Vascular access devices that reduce the tortuosity of instruments

Abstract

A vascular access device may include a housing. An inner surface of the housing may include a groove disposed within the housing, located between a proximal and distal end of the housing. An advance element may extend through a slot and may be configured to move linearly along the slot between a retracted position and an advance position. An instrument having a first end and a second end may be disposed within the groove. In response to movement of the advance element from the retracted position to the advance position, the second end of the instrument may be advanced beyond the distal end. A support feature may be disposed on top of or within the groove and configured to move distally in response to movement of the advance element from the retracted position to the advance position. The support feature may limit displacement of the instrument from the groove.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 63 / 164,976, entitled “Vascular Access Device to Reduce Buckling of an Instrument,” filed March 23, 2021, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure generally relates to vascular access devices and related systems and methods. Background Technology

[0004] Catheters are commonly used for a variety of infusion therapies. For example, catheters can be used to deliver fluids, such as saline solutions, various medications, and total parenteral nutrition, into a patient. Catheters can also be used to draw blood from a patient.

[0005] Common types of catheter devices include needle catheters. As the name suggests, a needle catheter can be mounted on a guide needle with a sharp distal end. The catheter assembly may include a catheter adapter from which the catheter extends distally, and the guide needle extends through the catheter. The catheter and guide needle can be assembled such that the distal end of the guide needle extends beyond the distal end of the catheter, with the bevel of the needle facing upwards away from the patient's skin. The catheter and guide needle are typically inserted into the patient's vascular system through the skin at a small angle.

[0006] To verify proper placement of the guide needle and / or catheter in the blood vessel, clinicians typically confirm the presence of blood "backflow" in the reflux chamber of the catheter assembly. Once needle placement is confirmed, clinicians may temporarily block flow in the vascular system and remove the needle, leaving the catheter in place for future blood draws or fluid infusions.

[0007] Infusion and blood draw using catheters can be difficult for several reasons, especially when the catheter is in place for an extended period. Fibrin sheaths or thrombi may form on the inner or outer surfaces of the catheter assembly, or within the vascular system near the distal end of the catheter. Fibrin sheaths or thrombi can obstruct or narrow the fluid pathway through the catheter, which can impair the infusion and / or collection of high-quality blood samples.

[0008] 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

[0009] This disclosure generally relates to vascular access devices and related systems and methods. In some embodiments, the vascular access device may include a housing that may include a proximal end, a distal end, and a slot. In some embodiments, an inner surface of the housing may include a groove disposed within the housing between the proximal end and the distal end of the housing. In some embodiments, the vascular access device may include a propulsion element that extends through the slot and is configured to move linearly along the slot between a retracted position and an advanced position.

[0010] In some embodiments, the vascular access device may include a device disposed within a recess. In some embodiments, the device may include a first end and a second end. In some embodiments, in response to movement of a propulsion element from a retracted position to an advanced position, the second end of the device may be advanced beyond the distal end of the housing.

[0011] In some embodiments, the vascular access device may include a support feature disposed on top of or within a recess. In some embodiments, the support feature may be configured to move distally in response to movement of an advance element from a retracted position to an advanced position. In some embodiments, the support feature may restrict displacement of the device from the recess.

[0012] In some embodiments, the groove may be linear. In some embodiments, a support feature may be disposed on top of the groove. In some embodiments, in response to movement of the actuating element from a retracted position to an advanced position, the actuating element may contact the proximal end of the support feature and push the support feature distally along the groove.

[0013] In some embodiments, the vascular access device may include an arm extending from the proximal end of a support feature. In some embodiments, the arm may extend through a propulsion element. In some embodiments, in response to movement of the propulsion element from a retracted position to an advanced position, the propulsion element may slide distally along the arm until the propulsion element contacts the proximal end of the support feature.

[0014] In some embodiments, in response to movement of the propulsion element from an advanced position to a retracted position, the propulsion element may pull the arm and support feature proximally. In some embodiments, the proximal end of the arm may include a hook. In some embodiments, in response to movement of the propulsion element from an advanced position to a retracted position, the propulsion element may grasp the hook and pull the arm and support feature proximally.

[0015] In some embodiments, the support feature may include a spring. In some embodiments, the spring may be compressed in a distal direction in response to movement of the propulsion element from a retracted position to an advanced position. In some embodiments, the spring may be disposed within a groove, and the instrument may extend through the spring. In some embodiments, the spring may be disposed on top of the groove.

[0016] In some embodiments, the support feature may include one or more elastomeric discs disposed within a groove. In some embodiments, each elastomeric disc may slide distally within the groove in response to movement of the propulsion element from a retracted position to an advanced position. In some embodiments, the support feature may include a telescopic member. In some embodiments, the telescopic member may collapse distally in response to movement of the propulsion element from a retracted position to an advanced position.

[0017] In some embodiments, the support feature may include a strip. In some embodiments, the strip may include a first end and a second end. In some embodiments, the first end may be coupled to a propulsion element, and the second end may be configured to coil in response to movement of the propulsion element from a retracted position to an advanced position. In some embodiments, the first end of the strip may include a proximal end of the strip, and the second end of the strip may include a distal end of the strip.

[0018] In some embodiments, the support feature may include a cap extending over the recess. In some embodiments, a first side of the cap and / or a second side of the cap opposite the first side may be coupled to a housing. In some embodiments, the cap may include a slit along the center of the cap. In other embodiments, the actuating element may include a blade that cuts through the cap in response to movement of the actuating element from a retracted position to an advanced position. In some embodiments, the support feature may include one or more tabs extending over the recess and configured to rotate or bend in response to movement of the actuating element from a retracted position to an advanced position and contact with the actuating element.

[0019] In some embodiments, the propulsion element may include an arcuate channel. In some embodiments, the device may extend through the arcuate channel. In some embodiments, a first end of the device may be fixed. In some embodiments, in response to a first distance movement of the propulsion element, a second end of the device may be configured to advance distally a second distance. In some embodiments, the second distance may be at least twice the first distance. In some embodiments, the groove may be a first groove. In some embodiments, the inner surface of the housing may include a second groove between the proximal and distal ends of the housing and generally parallel to the first groove. In some embodiments, the device may extend through the second groove.

[0020] In some embodiments, a support feature may be disposed between a first groove and a second groove, and may restrict displacement of the device from the first groove and / or the second groove. In some embodiments, the support feature may be disposed within the first groove and / or the second groove. In some embodiments, the vascular access device may include another support feature disposed within the second groove. In some embodiments, the device may extend through the support feature and the other support feature.

[0021] In some embodiments, the support feature and / or the other support feature may include a spring. In some embodiments, the support feature and / or the other support feature may include an accordion-shaped portion, and the accordion-shaped portion may compress in the distal direction in response to movement of the propulsion element from a retracted position to an advanced position.

[0022] In some embodiments, the vascular access device may include a tube disposed within a recess. In some embodiments, an instrument may extend through the tube. In some embodiments, the tube may include a slit, and in response to movement of the advance element from a retracted position to an advanced position, the advance element may move distally through the slit. In some embodiments, the advance element may include an arcuate channel, and in response to movement of the advance element from a retracted position to an advanced position, the tube may slide into the arcuate portion.

[0023] It should be understood that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are illustrative and exemplary, 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, unless stated otherwise, embodiments may be combined, other embodiments may be utilized, and structures may be modified without departing from the scope of the various embodiments of the invention. Therefore, the following detailed description should not be construed as restrictive. Attached Figure Description

[0024] Example embodiments will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail using the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0025] Figure 1A This is a top perspective view of an exemplary vascular access device according to some embodiments;

[0026] Figure 1B yes Figure 1A A longitudinal sectional view of a vascular access device;

[0027] Figure 1C According to some embodiments Figure 1A Vascular access device along Figure 1A A sectional view of line 1C-1C;

[0028] Figure 1D According to some embodiments Figure 1C A magnified view of a portion;

[0029] Figure 1E According to some embodiments Figure 1A Vascular access device along Figure 1A A sectional view of line 1E-1E;

[0030] Figure 2AThis is a top perspective view of another exemplary vascular access device according to some embodiments;

[0031] Figure 2B According to some embodiments Figure 2A A longitudinal cross-sectional view of a vascular access device, showing an exemplary propulsion element in an exemplary retracted position;

[0032] Figure 3A According to some embodiments Figure 1A A longitudinal sectional view of the vascular access device shows the propulsion element and exemplary support features in the retracted position;

[0033] Figure 3B According to some embodiments Figure 1A A longitudinal sectional view of the vascular access device shows a support feature that is pushed by the propulsion element in response to the distal movement of the propulsion element toward an exemplary propulsion position;

[0034] Figure 3C According to some embodiments Figure 1A A longitudinal sectional view of the vascular access device, showing the propulsion element in the propulsion position;

[0035] Figure 3D According to some embodiments Figure 1A A longitudinal sectional view of the vascular access device shows the propulsion element retracting proximally from the propulsion position to the retracted position;

[0036] Figure 3E According to some embodiments Figure 1A A longitudinal sectional view of the vascular access device, showing the propulsion element returning to the retracted position;

[0037] Figure 4A According to some embodiments Figure 1A A longitudinal sectional view of the vascular access device, showing the propulsion element and an exemplary spring in the retracted position;

[0038] Figure 4B According to some embodiments Figure 1A A cross-sectional view of the vascular access device along line 1E-1E;

[0039] Figure 4C According to some embodiments Figure 1A A longitudinal sectional view of the vascular access device, showing the propulsion element and spring in the retracted position;

[0040] Figure 4D According to some embodiments Figure 1A A longitudinal sectional view of the vascular access device, showing the propulsion element and multiple springs in the retracted position;

[0041] Figure 4E According to some embodiments Figure 1A A longitudinal sectional view of a vascular access device, showing a spring within an exemplary groove;

[0042] Figure 4F This is a top perspective view of an exemplary catheter system according to some embodiments, showing another exemplary vascular access device including a spring;

[0043] Figure 5 According to some embodiments Figure 1A A longitudinal sectional view of a vascular access device, showing an exemplary accordion-shaped portion;

[0044] Figure 6A According to some embodiments Figure 1A A longitudinal sectional view of the vascular access device shows the propulsion element and an exemplary elastomeric disc in the retracted position;

[0045] Figure 6B This is an enlarged top perspective view of an example elastomeric disc according to some embodiments, showing an exemplary device extending through it;

[0046] Figure 6C According to some embodiments Figure 1A A longitudinal sectional view of the vascular access device, showing the propulsion element and elastomeric disc in the retracted position;

[0047] Figure 6D This is an enlarged top perspective view of an example of an elastomeric disc according to some embodiments, showing a device extending through it;

[0048] Figure 7 According to some embodiments Figure 1A A longitudinal sectional view of the vascular access device, showing the propulsion element and an exemplary telescopic member in the retracted position;

[0049] Figure 8 According to some embodiments Figure 1A A longitudinal sectional view of the vascular access device, showing the propulsion element and exemplary strip in the retracted position;

[0050] Figure 9A According to some embodiments Figure 1A Vascular access device along Figure 1A A cross-sectional view along line 1C-1C shows an exemplary cover;

[0051] Figure 9B According to some embodiments Figure 9A A magnified view of a portion;

[0052] Figure 9C According to some embodiments Figure 1A A longitudinal sectional view of the vascular access device, showing the cover;

[0053] Figure 9D According to some embodiments Figure 1A A longitudinal cross-sectional view of a vascular access device, showing an exemplary elongated cap;

[0054] Figure 9E According to some embodiments Figure 1A A cross-sectional view of the vascular access device along line 1C-1C shows an elongated cap;

[0055] Figure 10 According to some embodiments Figure 1A A longitudinal sectional view of the vascular access device, showing the propulsion element and exemplary tube in the retracted position;

[0056] Figure 11A According to some embodiments Figure 1A A cross-sectional view of the vascular access device along line 1C-1C shows an exemplary flap;

[0057] Figure 11B According to some embodiments Figure 1A A longitudinal sectional view of the vascular access device, showing the propulsion element and flap in the retracted position; and

[0058] Figure 12 According to some embodiments Figure 1A A longitudinal sectional view of the vascular access device, showing the propulsion element and tube in the retracted position. Detailed Implementation

[0059] Now for reference Figure 1A-1D In some embodiments, the vascular access device 10 may be configured as a catheter delivery device 12 through a catheter assembly. In some embodiments, the device 12 may be advanced through a catheter to push aside any occlusions (e.g., thrombi or fibrin sheaths at the distal end of the catheter, venous collapse, valves, etc.) to create an unobstructed pathway for fluid flow. In some embodiments, the device 12 may reduce or remove occlusions, thereby improving catheter patency for drug and fluid delivery and blood collection during catheter indwelling time.

[0060] In some embodiments, device 12 may include a guidewire, a probe, or a probe or guidewire having one or more sensors, or another suitable device. In some embodiments, the sensors may be used for patient or device monitoring and may include sensors that measure pressure, temperature, pH, blood chemistry, oxygen saturation, flow rate, or other physiological properties. In some embodiments, the catheter may include a peripheral intravenous catheter, a peripherally inserted central catheter, or a midline catheter. In some embodiments, the catheter through which device 12 may be delivered may have been previously inserted into the patient's vascular system and may remain in the vascular system as device 12 is advanced through the catheter.

[0061] In some embodiments, the device 12 may be housed within a housing 14 configured to protect the device 12 from damage and / or contamination from the surrounding external environment. In some embodiments, the housing 14 may be rigid or semi-rigid. In some embodiments, the housing 14 may be made of one or more of stainless steel, aluminum, polycarbonate, metal, ceramic, plastic, and other suitable materials. In some embodiments, the housing 14 may include a proximal end 16, a distal end 18, and a slot 20, which in some embodiments may extend parallel to the longitudinal axis of the housing 14.

[0062] In some embodiments, the vascular access device 10 may include a propulsion element 22 that may extend through the slot 20 and may be configured to move along the slot 20, for example... Figure 1A The movement is linear between the retracted and advanced positions shown. In some embodiments, a clinician may pinch or grasp the advancement element 22 to move it between the retracted and advanced positions.

[0063] In some embodiments, the distal end 18 of the housing 14 may include a connector 24, which in some embodiments may include opposing lever arms 26a, 26b. In some embodiments, the distal ends of the opposing lever arms 26a, 26b may be configured to move away from each other in response to pressure applied to the proximal ends of the opposing lever arms 26a, 26b. In some embodiments, in response to the removal of pressure applied to the proximal ends of the opposing lever arms 26a, 26b, the distal ends may move closer to each other and latch a portion of the catheter assembly, such as the proximal end of a needleless connector, another connector, or a catheter adapter. In some embodiments, the connector 24 may include a blunt cannula or a convex Luer element configured to be inserted into that portion of the catheter assembly.

[0064] In some embodiments, connector 24 may include any suitable connector. For example, connector 24 may include a threaded lug, a sliding lug, a threaded lug with a rotary lock, a threaded lug with a removable blunt insertion cannula snap-fit ​​connection, a sliding lug with a removable blunt insertion cannula snap-fit ​​connection, or another suitable connector. In some embodiments, connector 24 may include one or more connecting pockets, each connecting pocket configured to receive an extension tube. In some embodiments, connector 24 may be integrally formed as a single unit with the body of housing 14 including slot 20.

[0065] In some embodiments, the device 12 may include a first end 28 and a second end 30. In some embodiments, movement of the advance element 22 from a retracted position to an advance position may advance the second end 30 of the device 12 beyond the distal end 18 of the housing 14. In some embodiments, moving the advance element 22 to the advance position may introduce the device 12 into and / or through a catheter assembly. In some embodiments, in response to the introduction of the device 12 into and / or through a catheter assembly, the device 12 may enter the fluid passage of the catheter assembly and / or the patient's vascular system.

[0066] In some embodiments, catheters in catheter assemblies with long indwelling times within the vascular system may be prone to narrowing, collapse, kinking, blockage by debris (e.g., fibrin or platelet clots), and adhesion of the catheter tip to the vascular system. Therefore, blood draws using the catheter may be difficult. In some embodiments, the diameter of the device 12 may be smaller than that of the catheter in the catheter assembly to provide access to the patient's vascular system without any additional needle insertion. In some embodiments, the device 12 can be used to ensure unobstructed pathways for blood sampling. Therefore, in some embodiments, the vascular access device 10 can be used for needle-free blood collection and / or fluid infusion.

[0067] In some embodiments, the extension tube 32 may be coupled to the vascular access device 10, and the extension tube 32 may be used for blood collection and / or fluid infusion. In some embodiments, the extension tube 32 may extend from port 34 of the housing 14, and in some embodiments, a fluid seal 36 may be located within the housing 14, allowing the device 12 to advance and / or retract while maintaining a closed fluid path. In some embodiments, the device 12 may be configured to extend through the fluid seal 36. In some embodiments, the fluid seal 36 may be located proximal to the port 34 and distal to the advance element 22 in the advance position. In some embodiments, the fluid seal 36 may comprise silicone, rubber, elastomer, or other suitable material. In some embodiments, the fluid seal 36 may include orifices, slits, etc., to accommodate the device 12 passing through it.

[0068] In some embodiments, the proximal end of the extension tube 32 may be coupled to the blood collection device 38. For example, the proximal end of the extension tube 32 may be integrated with a connector 40, which may be coupled to the blood collection device 38. In some embodiments, a needleless connector may be disposed between the connector 40 and the blood collection device 38. In some embodiments, the connector 40 and / or port 34 may be coupled to an intravenous line or another fluid connection.

[0069] In some embodiments, the inner surface 42 of the housing 14 may include one or more grooves. For example, the inner surface 42 may include a first groove 44 and / or a second groove 46, which in some embodiments may be disposed between a proximal end 16 and a distal end 18 within the housing 14. In some embodiments, the instrument 12 may be disposed within the first groove 44 and / or the second groove 46. In some embodiments, the first groove 44 and / or the second groove 46 may include a support wall 48, another support wall 50 opposite to the support wall, and a bottom 52 extending between the support wall 48 and the other support wall 50. In some embodiments, the first groove 44 and / or the second groove 46 may be open relative to the bottom 52. In some embodiments, the first groove 44 and / or the second groove 46 may be linear and / or configured to guide the instrument 12 as it is advanced distally and / or retracted proximally.

[0070] In some embodiments, the propulsion element 22 may include an arcuate channel 54, which may be U-shaped. In some embodiments, the device 12 may extend and move through the arcuate channel 54. In some embodiments, a first end 28 of the device 12 may be fixed. In some embodiments, the first end 28 of the device may be fixed within the housing 14. In some embodiments, in response to the propulsion element 22 moving a first distance, a second end of the device 12 may be configured to advance a second distance distally. In some embodiments, the second distance may be twice the first distance. In some embodiments, the second distance may be greater than twice the first distance. In these and other embodiments, the device 12 may extend through multiple U-shapes or other arcuate shapes.

[0071] In some embodiments, because the first recess 44 and / or the second recess 46 are open relative to the bottom 52, the device 12 may tend to buckle in response to the distal advancement of the actuation element 22, for example as... Figure 1B As shown.

[0072] Now for reference Figure 2A-2BAccording to some embodiments, another vascular access device 60 is shown. In some embodiments, the vascular access device 60 may be similar to or identical to the vascular access device 10 in one or more features and / or operations. In some embodiments, the vascular access device 60 may advance and / or retract the device 12 in a generally linear manner, similar to the vascular access device 10. In some embodiments, a first end 28 may be coupled or secured to an advance element 22. In some embodiments, in response to a first distance movement of the advance element 22, a second end of the device 12 may be configured to advance distally a distance equal to the first distance. In these embodiments, the housing 14 may include a first recess 44 and may not include a second recess 46. In some embodiments, because the first recess 44 is open relative to the bottom 52, the device 12 may tend to buckle in response to the advance element 22 being advanced distally through the fluid seal 36.

[0073] It should be understood that in some embodiments, the support feature 62 in one or more of the figures in Figures 3-12 may be disposed within the vascular access device 60. For example, a spring 72 may cover and / or be disposed within the first recess 44 of the vascular access device 60. As another example, an accordion-shaped portion 84 may be disposed within the first recess 44. As yet another example, an elastomeric disc 86 may be disposed within the first recess 44. As yet another example, a first telescopic member 88a, a strip 90, a cap 92, or a tab 102 may cover the first recess 44. In some embodiments, a tube 98 may be disposed within the first recess 44.

[0074] Referring now to FIG3, in some embodiments, the support feature 62 may be configured to respond to the propulsion element 22 from, for example... Figure 3A The retraction position shown is, for example... Figure 3C The movement of the push-in position as shown indicates the movement to the distal side. In some embodiments, in response to the movement of the push-in element 22 from the retracted position to the push-in position, the push-in element 22 may contact the proximal end 66 of the support feature 62 and push the support feature 62 distally along the first groove 44, for example, as... Figure 3B As shown.

[0075] In some embodiments, the support feature 62 may include a slider configured to slide along the housing 14. In some embodiments, the support feature 62 may be held in place within the housing 14 by means of a friction fit, an interference fit, or a snap-fit ​​fit. In some embodiments, when the propulsion element 22 is in the retracted position, the support feature 62 may be located approximately in the middle of the housing or at the midpoint of the first recess 44 and / or the second recess 46; otherwise, the support feature may be located where buckling of the device 12 may tend to occur.

[0076] In some embodiments, arm 68 may extend from the proximal end 66 of support feature 62, and in some embodiments, arm 68 may extend through an opening in propulsion element 22. In some embodiments, in response to movement of propulsion element 22 from a retracted position to an advanced position, propulsion element 22 may slide distally along arm 68 until propulsion element 22 contacts the proximal end 66 of support feature 62.

[0077] In some embodiments, in response to movement of the propulsion element 22 from an advanced position to a retracted position, the propulsion element 22 may pull the arm 68 and the support feature 62 proximally. In some embodiments, the proximal end of the arm may include a hook 70. In some embodiments, in response to movement of the propulsion element 22 from an advanced position to a retracted position, the propulsion element 22 may engage the hook 70 and pull the arm 68 and the support feature 62 proximally. In some embodiments, the hook 70 may include a protrusion having an outer diameter greater than a portion of the inner diameter of the propulsion element 22, which allows the hook 70 to engage the propulsion element 22. In some embodiments, the hook 70 may include an "L" shape. In some embodiments, when the propulsion element 22 is in a retracted position that prevents movement of the support feature 62, the hook 70 may engage with the proximal end 16 of the housing 14. In some embodiments, the hook 70 may disengage from the proximal end 16 of the housing in response to distal movement of the support feature 62 by the distal push of the propulsion element 22.

[0078] In some embodiments, the arm 68 may be rigid, which facilitates movement of the propulsion element 22 along the arm 68. In some embodiments, the arm 68 may include a flexible tether, which may be made of rope, belt, strip, or other flexible material. In these embodiments, the support feature 62 may be held in place within the housing 14 by means of friction fit, interference fit, or snap fit, and may not include the hook 70.

[0079] In some embodiments, the support feature 62 may cover the first groove 44 and / or the second groove 46. In some embodiments, the support feature 62 may be disposed on the top of the first groove 44 and / or the second groove 46, for example as... Figures 3A-3E As shown. In these and other embodiments, the support feature 62 may be located on the support wall 48 and / or other support walls 50 (e.g., see reference). Figure 1D In some embodiments, the support feature 62 may extend into a first recess 44 and / or a second recess 46, which may serve as a guide for the support feature 62. In these and other embodiments, the support feature 62 may be similar to the one described above. Figures 6C-6D The elastomeric disk 86 is described, and may include one or more features of the elastomeric disk 86.

[0080] Now for reference Figures 4A-4BIn some embodiments, the support feature 62 may include a spring 72. In some embodiments, the spring 72 may be compressed in a distal direction in response to movement of the actuation element 22 from a retracted position to an advanced position. In some embodiments, the spring 72 may include a plurality of coils. In some embodiments, in response to movement of the actuation element 22 in the distal direction, the spring 72 may be configured to contact the device 12 to prevent the device 12 from buckling or disengaging from the first recess 44 and / or the second recess 46. In some embodiments, the spring 72 may be helical or circular. In some embodiments, the spring 72 may be elliptical, for example, as shown in the figure. Figure 4B As shown. In some embodiments, the spring 72 may include metal wire or other suitable material.

[0081] In some embodiments, the spring 72 may cover the first recess 44 and / or the second recess 46, which facilitates holding the instrument 12 within the first recess 44 and / or the second recess 46. In some embodiments, the spring 72 may be disposed on top of the first recess 44 and / or the second recess 46, for example as... Figures 4A-4B As shown. In these embodiments, the spring 72 may be located on or in contact with the support wall 48 and / or another support wall 50 of the first groove 44 (e.g., see reference). Figure 1D In some embodiments, when the propulsion element 22 is in the retracted position, the spring 72 may be located approximately in the middle of the housing 14 or at the midpoint of the first recess 44 and / or the second recess 46, or otherwise the spring may be located where buckling of the device 12 may tend to occur.

[0082] In some embodiments, the spring 72 may extend along the entire length of the first groove 44 and / or the second groove 46. In some embodiments, the spring 72 may not extend along the entire length of the first groove 44 and / or the second groove 46. In some embodiments, the proximal end of the spring 72 may be spaced apart from the actuating element 22. In some embodiments, the distal end of the spring 72 may be spaced apart from and / or proximal to the first end 28 of the device 12.

[0083] In some embodiments, the proximal end of the spring 72 may be coupled to the actuation element 22 and / or the distal end of the spring 72 may be coupled to the housing 14. Therefore, in some embodiments, one or more ends of the spring 72 may be fixed. Referring now to... Figure 4C In other embodiments, the spring 72 may be freestanding or not fixed within the housing 14. More specifically, in some embodiments, the proximal end of the spring 72 may not be connected to the actuation element 22, and the distal end of the spring 72 may not be connected to the housing 14.

[0084] like Figure 4CAs shown, in some embodiments, the spring 72 may extend into a first recess 44 and / or a second recess 46, which may serve as a guide for the spring 72. In some embodiments, the spring 72 is stiffer in the direction of instrument flexion than in the proximal-distal direction, which may facilitate compression of the spring 72 in the distal direction while supporting the instrument 12.

[0085] Now for reference Figure 4D In some embodiments, the vascular access device 10 may include a support feature 62 in a first recess 44 and / or another support feature 74 in a second recess 46. In some embodiments, the other support feature 74 may be similar to or identical to the support feature 62 in one or more features and / or operations.

[0086] In some embodiments, the support feature 62 may include a spring 72 and / or the other support feature 74 may include another spring 76. In some embodiments, the spring 72 and / or the other spring 76 may surround the device 12. In these and other embodiments, the spring 72 and / or the other spring 76 may be spaced apart from the device 12. In some embodiments, the spring 72 and the other spring 76 may compress in a distal direction in response to movement of the propulsion element 22 from a retracted position to an advanced position. Referring now to Figure 4E In some embodiments, the spring 72 may be disposed in the first groove 44, and the second groove 46 may not include the other spring 76.

[0087] Now for reference Figure 4F In some embodiments, the housing 14 may be folded distally to advance the device 12 distally. In some embodiments, the device 12 may be coupled to a portion of the housing 14, such as the proximal end 16. In some embodiments, in response to distal collapse of the housing 14, the spring 72 may be compressed, and the proximal end 16 of the housing 14 may be coupled to the connector 24. In some embodiments, the connector 24 may include a concave Luer element that receives a convex Luer element of the proximal end 16 of the housing 14 in response to distal collapse of the housing 14. In some embodiments, the device 12 may extend through the spring 72.

[0088] In some embodiments, connector 24 may be coupled to catheter assembly 78, which may include catheter adapter 80 and catheter 82 extending distally from catheter 82. In some embodiments, connector 24 may be coupled to catheter assembly 78 via one or more extension tubes and / or one or more other connectors. In some embodiments, blood collection device 38 may be coupled to the proximal end of device 12. In these and other embodiments, device 12 may include a tube through which blood can flow in response to insertion of catheter assembly 78 into a patient's vascular system.

[0089] Now for reference Figure 5 In some embodiments, the support feature 62 may include an accordion-shaped portion 84. In some embodiments, the accordion-shaped portion 84 may compress in a distal direction in response to movement of the actuating element 22 from a retracted position to an advanced position. In some embodiments, the instrument 12 may extend through the accordion-shaped portion 84, for example through an opening in the middle of the accordion-shaped portion 84. In some embodiments, the second groove 46 may be located within an accordion-shaped portion that includes a portion similar to or equivalent to the accordion-shaped portion 84.

[0090] Now for reference Figures 6A-6D In some embodiments, the support feature 62 may include one or more elastomeric discs 86 disposed within the first recess 44. For example, a first elastomeric disc 86a, a second elastomeric disc 86b, a third elastomeric disc 86c, and a fourth elastomeric disc 86d (collectively referred to as "elastomeric discs 86" in this disclosure) may be disposed within the first recess 44. In some embodiments, the vascular access device 10 may include between one and ten elastomeric discs 86 within the first recess 44. In some embodiments, the vascular access device 10 may include more than ten elastomeric discs 86 within the first recess 44.

[0091] In some embodiments, the elastomeric discs 86 may be spaced apart and / or uniformly spaced relative to each other. In some embodiments, in response to movement of the propulsion element 22 from a retracted position to an advanced position, each elastomeric disc 86 may slide distally within a first recess 44 and / or may contact each other to form a stack. In some embodiments, a second recess 46 may include one or more elastomeric discs that are similar to or identical to the elastomeric discs 86 in one or more features and / or operations.

[0092] like Figures 6C-6D As shown, in some embodiments, the elastomeric disc 86 may extend between the first recess 44 and the second recess 46. In some embodiments, each elastomeric disc 86 may be disposed within the first recess 44 and / or the second recess 46. In some embodiments, each elastomeric disc 86 may include a first slot and / or a second slot through which the instrument 12 extends. In some embodiments, the first slot may be disposed within the first recess 44 and / or the second slot may be disposed within the second recess 46.

[0093] Now for reference Figure 7The support feature 62 may include a first telescopic member 88a. In some embodiments, the vascular access device 10 may include a first telescopic member 88a covering a first groove 44 and / or a second telescopic member 88b covering a second groove 46. In some embodiments, in response to movement of the propulsion element 22 from a retracted position to an advanced position, the first telescopic member 88a and / or the second telescopic member 88b may collapse distally due to contact with the propulsion element 22. More specifically, in some embodiments, the first telescopic member 88a and / or the second telescopic member 88b may include two or more components. In some embodiments, the component closest to the proximal end of the components may include a sufficiently large inner diameter to receive one or more distal components configured to collapse into the component closest to the proximal end of the components.

[0094] In some embodiments, the first telescopic member 88a may extend along the entire length of the first groove 44, and / or the second telescopic member 88b may extend along the entire length of the second groove 46, which may reduce buckling of the device 12. In some embodiments, the proximal end of the first telescopic member 88a and / or the proximal end of the second telescopic member 88b may be coupled to the actuation element 22. In some embodiments, the distal end of the first telescopic member 88a and / or the distal end of the second telescopic member 88b may be coupled to the inner surface 42 of the housing 14 or configured to push against the housing 14.

[0095] In some embodiments, in response to movement of the propulsion element 22 from an advance position to a retracted position, the first telescopic member 88a and / or the second telescopic member 88b may expand proximally and / or may include a catch portion biasing them in the expanded position, for example... Figure 7 As shown in the figure. In some embodiments, the first telescopic member 88a and / or the second telescopic member 88b may be cylindrical, rectangular, or any other suitable shape. In some embodiments, the first telescopic member 88a may be disposed within the first groove 44 and / or the second telescopic member 88b may be disposed within the second groove 46. In these and other embodiments, the first telescopic member 88a and / or the second telescopic member 88b may be substantially flat.

[0096] Now for reference Figure 8 The support feature 62 may include a first strip 90a. In some embodiments, the vascular access device 10 may include a first strip 90a covering a first groove 44 and / or a second strip 90b covering a second groove 46. In some embodiments, the first strip 90a and / or the second strip 90b may be rolled up in response to movement of the push element 22 from a retracted position to an advanced position.

[0097] In some embodiments, the first strip 90a and / or the second strip 90b may each include a first end and a second end. In some embodiments, the first end may be coupled to the propulsion element 22, and the second end may be configured to coil or wind in response to movement of the propulsion element 22 from a retracted position to an advanced position. In some embodiments, the first end may include the proximal end of the first strip 90a and / or the second strip 90b, and the second end may include the distal end of the first strip 90a and / or the second strip 90b.

[0098] In these and other embodiments, the first end may be coupled or secured to the propulsion element 22, and / or the second end may be coupled or secured to the housing 14. In some embodiments, the first strip 90a and / or the second strip 90b may be configured to be rolled up relative to the housing 14 around a pin or securing element. In some embodiments, the rolled-up second end may be disposed within the propulsion element 22, and / or the first end may be coupled or secured to the housing 14. In some embodiments, the first strip 90a and / or the second strip 90b may be flat or curved in their width.

[0099] Now for reference Figures 9A-9B In some embodiments, the support feature 62 may include one or more covers 92 extending over the first recess 44 and / or the second recess 46. Figures 9A-9C A first cover 92a, a second cover 92b, and a third cover 92c (collectively referred to as “cover 92” in this disclosure) are shown according to some embodiments. In some embodiments, any number of covers 92 may extend over a first recess 44 and / or a second recess 46.

[0100] In some embodiments, a first side of a particular cover 92 and / or a second side of a particular cover 92 opposite to the first side may be coupled to the housing 14. In some embodiments, the cover 92 may each comprise a film or other suitable material. In some embodiments, the cover 92 may be opened or cut by the actuating element 22 in response to movement of the actuating element 22 from a retracted position to an advanced position. Figure 10 An example blade 99 is shown that can split or cut the propulsion element 22 of the cover 92. In some embodiments, the cover 92 may be made of a flexible material, but stiff enough to provide support to the device 12 to prevent buckling. In some embodiments, the flexible material may facilitate movement of the central portion of the cover 92 or the unfolding of the cover 92.

[0101] Now for reference Figures 9D-9EIn some embodiments, the vascular access device 10 may include only one of the caps 92 on the first recess 44 and / or only one of the caps 92 on the second recess 46. For example, cap 92a may extend along most or the entire length of the first recess 44 and / or cap 92b may extend along most or the entire length of the second recess 46.

[0102] Now for reference Figure 10 and 12 In some embodiments, the tube 98 may be disposed within the first recess 44. In some embodiments, a similar tube may be disposed within the second recess 96. In some embodiments, for example, Figure 10 As shown, the device 12 can extend through the tube 98. In some embodiments, the tube 98 may include a slit 100, and in response to movement of the actuating element 22 from a retracted position to an advanced position, the actuating element 22 can move distally through the slit 100. In some embodiments, the cover 92 of FIG9 may each include a slit similar to the slit 100. For example, as Figure 10 As shown, in some embodiments, the propulsion element 22 may include an arcuate channel 54, and in response to movement of the propulsion element 22 from a retracted position to a propulsion position, the tube 98 may slide into the arcuate channel 54.

[0103] In some embodiments, the tube 98 may be made of a flexible material, but rigid enough to provide support to the device 12 to prevent buckling. In some embodiments, the flexible material may facilitate movement of the central portion of the tube 98 or extension of the tube 98 to allow the propulsion element 22 to enter or pass through.

[0104] Now for reference Figure 11A-11B In some embodiments, the support feature 62 may include one or more tabs 102 extending over the first groove 44 and / or the second groove 46.

[0105] In some embodiments, tabs 102 may be configured to rotate and / or bend in a distal direction in response to movement of the propulsion element 22 from a retracted position to an advanced position and contact with the propulsion element 22. In some embodiments, each tab 102 may rotate or pivot about a pin that engages each tab 102 to the housing 14. In some embodiments, tabs 102 may be made of a flexible material to facilitate bending in a distal direction and passage of the propulsion element 22. In some embodiments, tabs 102 may not move or bend in a direction of bending of the device 12 in response to passage of the propulsion element 22, thus supporting the device 12.

[0106] All examples and conditional language described herein are for educational purposes, to help the reader understand the invention and the concepts contributed by the inventors to advance the art, and should be construed as not being limited to such specifically described examples and conditions. Although embodiments of the invention have been described in detail, it should be understood that various changes, substitutions, and modifications can be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A vascular access device, characterized in that, The vascular access device includes: A housing, the housing including a proximal end, a distal end and a slot, wherein the inner surface of the housing includes a groove disposed within the housing and located between the proximal end and the distal end of the housing; A propulsion element that extends through the slot and is configured to move linearly along the slot between a retracted position and an advanced position; An instrument disposed within the recess, the instrument comprising a first end and a second end, wherein, in response to movement of the actuating element from the retracted position to the advanced position, the second end of the instrument is advanced beyond the distal end of the housing; and A support feature is disposed on top of or within the groove and configured to move distally in response to movement of the propulsion element from the retracted position to the propelled position, wherein the support feature restricts displacement of the instrument from the groove, and wherein the support feature is located distally to the propulsion element such that no portion of the propulsion element extends distally beyond the support feature.

2. The vascular access device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The groove is linear.

3. The vascular access device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The support feature is disposed on the top of the groove, wherein, in response to the movement of the propulsion element from the retracted position to the propelled position, the propulsion element contacts the proximal end of the support feature and pushes the support feature distally along the groove.

4. The vascular access device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The vascular access device further includes an arm extending from the proximal end of the support feature, wherein the arm extends through the propulsion element, wherein in response to movement of the propulsion element from the retracted position to the propelled position, the propulsion element slides distally along the arm until the propulsion element contacts the proximal end of the support feature.

5. The vascular access device according to claim 4, characterized in that, In response to the movement of the propulsion element from the propulsion position to the retracted position, the propulsion element pulls the arm and the support feature proximally.

6. The vascular access device according to claim 5, characterized in that, The proximal end of the arm includes a hook, wherein, in response to movement of the propulsion element from the propulsion position to the retracted position, the propulsion element grasps the hook and pulls the arm and the support feature proximally.

7. The vascular access device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The support feature includes a spring, wherein the spring is compressed in a distal direction in response to movement of the propulsion element from the retracted position to the propulsion position.

8. The vascular access device according to claim 7, characterized in that, The spring is disposed within the groove, and the instrument extends through the spring, or the spring is disposed on top of the groove.

9. The vascular access device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The propulsion element includes an arcuate channel through which the instrument extends, wherein a first end of the instrument is fixed, and wherein, in response to a first distance movement of the propulsion element, a second end of the instrument is configured to propel distally a second distance, wherein the second distance is at least twice the first distance, wherein the groove is a first groove, and wherein the inner surface of the housing includes a second groove between the proximal end and the distal end of the housing and substantially parallel to the first groove, wherein the instrument extends through the second groove.

10. The vascular access device according to claim 9, characterized in that, The support feature is disposed between the first groove and the second groove, and restricts the movement of the instrument from the second groove.

11. The vascular access device according to claim 9, characterized in that, The support feature is disposed in the first groove, and the vascular access device further includes another support feature disposed in the second groove, wherein the instrument extends through the support feature and the other support feature.

12. The vascular access device according to claim 11, characterized in that, The supporting feature and the other supporting feature each include a spring.

13. The vascular access device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The support feature includes an accordion-shaped portion, wherein the accordion-shaped portion is compressed in the distal direction in response to the movement of the propulsion element from the retracted position to the propulsion position.

14. The vascular access device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The support feature includes a plurality of elastomeric discs disposed within the groove, wherein, in response to the movement of the propulsion element from the retracted position to the propulsion position, each of the plurality of elastomeric discs slides distally within the groove.

15. The vascular access device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The supporting feature includes a telescopic component.

16. The vascular access device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The support feature includes a strip, wherein the strip has a first end and a second end, wherein the first end of the strip is coupled to the propulsion element, and the second end of the strip is configured to roll up in response to movement of the propulsion element from the retracted position to the propulsion position.

17. The vascular access device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The support feature includes a cover extending above the groove, wherein a first side of the cover or a second side of the cover opposite to the first side of the cover is coupled to the housing.

18. The vascular access device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The support feature includes a cover extending above the groove, wherein a first side of the cover and a second side of the cover opposite to the first side are coupled to the housing, wherein the cover includes a slit along the middle of the cover, or the propulsion element includes a blade that cuts through the cover in response to movement of the propulsion element from the retracted position to the propelled position.

19. The vascular access device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The support feature includes a plurality of tabs that extend over the groove and are configured to rotate or bend in response to movement of the propulsion element from the retracted position to the propelled position and to contact by the propulsion element.

20. A vascular access device, characterized in that, The vascular access device includes: A housing, the housing including a proximal end, a distal end and a slot, wherein the inner surface of the housing includes a groove disposed within the housing and located between the proximal end and the distal end of the housing; A propulsion element that extends through the slot and is configured to move linearly along the slot between a retracted position and an advanced position; An instrument disposed within the recess, the instrument comprising a first end and a second end, wherein, in response to movement of the actuating element from the retracted position to the advanced position, the second end of the instrument is advanced beyond the distal end of the housing; and A tube disposed within the groove, wherein the instrument extends through the tube, and wherein the tube is made of a flexible material, but rigid enough to provide support for the instrument to prevent buckling, the flexible material facilitating movement of the central portion of the tube or extension of the tube to allow the propulsion element to enter or pass through, and wherein: The tube includes a slit, and in response to movement of the propulsion element from the retracted position to the propelled position, the propulsion element moves distally through the slit; or The propulsion element includes an arcuate channel, and in response to movement of the propulsion element from the retracted position to the propulsion position, the tube slides proximally into the arcuate channel.

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