US20210162173A1 - Fluid delivery systems and methods - Google Patents

Abstract

Fluid delivery systems and methods of delivering an agent and treating a disorder are disclosed that include a subcutaneously implantable port having a body defining a chamber with an open top and a delivery opening and a septum coupled to the body to extend over the open top of the chamber. The systems and methods can further include an intrathecal catheter having an proximal end configured to be coupled to the port and fluidly coupled to the delivery opening of the chamber and a plug having a body with a passage to receive the intrathecal catheter therethrough. The plug can be configured to be inserted into the fascia to protect against leakage of cerebrospinal fluid.

Description

• This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/113,955, filed Aug. 27, 2018, which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.
FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE
• The present disclosure generally relates to fluid delivery systems and, more particularly, to intrathecal fluid delivery systems.
BACKGROUND
• Intrathecal administration is a valuable tool for introducing therapeutic agents into the cerebral spinal fluid (CSF), which allows distribution throughout the central nervous system. Indeed, therapeutics administered to CSF are distributed to the brain and spinal cord, thereby avoiding potential delivery issues through the blood-brain barrier. Most drugs delivered to the CSF require multiple administrations, requiring at least periodic access to the intrathecal space over the course of a treatment regimen. Some individuals are unable to receive medication via lumbar puncture due to anatomical barriers, such as spinal deformities, and/or surgical interventions, such as implantation of stabilizing rods and spondylosis. Bone fusions, sharp angles, and instrumentation in these individuals complicate or prevent direct lumbar puncture entry into the intrathecal space because there is no space between the bones to allow safe puncture of the dura. In these patients, extraordinary means are often required to achieve intrathecal access; for example, an oscillating drill may be required to bore through the bone mass or a laminectomy procedure may be required, which heightens the risk associated with intrathecal administration. There remains a need in the art for a delivery system that allows repeated administration of substances to the intrathecal space.
SUMMARY
• In accordance with one aspect, a fluid delivery system is disclosed that includes a port that is implantable to a subcutaneous location. The port includes a body that defines a chamber having an open top and a delivery opening and a septum coupled to the body to extend over the open top of the chamber. The fluid delivery system further includes an intrathecal catheter that has a proximal end that is configured to be coupled to the port and fluidly coupled to the delivery opening of the chamber, a distal end, a central passage extending between the proximal end and the distal end, and a distal outlet in the distal end. The fluid delivery system further includes a plug that has a body with a passage to receive the intrathecal catheter therethrough, where the plug is configured to be inserted into the fascia to protect against leakage of cerebrospinal fluid.
• According to some forms, that fluid delivery system can include one or more of the following aspects: the intrathecal catheter can include a plurality of radially oriented outlets, where the plurality of radially oriented outlets can be disposed along an axial length of the intrathecal catheter in a spiral configuration, the plurality of radially oriented outlets can include at least one of: one or more rings of outlets disposed within a plane normal to an axial length of the intrathecal catheter or a plurality of outlets aligned and spaced from one another along the axial length of the intrathecal catheter.
• According to some forms, the fluid delivery system can include one or more of the following aspects: the intrathecal catheter can be radiopaque; the intrathecal catheter can include radiopaque markings at one or more of: adjacent to the distal end, above a start of the plurality of radially oriented outlets, or below an end of the radially oriented outlets; at least a portion of the intrathecal catheter can have a 3 layer construction including an inner lumen, a reinforcement layer, and an outer jacket; the distal end of the intrathecal catheter can include an atraumatic tip allowing implantation without damaging or exiting the intrathecal space; the central passage can include a choked portion adjacent to the distal outlet to create a venturi effect with fluid being dispensed through the distal outlet; the distal end of the intrathecal catheter can include one or more side passages that fluidly couple the central passage to an exterior of the intrathecal catheter to draw in fluid from the exterior of the intrathecal catheter and provide flow mass amplification to fluid being dispensed through the distal outlet; the distal outlet can have a smaller diameter than an inner diameter of the central passage of the intrathecal catheter adjacent to the distal outlet; the central passage can have an increased inner diameter portion in the distal end of the intrathecal catheter relative to an intermediate portion of the central passage, where the increased inner diameter portion extends to the distal outlet; the intrathecal catheter can have an outer diameter in the range of about 0.25 mm to about 1.5 mm; the intrathecal catheter can include an outwardly tapered portion adjacent to the proximal end thereof, where the outwardly tapered portion is configured to engage the dura over the catheter opening therein; the proximal end of the intrathecal catheter can include a reinforcement material increasing the hoop strength of the proximal end, where the reinforcement material includes one or more of: a plurality of rings embedded within the intrathecal catheter proximal end, a coil embedded within the intrathecal catheter proximal end, a polymer tube embedded within the intrathecal catheter proximal end, or a braided material embedded within the intrathecal catheter proximal end.
• In accordance with a second aspect, a method of delivering an agent to a patient that has undergone a spinal stabilization or fusion procedure or suffers from a spinal deformity is disclosed that includes implanting a fluid delivery system in the patient such that a catheter of the fluid delivery system is disposed within the patient's intrathecal space, the catheter characterized by a catheter body having an outer diameter in the range of about 0.25 mm to 1.5 mm and a composite, kink-resistant structure, and the fluid delivery system further comprising a plug having a body with a passage to receive the catheter body therethrough, the plug configured to be inserted into the fascia to protect against leakage of cerebrospinal fluid; and releasing the agent via the catheter into the intrathecal space.
• In accordance with a third aspect, a method of treating a disorder selected from the group consisting of Huntington's disease, Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), survival motor neuron (SMN) deficiency, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Angelman's Syndrome, Dravet Syndrome, Alzheimer's disease, progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), frontotemporal dementia (FTD), Parkinson's Disease, central nervous system (CNS) lymphoma, and Leptomeningeal Cancer in a patient in need thereof is disclosed that includes implanting a fluid delivery system in the patient such that a catheter of the fluid delivery system is disposed within the patient's intrathecal space, the catheter characterized by a catheter body having an outer diameter in the range of about 0.25 mm to 1.5 mm and a composite, kink-resistant structure, and the fluid delivery system further comprising a plug having a body with a passage to receive the catheter body therethrough, the plug configured to be inserted into the fascia to protect against leakage of cerebrospinal fluid; and releasing a therapeutic agent via the catheter into the intrathecal space such that the disorder is treated.
• In accordance with a third aspect, a fluid delivery system is disclosed that includes a port implantable to a subcutaneous location. A body of the port defines a chamber having an open top and a delivery opening, a septum of the port is disposed on the body and includes a lower surface that extends over the open top of the chamber and an opposite, upper surface, and a cap of the port defines an opening extending therethrough. The cap is configured to be coupled to the body to secure the septum within the port with the opening providing needle access to the septum and the cap includes a downwardly tapered surface extending around the opening and configured to direct a needle towards the upper surface of the septum. The fluid delivery system further includes a catheter connection portion of the body.
• In accordance with a fourth aspect, a fluid delivery system is described that includes a port that is implantable to a subcutaneous location secured to a bony structure of a patient. A body of the port defines a chamber that has an open top and a delivery opening, a septum of the port is disposed on the body to extend over the open top of the chamber, and a cap of the port is configured to be coupled to the body to secure the septum within the port. The cap defines an opening extending therethrough, such that with the cap coupled to the body, the opening provides needle access to the septum.
• According to some forms, the above fluid delivery systems can include one or more of the following features: one or more of the body, septum, cap, or catheter can be radiopaque; the cap can include a downwardly tapered surface extending around the opening; the port can include raised protrusions that are configured to provide palpatory feedback; the port can include outwardly protruding suture plugs that are configured to provide palpatory feedback; the port can include a raised lip that extends around the septum, and that system can include a guide tool that has a profile that is configured to mate with the raised lip through tissue to provide an external location detector for the septum; the port can include an actuator having a movable portion to provide at least one of tactile or visual feedback in response to actuation; piezoelectric crystals that are mounted to the port and configured to vibrate in response to an electric field introduced by an external instrument and, optionally, one or more LEDs mounted to the port and electrically coupled to the piezoelectric crystals to energize in response to palpation of the piezoelectric crystals; one or more magnets distributed about the septum within the port, and the system can include a metallic external guide that is attracted to the one or more magnets through tissue to provide a guide for needle access to the septum; the port can include metallic portions that are distributed about the septum, and that system can include a magnetic ring that is configured to magnetically couple to the metallic portions through tissue to provide a guide for needle access to the septum; the body and cap can include a combination of metallic and non-metallic components such that the body and cap are distinguishable under imaging; a plurality of LEDs mounted to the port to provide illumination through tissue of at least one of the septum or around the septum; one or more sensors disposed within the port to provide one or more of: distance, alignment, orientation, targeting, or location data relative to an external device in communication with the one or more sensors; the septum can include one or more internal cavities filled with an aqueous gel material detectable by ultrasound; the body can include a side opening to the chamber for a stylet and the system can further include a septum mounted within the side opening; or a therapeutic dose impregnated or pre-loaded in the port.
• According to additional forms, the fluid delivery system can further include a catheter that has a proximal end configured to be coupled to the body to be fluidly coupled to the delivery opening of the chamber and a distal end having an outlet. According to further forms, the catheter can include radially oriented outlets disposed along a length thereof in a spiral configuration; the catheter can include radiopaque markings at one or more of: adjacent to the distal tip, above a start of the spiral configuration, below an end of the spiral configuration; the catheter can have a 3 layer construction including an inner lumen, a reinforcement layer, and an outer jacket; the distal end of the catheter can include an atraumatic tip; or the distal end of the catheter can include side passages for flow mass amplification.
• According to further forms, a catheter can be coupled to the port by any of the following: the delivery opening can include a cylindrical cavity having a connection portion, which can be one of a threaded portion, a snap-fit recess, or a luer lock recess, and the system can include a gasket disposed over the catheter proximal end and a fastener configured to engage the connection portion of the cylindrical cavity to compress the compression member to secure the catheter proximal end within the cylindrical cavity; the port can include an outlet tube extending from the delivery opening of the chamber, the catheter proximal end can have an annular configuration sized to have the outlet tube inserted therein and the system can further include a compression member, which can be one of a compression spring, a compression fitting, or an o-ring, disposed around the catheter proximal end and outlet tube to secure the catheter to the port; the port can include an outlet tube extending from the delivery opening of the chamber, the catheter proximal end and the outlet tube can have a lap joint connection, and the system can further include a clamping member disposed over the lap joint connection to create fluid tight seal.
• According to any of the above forms, the fluid delivery system can further include one or more dosages of a therapeutic agent, as described further below.
• In accordance with a fifth aspect, a method for implanting a fluid delivery port and a catheter in an intrathecal space of a patient is described herein that includes mounting the port to a bony structure within a subcutaneous space of the patient, disposing a distal tip of the catheter in the intrathecal space, tunneling a proximal end of the catheter under the skin of the patient to the port, and connecting the proximal end of the catheter to the port.
• According to some forms, connecting the proximal end of the catheter to the port can include inserting the proximal end of the catheter into an annular gasket, inserting the proximal end of the catheter and the compression member into a cylindrical outlet cavity of the port, and inserting a fastener into the cylindrical outlet cavity of the port to longitudinally compress the gasket and secure the proximal end of the catheter to the port.
• According to other forms, connecting the proximal end of the catheter to the port can include disposing the proximal end of the catheter over an outlet tube of the port and securing the catheter to the outlet tube with a compression member disposed over the catheter.
• In accordance with a sixth aspect, a method for delivering a composition, such as a composition comprising a therapeutic agent, to an intrathecal space of a patient is described that includes locating a port secured in a subcutaneous position within a patient through tissue of the patient, inserting a distal tip of a needle through the tissue of the patient, through a septum of the port, and into a chamber of the port, dispensing the composition into the chamber, and distributing the composition into the intrathecal space of the patient through a catheter fluidly coupled to the port.
• According to some forms, locating the port can include one or more of the following: imaging radiopaque portions of the port; palpating raised protrusions of the port; palpating suture plugs coupled to the port; mating a guide tool with a raised lip of the port; actuating an actuator having a movable portion providing at least one of tactile or visual feedback; emitting an electric field to vibrate piezoelectric crystals mounted to the port; attracting a metallic guide to one or more magnets distributed about the septum within the port; attracting a magnetic guide to one or more metallic portions distributed about the septum of the port; imaging metallic and non-metallic components of the port; illuminating one or more LEDs mounted to the port; communicating with one or more sensors disposed within the port with an external device to provide one or more of: distance, alignment, orientation, targeting, or location data relative to the external device; or detecting an aqueous gel material within the port by ultrasound.
• According to some forms, dispensing the composition into the chamber can include dispensing one or more therapeutic agents described further below.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
• The above needs are at least partially met through provision of the embodiments described in the following detailed description, particularly when studied in conjunction with the drawings, wherein:
• FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a first example port for a fluid delivery system in accordance with various embodiments;
• FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the port ofFIG. 1 showing an interior chamber and catheter connection assembly in accordance with various embodiments;
• FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a second example port for a fluid delivery system in accordance with various embodiments;
• FIG. 4 is a cross-section view of the port ofFIG. 3 showing an interior chamber and catheter connection assembly in accordance with various embodiments;
• FIG. 5 is a bottom perspective view of the port ofFIG. 3 in accordance with various embodiments;
• FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional vie of the port ofFIG. 3 showing fastener connections between a body and cap of the port in accordance with various embodiments;
• FIG. 7 is a schematic view of a fluid delivery system in accordance with various embodiments;
• FIG. 8 is a top plan view of a port for a fluid delivery system having a first example body configuration for location feedback in accordance with various embodiments;
• FIG. 9 is a top plan view of a port for a fluid delivery system having a second example body configuration for location feedback in accordance with various embodiments;
• FIG. 10 is a top plan view of a port for a fluid delivery system having a third example body configuration for location feedback in accordance with various embodiments;
• FIG. 11 is a top plan view of a port for a fluid delivery system having a fourth example body configuration for location feedback in accordance with various embodiments;
• FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a first example port for a fluid delivery system having location feedback features in accordance with various embodiments;
• FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a second example port for a fluid delivery system having location feedback features in accordance with various embodiments;
• FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a third example port for a fluid delivery system having location feedback features in accordance with various embodiments;
• FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a fourth example port for a fluid delivery system having location feedback features in accordance with various embodiments;
• FIG. 16 is a top plan view of a fifth example port for a fluid delivery system having location feedback features in accordance with various embodiments;
• FIG. 17 is a side view of the port ofFIG. 16 showing first and second states of a lever of the port in accordance with various embodiments;
• FIG. 18 is a top plan view of a sixth example port for a fluid delivery system having location feedback features in accordance with various embodiments;
• FIG. 19 is a top plan view of a seventh example port for a fluid delivery system having location feedback features in accordance with various embodiments;
• FIG. 20 is a top plan view of a eighth example port for a fluid delivery system having location feedback features with an external device in accordance with various embodiments;
• FIG. 21 is a side elevational view of the port ofFIG. 20 in accordance with various embodiments;
• FIG. 22 is a top plan view of a ninth example port for a fluid delivery system having location feedback features in accordance with various embodiments;
• FIG. 23 is a perspective view of a tenth example port for a fluid delivery system having location feedback features with an external guide in accordance with various embodiments;
• FIG. 24 is a top plan view of an eleventh example port for a fluid delivery system having location feedback features in accordance with various embodiments;
• FIG. 25 is a side elevational view of the port ofFIG. 24 with an external metallic guide in accordance with various embodiments;
• FIG. 26 is a perspective view of a twelfth example port for a fluid delivery system having location feedback features with an external magnetic guide in accordance with various embodiments;
• FIG. 27 is a side elevational view of a thirteenth example port for a fluid delivery system having location feedback features with an external metal detector in accordance with various embodiments;
• FIG. 28 is a perspective view of a fourteenth example port for a fluid delivery system having location feedback features in accordance with various embodiments;
• FIG. 29 is a perspective view of a fifteenth example port for a fluid delivery system having location feedback features with an external device in accordance with various embodiments;
• FIG. 30 is a top plan view of a sixteenth example port for a fluid delivery system having location feedback features in accordance with various embodiments;
• FIG. 31 is a side plan view of the port ofFIG. 30 in accordance with various embodiments;
• FIG. 32 is a perspective view of the port ofFIG. 30 with an external device in accordance with various embodiments;
• FIG. 33 is a top plan view of a fluid delivery system including a port and catheter in accordance with various embodiments;
• FIG. 34ais a cross-sectional view of a catheter having a first example construction in accordance with various embodiments;
• FIG. 34bis a cross-sectional view of a catheter having a second example construction in accordance with various embodiments;
• FIG. 35ais a schematic view of a fluid delivery system for implantation in the intrathecal space of a patient and portion of a catheter of the fluid delivery system in accordance with various embodiments;
• FIG. 35bis a schematic view of a catheter inserted into a dura of a patient with a grommet extending around the catheter and engaging the dura in accordance with various embodiments;
• FIG. 35cis a cross-sectional view of a plug for a catheter inserted into the fascia in accordance with various embodiments;
• FIG. 35dis a perspective view of the plug ofFIG. 35cin accordance with various embodiments;
• FIG. 36 is a sectional view of a distal end of the catheter ofFIG. 34 in accordance with various embodiments;
• FIG. 37ais a cross-sectional view of a first example distal end for a catheter in accordance with various embodiments;
• FIG. 37bis a cross-sectional view of a second example distal end for a catheter in accordance with various embodiments;
• FIG. 37cis a cross-sectional view of a third example distal end for a catheter in accordance with various embodiments;
• FIG. 37dis a cross-sectional view of a fourth example distal end for a catheter in accordance with various embodiments;
• FIG. 38ais a sectional view of an intermediate portion of the catheter ofFIG. 34 showing first example radial outlets in accordance with various embodiments;
• FIG. 38bis a sectional view of a portion of a catheter showing second example radial outlets in accordance with various embodiments;
• FIG. 38cis a sectional view of a portion of a catheter showing third example radial outlets in accordance with various embodiments;
• FIG. 38dis a sectional view of a portion of a catheter showing fourth example radial outlets in accordance with various embodiments;
• FIG. 39 is a cross-sectional view of a first example catheter and port connection assembly in accordance with various embodiments;
• FIG. 40 is a cross-sectional view of a second example catheter and port connection assembly in accordance with various embodiments;
• FIG. 41 is a cross-sectional view of a third example catheter and port connection assembly in accordance with various embodiments;
• FIG. 42 is a cross-sectional view of a fourth example catheter and port connection assembly in accordance with various embodiments;
• FIG. 43 is a cross-sectional view of a fifth example catheter and port connection assembly in accordance with various embodiments;
• FIG. 44 is a cross-sectional view of a sixth example catheter and port connection assembly in accordance with various embodiments;
• FIG. 45 is a cross-sectional view of a seventh example catheter and port connection assembly in accordance with various embodiments;
• FIG. 46 is a cross-sectional view of an eighth example catheter and port connection assembly in accordance with various embodiments;
• FIG. 47 is a cross-sectional view of a ninth example catheter and port connection assembly in accordance with various embodiments;
• FIG. 48 is a cross-sectional view of a tenth catheter and port connection assembly in accordance with various embodiments;
• FIG. 49 is a cross-sectional view of an eleventh example catheter and port connection assembly in accordance with various embodiments;
• FIG. 50 is a cross-sectional view of an example port for a fluid delivery system having a side septum for a stylet in accordance with various embodiments; and
• FIG. 51 is a cross-sectional view of an example port for a fluid delivery system being impregnated or pre-loaded with one or more dosages of a medication in accordance with various embodiments.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
• The fluid delivery devices, systems and methods described herein include a sterile, implantable intrathecal catheter and subcutaneous port. The fluid delivery devices are designed to facilitate intrathecal access in patients with normal spines, as well as patients with spinal deformities and/or instrumentation for whom intrathecal access, and the associated fluid administration and sampling, via lumbar puncture (LP) is complicated or not possible. By utilizing the devices, systems, and methods provided, the need for repeat anesthesia and surgery each time intrathecal access is needed in these patients can be avoided.
• The fluid delivery systems can be used to administer fluids (optionally including one or more therapeutic agents) to patients by means of manual bolus injection, standard syringe pump or Pulsar auto-injector pump. Therapeutics approved for bolus intrathecal administration would be infused into the patient through the subcutaneous port by palpating the port to identify the septum, and accessing the septum with a needle, such as a standard non-coring Huber needle. Additionally, or alternatively, the system can include a non-invasive detection guide. In some versions, the systems can utilize magnetic components, sensors, light sources, and/or transmitters to provide location aid to a clinician.
• Anexample port100 suitable for subcutaneous implantation is shown inFIGS. 1 and 2. Theport100 includes abody102, acap104 coupled to thebody102, and aseptum106 providing needle access to achamber108 defined in thebody102. Thechamber108 includes adelivery opening110 to dispense fluids to desired areas, described in more detail below. Theport100 can be anchored on a desired location within a patient selected by a clinician, such as a bony structure. For example, thebody102 can include one ormore openings112 extending therethrough to receive fasteners to mount theport100 to the bony structure. Further, theopenings112 can be recessed with respect to adjacent portions of thebody102, so that head portions of the fasteners do not protrude beyond the body surface or only a portion thereof protrudes beyond the body surface. As shown, theport100 can have a tapered profile with smooth exterior surfaces. This configuration advantageously mitigates skin erosion when theport100 is implanted in a desired subcutaneous location.
• As shown inFIG. 2, thebody102 has a frusto-conical shape with an outwardly taperingexterior surface114 extending from anupper shoulder surface116 to abottom wall portion118. Thebody102 defines aninterior cavity120 having anopening122 opposite thebottom wall portion118. In the illustrated form, thebody102 extends around theinterior cavity120 in an annular configuration. Theinterior cavity120 includes a lower portion defining thechamber108 and an upperseptum receiving portion124. Thechamber108 can have smaller cross-sectional dimensions than theupper portion124, such that ashoulder126 extends between theupper portion124 and thechamber108 of theinterior cavity120. In the illustrated form, theupper portion124 and thechamber108 are cylindrical with thechamber108 having a smaller diameter than theupper portion124.
• Theupper portion124 is sized to receive theseptum106 therein. For example, theseptum106 can have a disk shaped configuration and the diameter of theupper portion124 can be approximately equal to, e.g., within 2 mm, to the diameter of theseptum106 so that theseptum106 is securely received within theupper portion124. Further, as shown inFIG. 2, theshoulder126 can include an upwardly projectinglip128 that extends around an interior edge thereof and is configured to engage theseptum106.
• In order to secure theseptum106 within theport100, thecap104 is coupled to thebody102 to trap theseptum106 therebetween. Thecap104 defines aninterior opening130 extending therethrough to provide needle access to theseptum106. In the illustrated form, thecap104 is annular with a generally triangular cross-section in a longitudinal direction. So configured, thecap104 includes aninterior surface132 that extends around and tapers downwardly toward theopening130, anexterior surface134 that tapers downwardly to thebody102, and atop edge135. As shown, thecap104 extends over an upper surface of theseptum106, with thecap104 deforming theseptum106 and causing the upper surface of theseptum106 to protrude through theopening130. With this configuration, theinterior surface132 can advantageously redirect a needle that has missed theseptum106 to theopening130 and to the upper surface of theseptum106.
• As shown, thecap104 can further include a downwardly extendingsidewall136 that defines a portion of theexterior surface134 and that projects along thebody102. In the illustrated form, thebody102 includes an outwardly openinggroove138 in theexterior surface114 and thesidewall136 of thecap104 includes an inwardly projectinglip140. So configured, thecap104 can be press fit onto thebody102, deflecting thesidewall136 until thelip140 snap fits into thegroove138. With thecap104 secured to thebody102, thecap104 has anannular portion142 extending over thecavity opening122 and, in some versions, includes a downwardly projectinglip144 extending therearound. So configured, anouter portion146 of theseptum106 is trapped between theannular portion142 of thecap104 and theshoulder126 of thebody102, while acentral portion148 of theseptum106 provides a clear path to thechamber108. Thelips128,144 project towards one another on opposite sides of theseptum106 to pinch theseptum106 therebetween to both secure theseptum106 and ensure a fluid tight seal. In some versions, the thickness and diameter of theseptum106 can be optimized to provide a low-profile port100, while also providing a sufficiently large diameter for thecentral portion148 so that theseptum106 can be easily located and identified through tissue. Alternatively, thecap104 can also include an internal thread configured to engage an external thread of thebody102 to secure thecap104 thereto. In another example, thecap104 can be ultrasonically welded to thebody102.
• Anotherexample port200 suitable for subcutaneous implantation is shown inFIGS. 3-6. Theport200 of this form includes many similar features to the above describedport100 and, as such, only the differences will be described herein with components having similar reference characters. For example, theport200 of this form includes abody202, acap204 coupled to thebody202, and aseptum206 providing needle access to achamber208 defined in thebody202. Thechamber208 includes adelivery opening210 to dispense fluids to desired areas, described in more detail below. Theport200 can be anchored on a desired location within a patient selected by a clinician, such as a bony structure.
• In this form, thecap204 andbody202 couple together so thatexterior surfaces234,214 thereof align giving the port200 a substantially unbroken exterior with a frusto-conical shape. Further, as shown inFIG. 2, thebody202 includes an intermediateupstanding wall portion250 disposed between ashoulder226 of abody cavity220 and anexterior shoulder252. Thecap204 seats on theexterior shoulder252 of thebody202 with an inwardly extendingtop portion254 seating on anupper surface216 of thewall250 with anannular portion242 engaging theseptum206 as described above.
• Another suitable method for securing thecap204 to thebody202 is shown inFIGS. 5 and 6. In this form, thebody202 includes a plurality ofthroughbores256 extending therethrough and thecap204 includes correspondingbores258 that align with thethroughbores256 of thebody202. So configured,fasteners260 can be inserted through thebottom wall218 of thebody202 and secured to thecap204, such as by threading as shown. As thefasteners260 tighten, theannular portion242 of thecap104 and theshoulder126 of thebody202 traps theouter portion246 of theseptum106 therebetween, while providing a clear path to thechamber208 through thecentral portion248 of theseptum206. If desired, thebody202 can includecounterbores262 in thebottom wall218 thereof so that heads264 of thefasteners260 do not protrude beyond thebottom wall218.
• The components of theport100,200 can be formed from any suitable material. In some versions, one or more of thebody102,202,cap104,204,septum106,206, or portions thereof, can be radiopaque for easy visualization under a fluoroscope or in an x-ray. In some examples, inner structures of theport100,200 can be polyether ether ketone (PEEK) or can have a PEEK layer on a metal housing, such as Titanium. Further, an outer shell, or needle facing surfaces can be metal, such as Titanium.
• As discussed above, theport100,200 can include one or more features to aid in locating theport100,200 in a subcutaneous position. As shown inFIG. 7, a clinician can palpate and visually inspect the tissue of patient in order to locate theport100,200. In some forms, thebody102,202 can include ahousing300 having a distinctive shape providing palpatory feedback to a clinician through the tissue of patient. For example, thehousing300 can have an oval or track-shaped cross-section as shown inFIG. 8, can have three or more outwardly extendingbranches302 as shown inFIG. 9, can have a triangular cross-section as shown inFIG. 10, or can have an oval or track-shaped cross-section with aprong304 extending outwardly from aside edge306 thereof as shown inFIG. 11.
• In another example, theport100,200 can include protruding features310 providing distinct palpatory feedback to a clinician through the tissue of a patient by virtue of differences in surface height as compared to adjacent portions of thecap104,204 and/orbody102,202. In some examples, thecap104,204 can include a plurality of raisedprotrusions312 extending above thetop edge135,235 thereof and distributed around theopening130,230 as shown inFIGS. 12-14. The raisedprotrusions312 can be disposed on thetop edge135,235, theinterior surface132,232, theexterior surface134,234, or combinations thereof. The raisedprotrusions312 can take any suitable form, including rounded nodes as shown inFIG. 12, arcs as shown inFIG. 13, and a raised wall or lip as shown inFIG. 14. Thefeatures310 can have a rounded or rectangular profile and can be provided in any suitable amount, such as four as shown in the figures, two, three, five, six, or more. Of course, while the protruding features310 have been described with reference to thecap104,204, thebody102,202 can also or alternatively include similarly configured protruding features310.
• In another example, theport100,200 can include upwardly protruding suture plugs314, which can be filled with silicone, to provide palpatory feedback to a clinician through the tissue of patient. As shown inFIG. 15, abase316 of the suture plugs314 can be mounted to thebody102,202 and distributed around thecentral septum106,206 with ashaft318 extending upwardly from the base316 having adistal end320 disposed above thetop edge135,235 of thecap104,204. The suture plugs314 can have any suitable cross-section, such as circular or rectangular, and can be provided in any suitable amount, such as four as shown in the figures, two, three, five, six, or more. Of course, while the suture plugs314 have been described with reference to thebody102,202, thecap104,204 can also or alternatively include similarly configured suture plugs314.
• In another example, as shown inFIGS. 16 and 17, theport100,200 can include alever322 pivotable about apin324. Thelever322 is disposed within arecess326 within thecap104,204 orbody102,202 and has an angled configuration, so that aportion328 is always projecting out of therecess326. With this configuration, a clinician can manipulate thelever322 and the pivoting action of thelever322 will provide tactile and visual feedback through the tissue. By another approach, theport100,200 can include aswitch330, such as a pushbutton or slide switch. Actuation of theswitch330 can provide tactile feedback to a clinician. Further, theswitch330 can be electrically coupled to an LED or otherlight source332, such that actuation of theswitch330 energizes theLED332 providing visual feedback to a clinician upon actuation. Thelever322,recess326,switch330, and/orLED332 can be encapsulated or covered with aprotective layer334 adhered or otherwise secured to theport100,200 to prevent tissue from interfering with the feedback response and movement of the components.
• In another example, as shown inFIGS. 18 and 19, theport100,200 can include a plurality of LEDs or otherlight sources336 embedded into thebody102,202 and/orcap104,204. TheLEDs336 can be electrically coupled together and to afirst coil338. So configured, a clinician can bring anexternal device340 having asecond coil342 emitting an electromagnetic field into range of thefirst coil338 to transfer energy and thereby energize theLEDs336 providing visual feedback to the clinician. In a first form as shown inFIG. 18, theLEDs336 can be disposed around theopening130,230 and directed inwardly to selectively illuminate theseptum106,206. In a second form as shown inFIG. 19, theLEDs336 can be disposed around theopening130 and directed upwardly to selectively provide illumination through the tissue of the patient. Any number ofLEDs336 can be utilized, such as four or five as shown, two, three, six, or more.
• In another example, as shown inFIG. 20, theport100,200 can include a plurality ofpiezoelectric crystals344 embedded into thebody102,202 and/orcap104,204. So configured, a clinician can bring anexternal device346 emitting an electric field into range of thepiezoelectric crystals344 to cause thepiezoelectric crystals344 to vibrate and provide tactical and visual feedback to the clinician. If desired, as shown inFIG. 21, thepiezoelectric crystals344 can be distributed around theopening130,230 and sized to protrude from adjacent surfaces of thebody102,202 and/orcap104,204 to provide tactile feedback similar to the above-described protruding features310. For example, thepiezoelectric crystals344 can extend past thetop edge135,235 of thecap104,204.
• Further, palpating thepiezoelectric crystals344 causes thepiezoelectric crystals344 to emit a voltage. Accordingly, as shown inFIG. 22, theport100,200 can include a plurality of LEDs or otherlight sources348 embedded into thebody102,202 and/orcap104,204. TheLEDs348 can be electrically coupled together and to thepiezoelectric crystals344. So configured, a clinician can find thepiezoelectric crystals344 through vibration and subsequently palpate thepiezoelectric crystals344 to emit a voltage and energize theLEDs348. TheLEDs348 can be configured to illuminate theseptum106,206 and/or outwardly as described above with respect toFIGS. 18 and 19.
• In another example, as shown inFIG. 23, thetop edge135,235 of thecap104,204 can have a raisedlip350 and anexternal guide352 can include acentral opening354 configured to mate with and around the raisedlip350. Theexternal guide352 can further include askirt356 depending downwardly from thecentral opening354 so that a profile of theskirt356 is complementary toexternal surfaces114,214,134,234 of thebody102,202 andcap104,204. So configured, a clinician can locate theport100,200 and place theguide352 onto theport100,200 through the tissue of the patient and theopening354 andskirt356 will orient theguide352 to non-invasively identify the location of theseptum106,206 through theopening354.
• In another example, as shown inFIGS. 24 and 25, theport100,200 can include a plurality ofmagnets358 embedded into thebody102,202 and/orcap104,204 and distributed around theopening130,230. So configured, a clinician can bring an externalmetallic ring360 into range of themagnets358 and themagnets358 will attract thering360 to theport100,200 through the tissue of the patient. Themagnets358 orient thering360 to frame theopening130,230 on top of the tissue of the patient to provide an external indication of the location of theseptum106,206. Any number ofmagnets358 can be utilized, such as three as shown, two, four, five, six, or more, to optimize the strength and locationing of theguide352.
• In an alternative example, as shown inFIG. 26, theport100,200 can include ametallic ring362 extending around theopening130,230 and mounted to or forming a portion of thebody102,202, and/orcap104,204. Although anunbroken ring362 is shown, it will be understood that thering362 can be formed from a plurality of spaced portions. With this configuration, a clinician can bring an externalmagnetic guide364 having aninterior opening366 into range of themetallic ring362 and themagnetic guide364 will be attracted to themetallic ring362 of theport100,200 through the tissue of the patient. Themagnetic guide364 is then oriented and held on the tissue of the patient so that the opening366 frames theopening130,230 to provide an external indication of the location of theseptum106,206. Themagnetic guide364 can be formed entirely of a magnetic material or can include a plurality of magnets mounted thereto. Any number of magnets can be utilized to optimize the strength and locationing of theguide364.
• In another example, as shown inFIG. 27, theport100,200 can include metallic portions orcomponents368 of a sufficient size to be detectable by anexternal metal detector370. So configured, a clinician can operate themetal detector370 and move thedetector370 along the patient's body until thedetector370 indicates the presence of themetallic components368. Thereafter, the clinician can palpate the tissue to identify the location of theseptum106,206. Themetallic components368 can be fasteners, layers, or portions of thebody102,202 and/orcap104,204. In an alternative example, theport100,200 can include atransmitter372 can be passive and energized by anexternal device370 with areceiver374, such as that described above with respect toFIGS. 18 and 19. So configured, the can operate thedevice370 and move thedevice370 along the patient's body until thedevice370 energizes thetransmitter372 and receives a signal from thetransmitter372. Thereafter, the clinician can palpate the tissue to identify the location of theseptum106,206.
• In an alternative example, as shown inFIG. 28, theport100,200 can include a combination of metallic and non-metallic components to provide distinct appearance under imaging. For example, theport100,200 can include rings of metallic and non-metallic portions, thebody102,202 can be metallic, thecap104,204 can be metallic, or combinations thereof. In further examples, theseptum106,206 can be radiopaque so that a clinician can clearly distinguish between the various components and the location of theseptum106,206 under imaging. Alternatively, theseptum106,206 can be filled with aqueous gel materials that are detectable by an ultrasound machine.
• In another example, as shown inFIG. 29, theport100,200 can be configured so that theseptum106,206 can be raised through thecentral opening130,230. Theseptum106,206 can be raised by alifting mechanism376 disposed within theport100,200 and engaging theseptum106,206. Thelifting mechanism376 can be any suitable device, including actuators, springs, motors, magnets, and so forth. Thelifting mechanism376 can be operable in response to communication or influence by anexternal tool378. For example, thetool378 can send a wireless command to thelifting mechanism376 and/or can include metallic or magnetic components. Theseptum106,206 can be lifted to a raised position as shown to provide visible and tactile feedback to a clinician for locating theport100,200. Further, the raisedseptum106,206 can be utilized during infusion, described in more detail below.
• In another example, as shown inFIGS. 30-32, theport100,200 can include one ormore sensors380 embedded within thebody102,202 and/orcap104,204 thereof. Thesensors380 can be passive and energized by anexternal device382, such as that described above with respect toFIGS. 18 and 19. Theexternal device382 can include ahousing384 withcorresponding sensors386 and aprocessor388. Thesensors380,386 can be one or more of: proximity, infrared, pressure, ultrasonic, light, temperature, or tilt sensors. When energized, thesensors380,386 can provide data to theprocessor388 of theexternal device382 regarding the distance, axis alignment, orientation, relative angles, or combinations of thesensors386 of theexternal device382 relative to thesensors380 of theport100,200. For example, thesensors380,386 can identify vertical alignment or misalignment therebetween, shown by vertical alignment X1 and angled alignment X2 inFIG. 32. Further, readings from thesensors380,386 can identify horizontal alignment, shown by the angle X3 inFIG. 32. Theprocessor388 can then analyze the data to calculate a position and/or orientation of theexternal device382 relative to theport100,200 and provide feedback to a clinician. Theexternal device382 can provide feedback by any suitable mechanism, such as throughlights390, sounds through aspeaker392, avibration device394, or any other visual or tactile feedback to indicate that theexternal device382 is properly aligned with theport100,200 for optimized needle insertion into and through theseptum106,206. In further examples, theexternal device382 can utilizemulticolored lights390 or other distinguishable feedback to communicate degrees of accuracy with different designated colors for alignment, such as red for misalignment, yellow for near alignment, and green for correct alignment.
• Turning now toFIGS. 33-35, acatheter400 can be coupled to theport100,200 to be fluidly coupled to thedelivery opening110 of thechamber108 to dispense fluids to desired areas. Thecatheter400 can be utilized to provide homogeneous delivery of composition (optionally comprising one or more therapeutic agents) to the intrathecal space of a patient. As such, thecatheter400 can be configured to extend along the substantially the entire length of a patient's spinal column or along any portion thereof. As shown, thecatheter400 includes an elongate,tubular body402 having acentral passage404 extending from aproximal end406 configured to couple to theport100,200 to adistal end408.
• Thecatheter400 can be configured for long term implantation into a patient and, as such, can be constructed from materials to make the catheter soft, flexible, and kink resistant. Further, in some versions, thecatheter400 can be configured to complex spine patients, e.g., scoliosis, the materials can provide column strength, break resistance, and stiffness so that thecatheter400 can be threadable during insertion. Pursuant to this, some or all of thecatheter400 can have a three layer construction as shown inFIGS. 34aand 34b, including aninner lumen410, areinforcement layer412, and anouter jacket414. For example, theinner lumen410 can be polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) or polyurethane (PU) and theouter jacket414 can be an extrusion of PTSE, PU, or silicone and can include a hydrophilic coating. In some versions, thereinforcement layer412 can be provided in theproximal end406 to increase a hoop strength of thecatheter400 allowing a relatively higher compression without crushing damage, which may compromise the interior diameter of thecatheter400. This can advantageously be utilized to provide a strong connection and seal with theport100,200, several examples of which are described below. In a first example, as shown inFIG. 34a, thereinforcement layer412 can be a suitable braided metal, such as stainless steel, or polymer, such as polyimide, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and so forth. In a second example, as shown inFIG. 34b, thereinforcement layer412 can be a series of rings or a coil causing the catheter to have outwardly extendingradial protrusions413. Theradial protrusions413 can be utilized in the connection with theport100,200, described in more detail below, subsidize the tensile strength of the connection.
• As shown inFIG. 36, thedistal end408 of thecatheter400 can include anatraumatic tip416 having a rounded profile and adistal outlet418 extending therethrough to thecentral passage404. Thedistal outlet418 can be disposed along a longitudinal axis of thecatheter400 or can be disposed at an angle with respect thereto. The rounded profile of theatraumatic tip416 allows thedistal end408 to be easily deflectable during insertion to avoid theend408 from becoming lodged and aid in thecatheter400 being threaded through the intrathecal space. Further, theatraumatic tip416 can allow implantation into the intrathecal space without damaging or exiting the intrathecal space.
• One exampleatraumatic tip416 is shown inFIG. 37a. Thetip416 of this form includes a narrowingchoke420 connecting thecentral passage404 to thedistal outlet418 where thechoke420 has a smaller diameter than thecentral passage404 anddistal outlet418 creating a venturi effect, lowering fluid pressure and increasing fluid velocity through thetip416. If desired, thedistal outlet418 can include a mixingchamber428 having an inner diameter that is equal to or larger than the inner diameter of thecentral passage404. Further, thedistal outlet418 can include a reduced-diameter opening430 relative to the inner diameter of the mixingchamber428. Theopening430 gives the distal outlet418 a nozzle effect. Further, thetip416 includes one ormore side passages422, such as two, three, four, or more, that extend fromradial openings424 to fluidly connect to thedistal outlet418. As shown, theside passages422 can extend at an angle with respect to the longitudinal axis of thecatheter400 so thatinterior openings426 of theside passages422 are closer to thedistal end408 of thecatheter400 than theradial openings424. With this configuration, thechoke420 creates a higher flow of therapeutic fluid through thecatheter400 with a lower pressure. Due to this, cerebrospinal fluid is drawn into thecatheter400 through theside passages422 to join the flow of fluid creating a higher mass flow. Moreover, in the event that thedistal outlet418 becomes blocked or occluded, theside passages422 can serve as secondary outlets for the catheterdistal end408.
• Another exampleatraumatic tip416 is shown inFIG. 37b. In this form, thedistal outlet418 includes a mixingchamber432 having an inner diameter larger than the inner diameter of thecentral passage404 and a radially-taperingtransition portion434 extending between thecentral passage404 and the mixingchamber432. As shown, thedistal outlet418 can have a constant inner diameter extending from the mixing chamber to anoutlet opening436. Thetip416 can further include one ormore side passages438, such as two, three, four, or more, configured similar to theside passages422 of the above form extending at an angle with respect to the longitudinal axis of the catheter. As shown, theside passages438 can connect to thetransition portion434 to introduce cerebrospinal fluid to the flow of fluid through thecatheter400 providing flow mass amplification within the mixingchamber432.
• Another exampleatraumatic tip416 is shown inFIG. 37cthat includesside passages440 and a narrowingchoke442. In this form, theside passages440 extend radially through thecatheter400 and connect to thecentral passage404 in thechoke442. Further, the inner diameter of thecentral passage404 and anoutlet opening444 can be generally equal.
• Another exampleatraumatic tip416 is shown inFIG. 37d. In this form, thedistal outlet418 can include a reduced-diameter opening446 relative to the inner diameter of thecentral passage404. Theopening446 gives the distal outlet418 a nozzle effect.
• For some applications, it may be desirable to dispense a composition along a length of thecatheter400 into the intrathecal space of a patient. To achieve this, as shown inFIGS. 38a-38d, thecatheter400 can include one or moreradial outlets448 disposed along a length of thecatheter400 between the proximal anddistal ends406,408 thereof. In a first example form, as shown inFIG. 38a, theradial outlets448 can be disposed in a spiral configuration extending along a length and around a circumference of thecatheter400. The spiral configuration of this form ensures that the composition has a maximized exposure and spread within the intrathecal space.
• In a second example form, as shown inFIG. 38b, theradial outlets448 can be disposed in one ormore rings450 with theradial outlets448 distributed about a circumference of thecatheter400. Therings450 can be spaced from one another along the axial length of thecatheter400 and can be disposed within a plane generally normal to the axial length of thecatheter400. In a third example form, as shown inFIG. 38c, theradial outlets448 can be disposed in one ormore bands452 running the axial length of thecatheter400. Thecatheter400 can include oneband452 to distribute fluid in one radial direction, two, three, four, or more, as desired. In another example, as shown inFIG. 38d, theradial outlets448 can include both one ormore rings450 and one ormore bands452.
• In some versions, the distal andradial outlets418,448 can be sized to achieve a desired fluid distribution. In a first example, the distal andradial outlets418,448 can be sized so that a majority of fluid is dispensed through thedistal outlet418. In a second example, the distal andradial outlets418,448 can be sized so that an amount of fluid dispensed through thedistal outlet418 is generally equal to an amount of fluid dispensed through theradial outlets448.
• In order to confirm that thecatheter400 has been correctly implanted into the intrathecal space and/or is in a fully functioning form, thecatheter400 may include one or more radiopaque markings or components to be visible under imaging. For example, theentire catheter400 can be radiopaque or, as shown inFIG. 35a, thecatheter400 can includeradiopaque markings454 disposed at featured locations, such as below thedistal end406, adjacent to a start of theradial outlets448, adjacent to an end of theradial outlets448, and so forth.
• In some examples, thecatheter400 can be provided with an extended length so that a clinician can cut thecatheter400 to a desired length for a particular patient. For example, thecatheter400 can be provided to the clinician with a length up to 140 cm. Further, thecatheter400 described herein can be a 3-fr, 1 mm outer diameter catheter. Other suitable outer diameters for thecatheter400 can be in the range of about 0.25 mm to about 1.5 mm, or in the range of about 0.5 mm to about 1.25 mm, or in the range of about 0.75 mm to about 1.0 mm.
• The spinal column of a patient is surrounded by adura458 that can be penetrated by a suitable instrument, such as a Tuohy needle, to create anopening456 for the insertion of acatheter400, configured as described above. As shown inFIG. 35b, in order to minimize or prevent tearing of theopening456 and leakage of cerebrospinal fluid, a clinician can utilize agrommet460 to abut thedura458 and extend around theopening456 therein. Thegrommet460 can include asleeve portion462 sized to extend around thecatheter400 and aflange portion464 projecting outwardly from thesleeve portion462 and configured to be placed on thedura458 over and around theopening456.
• In some versions, thecatheter400 can further be provided or implanted along with aplug466 having abody468 with apassage470 extending therethrough for reception of thecatheter400. Thepassage470 extends through theplug body468 from adistal end472 to an opposite,proximal end474 thereof. As shown, one or both of theends472,474 can have a beveled, frusto-conical configuration. Further, thebody468 can have a bent configuration with thedistal end472 at an angle with respect to theproximal end474. For example, thebody468 can include abend476, that can be generally 90 degrees, e.g., within 5 to 10 degrees, as shown, although other acute or obtuse angles can also be utilized. In order to thread thecatheter400 through theplug466, thebody468 can include anopening478 that extends through thebody468 from thepassage470 to anexterior480 of theplug466. A clinician can utilize theopening478 to manipulate thecatheter400 through theplug body468 and out through thedistal end472.
• Afascia482 extends around thedura458 and, as such, thefascia482 can also be penetrated by the instrument to create anopening484 therein in addition to theopening456 in thedura458. Theplug466 can advantageously be implanted through theopening484 in thefascia482 to create a seal with the tissue of thefascia482 to minimize or prevent leakage of cerebrospinal fluid. The beveled configuration of thedistal end472 can also aid a clinician in inserting theplug466 through thefascia482.
• In one approach, shown in broken lines inFIG. 35c, theplug466 can be inserted into thefascia482 until thedistal end472 abuts thedura458. So configured, thedistal end472 can extend around theopening456 to minimize or prevent tearing and cerebrospinal fluid leakage. In another approach, shown in solid lines inFIG. 35c, theplug466 can be inserted into thefascia482 with thedistal end472 spaced from thedura458. In either approach, after theplug466 is positioned, a clinician can stitch up theopening484 in thefascia482 with asuture486 so that sometissue488 of thesuture486 is captured between thesuture486 and theplug body468. Thereafter, when the clinician tightens thesuture486, thetissue488 is tightly captured between thesuture486 and theplug body468 creating a seal preventing or minimizing the leakage of cerebrospinal fluid through thefascia opening484. In some versions, theplug body468 can include anannular recess490 extending therearound, or a plurality of recesses distributed around the circumference, adjacent to thedistal end472. When thesuture486 is tightened, thetissue488 can be drawn into therecess488 preventing or minimizing subsequent movement of thesuture486.
• As shown, thebody468 can further include outwardly projectingtabs492 havingopenings494 extending therethough. A clinician can utilize thetabs492 to secure theproximal end474 of theplug body468 to thefascia482 withsutures492. Advantageously, the bent configuration of thebody468 allows the plugproximal end474 to extend along thefascia482 for a compact configuration after implantation. In one form, theplug466 can be made of silicone or other suitable material.
• In an alternative or additional approach, thecatheter400 can include a portion with an outwardly tapered configuration where the increased outer diameter is configured to engage theopening456 in thedura458 to minimize or prevent tearing.
• As briefly described above, thecatheter400 can be configured to couple to theport100,200 to be fluidly coupled to thedelivery opening110,210 of thechamber108,208. This can be achieved in a number ofsuitable connection assemblies500, some or all of which can advantageously be free of metal components. In a first example, shown inFIGS. 2 and 4, theport100,200 can include acylindrical cavity502 extending radially through thebody102,202 with thedelivery opening110,210 at aninterior end504 and an openexterior end506. Thecylindrical cavity502 can include a threadedportion508 and acounterbore510 at the openexterior end506. Next, anannular gasket512 can be placed over theproximal end406 of thecatheter400 and the assembledgasket512 andcatheter400 is inserted into thecavity502 until thegasket512 andcatheter400 abut theinterior end504 thereof. As shown, this aligns thecentral passage404 of thecatheter400 with thedelivery opening110,210. To secure thecatheter400 to theport100,200 and create a fluid tight seal, aferrule514 extending around thecatheter400 can be inserted into thecavity502 to engage the threadedportion508. As theferrule514 is threaded into thecavity502, theferrule514 engages thegasket512 and causes thegasket512 to compress and radially expand to tightly engage the surface of thecavity502 and thecatheter400. Thecounterbore510 can be sized to receive a portion of ahead516 of theferrule514 to minimize outwardly protruding features on theport100,200. Thegasket512 can be a singular component or can be composed of multiple components, as desired.
• For ease of installation, the inner diameter of thegasket512 can be larger than an outer diameter of thecatheter400. Further, theproximal end406 of thecatheter400 can be reinforced to have a higher hoop strength to withstand the compressive force generated by thegasket512. If desired, theferrule514 and/orcavity502 can include a torque limiting tool to prevent overtightening and the possible resulting damage to thecatheter400.
• In an alternative example, as shown inFIG. 39, thecavity502 can include acatheter counterbore518 at theinterior end504 thereof. Thecatheter counterbore518 has a diameter sized to receive a portion of theproximal end406 of thecatheter400 therein, but also sized to be smaller than thegasket512. With this configuration, the end of thecatheter400 is not compressed by thegasket512 during tightening and therefore possible crushing of the end is prevented.
• In another example, as shown inFIG. 40, theassembly500 can utilize a snap-fit connection rather than a threaded connection as described above with respect toFIGS. 2, 4, and 39. Pursuant to this, thecavity502 can include an annular snap-fit recess520 having a radiallyoutward stop surface522 and aferrule524 can include an outwardly projectingannular prong526. So configured, theferrule524, extending around thecatheter400, can be inserted into thecavity502 until theprong526 is biased into therecess520 by the resiliency of theferrule524 and/or thecatheter400. Theprong526 engages thestop surface522 of therecess520, preventing removal of theferrule524. Further, therecess520 can be located within thecavity502 and thegasket512 can be sized to provide an optimal amount of compression to result in a fluid tight seal without overly compressing thecatheter400. Although therecess520 andprong526 are described as annular, discrete portions that can be aligned during insertion is within the scope of this disclosure.
• In another example as shown inFIG. 41, theassembly500 can utilize a luer lock connection rather than a threaded or snap-fit connection as described above. Pursuant to this, thecavity502 can include a plurality ofradial recesses528 with outwardly extendingopenings530. Aferrule532 of this form can include a plurality ofradial tabs534 that are positioned to align with theopenings530. For example, thetabs534 andopenings530 can be symmetrically disposed around theferrule532 andcavity502 respectively. During assembly, a clinician can align thetabs534 with theopenings530, insert theferrule532 into thecavity502 until thetabs534 align with theradial recesses528, and turn the ferrule532 a predetermined amount, such as a quarter turn, to lock theferrule532 to theport100,200. By one approach, the radial recesses528 can be sized to frictionally engage thetabs534. Further, the radial recesses528 can be located within thecavity502 and thegasket512 can be sized to provide an optimal amount of compression to result in a fluid tight seal without overly compressing thecatheter400.
• In another example, as shown inFIG. 42, theport100,200 can include an outwardly projectingtube536 having apassage538 extending from thedelivery opening110,210 of thechamber108,208. In a first form, thetube536 can have an outer diameter that is equal to or smaller than an inner diameter of the catheterproximal end406 so that theproximal end406 can be inserted over and around thetube536. To secure thecatheter400 to thetube536, aspring540, which can be made of metal, such as nitinol, for example, having a resting state compressing thecatheter400, can be twisted to loosen thespring540 to allow the catheterproximal end406 to be inserted onto thetube536 and released to compress and secure thecatheter400 to theport100,200. If desired, a clinician can utilize a tool to engage thespring540 to easily loosen the windings thereof during assembly.
• In another example, as shown inFIG. 43, the outwardly projectingtube536 can include a backstop542 extending around an intermediate portion thereof and the catheterproximal end406 can have a press-fit ring544 mounted thereto. As shown, the catheterproximal end406 can have an expanded diameter to secure within thering544 and aninterior opening546 of thering544 can be sized to have a press-fit engagement with thetube536. So configured, a clinician can simply align theopening546 with thetube536 and press thering544 until thering544 abuts the backstop542.
• In another example, as shown inFIG. 44, theport100,200 can include anannular wall548 encircling thetube536. Theassembly500 of this form, can further include an o-ring550 having an inner diameter smaller than an outer diameter of the catheterproximal end406 such that the o-ring550 provides a compressive force on thecatheter400 when mounted therearound. During assembly, the o-ring550 can be shifted longitudinally along thecatheter400 so that theproximal end406 can be fully inserted between thetube536 andwall548. Thereafter, the o-ring550 can be stretched or rolled onto thewall548 to provide a compressive force through thewall548 to thecatheter400 andtube536. By one approach, the inner diameter of thewall548 can be generally equal, within 1 mm, of an outer diameter of thecatheter400 so that thecatheter400 is tightly received in the annular space between thewall548 andtube536. The o-ring550 can be formed from rubber or any suitable elastomer, for example.
• In another example, as shown inFIG. 45, theassembly500 of this form can utilize a clampingmember552 to secure the catheterproximal end406 to thetube536. The clampingmember552 can include upper and lower portions554,556 that are movable with respect to one another to be clamped around the catheterproximal end406 and thetube536 during assembly. As shown, the catheterproximal end406 and thetube536 can be axially aligned in a lap joint connection so that the ends thereof abut one another and the clampingmember552 can be secured thereover to provide a fluid tight seal. The upper and lower portions554,556 can be secured together by any suitable mechanism, including snap-fit, crimping, an attachment member, and so forth.
• In another example, as shown inFIG. 46, theport100,200 can include anannular wall558 encircling thetube536 creating an annularcatheter reception space560 between thewall558 andtube536. The catheterproximal end406 of this form can have an enlarged outer diameter as compared to the main body of thecatheter400, such that theproximal end406 has greater hoop strength and can withstand greater compressive forces during assembly. Pursuant to this, thereception space560 can be sized to receive the catheterproximal end406 therein in a compressive, press-fit configuration to secure thecatheter400 to theport100,200 and form a fluid tight seal between thetube536 andcatheter400.
• In another example, as shown inFIG. 47, theport100,200 can include apre-connected assembly562 including aflexible tube564 secured to thebody102,202 and fluidly connected to thedelivery opening110,210 and aconnector566. Theconnector566 includes acentral stem568 and surroundinghousing570 that define an annularcatheter reception space572 therebetween. So configured, during assembly a clinician can insert the catheterproximal end406 into thereception space572 to fluidly couple thecatheter400 to theport100,200. The coupling can utilize a press-fit as described above, or can utilize an o-ring574 on thehousing570 in similar configuration as described above with respect toFIG. 43 to provide a compressive force on thecatheter400 andstem568.
• In another example, as shown inFIG. 48, theport100,200 can include aconnection member576 having a base578 and an outwardly projectingstem580, which can be made of metal, such as titanium, for example, Theconnection member576 includes apassage582 therethrough that is fluidly coupled to thedelivery opening110,210. As shown, thestem580 can includebarbs583 that extend outwardly from an intermediate portion thereof to engage and retain the catheterproximal end406 after assembly. Theassembly500 of this form can further include aplastic housing584 extending around theconnection member576 to engage theouter jacket414 of thecatheter400. So configured, a clinician can insert the catheterproximal end406 over thestem580 until thecatheter400 abuts thebase578. Thebarbs583 andhousing584 provide a compressive force on thecatheter400 to secure thecatheter400 to theport100,200.
• In another example, as shown inFIG. 49, thetube536 can have an outer diameter that is larger than an inner diameter of thecatheter400 and the catheterproximal end406 can be flexible to be stretched over thetube536 during assembly. By one approach, thetube536 can include a radial lip orbarb586 extending therearound to retain the stretchedcatheter end406 on thetube536. Given the flexible nature of the catheterproximal end406 of this form, theassembly500 can further include a rigid orresilient sleeve588 that extends along the flexible length of thecatheter400 to prevent the flexible portion from becoming kinked.
• As is understood, implantation of a catheter into the intrathecal space of a patient can be achieved using a stylet. As shown inFIG. 50, theport100,200 can include a side septum assembly600 so that astylet602 can be pre-loaded and provided with theport100,200. The side septum assembly600 includes aradial cavity604 extending between thechamber108,208 and the exterior114,214 of thebody102,202 and aseptum606 received within thecavity604. In the illustrated form, thecavity604 includes an outwardly projectingrecess608 to receive aflange portion610 of theseptum606 to prevent or minimize movement of theseptum606 while thestyle602 is moved therethrough. The side septum assembly600 can advantageously be located across thechamber108,208 from thedelivery opening110,210 so that thestylet602 can be easily threaded therethrough. Further, the side septum assembly600 can be utilized with any of thecatheter connection assemblies500 described above.
• One example method for implanting the fluid delivery systems described herein includes selecting a suitable bony structure of a patient for implantation of theport100,200 and securing theport100,200 to the bony structure by any suitable method. The method can further include a clinician placing thedistal end408 of thecatheter400 in the intrathecal space of a patient, utilizing the features and properties of thecatheter400 to tunnel theproximal end406 of thecatheter400 under the skin within the intrathecal space to the subcutaneously implantedport100,200, and connecting thecatheter400 to theport100,200 via any of theconnection assemblies500 described herein.
• After theport100,200 andcatheter400 have been implanted and coupled together, a clinician can utilize the fluid delivery system to sample cerebrospinal fluid for diagnostic purposes or can utilize the system to deliver a composition (e.g., a dose of a therapeutic agent) to the intrathecal space of the patient. The clinician can locate thesubcutaneous port100,200 using any of the above-described features. After theport100,200, and theseptum106,206 thereof, is located a clinician can use a Huber needle attached to a standard syringe containing the composition and, manually, using a standard syringe pump, or using Pulsar auto-injector pump, slowly inject the composition into thechamber108,210 to dispense the composition through theoutlets418,428 of thecatheter400 into the intrathecal space of the patient. The medication can be delivered as bolus or per infusion algorithm from the Pulsar pump using the Pulsar auto-injector pump. In some cases where the composition comprises a therapeutic agent, an approved dosing regimen of the therapeutic agent may require removal of cerebrospinal fluid before injection of the therapeutic agent, which can be done manually, using a standard syringe pump, or using Pulsar auto injector pump from theport100,200 via the non-coring Huber needle attached to a syringe. The syringe can also be loaded to a Pulsar auto injector pump.
• Theport100,200, and thechamber108,208 thereof, can be configured so that there is minimal dead volume for the composition. For example, the dead volume of theport100,200 can be between about 1.0 mL and no dead volume, and, in one form, about 0.5 mL.
• In another example, as shown inFIG. 51, thechamber108,208 of theport100,200 can be impregnated or pre-loaded with one ormore dosages650 of a therapeutic agent. A clinician can dispense one of thedoses650 by applying pressure to theseptum106,206 or other movable portion of theport100,200 to force thedose650 through thedelivery opening110,210 and into thecatheter400. If more than onedose650 is provided, thedosages650 can be separated bymovable doors652 extending across thechamber108,208. Thedoors652 can be metallic and be selectively and non-invasively moved by a clinician using anexternal device654 having one or more magnets therein.
• The fluid delivery systems described herein can further be provided as a set, which can include an implantation kit/introducer, anchoring components for thecatheter400, and/or a facial anchor. Further, if desired, a filter can be provided in the catheter,delivery opening110,210, orchamber108,208.
• The device described herein is suitable for administering any fluid composition, such as a pharmaceutical composition comprising one or more therapeutic agents, to a subject. Indeed, the device of the disclosure optionally comprises one or more dosages of a therapeutic agent, such as a therapeutic agent suitable for treating (in whole or in part) a disorder, infection, or injury of the central nervous system or spine. Disorders associated with aspects of the central nervous system or spine include, but are not limited to, spinal muscular atrophy, survival motor neuron deficiency, ankylosing spondylitis, spinal tumors, bipolar disorder, encephalitis, depression, epilepsy, Dravet Syndrome, meningitis, multiple sclerosis, myeopathy, Angelman's Syndrome, CNS lymphoma, Leptomeningeal cancer, Friedreich's Ataxia, hereditary cerebral hemorrhage with amyloidosis-Dutch type (HCHWA-D), cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA), amyloid congophilic angiopathy (ACA), and secondary malignant neoplasms (SMN), or neurodegenerative disorders, e.g., Tau protein-related disorders including Alzheimer's disease, Huntington's disease, alpha-synuclei-related disorders including Parkinson's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) including superoxide dismutase 1-related ALS, progressive spranuclear palsy, frontotemporal dementia, and Tourette's syndrome. Infections of the CNS include, but are not limited to, viral meningitis, fungal meningitis, epidural infection, viral encephalitis, and neurosyphilis.
• Any therapeutic agent may be used in the context of the disclosure. Exemplary therapeutic agents include, e.g., nucleic acids, protein therapeutics, cell therapies, and small molecule therapeutics. Examples of protein therapeutics include antibody-based therapeutics, such as antibodies, antibody fragments, or antibody-like protein products that include binding regions of antibodies (e.g., scFv, diabodies, antibody mimetics, and the like). The antibody-based therapeutic may target, e.g., amyloid plaques, tau proteins, cancer antigens, or abnormal alpha-synuclein. Examples of protein therapeutics also include, but are not limited to, hormones, enzymes (e.g., lysosomal enzymes, such as alpha-L-iduronidase, N-acetylgalactosamine-4-sulfatase, or beta-glucuronidase), growth factors (e.g., fibroblast growth factor (FGF) or neurotrophins or neurotrophic factors, such as glial cell-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF), or nerve growth factor (NGF)), blood factors, bone morphogenetic proteins, interferons, interleukins, and thrombolytics. Examples of cell-based therapies include, but are not limited to, stem cell therapeutics and immune cells (including modified immune cells, such as CAR T cells). Suitable small molecule therapeutics include, but are not limited to, analgesics, ion channel blockers, anti-convulsive agents, antibiotics or antiviral agents, anti-inflammatories, anticoagulants, chemotherapeutic, anti-depressants, anti-anxiety agents, steroids, and the like. In various aspects, the therapeutic agent is baclofen, morphine, bupivacaine hydrochloride, clonidine hydrochloride, gabapentin, idursulfase, cytarabine, methotrexate, a corticosteroid, edavarone-conjugate, conotoxin, abomorphine, prednisolone hemisuccinate sodium, carbidopa/levodopa, tetrabenazine, benzodiazepines, such as diazepam and midazolam, alphaxalone or other derivative, cyclophosphamide, idursulfase (Elaprase®), iduronidase (Aldurazyme®), topotecan, buslfan, opmaveloxolone, epicatechin, methylprednisolone, frataxin replacement, reservatrol, nicontinamide, AT-010 (RNA that induces splicing modulation in the mature amyloid precursor protein mRNA), Cerebril™, an anti-Aβ antibody, elenbecestat, a corticosteroid, or nusinersen (Spinraza®), or combinations thereof.
• In various aspects, the therapeutic agent is a nucleic acid, including DNA or RNA, which may be single stranded or double stranded and which may be modified or unmodified. Suitable nucleic acid-based therapeutic agents include, but are not limited to, antisense oligonucleotides, ribozymes, miRNA, siRNA, and shRNA. Optionally, the nucleic acid targets a gene selected from the group consisting of APP, MAPT, SOD1, BACE1, CASP3, TGM2, TARDBP, ADRB1, CAMK2A, CBLN1, CDK5R1, GABRA1, MAPK10, NOS1, NPTX2, NRGN, NTS, PDCD2, PDE4D, PENK, SYT1, TTR, FUS, LRDD, CYBA, ATF3, CASP2, HRK, C1QBP, BNIP3, MAPK8, MAPK14, Rac1, GSK3B, P2RX7, TRPM2, PARG, CD38, STEAP4, BMP2, GJA1, TYROBP, CTGF, ANXA2, DUOX1, RTP801, RTP801L, NOX4, NOX1, NOX2 (gp91pho, CYBB), NOX5, DUOX2, NOXO1, NOXO2 (p47phox, NCF1), NOXA1, NOXA2 (p67phox, NCF2), p53 (TP53), HTRA2, KEAP1, SHC1, ZNHIT1, LGALS3, SESN2, SOX9, ASPP1, CTSD, CAPNS1, FAS, FASLG, CAPN1, FADD, CASP1, CASP9, p75NTR, PARK2, HTT (with expanded repeats), NogoA, MAG, OMGP, NgR1, PDE4, BCAN, NCAN, PTPRZ1, TNC, NRP1, NRP2, PLXNA1, PLXNA2, PLXNB1, PLXNC1, TROY, LRRC1, ROCK1, LimK1, LimK2, CFL1, KCNC4, KCNE3, NAT8L, FKBP1A, FKBP4, LRRK2, DYRK1A, AKAP13, UBE2K, WDR33, MYCBP2, SEPHS1, HMGB1, HMGB2, TRPM7, BECN1, THEM4, SLC4A7, MMP9, SLC11A2, ATXN3, ATXN1, ATXN7, PRNP, EFNB3, EPHA4, EFNAS, EPHA7 and EFNB2, such that gene expression or function is modified.
• In some embodiments, the therapeutic agent is an oligonucleotide comprising at least one modified nucleotide, optionally a modified nucleotide that reduces binding to cerebral spinal fluid (CSF) proteins. In various embodiments, the modified nucleotide includes a substituent at the 2′-position, such as a 2′-O-2-methoxyethyl (“2′-MOE”) group, as shown below, wherein X is O or S.
• 
• Oligonucleotides comprising a 2′-MOE modification can distribute rapidly in central nervous system tissues. Oligonucleotides comprising such modifications exhibit extended half-lives in CSF and central nervous system tissues, which can result in less frequent dose administration.
• In some cases, the modified nucleotide can include a 2,4-constrained group, such as a constrained 2-O-ethyl (“cEt”) group. In various cases, the cEt group can have S-stereochemistry (“S-cEt”), as shown below, wherein X is 0 or S.
• 
• Nucleic acids modified with a constrained ethyl group, such as S-cEt, can exhibit enhanced thermal stability, good potency, and a good therapeutic profile.
• Optionally, the nucleic acid encodes a beneficial protein that, e.g., replaces an absent or defective protein, or encodes a cytotoxic protein that achieves a therapeutic effect, such as cancer cell death. Any of the protein-based therapeutics described herein may be delivered to a subject via delivery of a nucleic acid encoding the protein under conditions which allow expression in vivo. For example, in various embodiments, the nucleic acid encodes a neurotrophic factor such as, but not limited to, nerve growth factor (NGF), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), neurotrophin-3 (NT-3), neurotrophin-4/5 (NT-4/5), neurotrophin-6 (NT-6), ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF), glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF), the fibroblast growth factor family (e.g., FGF 1-15), leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF), certain members of the insulin-like growth factor family (e.g., IGF-1), a neurturin, persephin, a bone morphogenic protein (BMPs), an immunophilin, a member of the transforming growth factor (TGF) family of growth factors, a neuregulin, epidermal growth factor (EGF), platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), vascular endothelial growth factor family (e.g. VEGF 165), follistatin, or Hifl, or combinations thereof.
• In various aspects, the nucleic acid is present in a viral vector. Any viral vector appropriate for delivering a therapeutic agent to a human subject may be used. Examples of viral vectors include, e.g., herpes simplex virus (HSV) vectors, adenovirus (Ad) vectors, parvoviral-based vectors (e.g., adeno-associated viral vectors), chimeric Ad-AAV vectors, and retroviral vectors (including lentiviral vectors, HIV vectors). Any of these gene transfer vectors can be prepared using standard recombinant DNA techniques described in, e.g., Sambrook et al., Molecular Cloning, a Laboratory Manual, 2d edition, Cold Spring Harbor Press, Cold Spring Harbor, N.Y. (1989), and Ausubel et al., Current Protocols in Molecular Biology, Greene Publishing Associates and John Wiley & Sons, New York, N.Y. (1994).
• In some embodiments, the viral vector is an AAV vector. AAV vectors used for administration of a therapeutic nucleic acid typically have approximately 96% of the parental genome deleted, such that only the terminal repeats (ITRs), which contain recognition signals for DNA replication and packaging, remain. Delivering the AAV rep protein enables integration of the AAV vector comprising AAV ITRs into a specific region of genome, if desired. AAV vectors are useful for delivering payload to the central nervous system due, at least in part, to their safety profile, long-term gene expression, and ability to infect both dividing and quiescent cells, including neurons. Multiple serotypes of AAV exist and offer varied tissue tropism. Known serotypes include, for example, AAV1, AAV2, AAV3, AAV4, AAV5, AAV6, AAV7, AAV8, AAV9, AAV10 and AAV11. AAV vectors may be engineered to alter the virus native tropism or improve infection by modifying the viral capsid or packaging the genome of one serotype into the capsid of a different serotype. AAV vectors have been used to deliver a number of transgenes to treat a variety of diseases, including ASP to treat Canavan disease; CLN2 to treat Late infantile neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis; SGSH to treat mucopolysaccharidosis IIIA; NAGLU to treat mucopolysaccharidosis IIIB; ARSA to treat metachromatic leukodystrophy; GAD, AADC, NTN, GDNF, AADC to treat Parkinson®; and NGF to treat Alzheimer®. See, e.g., Hocquemiller et al., Hum Gene Ther., 27(7), 478-496 (2016), hereby incorporated by reference. The genomic sequences of AAV, as well as the sequences of the ITRs, Rep proteins, and capsid subunits are known in the art. See, e.g., International Patent Publications Nos. WO 00/28061, WO 99/61601, WO 98/11244; as well as U.S. Pat. No. 6,156,303, Srivistava et al. (1983) J Virol. 45:555; Chiorini et al (1998) J Virol. 71:6823; Xiao et al (1999) J Virol. 73:3994; Shade et al (1986) J Virol. 58:921; and Gao et al (2002) Proc. Nat. Acad. Sci. USA 99:11854.
• In various embodiments, the device is used to deliver one or more gene editing agents to a subject, such as the clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) associated protein (Cas) system. CRISPR-Cas and similar gene targeting systems are in the art with reagents and protocols readily available. See, e.g., Maliet al., Science, 339(6121), 823-826 (2013); and Hsu et al., Cell, 157.6: 1262-1278 (2014). Exemplary genome editing protocols are described in Doudna and Mali, “CRISPR-Cas: A Laboratory Manual” (2016) (CSHL Press, ISBN: 978-1-621821-30-4) and Ran et al., Nature Protocols 8(11): 2281-2308 (2013). The CRISPR/Cas system comprises a CRIPSR/Cas nuclease (typically Cas9) and guide RNA (or crRNA-tracrRNA) comprising a short nucleotide targeting sequence that directs the nuclease to a genome location of interest. The guide RNA(s) and coding sequence for the Cas nuclease, optionally packaged into viral vectors, can be delivered to the CSF via the device of the disclosure. The CRISPR/Cas system is further described in, e.g., U.S. Patent Publication Nos. 2018/0223311.
• In various aspects, the disclosure provides a method of treating Huntington's disease, Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), survival motor neuron (SMN) deficiency, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) (including superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1)-related ALS), Angelman's syndrome, Dravet syndrome, Alzheimer's disease and other tau protein-related disorders, progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), frontotemporal dementia (FTD), alpha-synuclei-related disorders including Parkinson's Disease, central nervous system (CNS) lymphoma, leptomeningeal cancer, Friedreich's Ataxia, hereditary cerebral hemorrhage with amyloidosis-Dutch type (HCHWA-D), cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA), amyloid congophilic angiopathy (ACA), or secondary malignant neoplasms (SMN). The method comprises implanting a fluid delivery system in the patient such that a catheter of the fluid delivery system is disposed within the patient's intrathecal space, the catheter characterized by a catheter body having an outer diameter in the range of about 0.25 mm to 1.5 mm and a composite, kink-resistant structure. The fluid delivery system further comprises a grommet having a sleeve portion extending around the catheter body and a flange portion to engage the dura of the patient over a catheter opening therein. The method further comprises releasing a therapeutic agent (such as any one or more of the therapeutic agents described above) via the catheter into the intrathecal space, such that the disorder is treated.
• It will be appreciated that elements in the figures are illustrated for simplicity and clarity and have not necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions and/or relative positioning of some of the elements in the figures may be exaggerated relative to other elements to help to improve understanding of various embodiments of the present invention. Also, common but well-understood elements that are useful or necessary in a commercially feasible embodiment are often not depicted in order to facilitate a less obstructed view of these various embodiments. The same reference numbers may be used to describe like or similar parts. Further, while several examples have been disclosed herein, any features from any examples may be combined with or replaced by other features from other examples. Moreover, while several examples have been disclosed herein, changes may be made to the disclosed examples within departing from the scope of the claims.
• Those skilled in the art will recognize that a wide variety of modifications, alterations, and combinations can be made with respect to the above described embodiments without departing from the scope of the invention, and that such modifications, alterations, and combinations are to be viewed as being within the ambit of the inventive concept.

Claims (1)

What is claimed is:

1. A fluid delivery system comprising:

a port implantable to a subcutaneous location, the port including a body of the port defining a chamber having an open top and a delivery opening and a septum coupled to the body to extend over the open top of the chamber; and

an intrathecal catheter having a proximal end configured to be coupled to the port and fluidly coupled to the delivery opening of the chamber, a distal end, a central passage extending between the proximal end and the distal end, and a distal outlet in the distal end.

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