abstract |
A catheter connection system is defined by a rigid, tubular stem attached at a proximal end thereof to a medical device. The stem has a plurality of comparably configured engagement barbs encircling and radially, outwardly extending on an exterior surface of the stem. A locking barb also encircles and radially, outwardly extends on the surface of the stem between the medical device and the engagement barbs. A rigid first locking sleeve is provided for inwardly compressing a portion of a body wall of a silicone catheter against the locking barb on the stem when the stem is received in the lumen of the silicone catheter to create a mechanical joinder and liquid-tight seal between the silicone catheter and the stem. In the alternative, a compression sleeve housed within a rigid second locking sleeve is provided for compressing a body wall of a polyurethane catheter against the engagement barbs on the stem to create a mechanical joinder and liquid-tight seal between the polyurethane catheter and the stem. |