Antimicrobial ultraviolet irradiation of connector for continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis

摘要

A connector valve for selectively permitting the transfer of fluids therethrough is described. Multiple-way valve means communicates with a plurality of conduits and selectively permits and prevents flow between the conduits. The multiple-way valve means comprises outer walls made of a substantially ultraviolet-transmissive material, with the outer walls of the multiple-way valve means preferably enclosing an elastomeric seal member defining rotatable channel means for communication with differing conduits at differing rotational positions, and also providing a rotatable seal against inner surfaces of the outer walls to maintain an antimicrobial seal of said conduits. The channel means is exposed along its entire length to an inner surface of an outer wall, to facilitate the anitmicrobial effect of ultraviolet radiation. Also, a novel method of practicing continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis, and an ultraviolet light applicator, is disclosed.