WO2006024450A2

WO2006024450A2 - Spray probe

Info

Publication number: WO2006024450A2
Application number: PCT/EP2005/009168
Authority: WO
Inventors: Herbert Maslanka; Christoph Finkele
Original assignee: Zlb Behring Gmbh
Priority date: 2004-08-27
Filing date: 2005-08-25
Publication date: 2006-03-09
Also published as: DE102004041631A1; WO2006024450A3; EP1833374A2

Abstract

The invention relates to a spray probe for the application of flowable dual component substances. Said spray probe comprises a flexible or essentially rigid multi-lumen tube (1) comprising several separated lumina (9, 11, 39, 41) which extend along the multi-lumen tube (1). The lumina lead freely into one end of the multi-lumen tube (1) and are connected at the other end of the multi-lumen tube (1) to probed connections for the supply of substance components and compressed gas. The multi-lumen tube (1) comprises a cladding tube (3) and separating walls which are formed, for example, by tubes (5, 7) and which are arranged in the cladding tube (3). The separating walls separate two adjacent extending lumina (9, 11), respectively, for one of the two substance-components, in the cladding tube (3) at least on the free spray ends in a transversal section which is arranged approximately in the centre of the cladding tube (3), and lumina (39, 41) for the compressed gas, which extend on both sides of the transversal region of said substance-lumina (9, 11). The cross-sectional surface of the gas-lumina (39, 41) is greater than the cross-sectional surface of the two substance-lumina (9, 11).

Description

spray probe

The invention relates to a spray probe for the application of flowable two-component substances, in particular a two-component medical adhesive, such as, for example, a fibrinogen-thrombin tissue adhesive (fibrin sealant).

From US 4 978 336 it is known to mix medical two-component adhesive, its components in separate, on a common holder removably mounted syringe in a common nozzle of the holder and to apply the mixture emerging from the nozzle. The mixture of the two components may be insufficient and the mixture exits the nozzle as a strand, which makes distribution difficult in a variety of applications.

From DE 42 23 356 A and EP 0 316 222 A, it is known to connect to the holder holding the two syringe a multi-lumen tube, in which in addition to the two substance components leading substance lumens another lumen is contained, in which a compressed gas from Area of the holder can be guided to the free end of the multi-lumen tube. The substance lumina and the gas lumen open at the free end of the multi-lumen tube, where the two substance components are sprayed by the compressed gas. On the holder turn connections for the two substance components as well as for the compressed gas are provided. The above-described known spray probes have a non-uniform spray pattern and also the atomization of the substance components is insufficient for a number of applications.

It is an object of the invention to provide a spray probe for the application of flowable two-component substances, which allows the substance components to nebulise better than before. In addition, the spray probe should have a simple construction.

The invention relates to a spray probe for the application of flowable two-component substances, in particular a two-component medical adhesive comprising a flexible or substantially rigid multi-lumen tube with a plurality of separate lumens along the multi-lumen tube, which at one end of the multi-lumen tube, the sprayer, each open for himself and are connected at its other end, the supply end, with separate connections for the supply of the substance components and compressed gas.

The above object is achieved in that the multi-lumen tube has a cladding tube and arranged in the cladding partitions, in the cladding tube at least at the spray end in a located approximately in the middle of the cladding tube cross-sectional area two adjacent lumens each for one of the two components and substance Divide a running on both sides of the cross-sectional area of the substance lumens lumen region for the compressed gas, wherein the total clear cross-sectional area of the gas-lumen region is greater than the clear cross-sectional area of the two substance lumens together.

In such a multi-lumen tube, the pressurized gas nebulizing the two substance components, which is preferably carbon dioxide gas, emerges symmetrically on both sides of the outlet region of the substance components determined by the two substance lumens. This ensures an improved turbulence of the substance components. Since the available for the supply of compressed gas clear cross-sectional area of the gas-lumen region is greater than the clear cross-sectional area of the two substance lumens together, the spray end of the multi-lumen tube for the vaporizing the substance components sufficient compressed gas volume can be supplied without the exit velocity of the gas excessively to have to increase. Such a spray probe is particularly suitable for micro-invasive use, for example in laparoscopy or in conjunction with an endoscope.

In a preferred embodiment, the two substance lumens extend at least in the region of the spray end substantially over the entire width of the cladding tube and divide two gas lumens from each other, whose

Cross-sectional area together is greater than the cross-sectional area of the two

Substance lumina together. This measure allows the use of comparatively large substance lumens even with a comparatively narrow cladding tube.

In another preferred embodiment, the two substance lumens run around at least in the region of the spray end substantially at a distance from the inner jacket of the cladding tube. The substance lumina are expediently abutting one another in the region of the spray end or are firmly connected to one another and are supported at the distance from the spray end either directly or via webs or the like on the cladding tube. At least in the area of the spray end, the two gas lumens are completely surrounded by the compressed gas. In this way, a narrow spray cone with a substantially circular base cross-section can be achieved. This is especially true if the inner shell of the cladding tube has at least one helical groove and / or helical rib at least in the region of the spray end, which gives the compressed gas stream a twist. Several helical grooves or helical ribs can be arranged in the manner of a multi-start helix.

The cladding tube preferably has a circular cross section and the two substance lumina are expediently next to one another at least in the area of the spray end on a diameter plane of the cladding tube. The substance lumens can likewise have a circular cross-section, which has the advantage in the case of circular partitions that the gas lumens comprise the two substance lumens over a comparatively large circumferential length, which is flushed with pressurized gas at the end of the spray. In a variant, however, it can also be provided that the substance lumens Both sides of the diameter plane of the cladding tube by mutually parallel partitions of the gas lumens and by a partition extending transversely between the partitions are separated from each other. The divider is for simplicity, designed as a right angle to the partitions extending plate-shaped web, but may also have any other shape, for example, be bent or inclined to the partitions. Conveniently, the divider extends centrally between the partitions and separates substance lumens with approximately equal cross-sectional areas. It is understood that the cross-sectional areas of the substance lumina both here and in the previously explained variants can also be chosen to be of different sizes in order to adapt them in this way possibly different flow properties of the two substance components. Also, instead of the above-mentioned, transverse to the mutually parallel partitions for separating the two substance lumens provided separating web between the partitions and parallel to these extending, further partition wall may be provided which separates the two substance lumens from each other.

In a preferred embodiment, the substance lumens and the cladding tube at the spray end of the multi-lumen tube open substantially in a common axis-normal plane. By a small axial displacement of the ends of the substance lumens relative to the end of the cladding tube, the width of the spray cone of the spray probe can be controlled.

The width of the spray cone may also be affected when the cladding tube and / or each substance lumen at the spray end of the multi-lumen tube forms a muzzle cone widening towards the spray end of its inner jacket.

The cladding tube and the partition walls arranged in the cladding tube expediently have substantially the same axial cross-sectional shape over the entire longitudinal extension of the multi-lumen tube. This simplifies the production of the spray probe. The cladding tube and the two substance lumens can in this case by mutually separate tubes, in particular metal tubes be formed. Specifically, the cladding is preferably made of metal, such as stainless steel, since the spray probe in this embodiment is very rigid in practice desirable manner. If necessary, the two substance lumens can be made of plastic to reduce costs. The cladding tube and the two substance lumens can also be formed together by a extruded profile tube.

The spray properties of the spray probe can be influenced if the cladding tube near the spray end has at least one passage opening for gas in its wall delimiting the gas-lumen region. The size and / or inclination of this passage opening relative to the longitudinal axis of the cladding tube, the size of the misting droplets and / or the width and shape of the spray cone can be influenced. If the outlet direction of the passage opening directed towards the spray end, a portion of the gas flow supplied through the cladding tube is directed from the outside against the spray cone, which is thereby narrower. Overall, a thinner spray can be achieved in this way. If, on the other hand, the passage opening flows from radially inward to radially outward, as viewed against the exit direction of the spray cone, then the gas flow in the jacket tube sucks in additional gas from the environment. This leads to a finer atomization and due to the increased turbulence to a wider spray cone.

In a preferred embodiment, the passage opening is designed as a symmetrical slot extending in a plane inclined obliquely to the axis of the cladding tube and symmetrical with respect to a plane of axial longitudinal section of the cladding tube running at right angles to this plane. Such a slot can be easily produced by oblique sawing the cladding tube and has the advantage that it can influence the spray cone on a large part of its circumference. In order to achieve a uniform influencing of the spray cone, a plurality of slots are expediently distributed uniformly in the circumferential direction, but for the sake of simplicity only two diametrically opposite slots. It has proved to be expedient if the narrowest distance between the spray end and the slot is less than 5 mm, in particular less than 3 mm, in order to achieve a sufficient influence on the spray cone. Also, for this reason, the plane containing the slot should be inclined by less than 45 °, preferably by about 30 °, against the Axiallängsschnittsbene.

The passage openings or slots can be incorporated directly into the otherwise integrally formed cladding tube. In order to facilitate the cleaning of the spray probe, however, the spray end of the cladding tube can also be designed as a replaceable head which contains the passage openings or slots.

In a preferred embodiment, the two substance lumens are connected at the feed end via a flexible tube with one of the substance connections, wherein the two substance connections are mounted with parallel connection direction side by side on a split holder, the holder halves in the direction in the substance connections are arranged side by side, are guided relative to each other slidably together. Such a comparatively simple construction of the feed end of the spray probe facilitates the placement or removal of the syringe components containing the substance components, since the distance between the two substance connections can change. In particular, the flexible tubes connecting the substance lumens with the substance connections can be made elastically resilient.

To achieve a particularly simple construction, when the cladding tube is closed at the feed end relative to the substance lumens and the gas connection is arranged on the cladding tube.

In many cases, the substance components are comparatively viscous substances, which due to the relatively narrow substance lumens

Spraying need to be pushed out. As far as the delivery pressure manually over

Piston spraying is generated, comparatively large pressing forces manually be applied to the syringe. Another disadvantage of conventional spray probes is that the substance lumens form a dead volume for the substance components, which can no longer be ejected at the stroke end of the syringe and is lost. In a preferred embodiment, these disadvantages can be avoided if, in the area of the feed end, between each substance lumen and its substance connection, a one-way valve which opens toward the substance connection and opens toward the spray end is arranged in the substance supply path and if in the region of the feed end between the one-way valve and the spray end, a supply path for pressurized gas opens into the substance supply path. The compressed gas injected into the substance supply path conveys the substance components to the spray end independently of the supply of the substance components at the substance connections.

The substance components can be inserted in portions, for example from piston syringes into the substance lumens, where they are conveyed from the compressed gas to the spray end and blown out there.

The above-described aspect of the invention can also be used with other spray probes than the spray probe explained above, in particular also with spray probes, which mix and atomize the two substance components without compressed gas supplied separately until the end of spraying, for example in a mixing nozzle. The aspect thus has independent inventive significance.

In a particularly simple embodiment of the spray probe according to the second aspect, the substance connection of each substance supply path, together with the one-way valve and a compressed gas connection for the compressed gas to be introduced into the substance supply path, is combined to form a structural unit.

The pressurized gas which promotes the substance components in the substance lumina improves the mixing and atomization at the end of the spray. If appropriate

Dimensioning of the gas flow can also be dispensed with bringing compressed gas separately to the spraying end, so that the two substance Components are mixed and atomized, for example, in a mixing nozzle at the spray end. A particular advantage is that the pressurized gas which promotes the two substance lumens during application spreads the substance lumens after the application, so that they do not clog in application pauses. Of particular advantage is an operation in which the compressed gas is supplied during the application of the two-component substance to the substance supplying lumens at a first pressure and during an application pause with a second pressure which is lower than the first pressure. Since in this way the substance lumens are continuously purged with compressed gas, the clogging is particularly reliably prevented. The first pressure is preferably between 1.5 and 2.5 bar, while the second pressure is between 0.2 and 0.8 bar, in particular approximately 0.5 bar.

During the application phase, the two substance components can continuously or in portions in the continuously flowing in turn

Compressed gas are introduced. For some applications, especially for pointwise application, it may be advantageous to the compressed gas and the

Two-component substance during the application alternately in portions to the substance lumens supply.

In the following the invention will be explained in more detail with reference to a drawing. Hereby shows:

Fig. 1 is a partially sectioned view of a spray probe according to the invention;

2 shows a sectional view through a multi-lumen tube of the spray probe in the region of its spray end, seen along a line H-II of FIG.

1 ;

3 shows a cross section through a first variant of the multi-lumen tube; Fig. 4 is a partially sectioned view of the feed end of a second

Variant of the spray probe according to FIG. 1; 5 shows a cross section through a third variant of the multi-lumen tube; Fig. 6 is a side view of the spray end of a fourth variant of

Multi-lumen tube; FIG. 7 shows an axial longitudinal section through the multi-lumen tube of FIG. 6, seen along a line VII-VII in FIG. 6; FIG. Fig. 8 is a side view of the spray end of a fifth variant of

Multi-lumen tube; 9 is an end view of the spray end of a sixth variant of the

Multi-lumen tube and

10 shows an axial longitudinal section through the multi-lumen tube, as seen along a line X-X in FIG. 9.

Figures 1 and 2 show a laparoscopic spray probe for applying flowable two-component substances, such as a medical two-component adhesive consisting of the components fibrinogen and thrombin (fibrin sealant). The spray probe has for use in laparoscopy a few decimeters long rigid multi-lumen tube 1 with, as best shown in Fig. 2, two in a cladding tube 3 side by side, separated by tubes 5, 7 lumens 9 and 11 for the supply of two substance components of the two-component adhesive from a feed end 13 of the multi-lumen tube 1 to the spray end 15. In the region of the feed end 13 17 ports 19, 21 are provided on a subsequently explained in more detail support, each via a connecting tube 23 and 25 with one of the substance lumens 9, 11 forming tubes 5, 7 are connected. At the terminals 19, 21 are indicated at 27 and 29 indicated plunger syringes containing the substance to be sprayed components. Details of suitable connections 19, 21 and suitable syringes 27, 29 are known and described, for example, in DE 42 23 356 A1 or EP 0 315 222 A2.

The cladding tube 3 is sealed at the feed end 13 relative to the outer jacket of the tubes 5, 7 and 23, 25 and carries in this area

Connection 31 via the compressed gas, for example compressed air, but preferably

Carbon dioxide gas, from a source not shown in the between the inner peripheral surface 33 of the cladding tube 3 and the outer peripheral surfaces 35, 37 of the tubes 5, 7 formed gas lumens 39, 41 can be initiated. The pressurized gas introduced into the cladding tube 3 via the gas connection 31 exits from the cladding tube 3 on both sides of the region of the orifices of the substance lumina 9, 11, and mixes the components of the two-component substance. In particular, for spraying fibrin glue in a minimally invasive use, especially an endoscopic or laparoscopic use, carbon dioxide gas is preferred.

As FIG. 2 shows, the cladding tube 3 as well as the tubes 5, 7 which extend essentially over the entire length of the multi-lumen tube 1 have a circular cross-section. The tubes 5, 7 have an outer diameter which is approximately equal to half the inner diameter of the cladding tube 3. Without being connected to the cladding tube 3 along its length, the two tubes 5, 7 therefore orient themselves next to each other in a diameter plane of the cladding tube 3. The gas lumens 39, 41 arise on both sides of this diameter plane and together have a clear cross-sectional area which is greater as the clear cross-sectional area of the lumens 9, 11 together. The gas lumens 39, 41 are in this case symmetrical to the diameter plane and cover the outer peripheral surfaces 35, 37 of the tubes 5, 7 almost completely.

As best shown in Fig. 1, the front ends of the tubes 5, 7 and the cladding tube 3 are substantially in the same axis normal cross-sectional plane and are provided at their mouths each with outwardly flared cones 43, 45 for controlling the spray cone.

The substance connections 19, 21 are provided with feed directions parallel to one another on separate holder parts 47, 49, which are displaceably guided relative to each other via a pin-hole plug connection 51 in which the two substance connections 19, 21 are arranged side by side , The connecting tubes 23, 25 are resilient and clamp the two holders 17 forming the holder parts 47, 49 toward each other. The holder 17 can on this Way compensate for spacing tolerances between the syringes 27, 29, if they are in turn fixed in a holder.

In the embodiment of FIGS. 1 and 2, the multi-lumen tube 1 is rigid and the cladding tube and the tubes 5, 7 are made of metal. It is understood that the cladding tube 3 and / or the tubes 5, 7 may be made of plastic and in particular may also be flexible, but metal, in particular stainless steel for the cladding tube 3 is preferred, even if the tubes 5, 7 of the production costs because of plastic. The tubes 5, 7 may in particular also be permanently connected to the cladding tube 3 over their length. For example, the multi-lumen tube 1 shown in FIG. 2 can also be designed as an integral extruded profile tube. Finally, the multi-lumen tube 1 can also be considerably longer in dimension than for laparoscopy applications and, for example, have a length that is common in flexible endoscope applications. The spray probe is particularly suitable for micro-invasive procedures.

In the following, variants of the spray probe explained with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2 will be described. Components which act in the same way are designated by the reference numbers of the exemplary embodiments already explained and are provided with a letter for differentiation. To explain the structure and the mode of action and possible variants, reference is made to the respective preceding description.

Fig. 3 shows a first variant of the cross section through a multi-lumen tube 1a in the form of a one-piece extruded extruded profile tube with a sheath 3a, both sides of a diameter plane two mutually parallel partitions 53, 55 and a centrally between the partitions 53, 55 extending divider 57 contains. The divider 57 divides the space between the partitions

53, 55 in two substance lumens 9a, 11a. The partition walls 53, 55 together with the inner circumferential shell 33a of the cladding tube 3a on opposite sides of said diameter plane gas lumens 39a and 41a. The clear cross-sectional area of the gas lumens 39a, 41a is together greater than the clear cross-sectional area of the substance lumens 9a and 11a together.

FIG. 4 shows a second variant, which differs from the spray probe of FIGS. 1 to 3 essentially in that the substance connections 19b, 21b held on the holder 17b in each case form a structural unit with a compressed gas connection 59 or 61 compressed gas, for example, compressed air in the substance supply path 63 and 65 is introduced via the subsequent in a region between the substance port 19b, 21b and the substance in the feed path 13b of the multi-lumen tube. Between the junction of the compressed gas path and the substance port 19b, a one-way valve 67 or 69, which opens towards the spray end but blocks the substance port, is arranged in each case. Substance components supplied via the substance connections 19b, 21b can thus pass to the spray end. The compressed gas fed to the connections 59, 61 promotes the delivery of the substance components through the comparatively narrow substance lumens and is able to blow off dead volumes from the substance lumens.

The one-way valves 67, 69 in the illustrated embodiment are lip valves. Also suitable are other valve constructions, for example disposable ball valves with a valve ball to the substance connection towards a resiliently biased valve ball.

The pressurized gas introduced into the two substance lumens of the tubes 5b, 7b not only aids in conveying the substance components, but also improves nebulization at the feed end. Will the pressurized gas over the completion of the

Feed substance supply addition, the substance lumens 5b, 7b are blown out, and in pauses between successive

Application intervals are reliably prevented from clogging the substance lumens 5b, 7b. During application, the pressurized gas is expediently supplied at a pressure between 1, 5 and 2.5 bar. In the application pauses, however, the substance lumens 5b, 7b continue to be continuously rinsed with a lower pressure of for example 0.2 to 0.8 bar, preferably about 0.5 bar.

The spray probe of Fig. 4 can be used in different ways. The supply support and flushing the terminals 59, 61 fed

Compressed gas can be supplied continuously during the application, while the substance components either continuously or in portions the

Ports 19b, 21 b are supplied. In particular one pointwise

Application can be achieved, however, when the compressed gas and the substance components are alternately added in portions to the substance lumens 5b, 7b.

Although the feed side of the spray probe according to FIG. 4 can be advantageously used in a spray probe according to FIGS. 1 to 3, the idea of pressurized gas support can also be used with spray probes in which only the substance lumens extend in the multi-lumen tube, but none additional gas lumens are provided.

The multi-lumen tubes explained above have substance lumina with approximately the same cross-sectional areas. Depending on the flow properties of the substance components, however, different sized cross sections of the two substance lumens can be selected. Thus, in the embodiment of FIG. 2, the tubes 5, 7 have different inner diameters or, in the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 3, the separating web 57 can be offset eccentrically to the middle of the cladding tube 3a.

In the embodiment of Fig. 3, the divider 57 is formed as a plane, perpendicular to the partitions 53, 55 extending plate. Other cross-sectional shapes of the divider 57 are also usable. For example, the separating web 57 may be arched in the axial normal cross-section or bent angularly. Also, the divider 57 may be inclined at an angle to the partitions 53, 55. FIG. 5 shows a third variant of a suitably extruded multi-lumen tube 1c with a cladding tube 3c, which in turn contains on both sides of its diameter plane two partition walls 53c, 55c which are approximately parallel to each other, similar to the embodiment of FIG. In contrast to FIG. 3, however, a further partition wall 71 extending approximately parallel to the dividing walls 53c, 55c between them divides the space between the dividing walls 53c, 55c into two substance lumens 9c, 11c. The partition walls 53c, 55c together with the inner circumferential shell 33c of the cladding tube 3c on opposite sides of said diameter plane gas lumens 39c and 41c. The clear cross-sectional area of the gas lumens 39c, 41c together is greater than the clear cross-sectional area of the substance lumens 9c and 11c together.

FIGS. 6 to 8 show the region of the spray end of multi-lumen tubes, whose cladding tube is additionally provided with passage openings for influencing the spray cone.

6 and 7 show a fourth variant of the explained with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2 spray probe with a multi-lumen tube 1d, which in turn two in a cladding tube 3d side by side, separated by tubes 5d, 7d lumens 9d and 11 d for the Supplying the two substance components of the two-component adhesive comprises. The multi-lumen tube 1d differs from the variant of FIGS. 1 and 2 substantially only in that the wall of the cladding tube 3d delimiting the gas-lumen regions 39d or 41d near the spray end 5d on diametrically opposite sides acts as slots 73 trained gas passage openings are provided. The slits extend in a plane 77 inclined obliquely to the axis 75 of the cladding tube 3d and are symmetrical with respect to an axial longitudinal section plane 79 extending at right angles to this plane 77. Fig. 7 shows the track of the plane 77 perpendicular to the plane of the representation; the axial longitudinal section plane 79 runs at right angles to the plane of representation in FIG. 6 and is likewise shown there as a track. The arcuate slots 73 in plan view face the spray end 15d with their vertex 81, so that the gas supplied to the spray end 15d in the gas lumens 39d, 41d still partially reaches the spray end 15d with a clear directional component before reaching the spray end 15d emerges from the cladding tube 3. The gas streams emerging from the slots 73 narrow the spray cone of the spray probe. Conveniently, the angle 83 between the plane 77 and the axis 75 is selected to be less than 45 ° and is preferably on the order of about 30 °. The axial distance between the apex 81 and the spray end 15d should be as small as possible for the largest possible influence on the spray cone. Distances of less than 5 mm, for example of the order of about 2 to 3 mm, have proven suitable.

The slots 73 may be used in all of the previously discussed variants of multi-lumen tubes. In the embodiment of FIGS. 6 and 7 only two diametrically opposed slots 73 are provided. It is understood that a plurality of these slots may be provided at different distances to the spray end 15 d out.

The spray probe may be a single use disposable item. In the case of reusable spray probes in particular, it may be advantageous if the end region of the end region adjacent to the spray end 15d

Cladding tube 3d is designed as a removable head 85, since the spray end 15d in

Use for gluing tends and the head 85 can be easily cleaned when removed. For example, a threaded connection indicated at 87 in FIG. 7 may be provided for the detachable attachment of the head 85. It is understood that the head 85 can also be used in the previously explained variants of the spray probe.

Fig. 8 shows a fifth variant of a multi-lumen tube 1e, which differs from the multi-lumen tube 1d of Figs. 6 and 7 only in that the

Vertex 81 e of its two diametrically opposed slots 73e the

Spraying 15e are located. Again, the slots 73e are in the range the gas lumens bounded by the cladding tube 3e, however, define gas passage openings which, due to the gas flowing in the gas lumens, suck additional gas from the environment, which exits at the spray end 15d. This design of the slots 73e causes a finer atomization of the substance components to be sprayed and a widening of the spray cone. Incidentally, the configuration of the slots 73e completely corresponds to the exemplary embodiment of FIGS. 6 and 7, and here too more than two of these slots may be provided at different distances from the spray end 15e. The distance of the slot ends from the spray end 15e is expediently less than 5 mm and is preferably about 2 to 3 mm. If the direction of the slots 73e is disregarded, then the angle of inclination is also less than 45 °, advantageously about 30 °. Also in the variant of FIG. 8, the region of the cladding tube 3 adjacent to the spraying end 15e can be designed as a detachable head 85e.

Figures 9 and 10 show a sixth variant of a multi-lumen tube 1f, which differs in the region of its spray end 15f from the above-explained variants in that the tubes 5f, 7f of the two substance lumens 9f, 11f from the inner peripheral surface 33f of the cladding tube 3f run around substantially at a distance, so that in the region of the spray end 15f a total of the tubes 5f, 7f enclosing gas lumen for the compressed gas is formed. At a distance from the spray end 15f web-shaped spokes 91 hold the tubes 5f, 7f to the cladding tube 3f.

At least in the region of the spray end 15f, the cladding tube 3f is provided on its inner circumferential surface 33f with a helical groove 93, the turns of which are separated from one another by a helical rib 95. The helical groove 93 and the helical rib 95 impart a twist to the compressed gas stream flowing in the gas lumen 89, which narrows the spray cone of the probe.

The above-explained variants of the multi-lumen tube can also be used in the variant of FIGS. 9 and 10. In particular, the cladding tube is 3f in The area of the spray end 15f is formed as a replaceable head 85f, which also simplifies the production, when the helical groove 93 and the helical rib 95 are limited to the area of the head 85f.

Claims

claims

A spray probe for applying flowable two-component substances, in particular a two-component medical adhesive, comprising a flexible or substantially rigid multi-lumen tube (1) with a plurality of lumens (9, 11, 39) separated from each other along the multi-lumen tube (1) , 41), which open at one end of the multi-lumen tube, the spray end (15), each independently and at its other end, the feed end (13), with separate connections (19, 21, 31) for the supply of the substance Components and compressed gas, in particular of carbon dioxide gas, are connected, characterized in that the multi-lumen tube (1) has a cladding tube (3) and in the cladding tube (3) arranged partitions (5, 7, 53, 55, 57), in the cladding tube (3) at least at the spray end (15) in a cross-sectional area located approximately in the middle of the cladding tube 83) two adjacent lumens (9, 11) for the two substance components and one on both sides The lumen area (39, 41, 89) for the compressed gas is divided into the cross-sectional area of the substance lumens, the total clear cross-sectional area of the gas-lumen area (39, 41) being greater than the clear cross-sectional area of the two substance lumens (9, 11) together.

2. Spray probe according to claim 1, characterized in that the two substance lumens (9, 11) at least in the region of the spray end (15) extend substantially over the entire width of the cladding tube (3) and two gas lumens (39, 41, 89) from each other, whose cross-sectional area is greater together than the cross-sectional area of the two substance lumens

(9, 11) together.

3. Spray probe according to claim 1, characterized in that the two substance lumens (9f, 11f) extend at least in the area of the spray end (15f) substantially at a distance from the inner peripheral surface (33f) of the cladding tube (3f).

4. Spray probe according to claim 3, characterized in that the inner circumferential surface (33f) of the cladding tube (3f) at least in the region of the spray end (15f) has at least one helical groove (93) or / and a helical rib (95).

5. Spray probe according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the cladding tube (3) has a circular cross-section and the two substance lumens (9, 11) at least in the region of the spray end (15) side by side on a diameter plane of the cladding tube (3) lie.

6. Spray probe according to claim 5, characterized in that the substance lumens (9, 11) have circular cross-section.

7. Spray probe according to claim 5, characterized in that the substance lumina (9a, 11a) on both sides of the diameter plane of the cladding tube (3a) by at least approximately parallel partition walls (53, 55) of the gas lumens (39a, 41a) and by a between the partitions (53, 55) transversely extending divider (57) are separated from each other.

8. Spray probe according to claim 7, characterized in that the separating web (57) extends centrally between the partitions (53, 55) and substance lumens (9a, 11a) separated with approximately equal cross-sectional areas.

9. Spray probe according to claim 5, characterized in that the substance lumina (9c, 11c) on both sides of the diameter plane of the cladding tube (3c) by at least approximately parallel partition walls (53c, 55c) of the gas lumens (39c, 41c) and by a further between the partitions (53c, 55c) and at least approximately parallel to these

Partition (71) are separated from each other.

10. Spray probe according to one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the substance lumens (9, 11) and the cladding tube (3) at the spray end (15) of the multi-lumen tube (1) open substantially in a common axis normal plane.

11. Spray probe according to one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the cladding tube (3) and / or each substance lumen (9, 11) at the spray end of the multi-lumen tube (1) has its inner jacket to the

Spraying (15) towards expanding muzzle cone (43, 45) forms.

12. Spray probe according to one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the cladding tube (3) and in the cladding tube (3) arranged partitions (5, 7; 53, 55, 57) substantially over the entire longitudinal extent of

Multi-lumen tube (1) have constant axial cross-sectional shape.

13. Spray probe according to one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the cladding tube (3) and / or the two substance lumens (9, 11) by mutually separate tubes (5, 7), in particular metal tubes are formed.

14. Spray probe according to one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that the cladding tube (3) and / or the two substance lumens (9, 11) are formed together by a extruded profile extrusion tube.

15. Spray probe according to one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that the cladding tube (1d, e) near the spray end (15d, e) in its the gas-lumen region (39d, 41 d) bounding wall at least one passage opening ( 73, 73e) for gas.

16. A spray probe according to claim 15, characterized in that the passage opening as in an obliquely to the axis (75; 75e) of the cladding tube (3d, e) inclined plane (77) extending, with respect to a plane perpendicular to this plane Axiallängsschnittsbene (79; 79e ) of the cladding tube (3d, e) symmetrical slot

(73; 73e) is formed.

17. Spray probe according to claim 16, characterized in that evenly distributed in the circumferential direction at least two, in particular only two diametrically opposite one another

Slots (73, 73e) are provided.

18. Spray probe according to claim 16 or 17, characterized in that the apex (81) of the slot (73) faces the spray end (15d).

19. Spray probe according to claim 16 or 17, characterized in that the vertex (81 e) of the slot (73 e) facing away from the spray end (15 e).

20. A spray probe according to any one of claims 16 to 19, characterized in that the narrowest distance between the spray end (15d, e) and the slot (73; 73e) is less than 5 mm, in particular less than 3 mm.

21. Spray probe according to one of claims 16 to 20, characterized in that the plane (77) containing the slot (73; 73e) is inclined by less than 45 °, preferably by about 30 °, against the axial longitudinal section plane (79; 79e) ,

22. Spray probe according to one of claims 1 to 21, characterized in that the spray end (15d, e) of the cladding tube (3d, e) as a replaceable head (85; 85e) is formed.

23. Spray probe according to one of claims 1 to 22, characterized in that the two substance lumens (9, 11) at the feed end (13) via a respective flexible tube (23, 25) with one of the substance connections (19, 21 ) and that the two substance terminals (19, 21) are mounted with a mutually parallel connection direction side by side on a split holder (17), the holder halves (47, 49) in the direction in which the substance connections are arranged side by side , are guided relative to each other slidably together.

24. Spray probe according to one of claims 1 to 23, characterized in that the cladding tube (3) at the feed end (13) relative to the substance lumens (9,

11) is closed and the gas connection (31) on the cladding tube (3) is mounted.

25. Spray probe according to one of claims 1 to 24 or the preamble of claim 1, characterized in that in the region of the feed end (13) between each substance lumen and its substance connection (19b, 21b) to the substance connection ( 19b, 21b) in the substance supply path (63, 65) and that in the region of the feed end (13b) between the one-way valve (67, 69) and the spray end a Zuführweg for compressed gas in the substance

Feed path (63, 65) opens.

26. A spray probe according to claim 25, characterized in that the substance connection (19b, 21b) of each substance supply path (63, 65) together with the one-way valve (67, 69) and a compressed gas connection (59, 61) for the in the substance supply path (63, 65) to be introduced compressed gas is combined to form a structural unit.

27. A method for operating a spray probe for the application of flowable two-component substances, in particular a medical two-component KIebstoffs, wherein the spray probe is a flexible or substantially rigid multi-lumen tube (1b) with a plurality of mutually separated along the multi-lumen tube (1 b) extending Lumina (5b, 7b), which at one end of the multi-lumen tube (1b), the spray end, and at its other end, the feed end, with zugeordnerten terminals (19b, 21b) for the supply of the substance components and in addition with terminals (59, 61) for the supply of compressed gas, in particular of

Carbon dioxide gas are connected, in particular in the form of a spray probe according to claim 25 or 26, characterized in that the compressed gas during the application of the two-component substance to the substance supplying lumens (5b, 7b) with a first pressure and during an application pause with a second Pressure is supplied, which is lower than the first pressure.

28. The method according to claim 27, characterized in that the compressed gas is supplied at a first pressure between 1, 5 to 2.5 bar.

29. The method according to claim 27 or 28, characterized in that the compressed gas at a second pressure between 0.2 to 0.8 bar, in particular about 0.5 bar is supplied.

30. The method according to any one of claims 27 to 29, characterized in that the compressed gas during the application of the two-component substance with the first pressure continuously and the two substance components are supplied in portions.

31. The method according to any one of claims 27 to 30, characterized in that the compressed gas and the two-component substance are fed alternately in portions during the application.