Intravenous catheter system

Abstract

This invention provides a venous catheter system, comprising: a venous catheter for insertion into a vein; a first signal line inserted into the venous catheter, the first signal line including a first metal wire and a first insulating layer, the first end of the first metal wire protruding from the first insulating layer to form a transmitting end; a signal generator connected to the second end of the first metal wire, the signal generator being capable of emitting microwave signals; a signal receiving garment for patient wear; multiple signal receivers spaced apart on the signal receiving garment; and an industrial control computer connected to all the signal receivers, capable of locating the transmitting position of the transmitting end based on the signal receiver that first receives a microwave signal of a predetermined intensity, and capable of determining whether the tip of the venous catheter is within a predetermined path based on the transmitting position. The venous catheter system of this invention enables process detection of the tip of the venous catheter.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of venous catheters, and particularly to a venous catheter system. Background Technology

[0002] Peripherally inserted central venous catheter (PICC) is a procedure in which a catheter is inserted into a central vein through a peripheral vein. It is widely used in long-term infusion, chemotherapy, and nutritional support treatments. The tip of the venous catheter needs to be placed in a predetermined position near the heart.

[0003] Currently, cardiovascular monitors are used to detect whether the tip of the venous catheter has reached the intended position. However, these monitors can only determine the result (whether the intended position has been reached) based on the electrocardiogram waveform, and cannot detect the process. During the insertion process, if the venous catheter deviates from the current vein and enters another vein, it will prevent the venous catheter from reaching the intended position. Repeated insertions not only waste too much time but also increase the patient's pain. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In view of the above-mentioned problems in the prior art, the purpose of the present invention is to provide a venous catheter system that can detect the path of the venous catheter during its journey and help medical staff to detect path deviations of the venous catheter in a timely manner and make corresponding adjustments.

[0005] To address the above problems, the present invention provides a venous catheter system, the venous catheter system comprising:

[0006] A venous catheter, the venous catheter being inserted into a venous vessel;

[0007] A first signal line is inserted into the venous catheter. The first signal line includes a first metal wire and a first insulating layer that wraps the first metal wire. A first end of the first metal wire protrudes from the first insulating layer to form a transmitting end.

[0008] A signal generator is connected to the second end of the first metal wire, and the signal generator is able to emit microwave signals that can penetrate the human body in the vein through the transmitting end;

[0009] A signal receiving garment, which is worn by a patient, and the material of the signal receiving garment is an insulating material;

[0010] Multiple signal receivers are spaced apart on the signal receiving garment. The positions of the signal receivers correspond to distribution points in a predetermined path, which corresponds to the path of the venous catheter as it travels through a predetermined vein and gradually approaches the heart.

[0011] An industrial control computer is connected to all the signal receivers and is able to locate the transmission position of the transmitter based on the signal receiver that first receives the microwave signal of a predetermined strength. The industrial control computer is also able to determine whether the tip of the venous catheter is on a predetermined path based on the transmission position.

[0012] Furthermore, the industrial control computer also acquires the patient's CT images, determines the predetermined vein based on the CT images, calculates the predetermined path of the venous catheter, and sets the distribution points.

[0013] Furthermore, the first insulating layer is a signal isolation layer.

[0014] Furthermore, the microwave signal is a pulsed microwave signal.

[0015] Furthermore, the venous catheter system also includes:

[0016] The second signal line is inserted into the venous catheter and includes a second metal wire and a second insulating layer that wraps around the second metal wire.

[0017] A pressure sensor is connected to the first end of the second metal wire. The pressure sensor is capable of detecting the blood pressure in the vein. The pressure sensor is disposed at the top of the venous catheter.

[0018] A signal converter, connected to the second end of the second metal wire, receives the analog signal of blood pressure detected by the pressure sensor and converts the analog signal of blood pressure into a digital signal of blood pressure.

[0019] The industrial control computer is also connected to the signal converter, and the industrial control computer can determine whether the position of the tip of the venous catheter is on the predetermined path based on the blood pressure and the transmission position.

[0020] Furthermore, the industrial control computer determines whether the tip of the venous catheter is gradually approaching the heart based on the gradual decrease in blood pressure.

[0021] Furthermore, the venous catheter system also includes:

[0022] A third signal line is inserted into the venous catheter. The third signal line includes a third metal wire and a third insulating layer that wraps the third metal wire. The first end of the third metal wire protrudes from the third insulating layer to form a receiving end.

[0023] A cardiovascular-specific monitor, wherein the second end of the third metal wire is connected to the cardiovascular-specific monitor and is capable of outputting electrocardiogram waveforms;

[0024] The industrial control computer is also connected to the cardiovascular monitor. The industrial control computer can determine whether the tip of the venous catheter is on a predetermined path based on blood pressure, the transmission position, and the electrocardiogram waveform.

[0025] Furthermore, the industrial control computer determines that the position of the tip of the venous catheter has reached the end of the predetermined path based on the fact that the similarity between the electrocardiogram waveform and the predetermined waveform is greater than a predetermined threshold.

[0026] Furthermore, the transmitter, the pressure sensor, and the receiver are spaced apart.

[0027] Furthermore, the venous catheter system also includes:

[0028] A support frame is disposed inside the venous catheter and located at the top of the venous catheter. The support frame has three through holes for respectively accommodating the transmitter, the pressure sensor, and the receiver.

[0029] Due to the above technical solution, the present invention has the following beneficial effects:

[0030] According to the intravenous catheter system of the present invention, a signal generator is provided at the tip of the intravenous catheter. The signal generator generates microwave signals and transmits them to the transmitting end of a first signal line. The microwave signals from the transmitting end can pass through the human body. The patient wears a signal receiving garment, which is provided with multiple spaced-apart signal receivers. The signal receivers are correspondingly positioned at distribution points along a predetermined path, i.e., at each point the intravenous catheter will pass through. During the movement of the intravenous catheter, the transmitting end moves accordingly and emits microwave signals. When the transmitting end is near a signal receiver, that signal receiver can acquire a microwave signal of a predetermined intensity first. The industrial control computer can determine that the transmitting end's position is around the signal receiver, i.e., determine whether the tip of the intravenous catheter is on the predetermined path. Thus, path detection of the intravenous catheter's movement can be achieved, and medical personnel can promptly detect deviations in the intravenous catheter's path and make corresponding adjustments. When a deviation in the tip of the intravenous catheter is detected, the intravenous catheter can be withdrawn to the position of the signal receiver corresponding to the previous distribution point, without needing to completely withdraw the intravenous catheter and repeat the insertion process. Attached Figure Description

[0031] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the present invention, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments or prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are merely some embodiments of the present invention, and those skilled in the art can obtain other drawings based on these drawings without any creative effort.

[0032] Figure 1This is a schematic diagram of a venous catheter system according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0033] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of an electrocardiogram waveform according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0034] Figure 3 This is a partial structural diagram of a venous catheter system according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0035] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 Another structural view of a portion of the venous catheter system in the embodiment.

[0036] Figure label:

[0037] 11. Transmitter; 12. First signal line; 121. First metal wire; 122. First insulating layer; 13. Signal generator; 14. Signal receiver; 15. Adapter; 21. Pressure sensor; 22. Second signal line; 221. Second metal wire; 222. Second insulating layer; 23. Signal converter; 31. Receiver; 32. Third signal line; 321. Third metal wire; 322. Third insulating layer; 33. Cardiovascular monitor; 40. Intravenous catheter; 51. Frame; 52. Stop post; 53. Center plate; 60. Industrial computer. Detailed Implementation

[0038] To enable those skilled in the art to better understand the present invention, the technical solutions of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings of the embodiments. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0039] It should be noted that the terms "first," "second," etc., in the specification, claims, and accompanying drawings of this invention are used to distinguish similar objects and are not necessarily used to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that such data can be interchanged where appropriate so that the embodiments of the invention described herein can be implemented in orders other than those illustrated or described herein. Furthermore, the terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion.

[0040] The following describes the venous catheter system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] like Figures 1 to 4As shown, the intravenous catheter system of this embodiment includes an intravenous catheter 40, a first signal line 12, a signal generator 13, a signal receiving garment, multiple signal receivers 14, and an industrial control computer 60.

[0042] First, let's explain the venous catheter 40. The venous catheter 40 is used to insert into a venous vessel.

[0043] Among them, the intravenous catheter 40 is a known technique and will not be described in detail here.

[0044] Next, the first signal line 12 and the signal generator 13 will be described. The first signal line 12 is inserted into the venous catheter 40. The first signal line 12 includes a first metal wire 121 and a first insulating layer 122 covering the first metal wire 121. The first end of the first metal wire 121 protrudes from the first insulating layer 122 to form a transmitting end 11. The signal generator 13 is connected to the second end of the first metal wire 121. The signal generator 13 can emit microwave signals that can penetrate the human body within the vein through the transmitting end 11.

[0045] like Figure 1 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, a transmitter 11 is provided at the top of the venous catheter 40. The signal generator 13 generates a microwave signal and transmits it to the transmitter 11 of the first signal line 12. The microwave signal emitted by the transmitter 11 can pass through the human body.

[0046] Next, the signal receiving garment and multiple signal receivers 14 will be described. The signal receiving garment is worn by the patient and is made of insulating material. Multiple signal receivers 14 are spaced apart on the signal receiving garment, and the positions of the signal receivers 14 correspond to distribution points in a predetermined path, which corresponds to the path of the intravenous catheter 40 traveling gradually towards the heart within a predetermined vein. The signal receiving garment can be made of insulating material such as cloth or plastic.

[0047] The patient dons a signal receiving garment, which is equipped with multiple spaced-apart signal receivers 14. These receivers 14 are positioned at points along a predetermined path, corresponding to the points along which the intravenous catheter 40 will pass. Compared to a signal receiving plate, the signal receiving garment allows for patient movement during insertion without affecting the positioning of the intravenous catheter 40.

[0048] like Figure 1 As shown, the signal receiver 14 can be connected to the adapter 15, and then connected to the industrial control computer 60 through the adapter 15, or it can be directly connected to the industrial control computer 60.

[0049] Finally, let's describe the industrial control computer 60. The industrial control computer 60 connects to all the signal receivers 14 and can locate the transmission position of the transmitter 11 based on the signal receiver 14 that first receives the microwave signal of a predetermined strength. The industrial control computer 60 can also determine whether the tip of the venous catheter 40 is on the predetermined path based on the transmission position.

[0050] During the movement of the venous catheter 40, the position of the transmitting end 11 moves accordingly and emits microwave signals. When the transmitting end 11 is close to a signal receiver 14, the signal receiver 14 can first obtain the microwave signal of a predetermined intensity (i.e., the intensity of the microwave signal received at a predetermined distance from the nearby signal receiver). The industrial control computer 60 can determine that the transmitting position of the transmitting end 11 is located around the signal receiver 14, that is, determine whether the position of the tip of the venous catheter 40 is on the predetermined path.

[0051] Therefore, the path detection of the intravenous catheter 40 during its movement can be achieved, and medical staff can promptly detect path deviations of the intravenous catheter 40 and make corresponding adjustments. When it is found that the position of the tip of the intravenous catheter 40 is deviated, the intravenous catheter 40 can be withdrawn to the position of the signal receiver 14 corresponding to the previous distribution point, without having to withdraw the entire intravenous catheter 40 and repeat the insertion process.

[0052] In the above-described intravenous catheter system, a signal generator 13 is installed at the tip of the intravenous catheter 40. The signal generator 13 generates microwave signals and transmits them to the transmitting end 11 of the first signal line 12. The microwave signals from the transmitting end 11 can pass through the human body. The patient wears a signal receiving garment, which is equipped with multiple spaced-apart signal receivers 14. The signal receivers 14 are correspondingly positioned at distribution points along a predetermined path, i.e., at each point that the intravenous catheter 40 will pass through. As the intravenous catheter 40 moves, the transmitting end 11 moves accordingly and emits microwave signals. When the transmitting end 11 is close to a signal receiver 14, that signal receiver 14 can acquire a microwave signal of a predetermined intensity first. The industrial control computer 60 can determine that the emitting position of the transmitting end 11 is located around the signal receiver 14, i.e., determine whether the tip of the intravenous catheter 40 is on the predetermined path. Thus, the path detection of the intravenous catheter 40 during its movement can be achieved, and it can help medical personnel to promptly detect path deviations of the intravenous catheter 40 and make corresponding adjustments in a timely manner. If the tip of the venous catheter 40 is found to be out of position, the venous catheter 40 can be withdrawn to the position of the signal receiver 14 corresponding to the previous distribution point. It is not necessary to withdraw the venous catheter 40 completely and repeat the insertion process.

[0053] In some embodiments of the present invention, the industrial control computer 60 also acquires the patient's CT images, determines the predetermined vein based on the CT images, calculates the predetermined path of the venous catheter 40, and sets the distribution points.

[0054] The patient undergoes a supine CT scan to obtain CT images. The CT images can be used to identify the vein to be inserted, and the course of the vein corresponds to the predetermined path of the venous catheter 40. Distribution points are selected from these points to more accurately determine the placement location of the signal receiver 14.

[0055] Patients can wear signal receiving garments for CT scans, which makes it easy to mark the distribution points of veins on the garments in a timely manner. The garments can also be made into grid stripes for easy marking.

[0056] In some embodiments of the present invention, the first insulating layer 122 is a signal isolation layer.

[0057] The signal isolation layer can reduce interference with microwave signals and concentrate the microwave signals for transmission at the transmitter 11.

[0058] In some embodiments of the present invention, the microwave signal is a pulsed microwave signal.

[0059] Compared to continuous microwave signals, pulsed microwave signals have better anti-interference capabilities and higher positioning accuracy.

[0060] In some embodiments of the present invention, the venous catheter system further includes a second signal line 22, a pressure sensor 21, and a signal converter 23. The second signal line 22 extends into the venous catheter 40 and includes a second metal wire 221 and a second insulating layer 222 encasing the second metal wire 221. The pressure sensor 21 is connected to the first end of the second metal wire 221 and is capable of detecting blood pressure within the vein. The pressure sensor 21 is disposed at the tip of the venous catheter 40. The signal converter 23 is connected to the second end of the second metal wire 221 to receive the blood pressure from the analog signal detected by the pressure sensor 21 and convert the analog blood pressure signal into a digital blood pressure signal. An industrial control computer 60 is also connected to the signal converter 23 and can determine whether the tip of the venous catheter 40 is on a predetermined path based on the blood pressure and the transmission position.

[0061] In veins, the closer to the heart, the lower the blood pressure. The blood pressure detected by pressure sensor 21 can be used to analyze whether pressure sensor 21 is getting closer and closer to the heart.

[0062] like Figure 3 and Figure 4As shown, pressure sensor 21 is disposed at the tip of venous catheter 40. Pressure sensor 21 detects the blood pressure as an analog signal of the blood in the vein. Signal converter 23 receives and processes the analog blood pressure signal through second metal wire 221, converting it into a digital blood pressure signal. The pressure sensor 21 and signal converter 23 are known technologies and will not be described further here.

[0063] The industrial control computer 60 uses two dimensions—blood pressure and emission position—to determine whether the tip of the vas deferens is traveling on a predetermined path, improving the accuracy of the determination and facilitating timely adjustments.

[0064] Furthermore, the industrial control computer 60 determines whether the tip of the venous catheter 40 is gradually approaching the heart based on the gradual decrease in blood pressure.

[0065] Specifically, between two adjacent signal receivers 14, the position of the tip of the venous catheter 40 is determined based on blood pressure to ensure it is on a predetermined path. If a gradual decrease in blood pressure is detected, it is determined that the tip of the venous catheter 40 is traveling along a predetermined path that is gradually approaching the heart. Otherwise, it is determined that the position of the tip of the venous catheter 40 is incorrect and needs to be adjusted promptly.

[0066] In some embodiments of the present invention, the intravenous catheter system further includes a third signal line 32 and a cardiovascular monitor 33. The third signal line 32 is inserted into the intravenous catheter 40 and includes a third metal wire 321 and a third insulating layer 322 encasing the third metal wire 321. The first end of the third metal wire 321 protrudes from the third insulating layer 322 to form a receiving end 31. The cardiovascular monitor 33 is connected to the second end of the third metal wire 321 and is capable of outputting an electrocardiogram (ECG) waveform. An industrial control computer 60 is also connected to the cardiovascular monitor 33. The industrial control computer 60 can determine whether the tip of the intravenous catheter 40 is on a predetermined path based on blood pressure, transmission position, and ECG waveform. The cardiovascular monitor 33 is known technology and will not be described in detail here.

[0067] like Figure 1 and Figure 3 As shown, the sensing end is located at the top of the venous catheter 40 and is connected to the cardiovascular monitor 33 via the third signal line 32. The cardiovascular monitor 33 outputs an electrocardiogram (ECG) waveform, and the ECG waveform can be used to determine whether the sensing end has reached the predetermined position.

[0068] The industrial control computer 60 comprehensively determines whether the tip of the venous catheter 40 is on the predetermined path based on three dimensions: blood pressure, emission position, and electrocardiogram waveform, resulting in higher accuracy.

[0069] Furthermore, the industrial control computer 60 determines that the tip of the venous catheter 40 has reached the end of the predetermined path based on the similarity between the electrocardiogram waveform and the predetermined waveform being greater than a predetermined threshold. The predetermined waveform is the characteristic electrocardiogram waveform output when the tip of the venous catheter 40 reaches the predetermined position.

[0070] like Figure 2 As shown, the image is an ECG waveform that has a similarity to a predetermined waveform greater than a predetermined threshold. Machine judgment via industrial control computer 60 is more accurate than typical manual judgment. Based on the ECG waveform, it can more accurately determine that the tip of the venous catheter 40 has reached the end of the predetermined path, i.e., reached the predetermined position.

[0071] In some embodiments of the present invention, the transmitter 11, the pressure sensor 21, and the receiver 31 are arranged at intervals.

[0072] like Figure 3 As shown, the transmitter 11, pressure sensor 21, and receiver 31 are spaced apart. This avoids signal interference.

[0073] Furthermore, the intravenous catheter system also includes a support frame, which is disposed inside the intravenous catheter 40 and located at the top of the intravenous catheter 40. The support frame has three through holes for respectively accommodating the transmitter 11, the pressure sensor 21, and the receiver 31.

[0074] The support frame provides stable support for the transmitter 11, pressure sensor 21 and receiver 31.

[0075] Furthermore, the support frame includes a frame 51, a plurality of retaining posts 52, and a center plate 53. The frame 51 is disposed along the edge of the intravenous catheter 40. The first end of the plurality of retaining posts 52 is connected to the inner wall of the frame 51, and the second end of the retaining posts 52 faces the center of the frame 51. The center plate 53 is located at the center of the frame 51 and is connected to the second ends of the plurality of retaining posts 52. The center plate 53 has three spaced-apart through holes for the first signal line 12, the second signal line 22, and the third signal line 32 to pass through respectively.

[0076] like Figure 3 As shown, the annular frame 51 supports the top of the intravenous catheter 40, and the central plate 53 is located at the center of the frame 51. The two ends of the six stops 52 are connected to the frame 51 and the central plate 53 respectively. The first signal line 12, the second signal line 22 and the third signal line 32 pass through the central plate 53 to form three through holes to avoid mutual interference.

[0077] It should be noted that the above are only optional examples. The distribution points can also be determined based on the direction of veins in most human bodies. All of these should be understood within the scope of this invention.

[0078] The above are merely preferred embodiments of the present invention and are not intended to limit the present invention. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. An intravenous catheter system, comprising: The intravenous catheter system comprises: an intravenous catheter for penetrating into a vein; a first signal line penetrating into the intravenous catheter, the first signal line comprising a first metal wire and a first insulating layer wrapping the first metal wire, a first end of the first metal wire protruding from the first insulating layer to form a transmitting end; a signal generator connected to a second end of the first metal wire, the signal generator being capable of emitting a microwave signal capable of penetrating into a human body through the transmitting end; a signal receiving garment for a patient to wear, the signal receiving garment being made of an insulating material; a plurality of signal receivers arranged on the signal receiving garment at intervals, positions of the signal receivers corresponding to distributed points in a predetermined path, the predetermined path corresponding to a path of the intravenous catheter gradually approaching a heart in a predetermined vein; an industrial computer connected to all the signal receivers, the industrial computer being capable of locating a transmitting position of the transmitting end based on a signal receiver that first receives the microwave signal of a predetermined intensity, and determining whether a top end of the intravenous catheter is on the predetermined path based on the transmitting position.

2. The intravenous catheter system of claim 1, wherein, The industrial computer further acquires a CT picture of the patient, determines the predetermined vein based on the CT picture, calculates the predetermined path of the intravenous catheter, and sets the distributed points.

3. The intravenous catheter system of claim 1, wherein, The first insulating layer is a signal isolation layer.

4. The intravenous catheter system of claim 1, wherein, The microwave signal is a pulsed microwave signal.

5. The intravenous catheter system of claim 1, wherein, The intravenous catheter system further comprises: a second signal line penetrating into the intravenous catheter, the second signal line comprising a second metal wire and a second insulating layer wrapping the second metal wire; a pressure sensor connected to a first end of the second metal wire, the pressure sensor being capable of detecting a blood pressure in the vein, the pressure sensor being arranged at the top end of the intravenous catheter; a signal converter connected to a second end of the second metal wire to receive an analog signal of the blood pressure detected by the pressure sensor and convert the analog signal of the blood pressure into a digital signal of the blood pressure, the industrial computer further being connected to the signal converter, the industrial computer being capable of determining whether the top end of the intravenous catheter is on the predetermined path based on the blood pressure and the transmitting position.

6. The intravenous catheter system of claim 5, wherein, The industrial computer determines whether the top end of the intravenous catheter gradually approaches the heart based on the blood pressure gradually decreasing.

7. The intravenous catheter system of claim 5, wherein, The intravenous catheter system further comprises: a third signal line penetrating into the intravenous catheter, the third signal line comprising a third metal wire and a third insulating layer wrapping the third metal wire, a first end of the third metal wire protruding from the third insulating layer to form a receiving end; a cardiovascular dedicated monitor connected to a second end of the third metal wire, the cardiovascular dedicated monitor being capable of outputting an electrocardiogram waveform. The industrial computer is also connected to the cardiovascular dedicated monitor, and the industrial computer can determine whether the position of the tip of the venous catheter is on a predetermined path based on blood pressure, the emitting position, and the electrocardiogram waveform.

8. The intravenous catheter system of claim 7, wherein, The industrial computer determines that the position of the tip of the venous catheter reaches the end point of the predetermined path according to the similarity between the electrocardiogram waveform and a predetermined waveform being greater than a predetermined threshold.

9. The intravenous catheter system of claim 8, wherein, The emitting end, the pressure sensor, and the receiving end are arranged at intervals.

10. The intravenous catheter system of claim 9, wherein, The venous catheter system further comprises: A support frame is arranged inside the venous catheter and at the tip of the venous catheter, and the support frame has three through holes for arranging the emitting end, the pressure sensor, and the receiving end, respectively.

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