| 摘要 |
The present invention describes a connector set that joins the lumen of an air column catheter to a transducer housing. When first joined, the connector set automatically injects into the bladder an amount of air required for proper function of the bladder. At the same time, the connector set disables the mechanism used to inject air into the bladder and thereby limits the catheter to single patient use. The catheter connector provides an air vent to the ambient environment. The vent is closed by a pierceable seal. The transducer housing connector contains a piercing element that penetrates the vent seal when the connectors are mated. Though pierced, the vent seal retains its ability to prevent loss of air through the vent for the expected operating life of the catheter. Once the catheters are separated, the seal is irreparable breached. Should a second use be attempted, the breached seal allows gas that would otherwise be injected into the bladder to escape to the atmosphere. The bladder at this point can no longer be charged with gas and is unable to retain air pressure. The catheter cannot therefore be used a second time to couple pressure in the environment to a pressure transducer.
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