Catheter system

Abstract

A catheter system may include a catheter hub that may include a distal end, a proximal end, and a lumen extending through the distal end of the catheter hub and the proximal end of the catheter hub. The catheter system may include a catheter extending from a distal end of the catheter hub. The catheter system may include a needle hub and an introducer needle extending from the needle hub. The introducer needle may extend through the catheter when the introducer needle is in the advanced position. The catheter system may include a compressible element or another needle shield element configured to protect the introducer needle from distal movement beyond the compressible element or another needle shield element.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] In general, the present invention relates to the field of medical devices. In some embodiments, the present invention relates to a catheter assembly and a catheter system, in particular, a passive safety catheter assembly and a catheter system. Background Art

[0002] A common type of catheter assembly includes a peripheral intravenous catheter ("PIVC") that is sheathed on a needle. As the name implies, a PIVC sheathed on a needle can be mounted on an introducer needle having a sharp distal tip. The catheter assembly can include a catheter adapter, the PIVC extending distally from the catheter adapter, and the introducer needle extending through the PIVC. The PIVC and introducer needle can be assembled so that the distal tip of the introducer needle extends beyond the distal tip of the PIVC, wherein the bevel of the needle faces upward away from the patient's skin just before insertion into the skin. The PIVC and introducer needle are typically inserted through the skin into the patient's vasculature at a shallow angle.

[0003] To verify the correct placement of the introducer needle and / or PIVC in the blood vessel, the clinician can confirm that there is blood flashback in the flashback chamber of the catheter assembly or in the space between the introducer needle and the PIVC. After confirming the placement of the introducer needle, the clinician can remove the introducer needle, leaving the PIVC in place for future blood draws or infusions.

[0004] In some cases, a catheter assembly, such as the BD INSYTE(TM) AUTOGUARD(TM) shielded IV catheter available from Becton Dickinson, Inc. of Franklin Lakes, NJ, may include a button configured to retract an introducer needle after the PIVC is in place within the vein. A common problem with this type of retraction mechanism is blood splatter caused by rapid and / or non-linear retraction of the introducer needle after the button is depressed. Blood splatter may result in an increased incidence of exposure to blood-borne viruses. Silicone gel is often used as a dampener to delay the release time of a spring configured to retract the introducer needle, which can reduce blood splatter. However, silicone gel can be messy and / or difficult to apply.

[0005] The subject matter claimed herein is not limited to embodiments that solve any disadvantages or that operate only in environments such as described above. Rather, this background is provided merely to illustrate one illustrative technology area where some implementations described herein may be practiced. Utility Model Content

[0006] The present disclosure relates generally to vascular access devices, systems and methods. Specifically, the present disclosure relates to a catheter system having a compressible element or other needle shielding element configured to passively block or shield an introducer needle. Thus, the catheter system can automatically block or shield the introducer needle in response to retraction of the proximal end of the introducer needle. In some embodiments, in addition to shielding the introducer needle and providing safety from needle stick injuries, the catheter system can also be configured to reduce blood splatter due to a reduced velocity of the introducer needle during proximal retraction compared to, for example, the BD INSYTE (trademark) AUTOGUARD (trademark) shielded IV catheter available from Beckton Dickinson, Inc. of Franklin Lakes, New Jersey.

[0007] In a first aspect, the utility model provides a catheter system, the catheter system comprising: a catheter seat, the catheter seat comprising a distal end, a proximal end and a lumen extending through the distal end and the proximal end; a catheter, the catheter extending from the distal end of the catheter seat; a needle seat; an introducer needle extending distally from the needle seat, wherein when the introducer needle is in an advanced position, the introducer needle extends through the catheter, a compressible element, the compressible element comprising a first hole and a second hole, wherein when the introducer needle is in the advanced position, the introducer needle extends through the first hole and the second hole, wherein in response to the introducer needle moving proximally to a retracted position, the introducer needle is removed from the first hole and the second hole, and the compressible element expands, wherein in response to the expansion of the compressible element, the first hole and the second hole are misaligned, thereby shielding the introducer needle so that the introducer needle does not move distally beyond the compressible element.

[0008] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the catheter system further comprises a housing, wherein the housing comprises a recess and a slot, the slot being transverse to a longitudinal axis of the housing and providing access to the recess, wherein a distal end of the housing is coupled to a proximal end of the catheter hub, wherein the compressible element is disposed within the recess, wherein the compressible element is configured to be compressible so as to fit through the slot and into the recess.

[0009] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the catheter system further comprises a housing comprising an elongated slot aligned with a longitudinal axis of the housing, wherein a distal end of the housing is coupled to a proximal end of the catheter hub, wherein the needle hub extends through the elongated slot and is configured to move along the elongated slot to move the introducer needle from an advanced position to a retracted position.

[0010] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the elongated slot is a first elongated slot, wherein the shell includes a second elongated slot aligned with the longitudinal axis of the shell, wherein the needle seat extends through the first elongated slot and is configured to move along the first elongated slot and the second elongated slot to move the guide needle from an advanced position to a retracted position.

[0011] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the proximal end of the elongated slot comprises a retainer catch.

[0012] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the compressible element comprises a coil shape, wherein the first hole is disposed in a first end of the coil shape, and the second hole is disposed in a second end of the coil shape.

[0013] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the coil shape is flat and forms a loop, wherein the first end and the second end are located inward from the loop.

[0014] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the lumen of the catheter adapter comprises a blood control diaphragm, a diaphragm actuator, and a spring coupled to the diaphragm actuator, wherein the spring is configured to return the diaphragm actuator to an initial position proximal to the blood control diaphragm in response to removal of a medical device from a proximal end of the catheter adapter.

[0015] In a second aspect, the utility model provides a catheter system, the catheter system comprising: a catheter seat, the catheter seat comprising a distal end, a proximal end, and a lumen extending through the distal end and the proximal end; a catheter, the catheter extending from the distal end of the catheter seat; a needle seat; a guide needle extending distally from the needle seat, wherein when the guide needle is in an advanced position, the guide needle extends through the catheter; a compressible element, the compressible element comprising a first flange and a second flange, wherein when the guide needle is in the advanced position, the guide needle extends between the first flange and the second flange, wherein, in response to the guide needle moving proximally to a retracted position, the guide needle does not contact the first flange and the second flange, and the first flange overlaps with the second flange, thereby shielding the guide needle so that the guide needle cannot move distally beyond the compressible element.

[0016] In some embodiments of the second aspect, the catheter system further comprises a housing, wherein the housing comprises a recess and a slot, the slot being transverse to a longitudinal axis of the housing and providing access to the recess, wherein a distal end of the housing is coupled to a proximal end of the catheter hub, wherein the compressible element is disposed within the recess, wherein the compressible element is configured to be compressible so as to fit through the slot and into the recess.

[0017] In some embodiments of the second aspect, the catheter system further comprises a housing comprising an elongated slot aligned with a longitudinal axis of the housing, wherein a distal end of the housing is coupled to a proximal end of the catheter hub, wherein the needle hub extends through the elongated slot and is configured to move along the elongated slot to move the introducer needle from an advanced position to a retracted position.

[0018] In some embodiments of the second aspect, the elongated slot is a first elongated slot, wherein the shell includes a second elongated slot aligned with the longitudinal axis of the shell, wherein the needle seat extends through the first elongated slot and is configured to move along the first elongated slot and the second elongated slot to move the guide needle from an advanced position to a retracted position.

[0019] In some embodiments of the second aspect, the proximal end of the elongated slot comprises a retainer catch.

[0020] In some embodiments of the second aspect, the compressible element comprises a coil shape, wherein the first flange is disposed at a first end of the coil shape and the second flange is disposed at a second end of the coil shape.

[0021] In some embodiments of the second aspect, the lumen of the catheter adapter comprises a blood control diaphragm, a diaphragm actuator, and a spring coupled to the diaphragm actuator, wherein the spring is configured to return the diaphragm actuator to an initial position proximal to the blood control diaphragm in response to removal of a medical device from a proximal end of the catheter adapter.

[0022] In a third aspect, the utility model provides a catheter system, the catheter system comprising: a catheter seat, the catheter seat comprising a distal end, a proximal end and a lumen extending through the distal end and the proximal end; a catheter, the catheter extending from the distal end of the catheter seat; a needle seat; a guide needle extending distally from the needle seat, wherein when the guide needle is in an advanced position, the guide needle extends through the catheter; a needle shield element, the needle shield element comprising a movable center and a plurality of flexible arms extending outwardly from the movable center, wherein a hole is provided through the movable center, wherein when the guide needle is in the advanced position, the guide needle extends through the hole, biasing the movable center in a first position, wherein in response to the guide needle moving proximally to a retracted position, the guide needle moves out of the hole, and the movable center moves to a second position, in which the hole deviates from the longitudinal axis of the guide needle, thereby shielding the guide needle so that the guide needle cannot move distally beyond the needle shield element.

[0023] In some embodiments of the third aspect, the catheter system also includes a shell, the shell including an elongated slot aligned with the longitudinal axis of the shell, wherein the distal end of the shell is connected to the proximal end of the catheter seat, wherein the needle seat extends through the elongated slot and is configured to move along the elongated slot to move the introducer needle from an advanced position to a retracted position.

[0024] In some embodiments of the third aspect, the elongated slot is a first elongated slot, wherein the shell includes a second elongated slot aligned with the longitudinal axis of the shell, wherein the needle seat extends through the first elongated slot and is configured to move along the first elongated slot and the second elongated slot to move the guide needle from an advanced position to a retracted position.

[0025] In some embodiments of the third aspect, the proximal end of the elongated slot comprises a retainer catch.

[0026] In some embodiments of the third aspect, the needle shield element is disposed within the housing.

[0027] In some embodiments of the third aspect, the needle hub comprises a hub locking slot, wherein the proximal end of the housing comprises a rib configured to lock within the hub locking slot in response to movement of the introducer needle from an advanced position to a retracted position.

[0028] In some embodiments of the third aspect, the lumen of the catheter adapter includes a blood control diaphragm, a diaphragm actuator, and a spring coupled to the diaphragm actuator, wherein the spring is configured to return the diaphragm actuator to an initial position proximal to the blood control diaphragm in response to removal of a medical device from a proximal end of the catheter adapter.

[0029] In some embodiments, the catheter system may include a catheter adapter, which may include a distal end, a proximal end, and a lumen extending through the distal end and the proximal end. In some embodiments, the catheter system may include a catheter extending from the distal end of the catheter adapter. In some embodiments, the catheter system may include a needle hub and an introducer needle, which may extend distally from the needle hub. In some embodiments, the introducer needle may extend through the catheter when the introducer needle is in the advanced position.

[0030] In some embodiments, the catheter system may include a compressible element that may include a first hole and a second hole. In some embodiments, when the introducer needle is in the advanced position, the introducer needle may extend through the first hole and the second hole. In some embodiments, in response to the introducer needle moving proximally to the retracted position, the introducer needle may be removed from the first hole and the second hole, and the compressible element may expand. In some embodiments, in response to the expansion of the compressible element, the first hole and the second hole may become misaligned, thereby shielding the introducer needle.

[0031] In some embodiments, the catheter system may include a housing. In some embodiments, the housing may include a recess and a slot, which is transverse to the longitudinal axis of the housing and provides access to the recess. In some embodiments, the distal end of the housing may be coupled to the proximal end of the catheter adapter. In some embodiments, the compressible element may be disposed in the recess. In some embodiments, the compressible element may be configured to compress so as to fit through the slot and fit into the recess.

[0032] In some embodiments, the housing can include an elongated slot aligned with the longitudinal axis of the housing. In some embodiments, the distal end of the housing can be coupled to the proximal end of the catheter adapter. In some embodiments, the needle hub can extend through the elongated slot and can be configured to move along the elongated slot to move the introducer needle from the advanced position to the retracted position.

[0033] In some embodiments, the elongated slot may be a first elongated slot, and the housing may include a second elongated slot aligned with the longitudinal axis of the housing. In some embodiments, the needle hub may extend through the first elongated slot and may be configured to move along the first elongated slot and the second elongated slot to move the introducer needle from the advanced position to the retracted position. In some embodiments, the proximal end of the elongated slot may include a retainer buckle.

[0034] In some embodiments, the compressible element may include a coil shape. In some embodiments, the first hole may be arranged in the first end of the coil shape, and the second hole may be arranged in the second end of the coil shape. In some embodiments, the coil shape is flat and / or may form a ring. In some embodiments, the first end of the coil shape and the second end of the coil shape may be positioned inwardly from the ring.

[0035] In some embodiments, the compressible element may include a first flange and a second flange. In some embodiments, when the guide pin is in the advanced position, the guide pin may extend between the first flange and the second flange. In certain embodiments, in response to the guide pin moving proximally to a retracted position, the guide pin may not contact the first flange and the second flange, and the first flange may overlap the second flange, to shield the guide pin. In some embodiments, the compressible element may include a coil shape, which may be flat and / or form a ring. In some embodiments, the first flange and the second flange may be positioned inwardly from the ring.

[0036] In some embodiments, the catheter system may include a needle shield element, which may include a movable center and a plurality of flexible arms extending outwardly from the movable center. In some embodiments, the movable center may include a hole passing therethrough. In some embodiments, when the guide needle is in an advanced position biasing the movable center in a first position, the guide needle may extend through the hole. In some embodiments, in response to the guide needle moving proximally to a retracted position, the guide needle may be removed from the hole, and the movable center may be moved to a second position, in which the hole is offset from the longitudinal axis of the guide needle, thereby shielding the guide needle.

[0037] In some embodiments, the needle shield element can be disposed within the housing. In some embodiments, the needle hub can include a hub locking slot. In some embodiments, the proximal end of the housing can include a rib configured to lock within the hub locking slot in response to the introducer needle moving from the advanced position to the retracted position.

[0038] It should be understood that the summary description above and the detailed description below are exemplary and illustrative, rather than limiting the invention as claimed. 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 the various embodiments can be combined with each other, or other embodiments can be utilized, and unless so stated, structural changes can be made without departing from the scope of the various embodiments of the invention. Therefore, the following detailed description should not be understood as limiting. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0039] Exemplary embodiments will be described and explained hereinafter with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0040] Figure 1Ais an upper perspective view of an exemplary catheter system according to some embodiments, showing an exemplary introducer needle in an advanced position;

[0041] Figure 1B is an upper perspective view of a catheter system according to some embodiments, showing an introducer needle in an exemplary retracted position;

[0042] Figure 1C is a side view of a catheter system according to some embodiments, showing an introducer needle in an advanced position;

[0043] Figure 1D is a side view of a catheter system according to some embodiments, showing an introducer needle in a retracted position;

[0044] Figure 2A According to some embodiments, the catheter system is Figure 1C A cross-sectional view taken along line 2A-2A;

[0045] Figure 2B is similar to Figure 2A a cross-sectional view of a catheter system of FIG. 1 , but showing the introducer needle between an advanced position and a retracted position, with a portion of the introducer needle shown for illustration purposes;

[0046] Figure 2C is a proximal end view of an exemplary compressible element according to some embodiments, showing the compressible element in a compressed position;

[0047] Figure 2D is an upper perspective view of a compressible element in a compressed position according to some embodiments;

[0048] Figure 2E is a side view of a compressible element according to some embodiments;

[0049] Figure 3A According to some embodiments, the catheter system is Figure 1D A cross-sectional view taken along line 3A-3A;

[0050] Figure 3B is similar to Figure 3A A cross-sectional view of a catheter system of FIG. 1 , but showing the introducer needle in a retracted position, a portion of the introducer needle being shown for illustration purposes;

[0051] Figure 3C is a proximal end view of a compressible element according to some embodiments, showing the compressible element in a relaxed position;

[0052] Figure 3Dis an upper perspective view of a compressible element according to some embodiments, showing the compressible element in a relaxed position;

[0053] Figure 4A is an upper perspective view of an exemplary distal portion of an exemplary housing according to some embodiments;

[0054] Figure 4B is an upper perspective view of a housing according to some embodiments;

[0055] Figure 4C is an upper perspective view of an exemplary proximal end of a housing according to some embodiments;

[0056] Figure 4D is a top perspective view of an exemplary needle hub and an exemplary introducer needle extending from the needle hub according to some embodiments;

[0057] Figure 4E is an upper perspective view of an exemplary catheter assembly according to some embodiments;

[0058] Figure 4F is a cross-sectional view of a catheter assembly according to some embodiments;

[0059] Figure 4G is a cross-sectional view of a catheter assembly according to some embodiments, showing an exemplary diaphragm actuator coupled to a spring;

[0060] Figure 5A According to some embodiments Figure 2B A cross-sectional view of a similar catheter system, but showing another compressible element;

[0061] Figure 5B is an upper perspective view of another compressible element according to some embodiments, showing the compressible element in an exemplary expanded position;

[0062] Figure 5C is another top perspective view of another compressible element according to some embodiments, showing the compressible element in an expanded position;

[0063] Figure 5D is similar to Figure 3B , but showing another compressible element in an expanded position;

[0064] Figure 5E is an upper perspective view of another compressible element in an exemplary relaxed position according to some embodiments;

[0065] Fig. 5F is another top perspective view of another compressible element in a relaxed position according to some embodiments;

[0066] Fig. 6A is a partial cross-sectional view of a catheter system according to some embodiments, showing another compressible element in a relaxed position and an introducer needle in a retracted position;

[0067] Figure 6B is a partial cross-sectional view of an illustrative distal portion of a catheter system according to some embodiments, showing another compressible element in an expanded position and an introducer needle in an advanced position;

[0068] Figure 6C is a partial cross-sectional view of a distal portion of a catheter system according to some embodiments, showing another compressible element in a relaxed position and an introducer needle in a retracted position;

[0069] Fig. 7A is a distal end view of an exemplary needle shield element according to some embodiments;

[0070] Figure 7B is an upper perspective view of a needle shield component according to some embodiments;

[0071] Figure 7C is a partial cross-sectional view of a needle shield element disposed within a housing, with a distal end of the housing removed for illustrative purposes, and the needle in an advanced position, according to some embodiments;

[0072] Fig.7D is a partial cross-sectional view of a needle shield element disposed within a housing according to some embodiments, with a distal end of the housing removed for illustrative purposes and the needle in a retracted position;

[0073] Fig. 8A is an upper perspective view of an exemplary housing with exemplary ribs according to some embodiments;

[0074] Figure 8B is an upper perspective view of a needle hub configured to interact with a rib according to some embodiments;

[0075] Figure 8C is a cross-sectional view of a housing having illustrative ribs coupled to a needle hub according to some embodiments;

[0076] Fig.8D is a bottom view of a housing having illustrative ribs coupled to a needle hub according to some embodiments;

[0077] Fig. 8E is a bottom perspective view of a housing with illustrative ribs coupled to a needle hub according to some embodiments;

[0078] Fig. 9A is a top perspective view of another exemplary housing according to some embodiments;

[0079] Fig. 9B is an upper perspective view of another housing according to some embodiments;

[0080] Fig. 9C is an upper perspective view of a distal portion of another housing coupled to a needle hub according to some embodiments;

[0081] Fig.9D is a bottom perspective view of another housing coupled to a catheter assembly according to some embodiments;

[0082] Fig.9E According to some embodiments, Fig.9D Line 9E-9E is coupled to a cross-sectional view of another housing of the catheter assembly;

[0083] Fig.9F is a side view of a catheter assembly including another housing according to some embodiments, showing an introducer needle in an advanced position;

[0084] Figure 9G is a side view of a catheter assembly including another housing according to some embodiments, showing an introducer needle in an advanced position;

[0085] Figure 9H According to some embodiments, the catheter assembly is Fig.9F A cross-sectional view taken along line 9H-9H;

[0086] Fig.9I According to some embodiments, the catheter assembly is Figure 9G Cross-sectional view along line 9I-9I. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0087] Referring now to FIGS. 1-3 , in some embodiments, a catheter system 10 may include a catheter hub 12, which may include a distal end 14, a proximal end 16, and a lumen 18 extending through the distal end 14 and the proximal end 16. In some embodiments, the catheter system 10 may include a catheter 20 extending from the distal end 14 of the catheter hub 12. In some embodiments, the catheter system 10 may include a needle hub 22 and an introducer needle 24 that may extend distally from the needle hub 22. In some embodiments, the introducer needle 24 may include a sharp distal tip that is configured to pierce the patient's skin and facilitate insertion of the catheter 20 into the patient's blood vessel. In some embodiments, when the introducer needle 24 is in the advanced position, the introducer needle 24 may extend through the catheter 20, such as Figure 1A and 1C shown.

[0088] In some embodiments, the catheter system 10 may include a compressible element 26, which may include a first hole 28 and a second hole 30. In some embodiments, the first hole 28 and the second hole 30 may be the same or similar in size and shape. In some embodiments, the diameter of the first hole 28 and the second hole 30 may be slightly larger than the outer diameter of the introducer needle 24, so that the introducer needle 24 fits through the first hole 28 and the second hole 30. In some embodiments, the first hole 28 and / or the second hole 30 may be circular or the same shape as the introducer needle 24, which may facilitate less potential movement of the compressible element 26 when the introducer needle 24 extends through the first hole 28 and the second hole 30. In some embodiments, when the introducer needle 24 is in the advanced position, the introducer needle 24 may extend through the first hole 28 and the second hole 30, for example, as shown in FIG. Figure 2A In these embodiments, the compressible element 26 can be in a compressed position. In some embodiments, when the introducer needle 24 is in the advanced position, the first hole 28 and the second hole 30 can be coaxial with the introducer needle 24. In some embodiments, in the advanced position, the first hole 28 can be aligned or concentrically aligned with the second hole 30.

[0089] In some embodiments, the introducer needle 24 can be moved proximally to a retracted position, e.g. Figure 1B and 1D In some embodiments, in response to the introducer needle 24 moving proximally to the retracted position, the introducer needle 24 can be removed from the first hole 28 and the second hole 30, and the compressible element 26 can expand. In some embodiments, in response to the expansion of the compressible element 26, the first hole 28 and the second hole 30 can become misaligned or can move away from each other, for example, Figure 3A As shown, the introducer needle 24 is thereby shielded from distal movement beyond the compressible element 26, thereby reducing the risk of the introducer needle 24 being dislodged from the housing 32 and subsequent needle stick injury.

[0090] In some embodiments, the compressible element 26 (or the compressible element 60 of FIGS. 5-6 or Figure 7A-7D The needle shield element 66 of the catheter system 10 can be configured to block or shield the guide needle 24 in a passive manner. Therefore, the catheter system 10 can automatically block or shield the guide needle 24 in response to the proximal retraction of the guide needle 24 from the advanced position to the retracted position. In these embodiments, the compressible element 26 can provide passive safety and also reduce blood splatter caused by the reduction in the speed of the guide needle 24 during the proximal retraction of the manual guide needle 24. In some embodiments, the needle seat 22 can travel from a first position to a second position, in which the guide needle 24 advances and in which the guide needle 24 retracts. In some embodiments, in response to the needle seat 22 moving from the first position to the second position, the compressible element will expand to protect the guide needle 24 in the housing 32.

[0091] In some embodiments, the catheter system 10 may include a housing 32, which may include a cartridge. In some embodiments, the housing 32 may include a recess 34 and a slot 36, the latter being transverse to the longitudinal axis of the housing 32 and providing access to the recess 34. In some embodiments, the distal end 38 of the housing 32 may be coupled to the proximal end 16 of the catheter adapter 12. In some embodiments, the compressible element 26 may be disposed within the recess 34. In some embodiments, the compressible element 26 may be configured to be compressed during assembly of the catheter system 10 so as to fit into the recess 34 through the slot 36. In some embodiments, the compressible element 26 may be made of metal, plastic, or other suitable material.

[0092] In some embodiments, housing 32 may include an elongated slot 42 aligned with the longitudinal axis of housing 32. In some embodiments, distal end 38 of housing 32 may be coupled to proximal end 16 of catheter adapter 12. In some embodiments, distal end 38 of housing 32 may include a Luer adapter or another type of connector configured to form a fluid tight seal with proximal end 16 of catheter adapter 12. In some embodiments, the Luer adapter may include a small protrusion that locks the rotation of catheter adapter 12 and ensures that the bevel of introducer needle 24 is facing upward. In some embodiments, distal end 38 of housing 32 may include a male Luer adapter.

[0093] In some embodiments, the needle hub 22 may extend through the elongated slot 42 and may be configured to move along the elongated slot 42 to move the introducer needle 24 from the advanced position to the retracted position. In some embodiments, the housing 32 may include a proximal end 40, and the needle hub 22 may slide along the elongated slot 42 toward the proximal end 40 to the retracted position to retract the introducer needle 24. In some embodiments, the needle hub 22 may include one or more gripping elements 43 configured to frictionally engage with a user's fingers to facilitate sliding the needle hub 22 along the elongated slot 42.

[0094] In some embodiments, the proximal end of the elongated slot 42 may include a retainer buckle 45. In some embodiments, the retainer buckle 45 can prevent the needle hub 22 from leaving the elongated slot 42 when the introducer needle 24 is retracted or moved from the advanced position to the retracted position. In some embodiments, the retainer buckle 45 can include two opposing protrusions that can be spaced apart. In some embodiments, the retainer buckle 45 can facilitate the placement of the needle hub 22 in the elongated slot 42 during the assembly of the catheter system 10.

[0095] In some embodiments, the compressible element 26 may include a coil shape, such as Figure 2C-2Eand 3C-3D. In some embodiments, the first hole 28 can be disposed in the first end 44 of the coil shape, and the second hole 30 can be disposed in the second end 46 of the coil shape. In some embodiments, the coil shape can be flat, which can facilitate the insertion of the compressible element 26 through the slot 36. In more detail, in some embodiments, the coil shape can include a distally facing surface 48, a proximally facing surface 50, and an edge 52 transverse to the distally facing surface 48 and the proximally facing surface 50. In some embodiments, the coil shape may not be flat. In some embodiments, the coil shape may form a ring, which may include the outer edge of the compressible element 26. In some embodiments, the first end 44 of the coil shape and the second end 46 of the coil shape may be positioned inward from the ring or the outer edge.

[0096] Referring now to FIG. 4 , in some embodiments, the elongated slot 42 may be a first elongated slot 42a, and the housing 32 may include a second elongated slot 42b aligned with the longitudinal axis of the housing 32. In some embodiments, the second elongated slot 42b may be similar to the first elongated slot 42a in one or more features and / or operations. In some embodiments, the needle hub 22 may extend through the first elongated slot 42a and the second elongated slot 42b. In some embodiments, the needle hub 22 may be configured to move along the first elongated slot 42a and the second elongated slot 42b to move the introducer needle 24 from the advanced position to the retracted position.

[0097] like Figure 4D As shown, in some embodiments, the needle hub 22 may include one or more elongated sliding elements 54, which may extend across the elongated slot 42. In some embodiments, the gripping element 43 may be disposed on the elongated sliding element 54. In some embodiments, the elongated sliding element 54 may be positioned outward from a generally cylindrical structure assembled concentrically with the introducer needle 24 and / or include a vent plug. In some embodiments, the needle hub 22 may include two elongated sliding elements 54a, 54b, which may be opposed and configured to extend across the first elongated slot 42a and the second elongated slot 42b, respectively. In some embodiments, the elongated sliding elements 54a, 54b may be disposed on the left and right sides of the catheter system, respectively, which may facilitate sliding with, for example, a thumb and index finger. As shown in FIG. Figure 4F As shown, in some embodiments, catheter adapter 12 can include blood control provisions, such as septum 56 and / or septum actuator 58 .

[0098] For example, Figure 4GAs shown, in some embodiments, a spring 59 can be disposed within the catheter adapter 12 and coupled to the diaphragm actuator 58. In some embodiments, in response to a medical device (e.g., a male Luer connector (not shown)) being coupled to the proximal end 16 of the catheter adapter, the diaphragm actuator 58 can be pushed distally from an initial position by the medical device and can penetrate the slit of the septum 56. In some embodiments, the spring 59 can facilitate the return of the diaphragm actuator 58 to an initial position proximal to the septum 56 in response to the removal of the medical device from the proximal end 16 of the catheter adapter 12. Thus, in some embodiments, the catheter assembly can be multiple-use, wherein the diaphragm actuator 58 is coupled to the spring 59 to facilitate opening and closing of the diaphragm 56. In other embodiments, the catheter assembly can be single-use, having a particular diaphragm actuator 58 that keeps the diaphragm actuator 56 open even after the medical device is removed (e.g., see Figure 4F ). It should be understood that in some embodiments, the catheter assembly including the catheter 20 and / or the catheter adapter 12 may include a peripheral intravenous catheter assembly. In other embodiments, the catheter assembly may include a midline catheter assembly, a peripherally inserted central catheter assembly, or other suitable types of catheter assemblies.

[0099] Referring now to FIG. 5 , in some embodiments, the catheter system 10 of FIGS. 1-4 may include a compressible element 60 instead of the compressible element 26. In some embodiments, the compressible element 60 may be similar or identical to the compressible element 26 in one or more features and / or operations. In some embodiments, the compressible element 60 may be made of metal, plastic, or other suitable material. In some embodiments, the compressible element 60 may include a first flange 62 and a second flange 64. In some embodiments, when the introducer needle 24 is in the advanced position, the introducer needle 24 may extend between the first flange 62 and the second flange 64. In some embodiments, when the introducer needle 24 is in the advanced position, the first flange 62 and the second flange 64 may press against the introducer needle 24.

[0100] In some embodiments, in response to the introducer needle 24 moving proximally to the retracted position, the introducer needle 24 may not contact the first flange 62 and the second flange 64, and the first flange 62 may overlap with the second flange 64, thereby shielding the introducer needle 24 from moving distally beyond the compressible element 60. In these embodiments, when the introducer needle 24 is in the retracted position, the first flange 62 and the second flange 64 may move toward each other so that the introducer needle 24 cannot pass therethrough. In some embodiments, the compressible element 60 may include a coil shape, which may be flat and / or form a ring. In some embodiments, the first flange 62 and the second flange 64 may be positioned inwardly from the ring.

[0101] Now refer to Figure 7A-7D1-4 can include a needle shield element 66 instead of the compressible element 26. In some embodiments, the needle shield element 66 can include a movable center 68 and a plurality of flexible arms 70 extending outwardly from the movable center 68. In some embodiments, the movable center 68 can include a hole 72 therethrough. In some embodiments, the hole 72 can be disposed on an eccentric side of the movable center 68 or eccentrically disposed within the movable center 68. In some embodiments, when the introducer needle 24 is in the advanced position biasing the movable center 68 to the first position, the introducer needle 24 can extend through the hole 72, for example Figure 7C In some embodiments, the introducer needle 24 extending through the hole 72 can move the flexible arm 70 in a twisting motion to bias the movable center 68 in the first position. In some embodiments, the needle shield element 66 and / or the flexible arm 70 can be made of plastic or another suitable material.

[0102] In some embodiments, in response to the introducer needle 24 moving from the advanced position to the proximal end to the retracted position, the introducer needle 24 may be moved out of the aperture 72 and the movable center 68 may be moved, for example, to Fig.7D A second position is shown in which aperture 72 is offset from or not aligned with the longitudinal axis of introducer needle 24 , thereby shielding introducer needle 24 from distal end movement beyond needle shield element 66 .

[0103] In some embodiments, the needle shield element 66 can be disposed within the housing 32. In some embodiments, the flexible arm 70 can extend from the movable center 68 to an outer ring 74 of the needle shield element 66. In some embodiments, the outer ring 74 can fit within the housing 32, which can include a syringe, and be secured therein. In other embodiments, the flexible arm 70 can extend from the movable center 68 to the outer ring 74 of the needle shield element 66, directly to the inner surface of the housing 32 to which the flexible arm 70 can be secured.

[0104] Now refer to Figures 8A-8E In some embodiments, the needle hub 22 may include a hub locking groove 76. In some embodiments, the proximal end 40 of the housing 32 may include a rib 78 configured to lock into the hub locking groove 76 in response to the introducer needle 24 moving from the advanced position to the retracted position. In some embodiments, the rib 78 may be disposed on a flexible arm 80 of the housing 32, which may facilitate movement of the rib 78 along the outer surface of the needle hub 22 until the rib 78 is disposed in the hub locking groove 76. In some embodiments, the needle hub 22 may include a vent plug 82.

[0105] 9, in some embodiments, the shape of the housing 32 of the catheter system 10 can vary. For example, the housing 32 can be cylindrical or rectangular or other suitable shapes. Fig.9F A cover is shown that may be placed over catheter 20 and introducer needle 24 prior to use of catheter system 10 .

[0106] All examples and conditional language described here are intended for teaching purposes, to help readers understand the present invention and the concepts contributed by the inventors to promote this field, and should be interpreted as not being limited to the examples and conditions specifically described. Although embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail, it should be understood that various changes, substitutions and modifications may be made thereto without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A catheter system, characterized in that: The catheter system comprises: a catheter adapter comprising a distal end, a proximal end, and a lumen extending through the distal end and the proximal end; a catheter extending from a distal end of the catheter adapter; Needle holder; an introducer needle extending distally from the needle hub, wherein the introducer needle extends through the catheter when the introducer needle is in the advanced position, A compressible element comprising a first hole and a second hole, wherein when the introducer needle is in the advanced position, the introducer needle extends through the first hole and the second hole, wherein in response to the introducer needle moving proximally to a retracted position, the introducer needle is removed from the first hole and the second hole and the compressible element expands, wherein in response to the compressible element expanding, the first hole and the second hole are misaligned, thereby shielding the introducer needle so that the introducer needle does not move distally beyond the compressible element.

2. The catheter system according to claim 1, characterized in that The catheter system also includes a housing, wherein the housing includes a recess and a slot, the slot being transverse to the longitudinal axis of the housing and providing access to the recess, wherein a distal end of the housing is coupled to a proximal end of the catheter hub, wherein the compressible element is disposed within the recess, wherein the compressible element is configured to be compressible so as to fit through the slot and into the recess.

3. The catheter system according to claim 1, characterized in that The catheter system also includes a housing including an elongated slot aligned with a longitudinal axis of the housing, wherein a distal end of the housing is coupled to a proximal end of the catheter hub, wherein the needle hub extends through the elongated slot and is configured to move along the elongated slot to move the introducer needle from an advanced position to a retracted position.

4. The catheter system according to claim 3, characterized in that The elongated slot is a first elongated slot, wherein the shell includes a second elongated slot aligned with the longitudinal axis of the shell, wherein the needle seat extends through the first elongated slot and is configured to move along the first elongated slot and the second elongated slot to move the guide needle from an advanced position to a retracted position.

5. The catheter system according to claim 3, characterized in that The proximal end of the elongated slot includes a retainer catch.

6. The catheter system according to claim 1, characterized in that The compressible element comprises a coil shape, wherein the first hole is disposed in a first end of the coil shape and the second hole is disposed in a second end of the coil shape.

7. The catheter system according to claim 6, characterized in that The coil shape is flat and forms a loop, wherein the first end and the second end are located inwardly from the loop.

8. The catheter system according to claim 1, characterized in that The lumen of the catheter adapter includes a blood control septum, a septum actuator, and a spring coupled to the septum actuator, wherein the spring is configured to return the septum actuator to an initial position proximal to the blood control septum in response to removal of a medical device from the proximal end of the catheter adapter.

9. A catheter system, characterized in that: The catheter system comprises: a catheter adapter comprising a distal end, a proximal end, and a lumen extending through the distal end and the proximal end; a catheter extending from a distal end of the catheter adapter; Needle holder; an introducer needle extending distally from the needle hub, wherein the introducer needle extends through the catheter when the introducer needle is in the advanced position, A compressible element comprising a first flange and a second flange, wherein the introducer needle extends between the first flange and the second flange when the introducer needle is in an advanced position, wherein, in response to the introducer needle moving proximally to a retracted position, the introducer needle does not contact the first flange and the second flange, and the first flange overlaps the second flange, thereby shielding the introducer needle so that the introducer needle cannot move distally beyond the compressible element.

10. The catheter system according to claim 9, characterized in that The catheter system also includes a housing, wherein the housing includes a recess and a slot, the slot being transverse to the longitudinal axis of the housing and providing access to the recess, wherein a distal end of the housing is coupled to a proximal end of the catheter hub, wherein the compressible element is disposed within the recess, wherein the compressible element is configured to be compressible so as to fit through the slot and into the recess.

11. The catheter system according to claim 9, characterized in that The catheter system also includes a housing including an elongated slot aligned with a longitudinal axis of the housing, wherein a distal end of the housing is coupled to a proximal end of the catheter hub, wherein the needle hub extends through the elongated slot and is configured to move along the elongated slot to move the introducer needle from an advanced position to a retracted position.

12. The catheter system according to claim 11, characterized in that The elongated slot is a first elongated slot, wherein the shell includes a second elongated slot aligned with the longitudinal axis of the shell, wherein the needle seat extends through the first elongated slot and is configured to move along the first elongated slot and the second elongated slot to move the guide needle from an advanced position to a retracted position.

13. The catheter system according to claim 11, characterized in that The proximal end of the elongated slot includes a retainer catch.

14. The catheter system according to claim 9, characterized in that The compressible element comprises a coil shape, wherein the first flange is disposed at a first end of the coil shape and the second flange is disposed at a second end of the coil shape.

15. The catheter system according to claim 9, characterized in that The lumen of the catheter adapter includes a blood control septum, a septum actuator, and a spring coupled to the septum actuator, wherein the spring is configured to return the septum actuator to an initial position proximal to the blood control septum in response to removal of a medical device from the proximal end of the catheter adapter.

16. A catheter system, characterized in that: The catheter system comprises: a catheter adapter comprising a distal end, a proximal end, and a lumen extending through the distal end and the proximal end; a catheter extending from a distal end of the catheter adapter; Needle holder; an introducer needle extending distally from the needle hub, wherein the introducer needle extends through the catheter when the introducer needle is in the advanced position, A needle shield element, the needle shield element comprising a movable center and a plurality of flexible arms extending outwardly from the movable center, wherein a hole is provided through the movable center, wherein when the introducer needle is in the advanced position, the introducer needle extends through the hole, biasing the movable center in a first position, wherein in response to the introducer needle moving proximally to a retracted position, the introducer needle moves out of the hole and the movable center moves to a second position, in which the hole is offset from the longitudinal axis of the introducer needle, thereby shielding the introducer needle so that the introducer needle cannot move distally beyond the needle shield element.

17. The catheter system according to claim 16, characterized in that The catheter system also includes a housing including an elongated slot aligned with a longitudinal axis of the housing, wherein a distal end of the housing is coupled to a proximal end of the catheter hub, wherein the needle hub extends through the elongated slot and is configured to move along the elongated slot to move the introducer needle from an advanced position to a retracted position.

18. The catheter system according to claim 17, characterized in that The elongated slot is a first elongated slot, wherein the shell includes a second elongated slot aligned with the longitudinal axis of the shell, wherein the needle seat extends through the first elongated slot and is configured to move along the first elongated slot and the second elongated slot to move the guide needle from an advanced position to a retracted position.

19. The catheter system according to claim 17, characterized in that The proximal end of the elongated slot includes a retainer catch.

20. The catheter system of claim 17, wherein: The needle shield element is disposed within the housing.

21. The catheter system of claim 17, wherein: The needle hub includes a hub locking slot, wherein the proximal end of the housing includes a rib configured to lock within the hub locking slot in response to movement of the introducer needle from an advanced position to a retracted position.

22. The catheter system of claim 16, wherein: The lumen of the catheter adapter includes a blood control septum, a septum actuator, and a spring coupled to the septum actuator, wherein the spring is configured to return the septum actuator to an initial position proximal to the blood control septum in response to removal of a medical device from the proximal end of the catheter adapter.

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