For example, the material of the housing <NUM> may be rigid relative to the expandable reservoir <NUM>. The housing <NUM> can be more rigid than the expandable reservoir <NUM> such that when the expandable reservoir <NUM> is urged against the housing during expansion, the housing <NUM> resists changing shape or size. Further, the material of the housing <NUM> can be selected to limit or prevent expansion of the expandable reservoir <NUM> beyond a threshold. The material of the housing <NUM> can be any of a plastic, a metal, a glass, a rubber, a composite, and any combination thereof.

In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the housing <NUM>, or a portion thereof, can permit a change of shape. For example, the material of the housing can be configured to maintain shape of the housing up to a specified pressure and then be urged or biased by the expandable reservoir. A portion of the housing can flex, relative to other portions of the housing, or a portion of the housing can be moveable, relative to other portions of the housing.

The housing <NUM> can protect the expandable reservoir <NUM> from damage by preventing contact from a foreign object or person against the expandable reservoir <NUM>. Contact by a sharp or abrasive object against the expandable reservoir <NUM> may tear, cut, or penetrate the expandable reservoir <NUM> and cause a leak in the IV set. In another aspect of the present disclosure, the housing <NUM> can prevent damage to the expandable reservoir <NUM> by resisting undesired expansion of the expandable reservoir <NUM>, which may cause the expandable reservoir <NUM> to tear. In yet another aspect of the present disclosure, the housing <NUM> maintains a shape of the expandable reservoir <NUM>, thereby preventing bending or kinking of the reservoir, which may affect intended performance of the system or damage to the expandable reservoir <NUM>.

The housing <NUM> is coupled with the expandable reservoir <NUM> and the cap <NUM> to form the pressure spike absorbing system <NUM>. The expandable reservoir <NUM> is positioned within the cavity <NUM> of the housing, and the cap <NUM> is coupled to the housing <NUM> and the expandable reservoir <NUM>. The pressure spike absorbing system <NUM> can be assembled with a first portion of the expandable reservoir <NUM>, comprising the first opening, positioned in a first retaining bore <NUM> of the housing. The cap <NUM> can be coupled with the housing <NUM> so that a second portion of the expandable reservoir, comprising the second opening, is positioned in a retaining bore of the cap <NUM>. When the pressure spike absorbing system <NUM> is assembled, a third portion of the expandable reservoir is positioned within the cavity <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, a cross-sectional view of a cap <NUM> of the pressure spike absorbing system <NUM> is illustrated. The cap <NUM> is configured to couple with the housing <NUM> to enclose the cavity <NUM> and retain a portion of the expandable reservoir <NUM>. The cap <NUM> can be coupled with any of an expandable reservoir <NUM> and an IV tubing to retain the pressure spike absorbing system <NUM> with the IV tubing. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, a removable cap <NUM> can permit modular assembly of the pressure spike absorbing system <NUM>. For example, portions of the pressure spike absorbing system <NUM> can be interchangeably assembled together and assembled with an IV set.

The cap <NUM> can be shaped as a cover or plug that couples with the housing <NUM> to enclose the cavity <NUM> and/or engage the expandable reservoir <NUM>. The cap <NUM>, or portions thereof, can extend over an outer surface and along the inner surface <NUM> of the housing <NUM>. The cap can also be shaped as a cover that extends over an outer surface of the housing <NUM>.

The cap <NUM> can include a first end portion <NUM>, and a second end portion <NUM>, opposite the first end portion <NUM>. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the cap <NUM> includes a second retaining bore <NUM> and a second tubing passage <NUM> of the pressure spike absorbing system <NUM>. A cap axis B1 extends between the first end portion <NUM> and the second end portion <NUM>.

The first end portion <NUM> includes a lip <NUM> that extends radially outward relative to the cap axis B1. A surface <NUM> of the lip, facing toward the second end portion <NUM>, can engage against the second portion <NUM> of the housing.

The first end portion <NUM> can have a cross-sectional profile that is transverse relative to the cap axis B1. The cross-sectional profile of the first end portion <NUM> can be the same as a cross-sectional profile of the housing <NUM> so that an outer radial surface of the lip <NUM> is flush or aligns with an outer radial surface of the housing <NUM> when the cap is coupled with the housing <NUM>.

The second end portion <NUM> of the cap can extend from the first end portion <NUM>. The second end portion <NUM> can have a cross-sectional profile that is transverse relative to the cap axis B1. The cross-sectional profile of the second end portion <NUM> can be the same as a cross-sectional profile of the cavity <NUM> so that an outer radial surface of the second end portion <NUM> engages against the inner surface <NUM> of the housing when the cap is coupled with the housing <NUM>. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the second end portion <NUM> can have a width W2 that extends between opposing outer surfaces of the cap. The width W2 of the cap can be the same or about the same as the width W1 of the cavity.

Engagement of the second end portion <NUM> against the housing can resist separation of the cap <NUM> from the housing <NUM>. The cap <NUM> can be coupled with the housing <NUM> by an interference fit between an outer radial surface of the second end portion <NUM> of the cap and an inner surface <NUM> of the housing. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the cap <NUM> and the housing <NUM> are coupled together by any of an interference fit, weld, adhesive, and mechanical coupling. For example, the cap <NUM> can be adhered or welded with the housing <NUM>. In yet another example, the cap <NUM> and the housing <NUM> can comprise mating threads, a corresponding pin and groove, or a mechanical coupling.

The cap <NUM> can include a second retaining bore <NUM> configured to receive portion of the expandable reservoir <NUM>. The second retaining bore <NUM> can be configured to provide the same function and features as the first retaining bore <NUM> described above. Accordingly, some details and function of the retaining bore are not repeated here for brevity.

The second retaining bore <NUM> can be formed by an inner surface of the cap <NUM>. The second retaining bore <NUM> extends from an end of the second end portion <NUM> toward the first end portion <NUM>. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the second retaining bore <NUM> can extend through the first end portion <NUM> and the second end portion <NUM>.

The second retaining bore <NUM> can function like that of the first retaining bore <NUM>, to receive and/or retain a portion of the expandable reservoir <NUM>. Accordingly, like the first retaining bore <NUM>, the second retaining bore <NUM> can be shaped with a cross-sectional profile the is the same or about the same as a cross-sectional profile of an outer surface of the expandable reservoir <NUM>.

A length L4 of the second retaining bore <NUM> can be about the same as the length L2 of the first retaining bore <NUM>. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the second retaining bore <NUM> can have a different length or width than the first retaining bore <NUM>. For example, a cap <NUM> having a second retaining bore length L4 that is greater than the first retaining bore length L2 can be used to receive a longer portion of the expandable reservoir <NUM> relative to the first retaining bore <NUM>. Similarly, a cap <NUM> having a second retaining bore length L4 that is less than the first retaining bore length L2 can be used to receive a shorter portion of the expandable reservoir <NUM> relative to the first retaining bore <NUM>. Using a cap having a longer or shorter second retaining bore length, relative to the retaining first retaining bore length, can reduce or increase, respectively, the portion of the expandable reservoir <NUM> than can expand.

The cap <NUM> can include a transition surface <NUM> to prevent damage to the expandable reservoir <NUM> during expansion of the reservoir and return of the expandable reservoir to an unrestrained orientation. The transition surface <NUM> of the cap can be configured to provide the same function and features as the transition surface <NUM> of the housing described above. Accordingly, some details and function of the transition surface <NUM> are not repeated here for brevity.

The transition surface <NUM> can be positioned along a portion of the second retaining bore <NUM>. The transition surface <NUM> can be shaped as a chamfer along the surface of the second retaining bore <NUM>. In some aspects of the present disclosure, the transition surface <NUM> is a concaved portion of an end surface of the cap <NUM>.

The transition surface <NUM> can have a cross-sectional width that is greater than the cross-sectional width of the second retaining bore <NUM>. The cross-sectional width of the transition surface <NUM> tapers from the second end portion <NUM> toward the first end portion <NUM> of the cap.

In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the cross-sectional width of the second retaining bore <NUM> tapers from the second end portion <NUM> toward the first end portion <NUM> of the cap. For example, the second retaining bore <NUM> can have a first cross-sectional width proximal to the second end portion <NUM> of the cap that is about equal to the cross-sectional width of the cavity <NUM>, and a second cross-sectional width proximal to first end portion <NUM> that is less than the first cross-sectional width.

The cap <NUM> can include a second tubing passage <NUM> that extends through the cap <NUM> to permit a portion of tubing to extend into the housing <NUM>. The second tubing passage <NUM> can be configured to provide the same function and features as the first tubing passage <NUM> described above. Accordingly, some details and function of the retaining bore are not repeated here for brevity.

The second tubing passage <NUM> extends between first end portion <NUM> and the second end portion <NUM> of the cap <NUM>. The second tubing passage <NUM> can extend from the second retaining bore <NUM> toward the first end portion <NUM> of the cap <NUM>. The second tubing passage <NUM> can be aligned with the second retaining bore <NUM> so that a passage extends through each of the second tubing passage <NUM> and the second retaining bore <NUM>. In some aspects of the present disclosure, the axis B1 extends through the second tubing passage <NUM> and the second retaining bore <NUM>.

The second tubing passage <NUM> can permit a segment of tubing to be inserted through the cap <NUM>. For example, a portion of IV tubing can be moved through the second tubing passage <NUM> to couple with a portion of the expandable reservoir <NUM>.

In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the second tubing passage <NUM> is shaped as a notch or channel that extends through a portion of the cap <NUM>. For example, second tubing passage <NUM> can be a channel that extends between the first end portion <NUM> and the second end portion <NUM> of the cap <NUM>, and from an outer radial surface toward the cap axis B1. In some aspects, the second tubing passage <NUM> extends through a portion of the housing <NUM>. For example, the second tubing passage <NUM> can be any of a passage or channel through the second portion <NUM> of the housing.

The cap <NUM> can comprise a material that is configured to resist deformation during use of the pressure spike absorbing system <NUM>. For example, the material of the cap <NUM> can about the same or similar in hardness as the housing <NUM>. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the cap <NUM> comprises a material with a hardness that is less than the housing <NUM> to permit the cap <NUM> be partially deformed during coupling of the cap <NUM> with the housing <NUM>, resulting in an interference fit with the housing <NUM>.

When the cap <NUM> is coupled with the housing <NUM>, the second portion of the expandable reservoir, comprising the second opening, extends into the second retaining bore <NUM>. Accordingly, the first retaining bore <NUM> can receive a first portion of the expandable reservoir <NUM>, and the second retaining bore <NUM> can receive a second portion of the expandable reservoir <NUM>. The second retaining bore <NUM> can prevent movement of the expandable reservoir <NUM> relative to the housing <NUM> and cap <NUM>. For example, when portions of an expandable reservoir <NUM> are positioned within the first retaining bore <NUM> and the second retaining bore <NUM>, movement of the expandable reservoir <NUM> along an axis between the first and second retaining bore is limited.

Referring to <FIG>, a cross-sectional view of an expandable reservoir <NUM> of the pressure spike absorbing system <NUM> is illustrated. The expandable reservoir <NUM> is configured to receive a fluid, such as a liquid or gas, and to deform to expand and accommodate the increase in fluid.

The expandable reservoir <NUM> can be shaped as a tube having a first opening <NUM>, a second opening <NUM>, and a passage <NUM> that is in fluid communication with the first and second opening. The passage <NUM> can extend between the first opening <NUM> and the second opening <NUM>. The first opening <NUM> and the second opening <NUM> are in fluid communication with the passage <NUM>, thereby permitting a fluid to move into and out of the passage <NUM> through any of the first and second opening. Although the expandable reservoir <NUM> is illustrated as having a tubular shape, the expandable reservoir and/or cavity can be any regular or irregular shape, including any of a sphere, square, rectangle, and oval.

The expandable reservoir <NUM> can have a cross-sectional profile transverse to an expandable reservoir axis C1 that extends between the first portion <NUM> and the second portion <NUM>. The cross-sectional profile can be a circle; however, the cross-sectional profile can also include any of a circle, oval, square, rectangle, triangle, and combination thereof. The cross-sectional profile can be consistent along the length of the expandable reservoir <NUM>, or can change along the length of the expandable reservoir <NUM>.

The passage <NUM> of the expandable reservoir can have a cross-sectional width W3 that is about equal to a cross-sectional width of the outer surface of the IV tubing to permit a portion of the IV tubing to be moved into the passage <NUM>. To permit an interference fit between the expandable reservoir <NUM> and the IV tubing, a cross-sectional width W3 of the passage <NUM> at first opening <NUM> and the second opening <NUM>, can be the same as the cross-sectional width of the outer surface of the IV tubing.

In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the cross-sectional width W3 of the passage is greater than the cross-sectional width of the outer surface of the IV tubing, such that a gap or space exists between the inner surface of the expandable reservoir <NUM> and the outer surface of the IV tubing. The gap can permit an adhesive or other joining material to be used to couple the IV tubing with the expandable reservoir <NUM>. In some aspects, the any of the expandable reservoir <NUM> and the IV tubing can be configured to shrink or expand to permit coupling of the IV tubing with the expandable reservoir <NUM>. For example, a portion of the IV tubing can be inserted through the first or second opening <NUM> and <NUM>, and then the expandable reservoir <NUM>, or portion having the IV tubing therein, can be reduced in size to engage the IV tubing.

The passage <NUM> of the expandable reservoir can have a size that permits a volume of fluid to be received therein. The size of the expandable reservoir can be configured to receive a volume when in the unrestrained orientation and/or in the expanded orientation. The volume can be at least about <NUM> cc and/or less than or equal to about <NUM> cc, or between about <NUM> cc and about <NUM> cc. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the passage <NUM> can have a volume that is <NUM> cc.

The expandable reservoir <NUM> comprises a material that is configured to resiliently deform toward an expanded orientation and return to an unrestrained orientation. The permit the expandable reservoir <NUM> to deform and return to an unrestrained orientation, the material is resilient, or provides some resistance to deformation. For example, the material of the expandable reservoir <NUM>. can have a durometer that permits a specified rate of expansion and/or return of the expandable reservoir <NUM> to an unrestrained orientation. The material can be configured with a durometer hardness so that when the expandable reservoir <NUM> is in an expanded orientation, the fluid therein is directed out of the pressure spike absorbing system <NUM> at a specified rate.

The expandable reservoir <NUM> can have a first and second opening; however, in some embodiments, the expandable reservoir <NUM> can have one opening in fluid communication with a passage or cavity. An expandable reservoir having one opening can permit a fluid to enter the passage and cause the expandable reservoir to expand to accommodate an increase in pressure of the IV set. When the force of the expandable reservoir overcomes the fluid pressure therein, the expandable reservoir will return toward the unrestrained orientation and cause the fluid to be directed out of the opening. An upstream flow control valve, positioned between a fluid access port and the expandable reservoir, can prevent backflow of the fluid toward the access port.

In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the expandable reservoir <NUM>, or a portion of the expandable reservoir between the first and second opening <NUM> and <NUM>, includes any of a bellows and/or folds. For example, in some embodiments, the expandable reservoir <NUM> can have one or more fold the extends between the first and second opening, along the expandable reservoir axis C1. In another embodiment, one or more fold that extends along the circumference of the passage <NUM>, around the expandable reservoir axis C1. The one or more fold can unfold or expand when pressure is applied to the passage <NUM> to increase the volume within the expandable reservoir.

In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the expandable reservoir <NUM> includes a ridge that can resist further movement of the expandable reservoir <NUM> relative to the housing <NUM> and/or IV tubing. The ridge can extend away from the outer surface of the expandable reservoir axis C1 to engage against the housing <NUM>. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, a ridge can extend from an inner surface of the expandable reservoir <NUM> to engage against an IV tubing inserted therein.

In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the expandable reservoir <NUM> includes an alignment feature <NUM>. The alignment feature <NUM> can be any of a dimple, indentation, channel, groove, and ridge that permit a portion of the expandable reservoir <NUM> to change shape and/or direction. For example, the expandable reservoir <NUM> can have a groove the extends into the outer surface and around the expandable reservoir axis C1 proximate to each of the first and second opening <NUM> and <NUM>. When pressure is directed to the passage <NUM>, the portion of the expandable reservoir <NUM> between the grooves can more readily expand radially outward, relative to the portion of the of the expandable reservoir <NUM> between the groove and the first and second opening <NUM> and <NUM>. In some aspects, the alignment feature <NUM> can be a marking on an inner and/or outer surface of the expandable reservoir <NUM> to permit observation of the position of the expandable reservoir <NUM> relative to the housing <NUM>.

The expandable reservoir <NUM> can include a restraining mechanism that resists radial expansion. The restraining mechanism can be a wire can extend along the expandable reservoir between the first opening <NUM> and the second opening <NUM>. In some embodiments, the restraining mechanism can be a material having a lattice or mesh shape that extends along the outer surface of the expandable reservoir <NUM>. In another embodiment, the restraining mechanism can be a tubular structure that extends along the outer surface of the expandable reservoir <NUM>.

In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the pressure spike absorbing system <NUM> includes a spring or lever that can resist radial expansion of the expandable reservoir <NUM>. For example, a spring or lever can extend from the inner surface <NUM> of the housing toward the expandable reservoir <NUM>. When the expandable reservoir <NUM> is in the expanded orientation, an outer surface of the expandable reservoir <NUM> can engage against the spring or lever. The force of the spring or lever against the expandable reservoir <NUM> could direct the expandable reservoir <NUM> radially inward, thereby causing the fluid to be directed out of the passage <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, an exploded view of the pressure spike absorbing system <NUM> is illustrated. It should be understood that the following description illustrates assembly and cooperation between portions of the pressure spike absorbing system <NUM>. Accordingly, assembly of the pressure spike absorbing system <NUM> can include any of the following description, in any variation or sequence.

The pressure spike absorbing system <NUM> can be coupled with an existing section of IV tubing or fluid delivery system. For example, the tubing can be cut to form a first portion of tubing <NUM> and a second portion of tubing <NUM>. An end of the first and second portion of tubing <NUM> and <NUM> can then be coupled to the pressure spike absorbing system <NUM>. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the pressure spike absorbing system <NUM> can be coupled with IV tubing, for example, as a portion of an IV set or fluid delivery system.

To couple the pressure spike absorbing system <NUM> with tubing, the tubing <NUM> is inserted through the housing <NUM>. The tubing <NUM> can be inserted through the housing <NUM> from the first portion <NUM> toward the second portion <NUM> of the housing. When inserted through the housing <NUM>, an end portion of the tubing <NUM> is moved through the tubing passage <NUM>, the first retaining bore <NUM>, and the cavity <NUM>. When the end portion of the tubing <NUM> extends through the second portion <NUM> of the housing, the tubing <NUM> can be coupled to the expandable reservoir <NUM>.

The tubing <NUM> can be coupled to the expandable reservoir <NUM> by inserting the end portion of the tubing <NUM> through the first opening <NUM> of the expandable reservoir. The tubing <NUM> can be moved through the first opening <NUM> and into the passage <NUM> so that the outer surface of the tubing <NUM> extends along the inner surface of the expandable reservoir <NUM>. A portion of the tubing <NUM> within the passage <NUM> is identified in broken line in <FIG>. The end portion of the tubing <NUM> extends a distance D1 from the first opening <NUM> of the expandable reservoir.

Another portion of tubing <NUM> is inserted through the cap <NUM>. The tubing <NUM> is inserted through the cap <NUM> by moving the end portion of the tubing <NUM> through the tubing passage <NUM> and second retaining bore <NUM>, from the first end portion <NUM> toward the second end portion <NUM>. When the tubing <NUM> extends through the second end portion <NUM> of the cap, the tubing <NUM> can be coupled to the expandable reservoir <NUM>.

The tubing <NUM> can be coupled to the expandable reservoir <NUM> by inserting the end portion of the tubing <NUM> through the second opening <NUM> of the expandable reservoir. The tubing <NUM> can be moved through the second opening <NUM> and into the passage <NUM> so that the outer surface of the tubing <NUM> extends along the inner surface of the expandable reservoir <NUM>. Like the portion of tubing <NUM> inserted through the first opening <NUM>, the portion of tubing <NUM> can be extended a distance D1 into the passage <NUM>.

The cap <NUM> can be moved toward the expandable reservoir <NUM> so that a portion of the expandable reservoir, adjacent to the second opening <NUM>, is positioned within the second retaining bore <NUM> and the second opening <NUM> of the expandable reservoir is aligned with the second tubing passage <NUM>.

The expandable reservoir <NUM> and a portion of the cap <NUM> can be moved into the cavity <NUM> of the housing so that a portion of the expandable reservoir adjacent to the first opening <NUM> is positioned within the first retaining bore <NUM> and the first opening <NUM> is aligned with the first tubing passage <NUM>. When the cap <NUM> is coupled with the housing <NUM>, the expandable reservoir <NUM> extends between the first retaining bore <NUM> and the second retaining bore <NUM>.

In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the expandable reservoir <NUM> can first be inserted into the housing <NUM>, and then the cap <NUM> coupled with the housing. When the cap <NUM> is coupled with the housing <NUM>, the second end portion <NUM> of the cap is inserted into the housing <NUM>, a portion of the expandable reservoir <NUM> is received into the second retaining bore <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, cross-sectional views of a pressure spike absorbing system <NUM> are illustrated. <FIG> illustrates an expandable reservoir <NUM> in an unrestrained orientation, and <FIG> illustrates an expandable reservoir <NUM> in an expanded orientation.

In the unrestrained orientation, a portion of the expandable reservoir <NUM>, adjacent to the first opening <NUM> is positioned within the first retaining bore <NUM>, and the first opening <NUM> is aligned with the first tubing passage <NUM>. A portion of the tubing <NUM> extends through the first tubing passage <NUM> and is coupled with the first opening <NUM> of the expandable reservoir.

Another portion of the expandable reservoir <NUM>, adjacent to the second opening <NUM>, is coupled with the cap <NUM>. The another portion of the expandable reservoir is coupled with the cap <NUM> so that the second opening <NUM> is aligned with the second tubing passage <NUM>. A portion of the tubing <NUM> extends through the second tubing passage <NUM> and is coupled with the second opening <NUM> of the expandable reservoir.

The outer surface of the expandable reservoir <NUM> and the inner surface <NUM> of the housing are spaced apart or separated to permit the expandable reservoir <NUM> to move, i.e., expand, toward the inner surface of the housing. The space between the outer surface of the expandable reservoir <NUM> and the inner surface <NUM> of the housing define a capacity of the pressure spike absorbing system <NUM>. The vents <NUM> of the housing permit a gas to be directed out of the housing <NUM> when the expandable reservoir <NUM> expands, and a gas to be drawn into the housing <NUM> when the expandable reservoir <NUM> moves toward the unrestrained orientation.

When coupled with the tubing of an IV set, or other fluid delivery system, the expandable reservoir <NUM> can deform to relieve pressure and resistance from other portions of the IV set or system. For example, when a fluid is injected into the IV set, the fluid is not immediately injected into the patient; thus, pressure is increased within the IV set. The increase in fluid pressure can act upon portions of the IV set having the least resistance. In some instances, the increase in pressure causes the IV set to become damaged and leak, and can cause resistance to the force injecting the fluid into the IV set.

Because the expandable reservoir can provide less resistance, relative to other portions of the IV set, the expandable reservoir deforms or moves to an expanded orientation to relieve the pressure, as illustrated in <FIG>. As the expandable reservoir deforms the volume of the passage <NUM> increases and permits the fluid to be accommodated therein. By deforming to accommodate the fluid, pressure is relieved or redirected from the other portions of the IV set, which may otherwise become damaged. Further, deformation of the expandable reservoir <NUM> permits the fluid to be injected into the IV set with less resistance.

In an expanded orientation, a force of the expandable reservoir <NUM> is directed against the fluid within the passage <NUM>; the force urges the expandable reservoir <NUM> toward the unrestrained orientation. For example, a force of the expandable reservoir <NUM> can be directed toward the expandable reservoir axis C1.

When pressure is no longer directed into the expandable reservoir <NUM>, or the force of the expandable reservoir <NUM> is greater than a force of the fluid engaged against the passage <NUM>, the expandable reservoir <NUM> can move toward the unrestrained orientation. When the expandable reservoir <NUM> moves toward the unrestrained orientation, the volume of the passage <NUM> becomes smaller, thereby directing the fluid out of the expandable reservoir <NUM>.

In embodiments of the present disclosure, the pressure spike absorbing system <NUM> can include any of the features, or any combination of features, described in the present disclosure. Referring to <FIG>, embodiments of a housing having features described in the present disclosure are illustrated.

<FIG> illustrates a cross-sectional view of a housing <NUM> having a first portion <NUM> and a second portion <NUM>, and a cavity <NUM> that extends through the first and second portions. Each of the first portion <NUM> and the second portion <NUM> include a cap <NUM> coupled thereto.

The cavity <NUM> can reduce manufacturing complexity by limiting variations in shape and/or cross-sectional of the passage through the housing <NUM>. Further, the housing <NUM> can permit a broader manufacturing tolerance, because critical sizing tolerances can be limited to the cap <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the housing <NUM> can include an opening <NUM> that extends between the inner and outer surface of the housing <NUM>. The opening <NUM> can be an elongated passage that extends between the first portion <NUM> and the second portion <NUM>. In some embodiments of the present application, a portion of the housing <NUM>, between the first portion <NUM> and the second portion <NUM>, includes a mesh or lattice structure comprising a plurality of openings.

The opening <NUM> can permit ventilation of the cavity <NUM>. In some aspects of the present disclosure, the opening <NUM> permits observation of the cavity and/or the expandable reservoir. For example, the opening <NUM> can permit observation and a determination of whether the expandable reservoir is in a unrestrained or expanded orientation.

In some embodiments, the opening <NUM> can function like a window and can include a transparent pane to resist movement of an object through the opening <NUM>, yet can permit observation into the housing. In aspects of the present disclosure, any portion, or the entirety of the pressure spike absorbing system can be formed with a transparent material to permit observation into the cavity.

In some embodiments, the pressure spike absorbing system is modular or modifiable. Because any of the housing, the cap of the first portion <NUM>, and the cap of the second portion <NUM>, may be interchangeable or modular, the pressure spike absorbing system can be configured for use with different pressure and/or volume capacities, and/or for use with a variety of expandable reservoirs and IV tubing. For example, the cap of the first portion <NUM> can be selected to permit a first IV tubing having a first cross-sectional diameter to be moved therethrough. A cap of the second portion <NUM> can be selected to permit a second IV tubing having a second cross-sectional diameter, different than the first cross-sectional diameter, to be moved therethrough. Thus, the pressure spike absorbing system can be used to transition a portion of the IV set from an IV tubing having a first cross-sectional diameter to an IV tubing having a second cross-sectional diameter.

<FIG> illustrates a housing <NUM> having more than one portion, which can be coupled together. The housing <NUM> can have a first portion <NUM> and a second portion <NUM>, which can be coupled together to form any of a cavity, a retaining bore, a tubing passage, and vent passage. In some embodiments, any of the first portion <NUM> and the second portion <NUM> form a portion of a cavity <NUM>, a portion of a retaining bore <NUM>, a portion of a tubing passage <NUM>, and a portion of a vent passage <NUM>.

The first portion <NUM> and the second portion <NUM> of the housing can be coupled together using any fastening or joining method or mechanism. The first and second portions can include a complimentary pin and pocket, or snap and pawl. The first and second portions can be joined together with an adhesive or welding. In some embodiments, a retainer, such as a band, can extend over or around an outer surface of the first portion <NUM> and the second portion <NUM> of the housing. The first portion <NUM> and the second portion <NUM> of the housing can be coupled together by a living hinge <NUM>, which permits movement of the first portion <NUM> relative to the second portion <NUM>.

The pressure spike absorbing system having a housing <NUM> with a first portion <NUM> and a second portion <NUM> can be assembled by first coupling an expandable reservoir between portions of IV tubing. The expandable reservoir can then be positioned within a portion of the cavity <NUM> with a first portion of the expandable reservoir positioned in a portion of a retaining bore <NUM> so that a first portion of the tubing extends through a first tubing passage <NUM>. A second portion of the expandable reservoir is positioned in a portion of another retaining bore <NUM> so that second portion of the tubing extends through another tubing passage <NUM>. The first and second portions of the housing can then be coupled together to enclose the expandable reservoir within the cavity <NUM>. The first and second portions of the housing can be coupled together by moving, or rotating, the first portion <NUM> of the housing toward the second portion <NUM> of the housing.

The pressure spike absorbing system can include a flow control valve to resist movement of a fluid relative to the pressure spike absorbing system. The flow control valve can permit fluid to move from an access port of the IV set toward the pressure spike absorbing system, and prevent the fluid from moving from the pressure spike absorbing system toward the access port. The flow control valve can resist movement of a fluid toward the access port when the expandable reservoir moves from an expanded orientation toward an unrestrained orientation. By resisting movement of fluid toward the access port, the fluid is directed toward the patient.

Referring to <FIG>, fluid delivery systems having a flow control valve are illustrated. The fluid delivery systems can include a fluid source <NUM>, such as a medicament bag, an access port <NUM>, and a pressure spike absorbing system <NUM>. The fluid source <NUM>, access port <NUM>, and pressure spike absorbing system <NUM>, can be fluidly coupled together and to a patient <NUM> by tubing <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, embodiments of a pressure spike absorbing system <NUM> can include a flow control valve <NUM> and an expandable reservoir <NUM>. The flow control valve <NUM> can be incorporate into any of the housing and the expandable reservoir of the pressure spike absorbing system <NUM>. For example, the flow control valve can be fluidly coupled with the tubing passage and/or the retaining bore at a first portion of the housing. When a fluid is directed from the fluid source <NUM> or access port <NUM>, toward the pressure spike absorbing system <NUM>, the fluid moves through the flow control valve <NUM> and into the passage of the expandable reservoir <NUM>. When the expandable reservoir <NUM> moves toward the unrestrained orientation, the flow control valve <NUM> resists movement of the fluid in a direction from the expandable reservoir <NUM> toward the access port <NUM>. Thus, the fluid moves toward the patient <NUM>.

Claim 1:
A flow-through pressure spike absorbing system (<NUM>) for intravenous (IV) therapy tubing (<NUM>, <NUM>), comprising:
a housing (<NUM>) comprising a cavity (<NUM>), a ventilation passage (<NUM>) that extends from the cavity (<NUM>) to an outer surface of the housing (<NUM>), a first retaining bore (<NUM>), a first tubing passage (<NUM>), a second retaining bore (<NUM>), and a second tubing passage (<NUM>), wherein the first retaining bore (<NUM>) extends from the cavity (<NUM>) toward a first portion (<NUM>) of the housing (<NUM>), and the first tubing passage (<NUM>) extends through the first portion of the housing (<NUM>), from the first retaining bore (<NUM>) to the outer surface of the housing (<NUM>), and wherein the second retaining bore (<NUM>) extends from the cavity (<NUM>) toward a second portion of the housing (<NUM>), and the second tubing passage (<NUM>) extends through the second portion of the housing (<NUM>), from the second retaining bore to the outer surface of the housing (<NUM>);
an expandable reservoir (<NUM>) comprising a first portion having a first opening (<NUM>), a second portion having a second opening (<NUM>), and an inner surface forming a passage (<NUM>) that extends between the first and second openings (<NUM>, <NUM>), wherein the expandable reservoir (<NUM>) is positioned within the cavity (<NUM>) with the first portion of the expandable reservoir (<NUM>) within the first retaining bore (<NUM>) such that a first tubing (<NUM>) can be inserted into the first opening (<NUM>) to be coupled to the expandable reservoir and with the second portion of the expandable reservoir (<NUM>) within the second retaining bore (<NUM>) such that a second tubing (<NUM>) can be inserted into the second opening (<NUM>) to be coupled to the expandable reservoir
wherein, when a fluid is injected through the first tubing (<NUM>), the fluid is directed into the passage (<NUM>) to move the expandable reservoir (<NUM>) from an unrestrained orientation toward an expanded orientation, and wherein the ventilation passage (<NUM>) is configured to permit a gas to move out of the cavity (<NUM>) when the expandable reservoir (<NUM>) moves from the unrestrained orientation toward the expanded orientation, and to permit a gas to move into the cavity (<NUM>) when the expandable reservoir (<NUM>) moves from the expanded orientation toward the unrestrained orientation.