Polysaccharide Based Hydrogels

Polysaccharide based hydrogel compositions and methods of making and using the same are provided. The subject polysaccharide based hydrogel compositions are prepared by combining a polysaccharide component with a hydrophilic polymer and a cross-linking agent. Also provided are kits and systems for use in preparing the subject compositions.

FRAGMENTED HYDROGELS

Fragmented polysaccharide based hydrogel compositions and methods of making and using the same are provided. The subject polysaccharide based hydrogel compositions are prepared by combining a polysaccharide component with a hydrophilic polymer and a cross-linking agent. Also provided are kits and systems for use in preparing the subject compositions. 142-. (canceled)43. A composition comprising a plurality of hydrogel fragments , wherein each hydrogel fragment in the composition comprises:a biologically active agent; and the acetylated polysaccharide or derivative thereof has a molecular weight of 1000 Dalton to 80,300 Dalton, a degree of deacetylation of 70% to 99%, and at least two nucleophilic groups and is directly covalently bonded to the multifunctional, multi-armed polyethylene glycol polymer and directly covalently bonded to the multifunctional, multi-armed crosslinker of polyethylene glycol;', 'the multifunctional, multi-armed polyethylene glycol polymer has a molecular weight of 5,000 Dalton to 30,000 Dalton, and comprises at least two nucleophilic groups and is directly covalently bonded to the acetylated polysaccharide or derivative thereof and is directly covalently bonded to the multifunctional, multi-armed crosslinker of polyethylene glycol; and', 'the multifunctional, multi-armed crosslinker of polyethylene glycol has a molecular weight of 5,000 Dalton to 30,000 Dalton, and comprises at least two electrophilic groups and is directly covalently bonded to the acetylated polysaccharide or derivative thereof and is directly covalently bonded to the multifunctional, multi-armed polyethylene glycol polymer,', 'wherein the acetylated polysaccharide or derivative thereof does not act as a cross-linking agent in the hydrogel., 'a hydrogel comprising an acetylated polysaccharide, a multifunctional, multi-armed polyethylene glycol polymer and a multifunctional, multi-armed crosslinker of polyethylene glycol, wherein44. The composition of claim 43 , wherein the ...

Polysaccharide based hydrogels

Polysaccharide based hydrogel compositions and methods of making and using the same are provided. The subject polysaccharide based hydrogel compositions are prepared by combining a polysaccharide component with a hydrophilic polymer and a cross-linking agent. Also provided are kits and systems for use in preparing the subject compositions.

Fragmented Hydrogels

Fragmented polysaccharide based hydrogel compositions and methods of making and using the same are provided. The subject polysaccharide based hydrogel compositions are prepared by combining a polysaccharide component with a hydrophilic polymer and a cross-linking agent. Also provided are kits and systems for use in preparing the subject compositions. 1. A hydrogel composition , comprisinga polysaccharide substrate or derivative thereof having a molecular weight of 160 Dalton to 80,300 Dalton and comprising at least two reactive nucleophilic groups;a synthetic, hydrophilic polymer of a molecular weight of 200 Dalton to 100000 Dalton and comprising at least two nucleophilic reactive groups; anda crosslinking agent.2. The composition of claim 1 , wherein the polysaccharide substrate is chitosan claim 1 , carboxymethylcellulose claim 1 , carboxymethylchitosan or a derivative thereof.3. The composition of claim 1 , wherein the synthetic hydrophilic polymer substrate is a polyethylene glycol having at least two nucleophilic active groups.4. The composition of claim 1 , wherein the crosslinking agent is a polyethylene glycol having at least two electrophilic active groups.5. The composition of claim 1 , wherein the crosslinking agent is an aldehyde.6. The composition of claim 1 , wherein the crosslinking agent is a glutaraldehyde.7. The composition of claim 1 , wherein the crosslinking agent is heat treated glutaraldehyde.8. The composition of claim 1 , wherein the composition comprises a thickening agent.9. The composition of claim 1 , wherein the composition comprises a foaming agent.10. The composition of claim 1 , wherein the composition comprises a biologically active agent and or a pharmaceutically active agent.11. The composition of claim 1 , wherein the composition comprises a visualization agent and/or a radiopaque agent.12. The composition of claim 1 , wherein the polysaccharide substrate is soluble in an alkaline aqueous solution.13. The composition of claim 1 , ...

Systems and methods for providing penile modeling

A device for remodeling a penis, comprising a generally cylindrical hollow assembly having a lumen extending between proximal and distal ends, the distal end being in communication with the lumen to facilitate insertion of the penis into the lumen, the generally cylindrical structure having an interior surface facing the lumen and an exterior surface facing away from the lumen, a longitudinal direction and a transverse direction, the transverse direction being orthogonal to the longitudinal direction, the generally cylindrical assembly adapted to snugly and resiliently grip the penis, and includes an elastic fabric with one or more regions reinforced with a plastically deformable member.

Hydrogel compositions

Fragmented polysaccharide based hydrogel compositions and methods of making and using the same are provided. The subject polysaccharide based hydrogel compositions are prepared by combining a polysaccharide component with a hydrophilic polymer and a cross-linking agent. Also provided are kits and systems for use in preparing the subject compositions.

Hydrogel compositions

Fragmented polysaccharide based hydrogel compositions and methods of making and using the same are provided. The subject polysaccharide based hydrogel compositions are prepared by combining a polysaccharide component with a hydrophilic polymer and a cross-linking agent. Also provided are kits and systems for use in preparing the subject compositions. 142-. (canceled)43. A hydrogel composition , comprisinga polysaccharide or derivative thereof having a molecular weight of 160 Dalton to 80,300 Dalton, a degree of deacetylation of 70% to 99%, and at least two nucleophilic groups, wherein the polysaccharide or derivative thereof is soluble in an aqueous solution;a multifunctional, multi-armed polyethylene glycol polymer of a molecular weight of 5,000 Dalton to 30,000 Dalton, and comprising at least two nucleophilic groups; anda multifunctional, multi-armed crosslinker of polyethylene glycol having a molecular weight of 5,000 Dalton to 30,000 Dalton, and comprising at least two electrophilic groups,wherein each one of the polysaccharide or derivative thereof, polyethylene glycol polymer and multi-armed crosslinker are crosslinked to each other.44. The composition of claim 43 , wherein the aqueous solution is alkaline and the polysaccharide is soluble in the aqueous solution up to a concentration of 30 mM.45. A hydrogel composition claim 43 , comprisinga chitosan or derivative thereof having a molecular weight of less than or equal to 5,000 Dalton, a degree of deacetylation of 70% to 99%, and at least two nucleophilic groups, wherein the chitosan or derivative thereof is soluble in an aqueous solution;a multifunctional, multi-armed polyethylene glycol polymer of a molecular weight of 5,000 Dalton to 30,000 Dalton, and comprising at least two nucleophilic groups; anda multifunctional, multi-armed crosslinker of polyethylene glycol having a molecular weight of 5,000 Dalton to 30,000 Dalton, and comprising at least two electrophilic groups;wherein the polyethylene glycol ...

DEVICES AND METHODS FOR THE TREATMENT OF VASCULAR DISEASE

Apparatus and methods are provided for delivering fluid into a body lumen. The apparatus may include a catheter including proximal and distal ends, a fluid delivery lumen extending from the proximal end to a transit port on a distal portion of the catheter, and an inflatable infusion element on the distal portion such that an interior of the inflatable infusion element communicates with the fluid delivery lumen. During use, a distal end of the catheter is introduced into a lumen or conduit with the inflatable infusion element in a collapsed condition, the inflatable infusion element is expanded to an expanded condition to partially or totally occlude the lumen or conduit, and fluid is infused from the catheter into the lumen or conduit proximally relative to the inflatable infusion element while the inflatable infusion element remains in the expanded condition. 1. A catheter for treating a body lumen , comprising;an elongate member comprising a proximal end, a distal end sized for introduction into a body lumen, a hub on the proximal end, and a fluid delivery lumen communicating between an inlet port on the hub and a transit port on a distal portion of the elongate member; andan inflatable infusion element on the distal portion such that an interior of the inflatable infusion element communicates with the fluid delivery lumen via the transit port, an infusion exit port on a proximal side of the inflatable infusion element configured to deliver fluid introduced into the interior of the inflatable infusion element out the infusion exit port towards the proximal end.2. The catheter of claim 1 , wherein the elongate member comprises a plurality of transit ports on the distal portion communicating between the fluid delivery lumen and the interior of the inflatable infusion element.3. The catheter of claim 1 , wherein the inflatable infusion element comprises a plurality of exit ports on the proximal side thereof for delivering fluid from the interior of the inflatable ...

DEVICES AND METHODS FOR FLUID INFUSION, DRAINAGE, AND COLLECTION

Containers for collecting fluid are provided that include a reservoir comprising a plurality of panels enclosing an interior, side panels of the reservoir are movable from an expanded position towards to a compressed position and biased to the expanded position for generating a vacuum within the interior. An elongate housing extends along a top side of the reservoir including a passage extending between proximal and distal ends thereof and communicating with the interior of the reservoir. An elongate member extends through the housing including a distal extension, a proximal extension, and a lumen extending therebetween. One-way valves are coupled to the distal and proximal extensions for permitting fluid flow proximally from the distal extension into the interior of the reservoir via and permitting fluid flow proximally from the proximal extension while preventing fluid flow distally out the distal extension and distally into the proximal extension and lumen.

Fragmented hydrogels

Fragmented polysaccharide based hydrogel compositions and methods of making and using the same are provided. The subject polysaccharide based hydrogel compositions are prepared by combining a polysaccharide component with a hydrophilic polymer and a cross-linking agent. Also provided are kits and systems for use in preparing the subject compositions.

Devices and Methods for Delivery of Materials into the Nose

The various embodiments of the subject invention included herein provide devices and methods to deliver nasal packing material to a body lumen, cavity, or other anatomical structure along with methods of use of the same. 1. A device for use in positioning a material in a nasal cavity of a subject , comprising;a handle having a distal end, a proximal end and a channel wherein the handle is disposed at the proximal end of the device;an actuator slidably disposed on the handle;an elongate member having a distal end, a proximal end and at least one lumen, wherein the proximal end is joined to the distal end of the handle;a shuttle having a distal end and a proximal end slidably disposed on the elongate member;a link member having a distal end and a proximal end slidably disposed on the elongate member and the handle, wherein the distal end of the link member is joined to the shuttle and the proximal end is joined to the actuator.2. The device of claim 1 , wherein movement of the actuator along the handle is directly translated to the shuttle via the link member.3. The device of claim 1 , wherein the shuttle comprises at least two tines.4. The device of claim 1 , wherein the shuttle comprises a shape that is U-shaped in cross section.5. The device of claim 1 , wherein the shuttle extends beyond the distal end of the elongate member6. The device of claim 1 , wherein a portion of the actuator is disposed within the handle and a portion of the actuator is external to a surface of the handle.7. The device of claim 1 , wherein a longitudinal axis of the elongate member is offset from a longitudinal axis of the handle.8. A device for use in positioning a material in a nasal cavity of a subject claim 1 , comprising;a handle having a distal end, a proximal end and a channel wherein the handle is disposed at the proximal end of the device;an actuator disposed on the handle;a disk slidably disposed in the channel of the handle;an elongate member having a distal end, a proximal end ...

Hydrogel compositions

Fragmented polysaccharide based hydrogel compositions and methods of making and using the same are provided. The subject polysaccharide based hydrogel compositions are prepared by combining a polysaccharide component with a hydrophilic polymer and a cross-linking agent. Also provided are kits and systems for use in preparing the subject compositions.

DEVICES AND METHODS FOR THE MANAGEMENT AND PREVENTION OF HERNIA AND OTHER MUSCULOSKELETAL INJURIES

Systems and methods are provided for mitigating and/or preventing a hernia using a wearable device worn by a user such that an output device is positioned at a predetermined location corresponding to a target hernia mitigation site on the user's body. One or more physical parameters of the user are monitored to identify when the user is about to perform a predetermined physical activity, and the output device is activated to provide an output to mitigate a hernia or prevent a hernia from occurring at the mitigation site when the predetermined activity is performed. 1. A system for mitigating or preventing a hernia , comprising:a wearable device configured to be worn on a user;one or more sensors configured to generate signals corresponding to one or more physical parameters of the user;a controller coupled to the one or more sensors to receive the signals, the controller configured to identify when the user inhales sufficiently to indicate the user is about to perform a predetermined physical activity based at least in part on the signals; andan output device carried on the device at a predetermined location corresponding to a target hernia mitigation site on the user's body, the controller communicating with the output device to activate the output device to provide an output to mitigate a hernia or prevent a hernia from occurring at the mitigation site.2. (canceled)3. The system of claim 1 , wherein the wearable device comprises a garment.4. The system of claim 1 , wherein the garment is configured to at least partially surround the user's torso.5. The system of claim 3 , wherein the garment is configured to at least partially cover the user's abdomen.6. The system of claim 5 , wherein the garment is configured to overly an inguinal ring of the user.7. The system of claim 3 , wherein one or more of the one or more sensors claim 3 , the controller claim 3 , and the output device are removably mounted to the garment.8. The system of claim 3 , wherein the garment ...

Fragmented Hydrogels

Fragmented polysaccharide based hydrogel compositions and methods of making and using the same are provided. The subject polysaccharide based hydrogel compositions are prepared by combining a polysaccharide component with a hydrophilic polymer and a cross-linking agent. Also provided are kits and systems for use in preparing the subject compositions. 142-. (canceled)43. A composition , comprisinga biologically active agent; and a polysaccharide or derivative thereof having a molecular weight of 1000 Dalton to 80,300 Dalton, a degree of deacetylation of 70% to 99%, and at least two nucleophilic groups;', 'a multifunctional, multi-armed polyethylene glycol polymer of a molecular weight of 5,000 Dalton to 30,000 Dalton, and comprising at least two nucleophilic groups; and', 'a multifunctional, multi-armed crosslinker of polyethylene glycol having a molecular weight of 5,000 Dalton to 30,000 Dalton, and comprising at least two electrophilic groups,', 'wherein the polysaccharide or derivative thereof does not act as a cross-linking agent in the hydrogel., 'a hydrogel, comprising44. The composition of claim 43 , wherein the biologically active agent is a steroid.45. The composition of claim 44 , wherein the steroid is mometasone furoate or triamcinolone.46. The composition of claim 43 , wherein the biologically active agent is an antibiotic.47. The composition of claim 46 , wherein the antibiotic is gentamicin.48. The composition of claim 43 , wherein the biologically active agent is a plasma protein claim 43 , an enzyme claim 43 , an antiseptic agent claim 43 , an antineoplastic agent claim 43 , an antifungal agent claim 43 , an antiviral agent claim 43 , an anti-inflammatory agent claim 43 , a growth factor claim 43 , an anesthetic claim 43 , a cell suspension claim 43 , a cytotoxin claim 43 , a cell proliferation inhibitor claim 43 , a biomimetic claim 43 , an analgesic claim 43 , a chemotherapeutic claim 43 , a vasoconstrictor claim 43 , a vasodilator claim 43 , a ...

Method and apparatus for fibrin sheath disruption

A hemodialysis catheter is disclosed for deploying in an artery or vein, comprising various means for disrupting, mechanically and/or chemo-mechanically, a fibrous sheath forming naturally outside of the catheter; optionally the disrupted fibrin sheath and/or thrombus is captured.

Hydrogel compositions

Fragmented polysaccharide based hydrogel compositions and methods of making and using the same are provided. The subject polysaccharide based hydrogel compositions are prepared by combining a polysaccharide component with a hydrophilic polymer and a cross-linking agent. Also provided are kits and systems for use in preparing the subject compositions.

Hydrogel compositions

Fragmented polysaccharide based hydrogel compositions and methods of making and using the same are provided. The subject polysaccharide based hydrogel compositions are prepared by combining a polysaccharide component with a hydrophilic polymer and a cross-linking agent. Also provided are kits and systems for use in preparing the subject compositions.

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PROVIDING PENILE MODELING

A device for remodeling a penis, comprising a generally cylindrical hollow assembly having a lumen extending between proximal and distal ends, the distal end being in communication with the lumen to facilitate insertion of the penis into the lumen, the generally cylindrical structure having an interior surface facing the lumen and an exterior surface facing away from the lumen, a longitudinal direction and a transverse direction, the transverse direction being orthogonal to the longitudinal direction, the generally cylindrical assembly adapted to snugly and resiliently grip the penis, and includes an elastic fabric with one or more regions reinforced with a plastically deformable member.

Blending manifold

DEVICES AND METHODS FOR DRAINAGE, INFUSION, OR INSTILLATION OF FLUIDS

Valve devices are provided for draining fluids from and/or infusing fluids into a patient's body that include a housing including first, second, and third connectors, a primary fluid path communicating between the first and second connectors, and a secondary fluid path communicating from the primary fluid path to the third connector. First and second valve members are movable within the housing between first positions wherein the valve members do not obstruct the primary fluid path and second positions wherein the primary fluid path is at least partially closed. The third connector may be configured to prevent fluid flow therethrough unless a mating connector is fully coupled thereto. The valve members may be selectively closed to isolate portions of the flow path to allow a source of vacuum or fluid coupled to the third connector to aspirate or infuse fluid along portions of the primary fluid path. 1. A valve device for draining fluids from and/or infusing fluids into a patient's body , comprising:a housing comprising first, second, and third connectors, and a primary fluid path communicating between the first and second connectors and a secondary fluid path communicating from the primary fluid path to the third connector, wherein the third connector is configured to prevent fluid flow therethrough unless a mating connector is fully coupled thereto;a first valve member movable within the housing between a first position wherein the first valve member does not obstruct the primary fluid path and a second position wherein the primary fluid path is closed to prevent fluid flow through the first connector; anda second valve member movable within the housing between a first position wherein the second valve member does not obstruct the primary fluid path and a second position wherein the primary fluid path is closed to prevent fluid flow through the second connector.2. The valve device of claim 1 , wherein the first valve member is biased to the first position.3. The ...

HYDROGEL COMPOSITIONS

Fragmented polysaccharide based hydrogel compositions and methods of making and using the same are provided. The subject polysaccharide based hydrogel compositions are prepared by combining a polysaccharide component with a hydrophilic polymer and a cross-linking agent. Also provided are kits and systems for use in preparing the subject compositions. 142-. (canceled)43. A method comprising administering a hydrogel composition to a subject , the hydrogel composition comprising an acetylated polysaccharide , a multifunctional , multi-armed polyethylene glycol polymer and a multifunctional , multi-armed crosslinker of polyethylene glycol , wherein:the acetylated polysaccharide or derivative thereof has a molecular weight of 1000 Dalton to 80,300 Dalton, a degree of deacetylation of 70% to 99%, and at least two nucleophilic groups and is directly covalently bonded to the multifunctional, multi-armed polyethylene glycol polymer and directly covalently bonded to the multifunctional, multi-armed crosslinker of polyethylene glycol;the multifunctional, multi-armed polyethylene glycol polymer has a molecular weight of 5,000 Dalton to 30,000 Dalton, and comprises at least two nucleophilic groups and is directly covalently bonded to the acetylated polysaccharide or derivative thereof and is directly covalently bonded to the multifunctional, multi-armed crosslinker of polyethylene glycol; andthe multifunctional, multi-armed crosslinker of polyethylene glycol has a molecular weight of 5,000 Dalton to 30,000 Dalton, and comprises at least two electrophilic groups and is directly covalently bonded to the acetylated polysaccharide or derivative thereof and is directly covalently bonded to the multifunctional, multi-armed polyethylene glycol polymer,wherein the acetylated polysaccharide or derivative thereof does not act as a cross-linking agent in the hydrogel.44. The method according to claim 43 , wherein administering comprises positioning the hydrogel composition over at least a ...

Polysaccharide based hydrogels

599524 Disclosed herein are polysaccharide based hydrogel compositions and methods of making and using the same are provided. The subject polysaccharide based hydrogel compositions are prepared by combining a polysaccharide component with a hydrophilic polymer and a cross-linking agent. Also provided are kits and systems for use in preparing the subject compositions. Disclosed is a hydrogel composition comprising a polysaccharide substrate, such as chitosan, carboxymethylcellulose, carboxymethylchitosan, having a molecular weight of 160 Dalton to 80,300 Dalton and comprising at least two reactive nucleophilic groups; a synthetic, hydrophilic polymer, such as polyethylene glycol, with a molecular weight of 200 Dalton to 100,000 Dalton and comprising at least two nucleophilic reactive groups; and a crosslinking agent.

Fragmented hydrogels

Fragmented polysaccharide based hydrogel compositions and methods of making and using the same are provided. The subject polysaccharide based hydrogel compositions are prepared by combining a polysaccharide component with a hydrophilic polymer and a cross-linking agent. Also provided are kits and systems for use in preparing the subject compositions.

Systems and methods for providing penile modeling

A device for remodeling a penis, comprising a generally cylindrical hollow assembly having a lumen extending between proximal and distal ends, the distal end being in communication with the lumen to facilitate insertion of the penis into the lumen, the generally cylindrical structure having an interior surface facing the lumen and an exterior surface facing away from the lumen, a longitudinal direction and a transverse direction, the transverse direction being orthogonal to the longitudinal direction, the generally cylindrical assembly adapted to snugly and resiliently grip the penis, and includes an elastic fabric with one or more regions reinforced with a plastically deformable member.

A tool for inserting a stent into a catheter

In accordance with the present invention there is provided a stent insertion tool for insertion into a catheter prior to insertion of a balloon catheter having a stent crimped on the balloon. The tool is a rigid tubular member having a distal end for insertion into a catheter, a proximal for end for remaining outside of the catheter, and a longitudinal axis extending therebetween. The tool has a substantially smooth inner surface. The tool further includes a slot, having a predetermined width, extending along the longitudinal axis of the tubular member from its distal end to its proximal end.

Devices and methods for the treatment of vascular disease

Apparatus and methods are provided for delivering fluid into a body lumen. The apparatus may include a catheter including proximal and distal ends, a fluid delivery lumen extending from the proximal end to a transit port on a distal portion of the catheter, and an inflatable infusion element on the distal portion such that an interior of the inflatable infusion element communicates with the fluid delivery lumen. During use, a distal end of the catheter is introduced into a lumen or conduit with the inflatable infusion element in a collapsed condition, the inflatable infusion element is expanded to an expanded condition to partially or totally occlude the lumen or conduit, and fluid is infused from the catheter into the lumen or conduit proximally relative to the inflatable infusion element while the inflatable infusion element remains in the expanded condition.

Devices and methods for the management and prevention of hernia and other musculosketal injuries

Systems and methods for providing penile modeling

A device for remodeling a penis, comprising a generally cylindrical hollow assembly having a lumen extending between proximal and distal ends, the distal end being in communication with the lumen to facilitate insertion of the penis into the lumen, the generally cylindrical structure having an interior surface facing the lumen and an exterior surface facing away from the lumen, a longitudinal direction and a transverse direction, the transverse direction being orthogonal to the longitudinal direction, the generally cylindrical assembly adapted to snugly and resiliently grip the penis, and includes an elastic fabric with one or more regions reinforced with a plastically deformable member.

Devices and methods for the treatment of vascular disease

Apparatus and methods are provided for delivering fluid into a body lumen. The apparatus may include a catheter including proximal and distal ends, a fluid delivery lumen extending from the proximal end to a transit port on a distal portion of the catheter, and an inflatable infusion element on the distal portion such that an interior of the inflatable infusion element communicates with the fluid delivery lumen. During use, a distal end of the catheter is introduced into a lumen or conduit with the inflatable infusion element in a collapsed condition, the inflatable infusion element is expanded to an expanded condition to partially or totally occlude the lumen or conduit, and fluid is infused from the catheter into the lumen or conduit proximally relative to the inflatable infusion element while the inflatable infusion element remains in the expanded condition.

ヘルニアおよび他の筋骨格系損傷を管理および予防するためのデバイスおよび方法

【課題】出力装置がユーザの体の標的ヘルニア軽減部位に対応する予め設定された位置に配置されるように、ユーザによって着用されるウェアラブルデバイスを使用して、ヘルニアを軽減および／または予防するシステムおよび方法を提供する。【解決手段】ユーザの１または複数の身体パラメータが、ユーザが予め設定された身体活動を実行しようとしているときを識別するために監視され、予め設定された活動が実行されたときに、出力装置が作動して、軽減部位でヘルニアを軽減するか又はヘルニアが発症するのを防止するための出力を提供する。【選択図】図１

Devices and methods for the dilation of sinus ostia and other body passages

Apparatus and methods are disclosed to dilate a sinus ostium or other body passage. In one embodiment, the apparatus includes an elongate inner member, one or more dilation members disposed concentrically around the inner member, and an outer sheath. The inner member includes a distal portion that extends beyond distal end of the dilation member(s). The sheath is disposed around the inner member and dilation member(s) and is at least partially expandable to accommodate advancement of the dilation member(s) relative to the inner member, e.g., to translate axial forces into radial dilating forces, and dilate surrounding tissue within which the distal portion is introduced. Optionally, an elastic cover is provided over at least a portion of the inner member distal portion to enhance constraining the sheath, e.g., after withdrawing the dilation member(s).

Devices and methods for drainage, infusion, or instillation of fluids

Valve devices are provided for draining fluids from and/or infusing fluids into a patient's body that include a housing including first, second, and third connectors, a primary fluid path communicating between the first and second connectors, and a secondary fluid path communicating from the primary fluid path to the third connector. First and second valve members are movable within the housing between first positions wherein the valve members do not obstruct the primary fluid path and second positions wherein the primary fluid path is at least partially closed. The third connector may be configured to prevent fluid flow therethrough unless a mating connector is fully coupled thereto. The valve members may be selectively closed to isolate portions of the flow path to allow a source of vacuum or fluid coupled to the third connector to aspirate or infuse fluid along portions of the primary fluid path.