MXPA98001899A - Disposable self-protection guard for unita dosage syringe - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a self-protection guard for a medical cartridge having a proximal end and a distal end, and having its own needle extending from the distal end, said guard being characterized in that it comprises: a body having a cavity adapted to axially receive the cartridge therein through an open proximal end of said body, and having a distal end including an opening through which the needle can be extended when the cartridge is received into said cartridge. cavity; securing seals on said proximal end of said body to substantially substantially permanently deceive the proximal end of the cartridge received in said cavity; a shell slidably attached to said body, and having open proximal and distant ends, said shell being slidable between an unprotected position and a protected position, in this way discovering and covering respective the needle on the cartridge and cooperating detents and retainer pockets formed in said body and said shell to engage each other to hold said shell in said protected position, wherein said cooperating seals and retainer bags comprise: a first series and a second series of retainer bags formed in said body, said second series being located distally of said first series, and a plurality of detents in said shell adapted to engage said retainer pockets, said unprotected position being defined by said detents that are they engage with said first series of retainer bags, and said protected position is defined by said detents that engage said second series of retaining bags.

Description

Mt SELF-PROTECTION GUIDE FOR DISPOSABLE UNIT DOSE SYRINGE FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates generally to syringes, and very particularly to an improved guard for a unit dose syringe or vial and which includes a breastplate? to cover the needle of it after it has been stocked the medicine from the syringe.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION The medically is often dispensed using a unit dose cartridge, such as a vial or syringe, and a syringe holder or adapter. The cartridge is typically a cylinder that has a needle on one end and a piston on the other. Alternatively, the cartridge may include a rubber plug in place of a needle, or may include a piston assembly attached to the piston. The syringe adapter is typically a hollow body adapted to contain the cartridge, including a plunger for engaging and moving the piston in the cartridge. Due to the threat of communicable diseases, a number of syringes and adapters have been developed for prevent accidental needle sticks or to inadvertently reuse needle devices. However, many of these devices are not easy to use or are complicated to manufacture, resulting in less effective disposable syringe devices. For example, the Patent of E.U.A. No. 5,569,211 describes a syringe that allows the needle of the syringe to be withdrawn into the cylinder of the needle after having dispensed the drug therefrom. However, this device is a specially designed substitute for a Jerinsa convinces, and does not use it to contain commercially available unit dose cartridges. The Patent of E.U.A. No. 5,522,812 discloses a complicated syringe shell device for containing a conventional vial without having its own needle. The device has a number of complicated parts, including a cylindrical body, a double needle assembly, a cylindrical shell, a special collar part that allows the - fivf armor cover the needle and lock, as well as an assembly - plunger, resulting in a device that is potentially difficult and expensive to manufacture. The device also requires manipulation with two hands, one to support the body and the other to rotate the shell within the locked position, causing inconvenience to the medical professional using the device. Another consideration with the dose cartridges It is common that they are often made of glass, particularly to contain certain vaccines or biotechnological drugs where concern about microorganisms or other contaminants is of the utmost importance. Glass cartridges are very fragile and often break during transport or use. Some existing adapters 5 may not adequately protect against said risks the cartridge contained therein. Others provide more protection for the cartridge, but can obstruct the display of the cartridge by the professional when the device is being used, preventing the observation of the medication being dispensed. Therefore, there is a need for a syringe with improved safety that is inexpensive and simple to make. In addition, there is a need for a secure syringe adapter that provides improved protection for the cartridge therein, but which allows effective observation of the cartridge and the medication being dispensed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION The present invention is directed to a guard or adapter for a cartridge for medical use, such as a unit dose syringe or ampule, which is used to inject medicament or other drugs to a patient. Generally, the guard comprises two parts, namely, a housing or body for receiving and containing the cartridge, and a cover or protective shield slidably secured to the body. In addition, for a cartridge provided without its own plunger, one embodiment of the guard includes a plunger assembly that is fixed to the body. The various parts are generally molded from a suitable plastic 5, preferably k-resin or polycarbonate, which has a clear or opaque finish, which may be colored, such as a latex color or a flesh-colored shade. The body generally comprises two elongated rails # or similar structures that define a substantially rectangular configuration, having a cavity therein adapted to receive a cartridge for medical use. The body has an open proximal end communicating with the cavity, a distal end with an opening therethrough, and possibly a collar molded to the distal end. The cover or protective shell is a tubular member adapted to fit slidably on the body, which has open proximal and distant ends. In the shell one or more elongated windows are formed, allowing to observe the cartridge contained within the body. One or more windows, preferably the same windows used to display the cartridge, also cooperate with a tongue or stop tabs molded on the body, thus limiting the relative sliding relationship of the shell and the body. In addition, the shell includes a series of detents, preferably comprising a pair of detent arms and protruding detents molded into the proximal end of the shell. The detents j9- cooperate with one or more series of retainer bags molded in the body to lock the shell in relation to the body. The shell is usually provided preassembled on the body, preferably by inserting the body in the shell until the stop tabs on the body communicate with the elongated windows on the shell. The shell can then be slid in relation to the body between a close or unprotected position and a distant or protected position, defined by the length of the windows on the guard. The guard is usually provided with the shell in the near or unprotected position, where the butt tabs rest with the distant edges of the windows. In the unprotected position, the detents on the shell preferably engage a series of nearby retainer pockets 15 on the body, holding the shell in relation to the body. ' - ^ r Usually, after the cartridge in the - guard has been used to supply your medication, the shell moves distantly until it reaches the protected position. In the protected position, the stop tabs on the body rest against the proximal edges of the windows, preventing further distal movement. As the shell moves, the detents on the shell leave the retaining pockets nearby, preferably due to the tipping edges on the nearby 25 retaining pockets, and slide along the body until they enter a series. of distant seal bags when the protection reaches the protected position. The remote seal pockets preferably have blunt edges, which prevent the shell from being returned in the proximal position, and therefore substantially lock the shell in the protected position for disposal. In a first preferred embodiment, the guard comprises only two parts, namely a body and a shell, which are pre-assembled in the unprotected position ready to receive a cartridge. In this embodiment, the body includes a finger holder molded on the proximal end, which preferably defines a "T" shape, which has locking detents formed on the finger holder. A cartridge, preferably and typically a conventional unit dose syringe includes a needle and needle cover on its distal end and a plunger on its proximal end, is inserted into the proximal end of the body until it is completely encapsulated within the cavity. Once fully inserted, the proximal end of the cartridge engages the locking catches on the finger holder, substantially permanently locking the cartridge into the guard. Once locked within the guard, the needle and its cover on the cartridge extend through the distant openings in the body and the shell beyond its distant ends. After having filled the medication, the shell slides into the protected position, generally using ß- ^ only one hand. During use, the index and middle fingers are generally placed on the finger holder adjacent to the shell, while the thumb directs the plunger on the cartridge. To move the shell, move the thumb and ring finger to the finger clip in order to support the body. The index and middle fingers hold the sides of the shell and move it in a distant position, thus sliding the shell until it is locked in the protected position. ? In a second preferred embodiment, the guard includes HSxS a plunger assembly, in addition to the body and shell. The plunger assembly generally comprises a plunger, which preferably includes a thumb ring or a "T" shaped handle, and a finger fastener section into which the plunger is preassembled. The bra section for fingers and the proximal end of the body include limbs for locking the fastener section for the fingers to the body. Preferably, the finger fastener section has latching detents thereon, and the proximal end of the body includes an annular collar having bags. tapering therein adapted to receive the locking catches. The body and shell are usually provided preassembled in the unprotected position, as described above, with the plunger assembly provided separately. A The cartridge, preferably a unit dose vial having a needle and needle cover on its distal end and a piston at its proximal end, is inserted into the proximal end of the body until it is completely encapsulated within the cavity. Once fully inserted, the plunger assembly is fixed to the body, aligning the locking catches on the finger clip section with the tapered bags on the collar. The locking reels are inserted into the bags until they engage, substantially permanently locking the cartridge inside the guard. As before, the needle on the cartridge extends beyond the "X 3" ends of the shell and body, exposing the needle and cover ready for use.The plunger is fixed to the piston on the cartridge, such as by a threaded hole on the distal end of the plunger which is adapted to be screwed into the threaded tip on the piston. then it is ready to be used in order to supply medicine to a patient. After the medication has been dispensed, the breastplate slides into the protected position, just as it is done in the first modality, usually requiring only one hand. The bra section for finger is held with two or more fingers, while the index and middle fingers slide the shell in a distant position until it locks in the protected position. As will be understood, the present invention provides an improved medical cartridge holder, which may include as few as two parts, but generally does not have more than four parts. The device can be used for a variety of conventional pre-packaged drugs or drugs, such as anesthesia or vaccines, for use within the medical and / or dental fields, where the cartridge is generally discarded after a single use. Because the device 5 is relatively simple, the parts can be provided in normal configurations. For example, a single shell design that fits over a variety of bodies to receive cartridges made by different manufacturers may be provided. Therefore, guarding can be more easily OR mass produced, producing manufacturing costs and thus providing a more competitive price disposable syringe guard. In addition, the rectangular configuration of the present device provides improved rigidity, thus giving greater protection to the cartridge contained in the guard. Although the cartridge is completely encapsulated within the guard, the windows in the guard allow the medical or dental professional to effectively observe the cartridge and the medication that is being stocked. Finally, the sliding shell and the cooperating detents allow the user to operate the guard using only one hand, thus allowing his other hand to be free to perform other necessary tasks, such as holding a young patient or providing improved access to the target region. for the needle. Once the shell is locked in the protected position 5, the device can be safely discarded if used properly, eliminating substantially the concerns that the needle could be exposed and cause an accidental picketing. Accordingly, a principal object of the present invention is to provide an improved device for a 5 unit dose syringe that is easy to manufacture and convenient to use. Another object is to provide an improved syringe guard that provides improved protection for the cartridge encapsulated therein but which allows to effectively observe the jS, medication that is being stocked. "Other objects and features of the present invention will become apparent upon consideration of the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS For a better understanding of the invention, and to show how it can be carried out, reference will be made by way of example to the attached drawings in which: Figure 1 is a perspective view of a The first preferred embodiment of the syringe guard of the present invention, which contains a unit dose syringe. Figures 2A, 2B and 2C are a perspective view of the body of the syringe guard of Figure 1. Figures 3A and 3B are a perspective view of the shell of the syringe guard of Figure 1. Figure 4 is a perspective view of the syringe guard p re-assembled to receive a conventional unit dose syringe therein. Figures 5A and 5B are a perspective view of the syringe guard containing a syringe, with the shell in an unprotected position, and ready to be used to medically supply a patient. Figures 6A and 6B are perspective views of the syringe guard containing a syringe, with the breastplate r locked in a protected position after drug O has been dispensed from the syringe. Figure 7 is a perspective view of another preferred embodiment of the syringe guard containing a unit dose cartridge, with the breastplate in the unprotected position, and ready to be used to deliver medication to a patient. 8A, 8B, 8C and 8D are perspective views of the body of the syringe guard of FIG. 7. FIGS. 9A and 9B are perspective views of the shield of the syringe guard of FIG. 7. The FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the plunger assembly of the syringe guard of FIG. 7. FIGS. HA and 11B are perspective views of normal unit dose vials. Figure 12 is a perspective view of the syringe guard 5 with a unit dose vial partially inserted into the body and with the plunger assembly aligned and ready to be fixed to the body. Figure 13 is a perspective view of the syringe guard containing a vial, with the shell locked in the protected position after the drug has been stocked from the ampule.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED MODALITIES u Turning to the drawings, Figure 1 shows an X3 first preferred embodiment of the present invention, namely a syringe guard 10 for containing a unit dose syringe 90. In general, the guard 10 comprises two parts, namely , a housing or bore 20 for receiving or containing the cartridge or syringe 90 and a cover or protective shield 60 5 slidably affixed to the bore 20. Both the bore 20 and the shell 60 are generally molded from plastic, preferably K resin and polycarbonate and are preferably transparent and substantially colorless. Alternatively, they may be translucent or opaque, and may be colored, such as a latex color or a flesh-colored shade, such as whitish, brown or black. Turning now to Figures 2A, 2B and 2C, the cue is an elongate member, preferably having a substantially rectangular cross section, comprising the side rails 28, an open proximal end 22 and an open distal end 24. The rectangular shape it is preferred since it provides greater rigidity, protecting the syringe against lateral forces that might otherwise damage it, particularly if the syringe is made of glass. In addition, the body 20 has a collar 32 and a distal end 24, and a finger holder 50 on the proximal end 22, both attached to the body 20 or preferably molded integrally thereto. Alternatively, instead of comprising side rails 28, the bar 20 may comprise a substantially rectangular body having four side walls or (not shown). The two side rails 28 usually have a "C" shape and define a cavity 26 in the 20, the cavity 26 extending from the proximal end 22 to the distal end 24 of the spout 20. The inner surface 30 of the rails 28 is preferably concave, substantially conforming to the outer diameter of the normal unit dose syringe. Alternatively, if the side rails 28 have a flat inner surface or channel "C", the guide rails (not shown) or the like can be provided on the interior surface 30 to direct the cartridge 90 toward the cavity 26 and maintain it. there, substantially avoiding lateral movement that could damage the cartridge 90. As shown in Figures 2A and 2C, the finger holder 50 generally comprises a pair of wing-shaped members 52 molded on the proximal end 22 of the body 20. , thus generally defining a "T" shape. Each wing-shaped member 52 includes a distal surface or a finger flange 54, and a clamping surface 56 extending proximally from the outer edge 54a of the finger flange 54. The outer clamping surface 56 may include a lip (not shown) projecting radially from its proximal end, if desired, to improve the containment of the finger holder 50. The side surfaces 55 extend proximally from the finger flanges 54 between the surfaces of the fingers. subjection Wü 56, thereby defining an open proximal end 51 communicating with the cavity 26 in the cage 20. The side surfaces 55 of the finger clamp 50 include a plurality of locking retainers 58 that partially define an opening or slot 57 for holding the cartridge (not shown in the Figures 2A and 2B) inserted into the cavity 26, as described below. Turning to Figure 2B, the collar 32 extending from the distal end 24 preferably has a substantially annular shape that includes an opening 34 that extends therethrough, adapted to allow the needle and needle cover on the cartridge (not shown) in the cavity 26 to extend beyond the body 20. The opening 34 preferably has a smaller diameter than the cavity 26. , such that the far end 24 retains substantially the cartridge inside the cavity 26, avoiding the distant movement. Alternatively, the distal end 24 may be tapering K or otherwise it may be partially obstructed, while engaging the distal end of the cartridge, preventing distant movement of the cartridge, and without substantially interfering with the needle and cover that extends further. beyond the distal end 24. The side rails 28 define two elongated openings or windows 36 extending longitudinally between the finger holder 50 and the distal end 24, allowing observation of the cartridge contained in the body 20. Alternatively, if provides a four-walled body, an elongated opening or window can be integrally formed in one or more of the side walls, preferably in two walls on opposite sides of the bar 20. The bar 20 also includes one or more stop tabs 38 fixed or molded 5 directly to the bar 20. Preferably, the stop tabs 38 are molded onto the barrel 20 on two opposite sides of the distal end 24 of the bar 20. The bar 20 also includes one or more sets of barrel bags, which preferably have a set of proximal retainer bags 0 adjacent the finger holder 50 and a set of distant retainer bags 42 at a more distant location on the side and the 20. The retainer pockets lock the relative movement between the shell 60 and the cue 20, as explained in more detail below. Turning now to Figures 3A and 3B, the protective case or shell 60 is a tubular member adapted to slideably fit over the body 20, which has # preferably substantially rectangular interior configuration conforming to the configuration of the body 20. The shell 60 includes four side walls 61a, 61b, an open proximal end 62 and an open distal end 63. The shell 60 has a pair of retainer arms 70 and a plurality of detents 71 fixed or integrally molded integrally directly to the side walls 61b. The tabs of the assembly 72 with sloping or sloping interior surfaces 73 are molded toward the side walls 61a and extend approximately therefrom. At least one wall 61a, preferably the two opposite walls 61a, includes an opening or window 64 elongated therethrough. The 64 window allows the observation of the cartridge in the body 20 and also provides a displacement groove for the stop tab 38 on the body 20. The window 64 has a proximal edge 66 and a distant edge 68 defined by the wall 61a which limit the relative movement from shell 60 to frame 20, as will explain further in more detail. Alternatively, the window 64 can be divided by a transverse member (not shown) molded to the wall 61a which extends transversely through the window 64 if it is desired to further limit the movement of the shell 60. Optionally, the side walls 61a, 61b may include wings, a ring or similar supports for the fingers (not * mounts) which are disposed ra.a.en. of 8_. 0 to facilitate the movement of the shell 60 relative to the 20. In addition, the side walls 61b may provide a flat wall on which a label may be applied or an embossed pattern may be molded, including possibly a name or a logo. Turning to Figure 4, the guard 10 is normally provided with the 20-shell and the 60-shell, preassembled as ~ is displayed. To assemble the guard 10, the end is inserted remote 24 from the 20th cavity (see Figure 2A) to the open end 62 (see Figure 3A) of the shell 60, with the window 36 of the cavity 20 aligned with the side wall 61a of the shell 60 having the window 64 in it. As the body 20 is inserted, the stop tab 38 (the tongue of the butt and window not shown on the opposite side function substantially in the same manner) engages with the tapered inner edge 73 of the assembly tab 72 on the shell 60 (see Figure 3B), allowing the stop tab 38 pass from under the wall 61a. After the The stop tongue 38 passes under the wall 61a, then enters the window 64 where it can move freely. Together, the stop tab 38 and the window 64 allow the shell 60 to move slidably relative to the cue 20, but it substantially defines the limits of that relative movement. The shell 60 can slide in a proximal and distant position until the stop tab 38? B abuts a distant edge 68 and a proximal edge 66, respectively, of the window 64. Specifically, when the stop tab 38 engages with the distant edge 68 of the window 64, as shown in Figure 4, the shell 60 is in a close or unprotected position. When the stop tab 38 engages the proximal edge 66 of the window 64, as shown in Figures 6A and 6B, the shell is in a distal or protected position. ^ Referring to Figures 5A 'and 5B, when the The stop tab 38 abuts the distal edge 68 of the window 64, the cooperating detents 71 and the proximal retainer bags 40 operate to hold the shell 60 in the unprotected position. The declining, distant edges 71a of the detents 71 engage the distal distant edges 40a with the proximal retainer bags 40 over the bore 20, thus preventing the shell 60 from moving distally. Turning again to Figure 4, once assembled, the guard 10 is ready to receive a cartridge, such as a conventional unit dose syringe 90. The syringe 90 generally includes a cylinder 92, a distal end 94 that includes a hypodermic needle 95, a needle cover (not shown) a proximal end 93 having a lip 96, and a plunger 98. The distal end 94 of the syringe is inserted. 90 to the proximal end 22 of the open 20. The syringe 90 enters the cavity 26 and advances distally until the distal end 94 of the syringe 90 engages with the distal end 24 of the body 20. The distal end 94 of the syringe may simply abut the distal end 24 of the body 20 or alternatively the distal end 94 of the syringe 90 may partially enter the opening 34 and engage with the collar 32, thereby providing additional protection of the lateral movement of the syringe 90 (Figures 1 and 6A). According to the syringe 90 it is completely encapsulated within the cavity 26, the lip 96 on the proximal end --- ^ 4 93 of the syringe 90 makes contact with the snap seals 58 on the finger holder 50. The locking retainers 58 have tapered proximal edges 58a, allowing the syringe to be directed even more distally, the lip 96 separating the locking retainers 58 and entering the slot 57. As shown in Figures 5A and 5B, the detent have obtuse distant edges 58b which prevent the syringe 90 from being withdrawn proximally from the slot 57, thus locking the syringe 90 substantially permanently to the 20th feature, an important feature of the present invention. Referring to Figures 1 and 5A, once the syringe 90 is locked to the guard 10, the needle 95 and its cover (not shown) extend through the opening 34 on the collar 32 and the opening 65 on the distal end 63 of the shell 60. It can be used then the syringe 90 in a conventional manner to supply medicament in the cylinder 92. The medical spectrum holds the syringe regularly by placing its index finger on a finger flange 54, its middle finger on the other finger flange 54 and its thumb on the end 99 of the plunger 98. It is removed the cover (not shown), the needle 95 is inserted into the patient and a medicament is delivered by directing the plunger 98 distally with the thumb 5. As can be seen from Figures 1 and 5A, the windows 64 and 36 provide constant observation of the cylinder 92 of the syringe 90, allowing the user to carefully monitor the delivery of the medication. ^^ v After the medication is dispensed, the needle 95 is removed from the patient and the self-protection element of the guard 10 is hooked. The user holds the body, regularly placing his ring finger on the clamping surface 56 adjacent to it. your middle finger and moving your thumb on the plunger 98 to the other holding surface 56. The fingers index and a half, already adjacent the side walls 61b of the shell 60, hold the walls 61b and move them distally, thus sliding the shell 60 distally until it reaches the protected position, shown in Figure 6A. Since the cooperative seals 71 and the bags of retainer 40 hold shell 60 in the unprotected position, force must be applied to move shell 60 distally. As discussed above, the detents 71 have distant sloping edges 71a and obtuse proximal edges 71b (FIG. 3B) and, similarly, proximal retainer bags 40. have distant sloping edges 40a and obtuse proximal edges 40b (Figure 5B). Due to the distant declining edges 71a, 40a, the engagement between the * detents 70 and proximal retainer bags 40, pushing shell 60 distally in relation to the frame 20. The arms 70 move radially as the detents 71 join distally to the sloping edges 40a until the detents 71 exit from the retainer pockets 0. The shell can then be freely moved, the stop tab 38 moving along the window 64, until the stop tab 38 ^ - ^^ topped with the approximate edge 66 of window 64, reaching the protected position. As shown in Figure 6A, due to the predetermined location of the remote seal pockets 42, when the stop tab 38 reaches the proximal edge 66 of the window 64, the detents 71 substantially enter. simultaneous to the remote seal bags 42. The obtuse proximal edges 71b of the detents engage with the obtuse proximal edges 42b of the remote seal bags 42, thereby preventing the shell 60 from moving proximally. In addition, since the stop tab 38 abuts the edge next 66 of the window 64, the shell 60 can be moved even more distally. In this way, the shell 60 is thus locked in a substantially permanent manner in the protected position. As can be seen from Figure 6A, when the shell 60 moves distally to the protected position, the end distant from the shell 60 passes over the needle 95, covering the needle 95. Once the shell 60 is locked in the protected position, the needle 95 is no longer accessible, thus substantially eliminating the risk of accidental punctures and preventing the reuse of the syringe 90. The guard 10 and the syringe 90 can then be disposed of safely. Turning now to Figure 7, a second preferred embodiment is shown namely a syringe guard 10 for holding a unit dose ampule 90 made with its own plunger. Generally, the guard 10 includes three parts, - namely a housing or body 20 for receiving and holding the cartridge or blister 90, a protective box or shell 60 slidably secured to the body 20 and a plunger assembly 120. As before, the parts are molded from plastic, preferably k-resin or polycarbonate, having a transparent colorless finish or alternatively a finished translucent or opaque, possibly including a color, such as latex or flesh tone. Turning to Figure 8A, the bar 20 has two elongated side rails 28, a proximal end 22 and a distal end 24. As shown in Figure 8B, the collar 32 is molded directly on the distal end 24 and has an opening 34 therethrough. Alternatively, as in Figure 8C, it may be appropriate to provide the distal end 24 of the opening 34 formed directly therethrough and remove the collar 32. The two side rails 28 have concave bottom surfaces 30 substantially conforming to the ^, outer diameter of a "normal dose unit", thus defining a cavity 26 in the area 20 to hold the ampule. The outer edges of the side rails 28 define a substantially rectangular cross section 5 for the bore 20, providing the substantially rigid structure for protecting the encapsulated ampoule within the bore 20. In addition, the side rails 28 define two openings with elongated windows 36 that hold between the proximal end 22 r ^^ and the far end 24, thus allowing the observation of the? ampule (not shown). The body 20 also includes one or more stop tabs 38 molded onto the body 20, preferably on both sides of the distal end 24 and preferably between the window 36 and the collar 32 on the two opposite sides of the body 20. Similar to the embodiment above, the body 20 also includes a set of proximal retainer bags 40 adjacent to the collar 110 (or ring 112) for attachment with the fingers and a set of distant retainer bags 42 at a more distant location on the 20-string. to Figure 8D, the proximal end 22 of the includes a collar 110 for gripping with the fingers, preferably molded directly on it. The collar 110 for gripping the fingers has a circular opening 111 extending therethrough, which communicates with the cavity 26 in the body 20. The tapered channels 114 are formed on the inside of the collar 110, defining the tapered pockets 118 that are used to secure the plunger assembly 120 to the bore 20. The undercuts 116 are formed in the collar 110 adjacent the tapered channels 114 to provide easy orientation during attachment . The collar 110 also includes a ring 112 for grip with the fingers that extends radially from the distal end of the collar 110, allowing it to hold the cue 20 more easily. Turning now to Figures 9A and 9B, the protective case or shell 60 is a tubular member adapted to ^ i ^ - slidably fit over the body 20, similar to the aforementioned shell. The shell 60 includes 4 side walls 61A, 61b, an open proximal end 62 and an open distal end 63. The shell 60 has a pair of retainer arms 70 and the retainers 71 molded to the walls 61b. The assembly tabs 72 with the inner surfaces tapers 73 are molded to the side walls 61a and extend proximally therefrom. The finger supports 76 are molded on the side walls 61a and extend radially therefrom. Each of the two opposite walls 61a includes one elongated window 64 that allows observation of the cartridge in the body 20 and also provides a displacement groove for the stop tab 38 on the body 20. Each window 64 has a proximal edge 66 defined by a transverse member 164 and a distant edge. 68 defined by the walls 61a. The The windows 64 and the stop tabs 38 limit the relative movement of the cage 20 and the shell 60, as described B --- above. Referring now to Figure 10, the plunger assembly 120 that includes the émole 122 and the section 130 for gripping the fingers is used. The plunger 122, which preferably has a cruciform cross-section, has a ring 128 for the thumb on its proximal end 124 and a threaded bore 127 on its distal end 126. The threaded bore 127 is a shallow hole having a -j normal thread pattern, adapted to be screwed onto the G threaded union pipe over the piston on a conventional medical vial. Alternative distant ends, such as a harpoon, a threaded connecting tube, an adhesive material, a friction surface or the like, if appropriate, can be provided to fix the piston of a medical cartridge. desired. In addition, alternative proximal ends may be provided, such as a thumb-type "T" clip, instead of the thumb ring. The finger clamping section 130 includes a central hub 134, a pair of flanges 132 for the fingers that extending radially from the hub 134 and a pair of tabs 138 extending distally from the hub 134. The hub 134 also has a conduit extending axially therethrough adapted to receive the funnel 120. The tabs 138 include the trapping detents 139 described below more in detail. Turning to Figure 12, the guard 10 is provided P * normally of the body 20 and the preassembled shell 60 and the plunger assembly, as shown. Dara preassemble the cuefo 20 and the shell 60, the distal end 24 of cuefo (see Figure 8A) to the proximal end 62 of the shell May 60 (see Figure 9A), with the window 36 of cuefo 20 aligned with inserted the wall 61A of shell 60 having window 64 therein. The stop tab 38 includes a distal edge 38a that engages with the inner edge taper 73 of the tab assembly 72 (see Figure 9), allowing the stop tab 38 passes under the wall 61A until it enters the proximal position of the window 64. The inclined distal edge also allows the stop tab 38 to pass under the transverse member 136, until it enters and moves freely in the distal portion of the window 64. The detent arms 70 are directed generally outward to prevent them from engaging with the remote seal bags 42 and further the shell 60 is directed approximately until the detents engage with the proximal retainer bags 40, holding the shell in the non-protected position. Turning to Figure 10, the plunger assembly 120 is preassembled by inserting the distal end 126 of the plunger 122 through the duct 136 in the section 130 for finger grip. Preferably, tabs (not shown) 5 are provided on the plunger 122 adjacent the distal end 126, preventing the plunger 122 adjacent the distal end 126, > preventing the plunger 122 from being withdrawn proximally from the section 130 for gripping with the fingers once it is assembled together. The body 20 p reassembled and the shell 60 and the plunger assembly 120 are ready to receive a cartridge, such as the conventional unit dose ampoules 90A and 90B shown in Figures HA and 11B, respectively. The ampoules 90 generally comprise a cylinder 92, a distal end 94 that includes a hypodermic needle 95, a needle cover (not shown) and a proximal end 93 having a piston hung thereon (not shown). Turning again to Figure 12, the far end 94 of the ampule 90 is inserted to the proximal end open 22 of the bulb 20. The bulb 90 enters the cavity 26 and advances distally until the distal end 94 of the It ampoule 90 is hooked with the distal end 94 of the . Since different types of distant ends are provided on different ampoules, the distant point of snap between the 20-block and the 90-ampule. For example, a normal Cafuject ampoule, shown in FIG.

Figure HA, requires that the 20th feature have a distant end 24 similar to that shown in Figure 8C, in such a way that the distant ribs 94a on the ampoule 90 enter the aperture 94 at the distal end 24 of the 20. In contrast, the normal Tubex 90 ampoule, shown in Figure 11B, requires a distal end 24 on the bar 20 such as the collar 32 shown in Figure 8B, thereby allowing the rim 94b on the ampoule 90 to engage with the collar 32. 5 Once the ampoule 90 inserted completely into the cavity 26, the plunger assembly 120 is fixed to the body 20. The appendices 138 are aligned on the section 130 for gripping with the fingers, with the recesses 116 in the collar 110 for gripping with the fingers on the body 20 O The appendages 138 are inserted into the notches 116, compressing the fingers radially as they enter the tapered pockets 118 (Figure 8D) and pass through the collar 116. After reaching the windows 36, the appendages 138 expand again radially towards outside. Trap seals 139 have obtuse proximal edges 139a which engage with the distal side of ring 112 for the fingers, thereby substantially permanently locking plunger assembly 120 to 20 and encapsulating bulb 30 within cavity 26. When the section is locked 120 for holding with fingers on the bar 20, the distal ends 139b of the appendages 138 are preferably engaged with the proximal end 93 of the ampule 90, preventing proximal movement of the ampule 90. The plunger 122 is attached to the plunger (not shown) in the ampule 90, preferably screwing the threaded bore 127 on the plunger 122 to a threaded joint tube (not shown) on the piston.

• Referring to Figure 7, with the shell 60 in the unprotected position, the needle 95 of the ampule 90 extends through the opening 65 and beyond the distal end 63 of the shell 60. The device is then ready 5 to be used to deliver the medicament contained within the ampoule 90. Similar to the procedure described above, the user places his index and middle fingers on the fingers 132 for the fingers and his thumb on the ring 128. The cover is removed for needle (not shown), the needle 95 is inserted into the patient and medically delivered by directing the plunger distally with the thumb. As shown in Figure 7, windows 64 and 36 allow constant observation of cylinder 92 of syringe 90, allowing the user to carefully monitor the supply of the medication. After the medication is supplied, the needle 95 is removed from the patient and the self-protection element of the guard 10 is hooked, generally to the procedure described above. With the fingers of one hand, it holds the coil 20 while the shell 60 slides distally to the protected position, covering the needle 95 as shown in Figure 13. As the shell 60 moves distally, the detents 70 exit the proximal retainer bags 40. When the cuirass reaches the protected position, the seals 71 enter to the distant retainer bags 42, locking the shell 60. Although the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, examples have been used * specific to it in the drawings and are described in detail herein. It should be understood, however, that the invention is not limited to the particular forms or methods described, but instead, the invention must cover all modifications, equivalents and alternatives that fall within the spirit and scope of the invention. appended claims.

Claims (28)

NOVELTY OF THE INVENTION CLAIMS

1. - A self-protection guard for a cartridge having its own needle, said guard comprising: a cavity having a cavity adapted to receive the cartridge, said cavity having an open proximal end communicating with said cavity, as well as a distant end that includes an opening through which the needle can extend when the cartridge is received in this cavity; a finger holder integrally molded to the proximal end of said body, such a finger holder including latch detents for stationary engagement of the cartridge that is received in the said cavity; a shell slidably attached to said cavity, which slides in a distant position between a protected and an unprotected position; whereby the needle on the cartridge is covered and discovered respectively; and cooperating detents and retainer pockets formed in said barrel and said shell, to engage each other with the objective of holding the shell in the protected position.

2. A self-protection guard for a medical cartridge having its own needle, said guard comprising: a cavity having a cavity adapted to receive the cartridge, said cavity having an open proximal end communicating with said cavity, as well as a distal end having an opening through which the needle can be extended when the cartridge is received in this cavity; a shell slidably attached to said body, having open ends and distant ends, the shell 5 sliding between a protected and an unprotected position; whereby the needle on the cartridge is covered and discovered respectively; Coolant seals and retainer pockets are formed in this body and in said shell to engage each other, with the objective of supporting the aforementioned shell in said protected position.

3. The self-protection guard according to claim 2, further characterized in that said cooperation seals and retainer bags comprise: a first series and a second series of retainer bags formed in said body, the second series being located in a distant position from the first mentioned series; and a plurality of detents on the shell adapted to engage with the retainer pockets, said unprotected position being defined by the detents that engage the first series of seal pockets; and said protected position being defined by the seals that engage the second series of retainer bags.

4. The self-protection guard according to claim 3, further characterized in that said detents are integrally molded to said shell adjacent the proximal end.

5. The self-protection guard according to claim 3, further characterized in that such detents have slanted distant edges and blunt near edges, and because the first series of retainer bags has slanted distant edges, so that said shell can move of 5 the unprotected position by releasably disengaging the detents of the first series of the retainer bags along the inclined distant edges. 6.- The self-protection guard in accordance with the • Claim 3, characterized also because this second The series of retainer bags have blunt near edges, so that when said shell is directed towards the protected position, such blunt proximal edges of these detents mesh with the blunt edges of the second series of retainer pockets, thus preventing the shell moves in a position close to 15 said protected position. 7. The self-protection guard according to claim 3, further characterized in that this later feature comprises an integrally molded indicator grip according to the proximal end of this feature, and 20 where the first series of retainer bags mentioned is located adjacent to said indicator hold. 8. The self-protection guard according to claim 7 further characterized in that this proximal end of such a finger holder includes a plurality 25 of detent detents adapted to securely engage a proximal end of the cartridge received in said barrel, thereby substantially permanently locking the cartridge in said body. 9. The self-protection guard according to claim 2 further comprises: an attached tab, which 5 extends radially in this body; and an elongation opening in said shell, said opening is adapted to receive the tongue mentioned therein, the tongue being slidable in the opening, thus allowing the shell to be - ^ S slide between the protected and unprotected positions. 10. The self-protection guard according to claim 9, further characterized in that said elongation opening comprises a window that allows observation of the cartridge received in said compartment. 11. The self-protection guard according to claim 2 further characterized in that said shell includes a window adapted thereto, to allow observation of the cartridge that is received in said body. 12. The self-protection guard according to claim 2, further comprising an assembly of 20 plunger, which is securely attached to the proximal end of said barrel, thus preventing the proximal movement of the cartridge received in this barrel. 13. The self-protection guard according to claim 12, further characterized in that said 25 plunger assembly comprises a plunger slidably attached to the assembly plunger, the plunger has a H- ^ said plunger with a distal end attached to a piston in the cartridge, thus allowing said plunger slidably directs the piston distant position and next. 14.- The self-protection guard in accordance with 5, claim 12, further characterized in that said plunger assembly includes a plurality of latch detents, and the proximal end of the housing contains tapered pouches adapted to receive the latch detents, said latch assembly. ~ ^ Plunger being securely attached to the cue when the 10 safety seals fully engage the tapered bags. 15. The self-protection guard according to claim 2, further characterized in that said body has a substantially rectangular cross-section. 1

6. The self-protection guard according to claim 2, further characterized in that said shell has a substantially rectangular cross section. 1

7. The self-protection guard according to claim 2, further characterized in that said bar 20 comprises a pair of elongated side rails. 1

8. The self-protection guard according to claim 2, further characterized in that the body and the shell comprise an injection molded plastic. 19.- The self-protection guard for a cartridge Medical use having its own needle, this guard comprises a cavity having a cavity adapted to receive the cartridge, and furthermore has a distal end which includes an opening through which the needle on the cartridge extends when the cartucno is received in the cavity; this body has a jnida tab to a wall 5 thereof cuefo, and a shield slidably attached to this cuefo, which have proximal ends and distant in which the distal end has an opening through which the needle extends when this shell is in an unprotected position; In addition, this shell comprises a 10 elongation opening adapted to slidably receive the mentioned tongue, thus allowing said shell to slide distantly in relation to the body between the protected position and the unprotected position, where the needle is covered by the shell, said shell including a 15 plurality of seals to be secured in the protected position. 20. The self-protection guard according to claim 19, further characterized in that this distal end of the body comprises an integrally molded collar 20 above it, the collar being adapted to engage a distal end of the cartridge, thus preventing distant movement of the cartridge. 21. The self-protection guard according to claim 19, further comprising a fastener for the 25 fingers attached to that proximal end of the barrel, the finger holder loosely engaging a proximal end * of the cartridge, thus preventing proximal movement of the cartridge. 22. The self-protection guard according to claim 21, further characterized in that this finger holder is molded integrally to said proximal end of the body, said finger holder including latching detents on the same, engaging in a latching manner. the proximal end of the cartridge, thus substantially permanently holding the cartridge in said body. 23. The self-protection guard according to claim 19, further comprising a first series of retainer bags formed in said adjacent to the proximal end, this first series of retainer bags being engaged by the detents on the shell when that breastplate 15 is in an unprotected position; and a second series of retainer bags formed in the body at a location distant from the first series, the second series of retainer bags being engaged by the detents on the shell when said shell is in a protected position, the detents being 20 engaged with the second series of retainer bags, thus locking the shell in the protected position. 24.- A unit dose syringe with self-protection comprising: a cartridge to contain the drug, which has proximal and distant ends, this distant end 25 includes a needle that extends to a distant site therefrom; a cavity having a cavity towards which the cartridge can encapsulate substantially permanently; by * means thereby restricting the cartridge to prevent its movement to a distant and proximal location in this cavity, the cavity having a distal opening through which said needle extends; and a shell slidably affixed to the body, the shell sliding to a distant location relative to the body from an unprotected position in which the needle extends beyond the distal end of the shell to a protected position, in which the breastplate substantially covers the needle; said shell containing detents to lock the shell in the protected position. 25. The unit dose syringe according to claim 24 further comprising a finger holder molded in accordance with a proximal end of the body, Said finger holder engaging the proximal end of the cartridge, thereby restricting the cartridge so that it does not move to a distant or proximal location in said cavity. 26.- The unit dose syringe in accordance with 20 claim 24, further characterized in that the yarn further comprises: a fastener section for the fingers fixed loosely to the proximal end of the log, said fastener section for the fingers having a passage extending axially therethrough, and a plunger That 25 extends slidably along said passage, which engages a piston at the proximal end of the cartridge, thus allowing the plunger to direct this piston in a manner * distant. 27. The unit dose syringe according to claim 24, further characterized in that the shell 5 comprises an opening therein, which allows observation of the cartridge in the body. 28.- The unit dose syringe according to claim 24, further characterized in that the cue- ~. It has an exterior that has a cross section £? substantially rectangular and in that the shell has an interior with a substantially rectangular cross section adapted to slidably engage the exterior of said shell.