Venous catheter device and stylet assembly

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to intravenous catheter devices and stylet assemblies. The stylet can be configured with a shaped portion that can lift, advance, retract, or rotate a distal end of the catheter, thereby repositioning the catheter within a patient's vasculature. Such repositioning can move the catheter relative to the walls of the vasculature or other anatomical structures, as well as relative to any obstructions, such as thrombi that can have formed. By repositioning the catheter, the stylet extends the patency of the catheter, including facilitating the collection of blood samples through a long-term indwelling catheter.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to intravenous catheter devices and probe assemblies. Background Technology

[0002] Intravenous (IV) catheter devices are commonly used for a variety of infusion therapies. For example, IV catheter devices can be used to infuse fluids (such as saline solutions, various medications, and total parenteral nutrition) into patients. IV catheter devices can also be used to draw blood from patients.

[0003] Common types of IV catheter devices include "on-needle" catheters. As the name suggests, an on-needle catheter can be mounted on a needle with a sharp distal tip. The catheter and needle can be assembled such that the distal tip of the needle extends beyond the distal tip of the catheter, and the bevel of the needle faces upwards away from the patient's skin. The catheter and needle are typically inserted into the patient's vascular system through the skin at a shallow angle.

[0004] When IV catheter devices are kept in a patient's vascular system, they can become blocked. Once a venous catheter device is blocked, it may become unusable for intravenous infusions or blood draws. In this case, the IV catheter device can be replaced. However, replacing an IV catheter device is a burden for the patient and increases costs. To address these issues, devices have been developed to remove blockages through the insertion of an indwelling catheter within the IV catheter device. For example, some devices employ a rigid tube that can be inserted through the catheter and has a distal opening extending beyond the catheter. By inserting the rigid tube in this way, these devices can obtain blood samples through the rigid tube even if the catheter is blocked. In other words, the rigid tube is used to physically pass through any blockage that may form within or around the distal opening of the catheter and to create a separate fluid pathway from the catheter for collecting blood samples.

[0005] The subject matter claimed herein is not limited to embodiments that address any shortcomings or operate only in environments such as those described above. Rather, this background is provided merely to illustrate an example technical field in which some of the implementations described herein can be practiced. Summary of the Invention

[0006] This disclosure generally relates to probe assemblies, related methods, and IV catheter devices, the probe assemblies being configured to reposition the distal end of the catheter while it is retained inserted into a patient's vascular system. In some embodiments, the IV catheter device may include a catheter adapter, a catheter extending distally from the catheter adapter, and a probe assembly coupled to the catheter adapter. The probe assembly may include a probe that selectively extends into the catheter. The probe may have a shaped portion for repositioning the distal end of the catheter when the probe is selectively extended into the catheter. The probe assembly may be integrated into or selectively coupled to the catheter adapter. In some embodiments, the probe may be a wire or a tube.

[0007] The probe can be configured with a shaping portion that can elevate, advance, retract, or rotate the distal end of the catheter, thereby repositioning the catheter within the patient's vascular system. This repositioning can move the catheter relative to the vessel wall or other anatomical structures, as well as relative to any obstructions, such as a thrombus that may have formed. By repositioning the catheter, the probe prolongs catheter patency, including facilitating the collection of blood samples through long-term indwelling catheters.

[0008] One aspect of this disclosure relates to a venous catheter device, wherein the venous catheter device comprises:

[0009] catheter adapter;

[0010] The catheter extending distally from the catheter adapter; and

[0011] A probe assembly coupled to a catheter adapter, the probe assembly including a probe that selectively extends into the catheter, the probe having a shaped portion for repositioning the distal end of the catheter as the probe selectively extends into the catheter.

[0012] In some embodiments, the probe assembly includes a probe actuator that selectively extends the probe into the catheter.

[0013] In some embodiments, the probe actuator is configured to advance, rotate, or both advance and rotate axially, thereby causing the probe to advance, rotate, or both advance and rotate axially within the catheter.

[0014] In some embodiments, the probe assembly is either integrated into or selectively coupled to the catheter adapter.

[0015] In some embodiments, the probe has a proximal portion and a distal portion, wherein a shaped portion is located between the proximal portion and the distal portion.

[0016] In some embodiments, the forming portion includes the distal portion of the probe.

[0017] In some embodiments, the distal portion forms a coil or an enlarged cross-sectional region.

[0018] In some embodiments, the formed portion has a V-shape or a W-shape.

[0019] In some embodiments, the forming portion is configured to reposition the distal end of the catheter when the distal end of the probe is positioned proximal to the distal end of the catheter, positioned at the distal end of the catheter, or positioned distal to the distal end of the catheter.

[0020] In some embodiments, the forming portion includes a spiral portion.

[0021] In some embodiments, the probe includes a proximal portion and a shaping portion distal to the proximal portion, wherein the shaping portion includes a first length and a second length, the first length being offset from the longitudinal axis of the proximal portion at a first angle, and the second length being offset from the longitudinal axis of the proximal portion at a second angle different from the first angle.

[0022] In some embodiments, the probe is a type of wire or tube.

[0023] In some embodiments, the probe assembly includes a probe housing and a probe actuator, the probe being housed within the probe housing and the probe actuator being located at least partially outside the probe housing, the probe actuator engaging with the probe to selectively extend the probe from the probe housing and into the catheter.

[0024] In some embodiments, the probe actuator also engages with the probe to rotate the probe within the catheter.

[0025] Another aspect of this disclosure relates to a probe assembly for use with a catheter of a venous catheter device, wherein the probe assembly includes:

[0026] Probe housing;

[0027] The probe actuator is connected to the probe housing; and

[0028] A probe, housed within a probe housing, wherein a probe actuator is configured to selectively extend the probe from the probe housing and into the catheter of a venous catheter device, wherein the probe comprises:

[0029] Proximal portion;

[0030] remote; and

[0031] A shaping portion located between the proximal and distal portions, the shaping portion being configured to reposition the distal end of the catheter as the probe is selectively advanced within the catheter.

[0032] In some embodiments, the forming portion includes a first length and a second length, the first length being offset from the longitudinal axis of the proximal portion at a first angle, and the second length being offset from the longitudinal axis of the proximal portion at a second angle different from the first angle.

[0033] In some embodiments, the probe actuator is configured to selectively rotate the probe within the catheter.

[0034] In some embodiments, the shaped portion of the probe includes the distal end of the probe.

[0035] Another aspect of this disclosure relates to a method for repositioning the distal end of a catheter within a patient's vascular system, wherein the method includes:

[0036] A venous catheter device is provided, the venous catheter device having a catheter adapter, a catheter extending distally from the catheter adapter, and a probe assembly coupled to the catheter adapter, the probe assembly including a probe selectively extending into the catheter, the probe having a shaped portion;

[0037] Inserting a catheter into the patient's vascular system; and

[0038] As the catheter is inserted into the patient's vascular system, a probe is advanced within the catheter, causing the shaped portion of the probe to be positioned close to the distal end of the catheter, which in turn causes the distal end of the catheter to be repositioned.

[0039] In some embodiments, the method further includes:

[0040] The probe is advanced such that its distal end extends distally beyond the distal end of the catheter, and the distal end of the probe is configured to cause the occlusion or blockage to be removed from the distal end of the catheter.

[0041] In some embodiments, the probe assembly may include a probe actuator through which the probe selectively extends into the catheter. In some embodiments, the probe actuator may be configured to advance and / or rotate axially, thereby causing the probe to advance and / or rotate axially within the catheter, respectively.

[0042] In some embodiments, the probe assembly may include a probe housing and a probe actuator, the probe being housed within the probe housing and the probe actuator being at least partially located outside the probe housing. The probe actuator may engage with the probe to selectively extend the probe from the probe housing and into the catheter. The probe actuator may also engage with the probe to cause rotation of the probe within the catheter.

[0043] In some embodiments, the probe may have a proximal portion and a distal portion, and a shaping portion may be positioned between the proximal and distal portions. In some embodiments, the shaping portion may include a distal portion. In some embodiments, the distal portion may form a coil. In some embodiments, the shaping portion may have a V-shape or a W-shape, or may form a spiral or other shape.

[0044] In some embodiments, the probe may include a proximal portion, and the shaping portion may be located distal to the proximal portion. The shaping portion may include a first length offset from the longitudinal axis of the proximal portion at a first angle, and a second length offset from the longitudinal axis of the proximal portion at a second angle different from the first angle.

[0045] In some embodiments, a probe assembly used with a catheter of a venous catheter device may include a probe housing, a probe actuator coupled to the probe housing, and a probe housed within the probe housing. The probe actuator may be configured to selectively advance the probe from the probe housing into the catheter of the venous catheter device. The probe may include a proximal portion, a distal end, and a shaping portion located between the proximal portion and the distal end. As the probe is selectively advanced within the catheter, the shaping portion may be configured to reposition the distal end of the catheter.

[0046] In some embodiments, the shaping portion may include a first length offset from the longitudinal axis of the proximal portion at a first angle, and a second length offset from the longitudinal axis of the proximal portion at a second angle different from the first angle. In some embodiments, the probe actuator may be configured to selectively rotate the probe within the catheter. In some embodiments, the shaping portion of the probe may include the distal end of an occluder.

[0047] In some embodiments, the venous catheter device may include a catheter adapter, a catheter extending distally from the catheter adapter, and a probe assembly coupled to the catheter adapter. The probe assembly may include a probe actuator and a probe having a proximal end coupled to the probe actuator and a distal end. The probe may have a shaped portion positioned distally. The shaped portion may be configured to reposition the distal end of the catheter as the probe extends into the distal end of the catheter. In some embodiments, the probe actuator may be configured to slide and rotate the shaped portion within the catheter.

[0048] It should be understood that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and illustrative, and not intended to limit the claimed invention. It should be understood that the various embodiments are not limited to the arrangements and means shown in the accompanying drawings. It should also be understood that embodiments may be combined, or other embodiments may be utilized, and structural changes may be made without departing from the scope of the various embodiments of this disclosure, unless so required. Therefore, the following detailed description should not be considered limiting. Attached Figure Description

[0049] The exemplary embodiments will be described and explained with reference to the accompanying drawings, in addition to their features and details, wherein:

[0050] Figure 1 An example of an IV catheter device including a probe for repositioning the catheter is shown according to some embodiments;

[0051] Figure 2A and 2B The illustration shows an example of a probe assembly that can be used with an IV catheter device in some embodiments;

[0052] Figure 3A-3ISeveral examples of probes according to some embodiments are shown, the probes being configured to reposition the distal end of a catheter while the catheter remains in the patient's vascular system;

[0053] Figures 4A-4C An example is shown of how the distal end of the catheter can be repositioned using a probe constructed according to some embodiments while the catheter is held in the patient’s vascular system.

[0054] Figure 5 Examples of probes configured to rotate to cause repositioning of the catheter within a patient's vascular system, according to some embodiments, are shown; and

[0055] Figures 6A-6D Another example is shown of how the distal end of the catheter can be repositioned using a probe constructed according to one or more embodiments while the catheter is held in the patient’s vascular system. Detailed Implementation

[0056] IV catheter devices that may be used in some embodiments may include a catheter adapter and one or more ports or connectors, with the catheter extending distally from the catheter adapter, said one or more ports or connectors for attaching other devices to the catheter adapter. Such devices may be attached to the catheter adapter before, during, or after catheter insertion into a patient's vascular system and may include needle assemblies, blood collection kits, infusion assemblies, any embodiments of the probe assemblies described herein, etc. Therefore, embodiments of this disclosure should not be limited to any particular construction of an IV catheter device or specific examples of IV catheter devices used herein.

[0057] Figure 1 Examples of an IV catheter device 100 constructed according to some embodiments of the present disclosure are provided. The IV catheter device 100 includes a catheter adapter 110 from which a catheter 111 extends distally. Although not shown, a needle assembly is typically attached to the catheter adapter 110 and can be used to insert the catheter 111 into a patient's vascular system, and subsequently detach it from the catheter adapter 110. The IV catheter device 110 also includes an adapter 114 connected to a side port 112 of the catheter adapter 110 via an extension tube 113. The adapter 114 may provide a connector 116 (whether integrated or separate) through which a probe assembly 130 (or any other probe assembly included herein) can be coupled to the IV catheter device 100, and the probes 140 of the probe assembly 130 (see...) Figure 2A and 2B It passes through the connector and enters the conduit 111. In some embodiments, the probe assembly 130 may be integrated into the adapter 114 rather than selectively coupled to the adapter 114.

[0058] Connector 115 can also be connected to adapter 114 via extension tube 113. Clamps 117 may be provided on extension tube 113. Blood collection kit 120 is shown coupled to connector 115, but this is only one example of a device that can be coupled to IV catheter device 100. In other examples, probe assembly 130 or another probe assembly may be coupled to or integrated into connector 115 instead of connector 116. However, it should be reiterated that IV catheter device 100 is merely an example of an IV catheter device that can be used with probes constructed according to embodiments of this disclosure.

[0059] The probe assembly 130 is shown to include a probe housing 131, a connector 132, and a probe actuator 133. The probe housing can accommodate the probe 140, at least when the probe 140 is not extending through the catheter 111. The probe assembly 130 can be connected to the IV catheter device 100 (or another IV catheter device) via the connector 132. A clinician can move the probe 140 relative to the catheter 111 by sliding the probe actuator 133 along the length of the probe housing 131. Although in Figure 1 While not visible in the diagram, with probe actuator 133 in the depicted position, the distal end of probe 140 can be advanced to the distal end of catheter 111. As described in more detail below, in some embodiments, the probe assembly can be configured to allow the probe to advance and retract within catheter 111, and also to rotate. For example, after the distal end of probe 140 has been advanced to approach, reach, or extend beyond the distal end of catheter 111, probe actuator 133 can be configured to rotate clockwise and / or counterclockwise relative to probe housing 131, thereby causing rotation of the distal end of probe 140.

[0060] Figure 2A and 2B The probe assembly 130 is shown separately. Figure 2A In this configuration, the probe actuator 133 is in the closest possible position, which positions the distal end of the probe 140 at the connector 132. In some embodiments, Figure 2A This can represent the configuration of the probe assembly 130 prior to its connection to an IV catheter device (e.g., IV catheter device 100). Conversely, in Figure 2B In this configuration, probe actuator 133 is in its most distal position, which allows probe 140 to be advanced distally from connector 132. The length of probe 140 and / or the configuration of probe actuator 133 may position the distal end of probe 140 near (e.g., proximal, at, or distal to) the distal opening of catheter 111 (or the distal opening of catheter in any other IV catheter device compatible with probe assembly 130). The depicted configuration of probe assembly 130 is intended to be illustrative only. Probe assemblies according to embodiments of this disclosure may have any suitable connector, any suitable probe housing, and any suitable probe actuator.

[0061] According to embodiments of the present disclosure, when the probe 140 is advanced into and / or rotated within the catheter 111, the probe 140 can be configured to reposition the distal end of the catheter 111. Figure 3A-3I Various examples of how probe 140 can be constructed to result in this repositioning are provided. Figure 3A A portion of the probe 140 is depicted extending from a portion of the probe housing 131 (which uses a connector 132 of a different construction). Therefore, Figure 3A This means that probe 140 can be used with many different variations of probe assembly 130. Figure 3B-3H Each is depicted with only the distal length of probe 140.

[0062] exist Figure 3A-3I In each figure, probe 140 is shown having a distal end 140a, a distal portion 141, a shaping portion 142, and a proximal portion 143. The shaping portion 142 should be interpreted as the length of probe 140 positioned at or toward the distal end 140a, having a shape offset from the longitudinal axis of the proximal portion 143, and typically maintaining this shape when the distal end 140a is positioned near, at, or extending outward from the distal opening of catheter 111. It should be noted that because the proximal length of catheter 111 is confined within the skin, the shaping portion 142 can bend, flatten, or otherwise adjust its shape as it is advanced through catheter 111. However, when positioned at or near the distal end of catheter 111, the shaping portion 142 typically maintains its shape, thereby acting on the distal end of catheter 111 to reposition the catheter. In some embodiments, the shaping portion 142 may be separate from the distal portion 141, while in other embodiments, the shaping portion 142 may include the distal portion 141 and possibly a distal end 140a. As described above, as the probe 140 advances, the shape of the probe 140 will necessarily need to adapt to the boundaries of the catheter 111 (e.g., the S-shape of the catheter 111 as it transitions through the patient's skin and into the vascular system). However, even with such adaptation, the shaping portion 142 is configured to substantially maintain its shape relative to the distal portion 141 and the proximal portion 143, as will become apparent below.

[0063] Figure 3A-3IVarious examples of how the forming portion 142 can be constructed are provided. Embodiments disclosed herein should not be limited to these examples. In particular, the forming portion 142 can be constructed in many different ways to deviate it from the longitudinal axis of the proximal portion 143. For example, the forming portion 142 may include one or more segments of the probe 140 deviated from the longitudinal axis, including segments at different angles to each other and / or located in different planes. Similarly, the forming portion 142 may include one or more segments of the probe 140 bent relative to the longitudinal axis.

[0064] exist Figure 3A In this embodiment, the shaping portion 142 is in the form of a V-shaped length of probe 140, extending between the proximal portion 143 and the distal portion 141. In this example, the distal portion 141 may extend along the same longitudinal axis as the proximal portion 143, such that only the shaping portion 142 deviates from the longitudinal axis. However, in some embodiments, the distal portion 141 may extend along a different and non-parallel axis (e.g., by being oriented upward or downward relative to the proximal portion 143), and / or may extend along an axis different from but parallel to the longitudinal axis (e.g., offset upward or downward relative to the proximal portion 143). When the distal portion 141 is located at or beyond the distal opening of catheter 111, and the shaping portion 142 is at least partially retained within catheter 111, Figure 3A The probe 140 depicted is configured to apply a lifting force to the distal end of the catheter 111. In some embodiments, this can be achieved by... Figure 3A The position shown is used to rotate the probe 140 to change the direction of the lifting force (e.g., move the distal end of the conduit 111 downwards or left or right).

[0065] Figure 3B Provided similar Figure 3A Examples include distal portions 141 and distal end 140a, which are in the form of coils. The coil enhances the ability of probe 140 to remove occlusions or blockages from the distal opening of catheter 111, while facilitating fluid inflow or outflow from catheter 111 when probe 140 is in the catheter, thereby increasing the patency of catheter 111.

[0066] Figure 3C Provided similar Figure 3B In this example, the distal portion 141 and distal end 140a have enlarged solid cross-sectional areas. Similar to the coil, this enlarged solid area enhances the probe 140's ability to remove obstructions or blockages. (Similar to...) Figure 3CAs shown, the distal end 140a can be configured as a dome, which is formed by or attached to the distal portion 141 in some way (e.g., by welding or adhesive). In embodiments where the distal portion 141 forms an enlarged cross-sectional area (or a larger outer diameter), this area can taper proximally to facilitate retraction of the distal portion 141 into the catheter 111 without damaging the distal opening or tip of the catheter 111. Similarly, the distal end 140a can taper distally to minimize damage to the vascular system when the distal end 140a is withdrawn from the catheter 111.

[0067] Figure 3D An example is provided in which the shaped portion 142 has a shape generally similar to a bend w, and the distal portion 141 and the distal end 140a are in the form of a coil.

[0068] Figure 3E An example is provided in which the shaped portion 142 has an inverted V-shape including the distal portion 141. Furthermore, the distal portion 141 forms a coil.

[0069] Figure 3F Another example is provided, in which the forming portion 142 has an inverted V-shape including the distal portion 141. However, the proximal length of the forming portion 142 deviates from the longitudinal axis of the proximal portion 143 by a smaller degree than the distal length of the forming portion 142. Additionally, the distal end 140a is located below the longitudinal axis of the proximal portion 143.

[0070] Figure 3G Another example is provided, in which the forming portion 142 has an inverted V-shape including the distal portion 141. However, the distal length of the forming portion 142 deviates less from the longitudinal axis of the proximal portion 143 than the proximal length of the forming portion 142.

[0071] Figure 3H An example is provided in which the formed portion 142 includes a distal portion 141 and is in the form of a curved portion relative to the proximal portion 143. Furthermore, Figure 3H This indicates that in some embodiments, probe 140 may be in the form of a tube rather than a wire.

[0072] Figure 3I An example is provided in which the shaped portion 142 is in the form of a spiral portion 142, and the distal portion 141 is curved relative to the proximal portion 143.

[0073] Figure 3A-3IThe variations shown are not mutually exclusive, and many such variations can be used together. For example, in any of the described embodiments, the distal portion 141 can be formed into a coil. Similarly, in any of the described embodiments, the probe 140 can be formed from a tube. Furthermore, the orientation and length of different portions of the forming portion 142 can be varied, as can the orientation of the forming portion 142 relative to the distal portion 141 and / or the proximal portion 143. In summary, the embodiments of this disclosure should not be limited to the specific examples shown in the figures.

[0074] Figures 4A-4C An example is provided of how probe 140 can reposition the distal end of catheter 111. Figure 4A The catheter adapter 110 is placed on the patient's skin 400, while the catheter 111 is inserted into the patient's vascular system 401. Figure 4A It also shows that probe assembly 130 is connected to catheter adapter 110, and probe 140 has been partially advanced into catheter 111. Figures 4A-4C In the middle, probe 140 is similar to Figure 3G The example shown illustrates this. The proximal portion 143 is shown as an S-shape adapted to the catheter 111, while the shaping portion 142 and the distal portion 141 substantially maintain their shape within the catheter 111. Figure 4A In this configuration, because the shaping portion 142 is substantially spaced apart from the distal end 111a of the catheter 111, the distal end 111a remains in its natural position against the wall of the vascular system 401. However, in some embodiments, the shaping portion 142 may be configured to apply a lifting force to the distal end 111a before the distal portion 141 reaches or extends distally beyond the distal end 111a.

[0075] Turning Figure 4B Now assume that a clinician has employed probe actuator 133 to further slide probe 140 into catheter 111. For example, probe actuator 133 may engage with the proximal end 140b of probe 140, such that probe 140 slides and / or rotates with sliding or rotation of probe actuator 133. In the depicted example, the proximal end 140b is in the form of a wedge, against which probe actuator 133 acts via the sidewall of probe housing 131. In such an embodiment, probe housing 131 may be in the form of an extension tube.

[0076] Due to the distal movement of the probe actuator 133, the distal end 140a of the probe 140 now extends from the distal end 111a of the catheter 111. As the shaping portion 142 is positioned at the distal end 111a, it applies a lifting force to the distal end 111a, causing it to be lifted away from the wall of the vascular system 401. More specifically, because the shaping portion 142 substantially maintains its shape within the catheter 111, the inverted V-shape of the shaping portion 142 relative to the proximal portion 143 causes the distal end 111a to orient upward relative to the proximal portion of the catheter 111. This lifting not only moves the distal end 111a away from the wall of the vascular system 401 but also pivots it. In this way, if the distal end 111a is already positioned on the wall of the vascular system or other structures, or is blocked, the repositioning of the catheter 111 can restore the ability to collect blood samples or inject fluids through the catheter 111. In this context, "lift" is used relative to the direction of rotation of probe 140 and may include downward or lateral movement of distal end 111a. Figure 4C The shaping portion 142 can cause lifting force to be applied to the distal end 111a of the conduit 111 in a similar manner, even when the distal end 140a of the probe 140 is located at or near the distal end 111a but does not extend distally from the distal end 111a.

[0077] Figure 5 An example is shown in which probe 140 is configured to rotate relative to catheter 111. In this example, probe assembly 130 is configured to allow a clinician to rotate probe 140 by rotating probe actuator 133. For example, see reference... Figure 4A and 4B The proximal end 140b of probe 140 can be directly or indirectly connected to probe actuator 133, such that the entire probe 140 rotates when the clinician rotates probe actuator 133. By rotating probe 140, the clinician can adjust the orientation of the shaping portion 142 to change the orientation of the distal end 111a of catheter 111. For example, the clinician can rotate probe 140 to cause the distal end 111a to travel along a circular path, pivot back and forth, or otherwise move until an unobstructed blood flow is found.

[0078] Figures 6A to 6D Another example of how to reposition catheter 111 using probe 140 is provided. In these figures, catheter 111 is depicted relative to surface 600, which in some embodiments may represent the vein wall. Figure 6A At this point, probe 140 has not yet been advanced into catheter 111. Therefore, catheter 111 rests on the surface. Figure 6BIn the middle, the probe actuator 133 has advanced toward the adapter 114, but the probe 140 has not yet reached the distal end 111a of the conduit 111. Therefore, the conduit 111 remains resting on the surface.

[0079] Turning Figure 6C The probe actuator 133 has been further advanced, causing the distal end 140a of the probe 140 to extend beyond the distal end 111a of the conduit 111. In this example, the forming portion 142 is similar to... Figure 3F For example, as the distal portion 141 extends from the distal end 111a, the distal end 140a can contact the surface (which may represent the patient's vascular system). Due to the shaping portion 142, the distal end 111a will be lifted upward away from the surface. More specifically, because the shaping portion 142 retains its shape, the catheter 111 will conform to the shape of the shaping portion 142.

[0080] Turning Figure 6D The probe actuator 133 has been advanced to its most distal position, which causes the forming portion 142 to extend fully from the distal end 111a. As a result, the distal end 111a is no longer lifted by the forming portion 142 and thus returns to resting on the surface. It should be noted that in some embodiments, the probe 140 may not be configured to allow the forming portion 142 to extend fully from the distal end 111a. Therefore, embodiments of this disclosure should include cases where the probe assembly 130 is designed to prevent the forming portion 142 from extending from the distal end 111a, and cases where the probe assembly 130 is designed to allow the forming portion 142 to extend partially or fully from the distal end 111a.

[0081] refer to Figure 6C If the probe 140 is rotated, the distal end 111a of the catheter 111 can be led to travel along a circular path. Furthermore, if the probe 140 includes a coil or other enlarged structure at the distal end 140a, trauma to the patient's vascular system can be minimized, while potentially enhancing the removal of any obstructions.

[0082] In any case, by employing the probe 140 with the shaped portion 142, the catheter 111 can be repositioned to allow for the collection of blood or injection of fluid through the catheter 111, even if the catheter 111 has become blocked. Therefore, the probe 140 can prolong the patency of the catheter without the need for a device providing a separate fluid pathway from the catheter. Because the probe 140 enables the catheter 111 to be used for blood sample collection, the flow rate can be increased during blood sample collection compared to the flow rate present when using a separate, smaller tube inserted through the catheter 111. However, as... Figure 3H As shown, the probe providing the shaped portion 142 can be in the form of a tube providing a separate fluid passage.

[0083] The probe 140 can be formed of any suitable material, including, for example, metals (such as nickel-titanium alloys or stainless steel), polymers (such as nylon, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), or polyetherimide), or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the probe 140 may be formed of a first material and have a coating of a second material, such as a stainless steel or nickel-titanium alloy core with a nickel coating, or a metal core with a polymer coating.

[0084] In some embodiments, the distal end 140a of the probe 140 may be round and / or tapered to make it less invasive as the probe 140 is advanced distally beyond the catheter 111. Furthermore, the tapered distal end 140a may facilitate the retraction of the probe 140 back into the catheter 111 while minimizing damage to the distal end 111a of the catheter 111.

[0085] In some embodiments, in addition to providing the ability to reposition the distal end 111a of catheter 111, probe 140 may also reinforce the proximal portion of catheter 111. For example, probe 140 may be formed of a material that is more rigid or more elastic than the material forming catheter 111. Thus, when the probe is located within catheter 111, the proximal portion 143 of probe 140 may prevent kinking in catheter 111 (e.g., in the S-shaped portion of catheter 111).

[0086] In some embodiments, the probe 140 can also reposition the distal end 111a of the catheter 111 by altering the S-shape of the catheter 111. For example, due to the more rigid material that can form the probe 140, the proximal portion 143 can straighten the S-shaped region of the catheter 111, which can cause the distal end 111a of the catheter 111 to advance within the vascular system. On the other hand, the shaping portion 142 can be positioned within the S-shaped portion of the catheter 111 and can make the S-shaped portion more curved (i.e., forming a tighter S-shape), which can cause the distal end 111a of the catheter 111 to retract within the vascular system.

[0087] In summary, probes can be configured with shaping portions that can elevate, advance, retract, and / or rotate the distal end of a catheter, thereby repositioning the catheter within the patient's vascular system. This repositioning can move the catheter relative to the walls of the vascular system or other anatomical structures, as well as relative to any obstructions, such as thrombi that may have formed. By repositioning the catheter, probes extend catheter patency, including facilitating the collection of blood samples through long-term indwelling catheters.

[0088] All examples and conditional language cited herein are intended for pedagogical purposes to aid the reader in understanding the contents of this disclosure and the concepts contributed by the inventors to advance the art, and should be construed as not being limited to these specifically cited examples and adaptations. Although embodiments of this disclosure have been described in detail, it should be understood that various changes, substitutions, and modifications can be made thereto without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A venous catheter device, characterized in that, The intravenous catheter device includes: catheter adapter; A venous catheter extending distally from the catheter adapter, the venous catheter being configured for placement in a patient's vein; and A probe assembly coupled to a catheter adapter, the probe assembly including a probe housing and a probe that selectively extends into the venous catheter, the probe having a distal portion, a proximal portion, and a shaping portion for repositioning the distal end of the venous catheter within the patient's vein when the probe is selectively extended into the venous catheter. A probe actuator configured to move a probe between a first position and a second position, wherein in the first position, a distal portion and a proximal portion of the probe are housed within a probe housing, and in the second position, the distal portion of the probe extends outside the probe housing, and the proximal portion of the probe is housed within the probe housing; and The probe's shaped portion is configured to reposition the distal end of the venous catheter within the patient's vein to regain the ability to collect blood samples or inject fluids through the venous catheter; and the probe is formed of a material that is either more rigid or more elastic than the material forming the venous catheter.

2. The intravenous catheter device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The probe actuator is configured to advance, rotate, or both advance and rotate axially, thereby causing the probe to advance, rotate, or both advance and rotate axially within the venous catheter.

3. The intravenous catheter device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The probe assembly is either integrated into the catheter adapter or selectively coupled to the catheter adapter.

4. The intravenous catheter device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The shaped portion is located between the proximal portion and the distal portion.

5. The intravenous catheter device according to claim 4, characterized in that, The shaped portion includes the distal portion of the probe.

6. The intravenous catheter device according to claim 4, characterized in that, The distal portion forms a coil or an enlarged cross-sectional area to minimize trauma to the patient's veins.

7. The intravenous catheter device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The formed portion has a V-shape or a W-shape.

8. The intravenous catheter device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The proximal portion of the probe can straighten the S-shaped region of the venous catheter, allowing the distal end of the venous catheter to advance within the patient's vein.

9. The intravenous catheter device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The shaped portion of the probe can be positioned within the S-shaped portion of the venous catheter and can make the S-shaped portion of the venous catheter more curved so that the distal end of the venous catheter retracts within the patient's vein.

10. The intravenous catheter device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The forming part includes a spiral section.

11. The intravenous catheter device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The forming portion is located distal to the proximal portion, and wherein the forming portion includes a first length and a second length, the first length being offset from the longitudinal axis of the proximal portion at a first angle, and the second length being offset from the longitudinal axis of the proximal portion at a second angle different from the first angle.

12. The intravenous catheter device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The probe is either a wire or a tube.

13. The intravenous catheter device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The probe is housed within the probe housing, and the probe actuator is located at least partially outside the probe housing. The probe actuator engages with the probe to selectively extend the probe from the probe housing and into the venous catheter.

14. The intravenous catheter device according to claim 13, characterized in that, The probe actuator also engages with the probe to rotate the probe within the venous catheter.

15. A probe assembly for use with a venous catheter in a venous catheter device, characterized in that, The probe assembly includes: Probe housing; The probe actuator is connected to the probe housing; and A probe, housed within a probe housing, wherein a probe actuator is configured to selectively extend the probe from the probe housing and into a venous catheter of a venous catheter device, the venous catheter being configured for placement in a patient's vein, wherein the probe comprises: Proximal portion; Proximal end; remote; and A shaping portion located between the proximal and distal ends, the shaping portion being configured to reposition the distal end of the venous catheter within the patient's vein when a probe is selectively advanced within the venous catheter, and The probe actuator is configured to move the probe between a first position and a second position, in which the distal end and the proximal end of the probe are housed within the probe housing; and in the second position, the distal end of the probe extends outside the probe housing, and the proximal end of the probe is housed within the probe housing. The probe's shaped portion is configured to reposition the distal end of the venous catheter within the patient's vein to regain the ability to collect blood samples or inject fluids through the venous catheter; and the probe is formed of a material that is either more rigid or more elastic than the material forming the venous catheter.

16. The probe assembly according to claim 15, characterized in that, The forming portion includes a first length and a second length, the first length being offset from the longitudinal axis of the proximal portion at a first angle, and the second length being offset from the longitudinal axis of the proximal portion at a second angle different from the first angle.

17. The probe assembly according to claim 15, characterized in that, The probe actuator is configured to selectively rotate the probe within the catheter.

18. The probe assembly according to claim 15, characterized in that, The shaped portion of the probe includes the distal end of the probe.

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