Catheter

Abstract

To improve usability of a hub in a catheter.SOLUTION: A catheter comprises a shaft comprising a first lumen, and a hub provided on a base end side of the shaft. The hub comprises: a main body part to which a base end part of the shaft is connected; and a second lumen formed inside the main body part, and communicating with the first lumen. A passage comprising an internal space extending side by side with the second lumen is provided inside the main body part. At least both ends of the passage are connected to the second lumen. The internal space communicates with the second lumen via at least both ends of the passage.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to catheters. [Background technology]

[0002] Catheters used in percutaneous coronary intervention are known. Patent Document 1 discloses a catheter including a flexible shaft that is inserted into the body and a hub provided on the proximal end of the shaft. Patent Document 2 discloses an inserter for inserting a guide wire with a curved tip into a catheter. The hub is also called a connector. Percutaneous coronary intervention is also called PCI. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2017-51211 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2014-28001 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] To facilitate guidewire insertion, the inner lumen of the hub has an inner diameter that gradually decreases from the proximal end toward the distal end. In other words, the inner circumferential surface of the hub lumen has a tapered shape. When a guidewire with a curved distal end is inserted into such a hub, the distal end of the guidewire may get caught on the inner circumferential surface of the hub. In such a case, if the surgeon pushes the guidewire further, the distal end of the guidewire may bend into a U-shape in the inner lumen of the hub, preventing it from advancing distally. While the inserter described in Patent Document 2 can prevent this from happening, using an inserter poses the problem of increased accessories and increased effort on the part of the surgeon.

[0005] The present disclosure has been made to solve at least some of the above-mentioned problems, and aims to improve the ease of use of a hub in a catheter. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The present disclosure has been made to solve at least part of the above-mentioned problems, and can be realized in the following aspects.

[0007] (1) According to one aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a catheter comprising: a shaft having a first lumen; a hub provided on a proximal end of the shaft, the hub having a main body connected to the proximal end of the shaft; a second lumen formed inside the main body and communicating with the first lumen; a passage formed inside the main body and having an internal space extending parallel to the second lumen, at least both ends of the passage connected to the second lumen, and the internal space communicating with the second lumen via at least both ends of the passage.

[0008] According to this configuration, the inside of the hub body is provided with a passageway having an internal space that extends parallel to the second lumen, which is the inner cavity of the hub. This allows the surgeon to push the distal end of the guidewire from the second lumen through the proximal end of the passageway into the internal space of the passageway, and then return it from the distal end of the passageway to the second lumen. In other words, the surgeon can deliver the guidewire inside the hub via a route that is different from the route that passes only through the second lumen, i.e., via the passageway. This allows the surgeon to select an appropriate route depending on the shape of the distal end of the guidewire, improving the usability of the hub.

[0009] (2) In the catheter of the above embodiment, the width of the passage may be smaller than the diameter of the second lumen. With this configuration, the width of the passage is smaller than the diameter of the second lumen, so the curved shape of the tip of the guidewire can be corrected by the inner wall of the passage without using an auxiliary tool such as an inserter. Therefore, when inserting a guidewire with a curved tip, the surgeon can select a route that passes through the passage, thereby preventing the tip of the guidewire from bending into a U-shape in the lumen of the hub. As a result, the usability of the hub can be further improved.

[0010] (3) In the catheter of the above aspect, the second lumen may have a large-diameter portion located on the proximal side of the second lumen and having a relatively large inner diameter, and a small-diameter portion located on the distal side of the second lumen and having a relatively small inner diameter, and a first end located on the proximal side of the passage may be connected to the large-diameter portion, and a second end located on the distal side of the passage may be connected to the small-diameter portion. According to this configuration, the first end located on the proximal side of the passage is connected to the large-diameter portion. Therefore, the surgeon can easily insert the distal end of the guidewire from the first end into the internal space of the passage.

[0011] (4) In the catheter of the above embodiment, the passage may be curved in an arc shape from the distal end to the proximal end. With this configuration, the passage is curved in an arc shape from the distal end to the proximal end. This makes it easier to insert the guidewire than in a configuration in which the passage is not curved in an arc shape.

[0012] (5) In the catheter of the above embodiment, in a side view in which the curved shape of the passage can be confirmed, the angle formed by an imaginary line drawn from the center of the first end portion located on the proximal side of the passage along the proximal portion of the passage and the inner circumferential surface of the second lumen at the distal end side may be an acute angle. According to this configuration, the passage can be shaped so that the first end portion located on the proximal side of the passage gradually branches off from the second lumen. As a result, the surgeon can easily insert the distal end portion of the guidewire from the second lumen into the internal space on the first end side.

[0013] (6) In the catheter of the above embodiment, in a side view in which the curved shape of the passage can be confirmed, the angle formed by an imaginary line drawn from the center of the second end located on the distal side of the passage along the distal portion of the passage and the inner circumferential surface of the second lumen on the proximal side may be an acute angle. With this configuration, the passage can be shaped so that the second end located on the distal side of the passage gently merges with the second lumen. As a result, the surgeon can easily return the distal end of the guidewire from the internal space on the second end side to the second lumen.

[0014] (7) In the catheter of the above aspect, the passage may be a third lumen formed inside the main body, both ends of the passage may be connected to the second lumen through openings formed in the inner circumferential surface of the second lumen, and the internal space may be in communication with the second lumen through the openings. With this configuration, the passage can be a third lumen independent of the second lumen.

[0015] (8) In the catheter of the above aspect, the passage may be a groove formed on the inner circumferential surface of the second lumen, the internal space may be in communication with the second lumen throughout the passage, and the width of the passage may be the width of the groove. According to this configuration, the passage can be a groove in communication with the second lumen.

[0016] (9) In the catheter of the above aspect, the width of the passage may be 0.1 mm or more and 0.9 mm or less. The phenomenon in which the tip end of the guidewire gets caught on the inner circumferential surface of the hub occurs particularly noticeably in guidewires with small outer diameters. In order to obtain the straightening effect of the tip end of the guidewire by the passage, it is preferable that the width of the passage is 1 time or more and 2 times or less the outer diameter of the guidewire. According to this configuration, the width of the passage is 0.1 mm or more and 0.9 mm or less. Therefore, it is possible to provide a passage that can pass a relatively thin guidewire with an outer diameter of 0.1 mm to 0.45 mm and that can obtain the straightening effect of the tip end of the guidewire.

[0017] (10) In the catheter of the above aspect, the width of the passage may be 0.4 mm or more and 0.8 mm or less. According to this configuration, the width of the passage is 0.4 mm or more and 0.8 mm or less. Therefore, it is possible to provide a passage that allows easy insertion of a relatively thin guidewire having an outer diameter of 0.1 mm to 0.45 mm and that can achieve the effect of correcting the tip of the guidewire.

[0018] (11) In the catheter of the above embodiment, the main body may further have two or more wing portions protruding radially outward and provided at equal intervals on the outer peripheral surface of the main body. With this configuration, the main body has two or more wing portions, which makes it easier for the surgeon to grip the hub compared to a configuration without wing portions. When inserting a guidewire into the catheter, the surgeon can easily fix the orientation of the hub by grasping the wing portions of the hub.

[0019] (12) In the catheter of the above aspect, at least a part of the passage may be disposed inside the wing portion. With this configuration, the passage is provided inside the wing portion, so that the surgeon can easily grasp the position of the passage.

[0020] (13) In the catheter of the above aspect, the main body may further have a protrusion that protrudes radially outward. With this configuration, the surgeon can grasp the protrusion to operate the hub, thereby further improving the ease of use of the hub.

[0021] (14) In the catheter of the above aspect, at least a portion of the passage may be disposed inside the protrusion. This configuration improves the degree of freedom in arranging the passage in the hub.

[0022] The present disclosure can be realized in various aspects, for example, in the form of a hub, a catheter including the hub, a catheter system including the catheter, and a method of manufacturing these. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0023] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the configuration of a catheter. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a portion OP of the shaft. [Figure 3] FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the hub taken along line AA in FIG. 3. [Figure 5] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a first passage and a second passage. [Figure 6] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a guide wire inserted into the lumen of a catheter. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a procedure for inserting a guide wire into a catheter. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a procedure for inserting a guide wire into a catheter. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a procedure for inserting a guide wire into a catheter. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is an enlarged view of the hub of the second embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the hub of the third embodiment taken along line AA in FIG. 3. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is an enlarged view of a hub according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is an enlarged view of a hub according to a fifth embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is an enlarged view of a hub according to a sixth embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of the hub taken along line BB in FIG. 14. [Figure 16] FIG. 13 is an enlarged view of the hub of the seventh embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of the hub taken along line CC in FIG. 16. [Figure 18] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the hub of the eighth embodiment taken along line AA in FIG. 3. [Figure 19] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the hub of the ninth embodiment taken along line AA in FIG. 3. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view of the hub of the tenth embodiment taken along line AA in FIG. 3. [Figure 21] FIG. 23 is an enlarged view of the hub of the eleventh embodiment. [Figure 22] FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional view of the hub taken along line DD in FIG. 21. [Figure 23] FIG. 23 is an enlarged view of the hub of the twelfth embodiment. [Figure 24] FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional view of the hub taken along line EE in FIG. 23. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0024] First Embodiment FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the configuration of a catheter 1. The catheter 1 is a medical device used in percutaneous coronary intervention, which is also called PCI. The catheter 1 can be used not only for PCI but also for all percutaneous procedures. The catheter 1 includes a shaft 10, a hub 20, and a protector 50. The hub 20 is also called a "connector."

[0025] For ease of explanation, Figure 1 includes some parts in which the relative size ratios of the components are different from the actual ratios. Figure 1 also includes some exaggerated views of the components. Figure 1 illustrates mutually orthogonal X, Y, and Z axes. The X axis corresponds to the longitudinal direction of the catheter 1 and each component. The X axis corresponds to the axial direction of the catheter 1 and each component. The Y axis corresponds to the width direction of the catheter 1 and each component. The Z axis corresponds to the height direction of the catheter 1 and each component. The left side of Figure 1 (-X axis direction) is referred to as the "distal side" of the catheter 1 and each component, and the right side of Figure 1 (+X axis direction) is referred to as the "proximal side" of the catheter 1 and each component. In Figure 1, of the two ends of the catheter 1 and each component in the longitudinal direction (X axis direction), the end located on the distal side is referred to as the "distal end," and the other end located on the proximal side is referred to as the "proximal end." In Figure 1, the distal end and its vicinity are referred to as the "distal portion," and the proximal end and its vicinity are referred to as the "proximal end." The distal end is inserted into the living body, and the proximal end is operated by a surgeon such as a doctor. These points are also common to Figure 2 and subsequent figures. In this embodiment, "same" and "equal" mean roughly the same, and allow for variations due to manufacturing errors, etc. In this embodiment, "constant" also means roughly constant, and allow for variations due to manufacturing errors, etc.

[0026] As shown in FIG. 1, the catheter 1 includes a shaft 10 and a marker 19. The shaft 10 is a hollow tubular body having an elongated outer shape. The marker 19 is attached to the distal end of the shaft 10. The marker 19 can be formed from either a radiopaque resin material or a radiopaque metal material. Examples of the radiopaque resin material include a mixture of at least one of polyamide resin, polyolefin resin, polyester resin, polyurethane resin, silicone resin, and fluororesin with a radiopaque material such as bismuth trioxide, tungsten, or barium sulfate. Examples of the radiopaque metal material include gold, platinum, tungsten, and alloys containing these elements. If the marker 19 is formed from a radiopaque material, the surgeon can visually confirm the distal end position of the catheter 1 under an X-ray image. The marker 19 does not have to be radiopaque.

[0027] FIG. 2 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a portion OP of the shaft 10. The shaft 10 of the catheter 1 includes a tube 101, a braid 102, and a liner 103. The tube 101 is a tubular body formed from a resin material. The tube 101 can be formed from at least one of polyamide, polyamide elastomer, polyester, polyurethane, and polyurethane elastomer, for example. The braid 102 is a mesh member formed by weaving flat wires into a net shape. The braid 102 can be formed from at least one of a stainless steel alloy, a superelastic alloy, tungsten, and a hard resin material. An example of the stainless steel alloy is SUS304. An example of the superelastic alloy is nickel titanium or a nickel titanium alloy. An example of the hard resin material is a reinforced plastic such as PEEK. As shown in FIG. 2, the braid 102 is embedded inside the tube 101 to reinforce the tube 101. The shaft 10 of the catheter 1 may reinforce the tube 101 using a coil instead of the braid 102. The braid 102 may be omitted. The liner 103 is a tube body formed from a resin material. The liner 103 is arranged inside the tube 101 and the braid 102. The liner 103 may be formed from a fluororesin such as PTFE. When the liner 103 is provided, the braid 102 may be arranged on the outer peripheral surface of the liner 103. The liner 103 may be omitted. The inner cavity of the liner 103 is also referred to as the first lumen 10L.

[0028] The protector 50 shown in FIG. 1 is a protective member provided between the shaft 10 and the hub 20. The protector 50 is a hollow cylindrical body. The distal end side of the protector 50 has a tapered shape with an outer diameter that gradually decreases from the proximal end side toward the distal end side. The proximal end side of the protector 50 has a substantially constant outer diameter. As shown in FIG. 1, the proximal end 10b of the shaft 10 is inserted into the distal end side of the lumen of the protector 50. The distal end portion 21 of the hub 20 is inserted into the proximal end side of the lumen of the protector 50. The protector 50 can be made of at least one of polyethylene, polyamide, polyamide elastomer, and polyurethane. The catheter 1 does not necessarily have to include the protector 50.

[0029] FIG. 3 is an enlarged view of the hub 20. In FIG. 3, the outer edge of the hub 20 is indicated by a solid line, and the space formed inside the hub 20 is indicated by a dashed line. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the hub 20 taken along line AA in FIG. 3. As shown in FIG. 1, the hub 20 is fixed to the proximal end 10b of the shaft 10. The hub 20 is a member grasped by the surgeon when operating the catheter 1. As shown in FIG. 3, the hub 20 has a distal end 21, an intermediate end 22, and a proximal end 23. The hub 20 can be formed from at least one of polyethylene, polyamide, polyamide elastomer, and polyurethane. The distal end 21, the intermediate end 22, and the proximal end 23 may be integrally formed. Alternatively, the distal end 21, the intermediate end 22, and the proximal end 23 may be formed by combining separately formed members by means of joining, fitting, or the like.

[0030] The distal end portion 21 is the portion of the hub 20 closest to the distal end, in other words, the portion closest to the shaft 10. In FIG. 1, the distal end portion 21 is inserted into the inner cavity of the protector 50 and fixed to the protector 50. The distal end portion 21 has a substantially constant outer diameter. The intermediate portion 22 is a portion located between the distal end portion 21 and the proximal end portion 23. As shown in FIG. 4, the intermediate portion 22 includes a cylindrical body and first and second blades 24 and 25 provided on the outer circumferential surface of the body. The first and second blades 24 and 25 are located opposite each other on the outer circumferential surface of the body. The first blade 24 protrudes from the outer circumferential surface of the body in the +Y-axis direction. The second blade 25 protrudes from the outer circumferential surface of the body in the -Y-axis direction. The proximal end portion 23 is the portion of the hub 20 closest to the proximal end. The base end 23 is a portion having a cylindrical tubular body and a base end tapered portion. The base end tapered portion is provided at the base end of the tubular body and has an outer diameter that gradually decreases from the base end side toward the tip end side. The tip end 21, intermediate portion 22, and base end 23 are collectively referred to as the "main body portion." The first blade portion 24 and the second blade portion 25 are arranged at equal intervals on the outer circumferential surface of the main body portion.

[0031] A second lumen 20L extending in the longitudinal direction of the catheter 1 is formed inside the hub 20. In other words, the second lumen 20L is formed inside the distal end portion 21, the intermediate portion 22, and the proximal end portion 23. The portion of the second lumen 20L located on the distal side is also referred to as the small diameter portion 20La. In the illustrated example, the small diameter portion 20La is the portion of the second lumen 20L located on the distal side of the distal end portion 21 and the intermediate portion 22. The inner diameter Φ20a of the small diameter portion 20La is constant. The portion of the second lumen 20L located on the proximal side is also referred to as the large diameter portion 20Lb. In the illustrated example, the large diameter portion 20Lb is the portion of the second lumen 20L located on the proximal side of the intermediate portion 22 and the proximal end portion 23. The inner diameter Φ20b of the large diameter portion 20Lb is constant on the proximal side. The inner diameter Φ20b of the large diameter portion 20Lb gradually decreases from the base end toward the tip end. The inner diameter Φ20b of the large diameter portion 20Lb is larger than the inner diameter Φ20a of the small diameter portion 20La. In other words, the inner diameter Φ20a of the small diameter portion 20La is relatively small, and the inner diameter Φ20b of the large diameter portion 20Lb is relatively large. As shown in FIG. 1, the base end portion 10b of the shaft 10 is inserted and fixed to the distal end side of the small diameter portion 20La of the second lumen 20L.

[0032] A first passage 31 and a second passage 32 are provided inside the intermediate section 22 of the hub 20. The first passage 31 is provided on the side of the first wing section 24. The first passage 31 is a through-hole extending in the longitudinal direction of the catheter 1 alongside the second lumen 20L. A third lumen 31L is formed inside the first passage 31. The third lumen 31L is an internal space extending alongside the second lumen 20L. As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the third lumen 31L has a constant width W31 from the proximal end to the distal end. The width W31 is also referred to as the width of the first passage 31. As shown in FIG. 4, the cross-sectional shape of the third lumen 31L is circular. Therefore, the width W31 is synonymous with the inner diameter of the third lumen 31L. The width W31 is smaller than the inner diameter Φ20a of the small diameter portion 20La of the second lumen 20L and smaller than the inner diameter Φ20b of the large diameter portion 20Lb of the second lumen 20L. The width W31 is preferably 0.1 mm or more and 0.9 mm or less. The width W31 is more preferably 0.4 mm or more and 0.8 mm or less.

[0033] The end portion located on the proximal side of the first passage 31 is also referred to as the first end portion 311. The first end portion 311 is connected to the large diameter portion 20Lb of the second lumen 20L. Specifically, the first end portion 311 is connected to the second lumen 20L via a first opening 311a. The first opening 311a is an opening formed on the inner circumferential surface 20Li of the second lumen 20L. The first opening 311a is circular. The end portion located on the distal side of the first passage 31 is also referred to as the second end portion 312. The second end portion 312 is connected to the small diameter portion 20La of the second lumen 20L. Specifically, the second end portion 312 is connected to the second lumen 20L via a second opening 312a. The second opening 312a is an opening formed on the inner circumferential surface 20Li of the second lumen 20L. The second opening 312a is circular.

[0034] As shown in Fig. 3, the third lumen 31L of the first passage 31 communicates with the second lumen 20L via the first opening 311a and the second opening 312a. In other words, the third lumen 31L communicates with the second lumen 20L via both ends of the first passage 31. The third lumen 31L is a through-hole formed in the hub 20 and is a through-hole separate from the second lumen 20L. The first opening 311a is an entrance from the second lumen 20L to the third lumen 31L. The second opening 312a is an exit from the third lumen 31L to the second lumen 20L.

[0035] The second passage 32 is provided on the side of the second wing portion 25. The second passage 32 is a through-hole extending in the longitudinal direction of the catheter 1, parallel to the second lumen 20L. A fourth lumen 32L is formed inside the second passage 32. The fourth lumen 32L is an internal space extending parallel to the second lumen 20L. As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the fourth lumen 32L has a constant width W32 from the proximal end to the distal end. The width W32 is also referred to as the width of the second passage 32. As shown in FIG. 4, the cross-sectional shape of the fourth lumen 32L is circular. Therefore, the width W32 is synonymous with the inner diameter of the fourth lumen 32L. The width W32 is smaller than the inner diameter Φ20a of the small diameter portion 20La of the second lumen 20L and smaller than the inner diameter Φ20b of the large diameter portion 20Lb of the second lumen 20L. The width W32 is preferably 0.1 mm or more and 0.9 mm or less. The width W32 is more preferably 0.4 mm or more and 0.8 mm or less. The width W32 is the same as the width W31. The width W31 and the width W32 may be different.

[0036] The end located on the proximal side of the second passage 32 is also referred to as the third end 321. The third end 321 is connected to the large diameter portion 20Lb of the second lumen 20L. Specifically, the third end 321 is connected to the second lumen 20L via a third opening 321a. The third opening 321a is an opening formed on the inner circumferential surface 20Li of the second lumen 20L. The third opening 321a is circular. The end located on the distal side of the second passage 32 is also referred to as the fourth end 322. The fourth end 322 is connected to the small diameter portion 20La of the second lumen 20L. Specifically, the fourth end 322 is connected to the second lumen 20L via a fourth opening 322a. The fourth opening 322a is an opening formed on the inner circumferential surface 20Li of the second lumen 20L. The fourth opening 322a is circular.

[0037] 3, the fourth lumen 32L of the second passage 32 communicates with the second lumen 20L via the third opening 321a and the fourth opening 322a. In other words, the fourth lumen 32L communicates with the second lumen 20L via both ends of the second passage 32. The fourth lumen 32L is a through-hole formed in the hub 20 and is a through-hole separate from the second lumen 20L. The third opening 321a is an entrance from the second lumen 20L to the fourth lumen 32L. The fourth opening 322a is an exit from the fourth lumen 32L to the second lumen 20L.

[0038] The first passage 31 and the second passage 32 are provided at the same position in the longitudinal direction. Specifically, the first end 311 of the first passage 31 and the third end 321 of the second passage 32 are at the same position in the longitudinal direction. The second end 312 of the first passage 31 and the fourth end 322 of the second passage 32 are at the same position in the longitudinal direction. In other words, the first opening 311a and the third opening 321a are at the same position in the longitudinal direction. The second opening 312a and the fourth opening 322a are at the same position in the longitudinal direction.

[0039] Fig. 5 is a diagram illustrating the first passage 31 and the second passage 32. Fig. 5 illustrates the second lumen 20L, the first passage 31, and the second passage 32 from the hub 20 shown in Fig. 3. As shown in Figs. 3 and 5, the first passage 31 is curved in an arc shape from the distal end side toward the proximal end side. In other words, when viewed from the -Z axis direction, which is the height direction of the hub 20, the first passage 31 has an arc shape with the central portion widening outward.

[0040] As shown in Figure 5, in a side view in which the curved shape of the first passage 31 can be seen, an imaginary line VL311 drawn from the center of the first end 311 along the proximal portion of the first passage 31 forms an angle θ311 at the distal end of the angle formed between the inner circumferential surface 20Li of the second lumen 20L and the imaginary line VL311 drawn from the center of the first end 311 along the proximal portion of the first passage 31. The angle θ311 is an acute angle. The first passage 31 curves toward the first wing 24 protruding in the +Y-axis direction from the outer circumferential surface of the tubular body. Therefore, the "side view in which the curved shape of the first passage 31 can be seen" refers to a side view from a direction perpendicular to both the X-axis direction, which is the longitudinal direction of the hub 20, and the Y-axis direction, which is the protruding direction of the first wing 24, i.e., the Z-axis direction. In a side view in which the curved shape of the first passage 31 can be seen, the angle formed by an imaginary line VL312 drawn from the center of the second end 312 along the distal portion of the first passage 31 and the inner circumferential surface 20Li of the second lumen 20L is defined as θ312, the angle located on the proximal side. The angle θ312 is an acute angle. Because the angle θ311 is an acute angle, the merging angle from the second lumen 20L to the third lumen 31L can be made gentle at the inlet portion of the first passage 31, which is curved in an arc. Because the angle θ312 is an acute angle, the merging angle from the third lumen 31L to the second lumen 20L can be made gentle at the outlet portion of the first passage 31, which is curved in an arc.

[0041] The second passage 32 curves in an arc shape from the distal end toward the proximal end. In other words, when viewed from the −Z-axis direction, which is the height direction of the hub 20, the second passage 32 has an arc shape with a central portion widening outward. As shown in FIG. 5 , in a side view in which the curved shape of the second passage 32 can be seen, an imaginary line VL321 drawn from the center of the third end 321 along the proximal end portion of the second passage 32 forms an angle θ321 with the inner circumferential surface 20Li of the second lumen 20L, the angle located on the distal side. The angle θ321 is an acute angle. The second passage 32 curves toward the second wing portion 25 protruding from the outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical body in the −Y-axis direction. Therefore, the “side view in which the curved shape of the second passage 32 can be seen” refers to a side view in a direction perpendicular to both the X-axis direction, which is the longitudinal direction of the hub 20, and the Y-axis direction, which is the protruding direction of the second wing portion 25, i.e., the Z-axis direction. In a side view in which the curved shape of the second passage 32 can be seen, the angle formed by an imaginary line VL322 drawn from the center of the fourth end 322 along the distal end portion of the second passage 32 and the inner circumferential surface 20Li of the second lumen 20L is defined as θ322, the angle located on the proximal side. The angle θ322 is an acute angle. Because the angle θ321 is an acute angle, the joining angle from the second lumen 20L to the fourth lumen 32L can be made gentle at the inlet portion of the second passage 32, which is curved in an arc. Because the angle θ322 is an acute angle, the joining angle from the fourth lumen 32L to the second lumen 20L can be made gentle at the outlet portion of the second passage 32, which is curved in an arc.

[0042] FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a guidewire 2 inserted into the lumen of a catheter 1. The guidewire 2 may have a curved shape at its tip 2a as shown in the figure to improve vascular selectivity in complex blood vessels. The guidewire 2 used in combination with the catheter 1 can have various configurations. The curved shape of the tip 2a shown in FIG. 6 is merely an example, and the tip 2a may have any shape.

[0043] 7 to 9 are explanatory diagrams showing an example of a procedure for inserting a guidewire 2 into a catheter 1. The guidewire 2 used is the guidewire 2 described in FIG. 6. The surgeon inserts the distal end portion 2a of the guidewire 2 into the second lumen 20L from the opening on the proximal end side of the hub 20. The distal end portion 2a of the guidewire 2 has a curved shape. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 7, the distal end of the guidewire 2 faces the inner circumferential surface 20Li of the second lumen 20L rather than facing the distal side. Therefore, in a conventional hub that does not have a first passage 31 or a second passage 32, if the guidewire 2 is pushed forward in this state toward the distal end, the distal end portion 2a of the guidewire 2 will bend in a U-shape within the second lumen 20L, preventing it from advancing toward the distal end.

[0044] In this regard, the hub 20 of this embodiment has a first passage 31 and a second passage 32. As shown in FIG. 8, the surgeon pushes the distal end portion 2a of the guidewire 2 from the second lumen 20L through the first opening 311a of the first end 311 of the first passage 31 into the third lumen 31L. At this time, as shown in FIG. 7, the distal end of the guidewire 2 faces the inner circumferential surface 20Li of the second lumen 20L, so the surgeon can smoothly insert the distal end portion 2a of the guidewire 2 into the first opening 311a. The surgeon pushes the guidewire 2 through the first passage 31. The width W31 of the first passage 31 is smaller than the diameter Φ20a of the second lumen 20L. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 8, the curved shape of the distal end portion 2a of the guidewire 2 is corrected along the third lumen 31L, preventing the distal end portion 2a from getting caught. As shown in FIG. 9, the surgeon returns the distal end portion 2a of the guide wire 2 through the second opening 312a of the second end portion 312 of the first passage 31 to the second lumen 20L.

[0045] The surgeon can perform the subsequent PCI procedure while the guidewire 2 remains inserted in the first passage 31 in the state shown in FIG. 9 . The surgeon may advance the guidewire 2 distally from the state shown in FIG. 9 to accommodate the entire guidewire 2 in the second lumen 20L, and then pull back the guidewire 2 within the second lumen 20L, causing a proximal portion of the guidewire 2 to protrude from the hub 20, before performing the PCI procedure. FIGS. 7 to 9 illustrate an example in which the first passage 31 is used. The surgeon may perform a similar operation using the second passage 32 instead of the first passage 31. The surgeon can determine whether to use the first passage 31 or the second passage 32 depending on the orientation of the distal end of the guidewire 2 when inserting the guidewire 2 into the catheter 1. In other words, because the hub 20 has the first passage 31 and the second passage 32 provided at opposing positions, the surgeon does not need to align the orientation of the guidewire 2 with the entrances of the passages.

[0046] As described above, according to the catheter 1 of the first embodiment, the main body 22 of the hub 20 is provided with a first passage 31 having a third lumen 31L, which is an internal space extending parallel to the second lumen 20L, which is the inner cavity of the hub 20. This allows the surgeon to advance the distal end 2a of the guidewire 2 from the second lumen 20L through the proximal end of the first passage 31 to the third lumen 31L of the first passage 31, and then return it from the distal end of the first passage 31 to the second lumen 20L. In other words, the surgeon can deliver the guidewire 2 inside the hub 20 via a route that is different from the route that passes only through the second lumen 20L, i.e., a route that passes through the first passage 31. The same applies to the second passage 32. As a result, the surgeon can select an appropriate route depending on the shape of the distal end 2a of the guidewire 2, thereby improving the usability of the hub 20.

[0047] According to the catheter 1 of the first embodiment, the width W31 of the first passage 31 is smaller than the diameter Φ20a of the second lumen 20L, and therefore the curved shape of the distal end 2a of the guidewire 2 can be corrected by the inner wall of the first passage 31 without using an auxiliary tool such as an inserter. Therefore, when inserting a guidewire 2 having a curved distal end 2a, the surgeon can select a route that passes through the first passage 31, thereby preventing the distal end 2a of the guidewire 2 from bending into a U-shape in the lumen of the hub 20. The same applies to the second passage 32. As a result, the usability of the hub 20 can be further improved.

[0048] According to the catheter 1 of the first embodiment, the first end 311 located on the proximal side of the first passage 31 is connected to the large diameter portion 20Lb. Therefore, the surgeon can easily insert the distal end portion 2a of the guidewire 2 from the first end 311 into the third lumen 31L of the first passage 31. Similarly, the third end 321 located on the proximal side of the second passage 32 is connected to the large diameter portion 20Lb. Therefore, the surgeon can easily insert the distal end portion 2a of the guidewire 2 from the third end 321 into the fourth lumen 32L of the second passage 32.

[0049] According to the catheter 1 of the first embodiment, both the first passage 31 and the second passage 32 are curved in an arc shape from the distal end to the proximal end. Therefore, the catheter 1 of the first embodiment can make it even easier to insert the guidewire 2 compared to a configuration in which the first passage 31 and the second passage 32 are not curved in an arc shape.

[0050] According to the catheter 1 of the first embodiment, the angle θ311 is an acute angle. Therefore, the first passage 31 can be shaped so that the first end 311 located on the proximal side of the first passage 31 branches off gradually from the second lumen 20L. As a result, the surgeon can easily insert the distal end portion 2a of the guidewire 2 from the second lumen 20L into the third lumen 31L on the first end 311 side. Similarly, the angle θ321 is an acute angle. Therefore, the second passage 32 can be shaped so that the third end 321 located on the proximal side of the second passage 32 branches off gradually from the second lumen 20L. As a result, the surgeon can easily insert the distal end portion 2a of the guidewire 2 from the second lumen 20L into the fourth lumen 32L on the third end 321 side.

[0051] According to the catheter 1 of the first embodiment, the angle θ312 is an acute angle. Therefore, the first passage 31 can be shaped so that the second end 312 located on the distal side of the first passage 31 merges gently into the second lumen 20L. As a result, the surgeon can easily return the distal end portion 2a of the guidewire 2 from the third lumen 31L on the second end 312 side to the second lumen 20L. Similarly, the angle θ322 is an acute angle. Therefore, the second passage 32 can be shaped so that the fourth end 322 located on the distal side of the second passage 32 merges gently into the second lumen 20L. As a result, the surgeon can easily return the distal end portion 2a of the guidewire 2 from the fourth lumen 32L on the fourth end 322 side to the second lumen 20L.

[0052] According to the catheter 1 of the first embodiment, the first passage 31 is a through-hole formed inside the main body 22, and therefore the first passage 31 can be a third lumen 31L independent of the second lumen 20L. Similarly, the second passage 32 is a through-hole formed inside the main body 22, and therefore the second passage 32 can be a fourth lumen 32L independent of the second lumen 20L.

[0053] The phenomenon in which the tip end of the guidewire 2 gets caught on the inner circumferential surface 20Li of the hub 20 occurs particularly noticeably in a guidewire 2 having a small outer diameter. In order to obtain the straightening effect of the tip end of the guidewire 2 by the first passage 31 and the second passage 32, the widths W31, W32 of the first passage 31 and the second passage 32 are preferably not less than one time and not more than two times the outer diameter of the guidewire 2. In this regard, according to the catheter 1 of the first embodiment, the widths W31, W32 of the first passage 31 and the second passage 32 are not less than 0.1 mm and not more than 0.9 mm. Therefore, it is possible to provide the first passage 31 and the second passage 32 through which a relatively thin guidewire 2 having an outer diameter of 0.1 mm to 0.45 mm can be inserted and which can obtain the straightening effect of the tip end of the guidewire 2.

[0054] According to the catheter 1 of the first embodiment, the widths W31, W32 of the first passage 31 and the second passage 32 are 0.4 mm or more and 0.8 mm or less. Therefore, it is possible to provide the first passage 31 and the second passage 32 that allow easy insertion of a relatively thin guidewire 2 having an outer diameter of 0.1 mm to 0.45 mm and that can achieve the effect of straightening the distal end of the guidewire 2.

[0055] In this way, the hub 20 has the first wing 24 and the second wing 25, which makes it easier for the surgeon to grasp the hub 20 compared to a configuration without wings. When inserting a guidewire into the catheter 1, the surgeon can easily fix the orientation of the hub 20 by grasping the first wing 24 and the second wing 25 of the hub 20. The passages 31, 32 provided inside the wings 24, 25 make it easy for the surgeon to grasp the position of the passages.

[0056] Second Embodiment 10 is an enlarged view of a hub 20A of the second embodiment. The catheter 1A of the second embodiment has a hub 20A instead of the hub 20 in the configuration described in the first embodiment. The hub 20A has an intermediate section 22A instead of the intermediate section 22 in the configuration described in the first embodiment. Only the first passage 31 is provided inside the intermediate section 22A, and the second passage 32 described in the first embodiment is not provided. The details of the first passage 31 are the same as those in the first embodiment.

[0057] As described above, the configuration of the hub 20A can be modified in various ways, and the hub 20A may be provided with only one first passage 31. The second embodiment as described above can also achieve the same effects as the first embodiment. According to the second embodiment, the configuration of the hub 20A can be simplified, and the manufacturing cost of the hub 20A can be reduced.

[0058] Third Embodiment Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view of a hub 20B of the third embodiment taken along line AA in Figure 3. The catheter 1B of the third embodiment includes a hub 20B instead of the hub 20 in the configuration described in the first embodiment. The hub 20B has an intermediate portion 22B instead of the intermediate portion 22 in the configuration described in the first embodiment. Inside the intermediate portion 22B, a first passage 31B is provided instead of the first passage 31, and a second passage 32B is provided instead of the second passage 32.

[0059] A third lumen 31LB is formed inside the first passage 31B. The cross-sectional shape of the third lumen 31LB is elliptical. The width W31B of the third lumen 31LB is the diameter of an imaginary circle VC1 inscribed in the third lumen 31LB in the cross-section. The width W31B of the third lumen 31LB is smaller than the inner diameter Φ20a of the small diameter portion 20La of the second lumen 20L and smaller than the inner diameter Φ20b of the large diameter portion 20Lb of the second lumen 20L. A fourth lumen 32LB is formed inside the second passage 32B. The cross-sectional shape of the fourth lumen 32LB is elliptical. The width W32B of the fourth lumen 32LB is the diameter of an imaginary circle VC2 inscribed in the fourth lumen 32LB in the cross-section. The width W32B of the fourth lumen 32LB is smaller than the inner diameter Φ20a of the small diameter portion 20La of the second lumen 20L and smaller than the inner diameter Φ20b of the large diameter portion 20Lb of the second lumen 20L. The width W32B is the same as the width W31B. The width W31B and the width W32B may be different. Other configurations of the first passage 31B and the second passage 32B not described above are the same as those in the first embodiment.

[0060] As described above, the configuration of the hub 20B can be modified in various ways, and the cross-sectional shape of at least one of the third lumen 31LB and the fourth lumen 32LB may be non-circular. The cross-sectional shape of at least one of the third lumen 31LB and the fourth lumen 32LB can be any shape, such as a rectangular or polygonal shape. When the cross-sectional shape is non-circular, the width of the passage can be the diameter of an imaginary circle inscribed in the internal space of the passage in the cross section. The third embodiment as described above can also achieve the same effects as the first embodiment.

[0061] <Fourth embodiment> 12 is an enlarged view of a hub 20C of the fourth embodiment. A catheter 1C of the fourth embodiment includes a hub 20C instead of the hub 20 in the configuration described in the first embodiment. The hub 20C has an intermediate portion 22C instead of the intermediate portion 22 in the configuration described in the first embodiment. A second passage 32C is provided inside the intermediate portion 22C instead of the second passage 32 in the configuration described in the first embodiment.

[0062] The second passage 32C is provided relatively closer to the base end than the first passage 31. Specifically, a third end 321C of the second passage 32C is located closer to the base end than the first end 311 of the first passage 31 in the longitudinal direction. A fourth end 322 of the second passage 32C is located closer to the base end than the second end 312 of the first passage 31 in the longitudinal direction. Other configurations of the second passage 32C not described above are the same as those in the first embodiment.

[0063] As described above, the configuration of the hub 20C can be modified in various ways, and the first passage 31 and the second passage 32C may have different configurations. FIG. 12 illustrates a case in which the first passage 31 and the second passage 32C have different arrangements. However, the first passage 31 and the second passage 32C may differ from each other in any one of the width and the shape of the passage. The fourth embodiment as described above can also achieve the same effects as the first embodiment. According to the fourth embodiment, different passages 31 and 32C can be provided depending on the performance required of the hub 20C and the guidewire 2 to be used with the catheter 1. By differentiating the arrangement of the passages as shown in FIG. 12, a hub 20C can be provided that allows entry into the passages at an insertion depth according to the surgeon's preference. By differentiating the width of the passages, a hub 20C can be provided that allows selection of a passage depending on the thickness of the guidewire 2.

[0064] Fifth Embodiment Fig. 13 is an enlarged view of a hub 20D of the fifth embodiment. The right-hand outlet of Fig. 13 illustrates the inner circumferential surface 20Li and the first opening 311aD as viewed from the axis O. The left-hand outlet of Fig. 13 illustrates the inner circumferential surface 20Li and the second opening 312a as viewed from the axis O. A catheter 1D of the fifth embodiment includes a hub 20D instead of the hub 20 in the configuration described in the first embodiment. The hub 20D has an intermediate portion 22D instead of the intermediate portion 22 in the configuration described in the first embodiment. A first passage 31D is provided inside the intermediate portion 22D instead of the first passage 31, and a second passage 32D is provided instead of the second passage 32.

[0065] A third lumen 31LD is formed inside the first passage 31D. The cross-sectional shape of the third lumen 31LD is circular throughout. The third lumen 31LD gradually widens from the distal end toward the proximal end. Therefore, the width W31Db of the third lumen 31LD at the proximal end is larger than the width W31Da at the distal end. In other words, the first opening 311aD of the first passage 31D is larger than the second opening 312a. The width W31Da of the first passage 31D is preferably 0.1 mm or more and 0.9 mm or less. The width W31Da is more preferably 0.4 mm or more and 0.8 mm or less. A fourth lumen 32LD is formed inside the second passage 32D. The cross-sectional shape of the fourth lumen 32LD is circular throughout. The fourth lumen 32LD gradually widens from the distal end toward the proximal end. Therefore, the width of the fourth lumen 32LD at the proximal end is larger than the width at the distal end. The width of the fourth lumen 32LD at the distal end is preferably 0.1 mm or more and 0.9 mm or less, and more preferably 0.4 mm or more and 0.8 mm or less. In other words, the third opening 321aD of the second passage 32D is larger than the fourth opening 322a. Other configurations of the first passage 31D and the second passage 32D not described above are the same as those in the first embodiment.

[0066] As described above, the configuration of the hub 20D can be modified in various ways, and at least one of the first passage 31D and the second passage 32D may have an internal space that gradually expands from the distal end toward the proximal end. The fifth embodiment as described above can also achieve the same effects as the first embodiment. According to the fifth embodiment, the first opening 311aD, which is the entrance from the second lumen 20L to the third lumen 31LD, can be enlarged, making it easier for the surgeon to insert the guidewire 2 from the second lumen 20L into the third lumen 31LD. Similarly, the third opening 321aD, which is the entrance from the second lumen 20L to the fourth lumen 32LD, can be enlarged, making it easier for the surgeon to insert the guidewire 2 from the second lumen 20L into the fourth lumen 32LD.

[0067] Sixth Embodiment Fig. 14 is an enlarged view of a hub 20E of the sixth embodiment. Fig. 15 is a cross-sectional view of the hub 20E taken along line BB in Fig. 14. A catheter 1E of the sixth embodiment includes a hub 20E instead of the hub 20 in the configuration described in the first embodiment. The hub 20E has an intermediate portion 22E instead of the intermediate portion 22 in the configuration described in the first embodiment. Inside the intermediate portion 22E, a first passage 31E is provided instead of the first passage 31, and a second passage 32E is provided instead of the second passage 32 in the configuration described in the first embodiment.

[0068] The first passage 31E is an arc-shaped groove extending in the longitudinal direction of the catheter 1E alongside the second lumen 20L. As shown in FIG. 15, the first passage 31E has a wide portion 315 and a narrow portion 316. The wide portion 315 is an internal space with a circular cross section. The narrow portion 316 is an internal space with a rectangular cross section that connects the wide portion 315 and the second lumen 20L. In this embodiment, the internal spaces of the wide portion 315 and the narrow portion 316 are collectively referred to as the third lumen 31LE. The width W31E of the third lumen 31LE is the linear distance from the end of the wide portion 315 to the end of the narrow portion 316. As shown in FIG. 14, one end of the narrow portion 316 is connected to the second lumen 20L throughout its entire length from the proximal end to the distal end. Therefore, the third lumen 31LE can be considered a groove formed in the inner circumferential surface 20Li of the second lumen 20L. The third lumen 31LE is in communication with the second lumen 20L over the entire length from the proximal end to the distal end. As shown in FIG. 14, the third lumen 31LE has a semicircular cross section. Therefore, the narrow width portion 316 is not provided at the positions of the first end 311 and the second end 312. The length of the narrow width portion 316 in the Y-axis direction increases from the end of the third lumen 31LE toward the center.

[0069] The second passage 32E is an arc-shaped groove extending in the longitudinal direction of the catheter 1E alongside the second lumen 20L. As shown in FIG. 15, the second passage 32E has a wide portion 325 and a narrow portion 326. The wide portion 325 is an internal space with a circular cross section. The narrow portion 326 is an internal space with a rectangular cross section that connects the wide portion 325 and the second lumen 20L. In this embodiment, the internal spaces of the wide portion 325 and the narrow portion 326 are collectively referred to as the fourth lumen 32LE. The width W32E of the fourth lumen 32LE is the linear distance from the end of the wide portion 325 to the end of the narrow portion 326. As shown in FIG. 14, one end of the narrow portion 326 is connected to the second lumen 20L throughout its entire length from the proximal end to the distal end. For this reason, the fourth lumen 32LE can be considered a groove formed in the inner circumferential surface 20Li of the second lumen 20L. The fourth lumen 32LE is in communication with the second lumen 20L over the entire length from the proximal end to the distal end. As shown in FIG. 14, the fourth lumen 32LE has a semicircular cross-sectional shape. For this reason, the narrow width portion 326 is not provided at the positions of the third end 321 and the fourth end 322. The length of the narrow width portion 326 in the Y-axis direction increases from the end of the fourth lumen 32LE toward the center.

[0070] As described above, the configuration of the hub 20E can be modified in various ways, and at least one of the first passage 31E and the second passage 32E may be configured as an arc-shaped groove. The sixth embodiment described above also achieves the same effects as the first embodiment. According to the hub 20E of the sixth embodiment, the first passage 31E and the second passage 32E can be configured as grooves communicating with the second lumen 20L. This allows the hub 20E to be configured so that fluid injected into the second lumen 20L can easily flow into the first passage 31E and the second passage 32E. Therefore, when the surgeon injects saline or a medicine into the hub 20E, the injected saline or medicine easily reaches the passages 31E and 32E from the second lumen 20L. As a result, the hub 20E can be configured to be easy to clean.

[0071] Seventh Embodiment Figure 16 is an enlarged view of a hub 20F of the seventh embodiment. Figure 17 is a cross-sectional view of the hub 20F taken along line CC in Figure 16. A catheter 1F of the seventh embodiment includes a hub 20F instead of the hub 20 in the configuration described in the first embodiment. The hub 20F has an intermediate portion 22F instead of the intermediate portion 22 in the configuration described in the first embodiment. Inside the intermediate portion 22F, a first passage 31F is provided instead of the first passage 31, and a second passage 32F is provided instead of the second passage 32 in the configuration described in the first embodiment.

[0072] The first passage 31F is a linear groove extending in the longitudinal direction of the catheter 1F alongside the second lumen 20L. A third lumen 31LF is formed inside the first passage 31F. As shown in FIG. 17, the third lumen 31LF is an internal space extending alongside the second lumen 20L and having a deformed rectangular cross section. In the illustrated example, the deformed rectangular shape is a rectangle in which a pair of sides facing each other in the Y-axis direction are each arc-shaped and curved outward. The width W31F of the third lumen 31LF is the linear distance from the end of the third lumen 31LF to the second lumen 20L. As shown in FIG. 16, one end of the third lumen 31LF is connected to the second lumen 20L throughout its entire length from the proximal end to the distal end. Therefore, the third lumen 31LF can be considered a groove formed in the inner circumferential surface 20Li of the second lumen 20L. The third lumen 31LF is in communication with the second lumen 20L throughout its entire length from the proximal end to the distal end. 16, the width W31F of the third lumen 31LF gradually decreases from the distal end toward the proximal end at the position of the first end 311. The width W31F of the third lumen 31LF gradually increases from the distal end toward the proximal end at the position of the second end 312.

[0073] The second passage 32F is a linear groove extending in the longitudinal direction of the catheter 1F alongside the second lumen 20L. A fourth lumen 32LF is formed inside the second passage 32F. As shown in FIG. 17, the fourth lumen 32LF is an internal space extending alongside the second lumen 20L and having a deformed rectangular cross section. In the illustrated example, the deformed rectangular shape is a rectangle in which a pair of sides facing each other in the Y-axis direction are each arc-shaped and curved outward. The width W32F of the fourth lumen 32LF is the linear distance from the end of the fourth lumen 32LF to the second lumen 20L. As shown in FIG. 16, one end of the fourth lumen 32LF is connected to the second lumen 20L throughout its entire length from the proximal end to the distal end. Therefore, the fourth lumen 32LF can be considered a groove formed in the inner circumferential surface 20Li of the second lumen 20L. The fourth lumen 32LF is in communication with the second lumen 20L throughout its entire length from the proximal end to the distal end. 16, the width W32F of the fourth lumen 32LF gradually decreases from the distal end toward the proximal end at the position of the third end 321. The width W32F of the fourth lumen 32LF gradually increases from the distal end toward the proximal end at the position of the fourth end 322.

[0074] As described above, the configuration of the hub 20F can be modified in various ways, and at least one of the first passage 31F and the second passage 32F may be configured as a linear groove. The seventh embodiment as described above can also achieve the same effects as the first embodiment. According to the hub 20F of the seventh embodiment, the first passage 31F and the second passage 32F can be configured as grooves that communicate with the second lumen 20L. This allows the hub 20F to be configured in such a way that fluid injected into the second lumen 20L can easily flow into the first passage 31F and the second passage 32F. As a result, the hub 20F can be configured to be easy to clean.

[0075] Eighth Embodiment Figure 18 is a cross-sectional view of a hub 20G of the eighth embodiment taken along line AA in Figure 3. The catheter 1G of the eighth embodiment includes a hub 20G instead of the hub 20 in the configuration described in the first embodiment. The hub 20G has an intermediate portion 22G instead of the intermediate portion 22 in the configuration described in the first embodiment.

[0076] The middle section 22G is a section that further has a third blade section 26 and a fourth blade section 27 in addition to the first blade section 24 and the second blade section 25 described in the first embodiment. The third blade section 26 and the fourth blade section 27 are provided in opposing positions on the outer peripheral surface of the cylindrical body. The third blade section 26 protrudes from the outer peripheral surface of the cylindrical body in the -Z axis direction. The fourth blade section 27 protrudes from the outer peripheral surface of the cylindrical body in the +Z axis direction. As shown in the figure, the third blade section 26 is located 90 degrees counterclockwise from the first blade section 24. In other words, the third blade section 26 is located between the first blade section 24 and the second blade section 25. The fourth blade section 27 is located 90 degrees clockwise from the first blade section 24. In other words, the fourth blade portion 27 is located between the first blade portion 24 and the second blade portion 25. The first to fourth blade portions 24 to 27 are arranged at equal intervals on the outer circumferential surface of the main body portion of the hub 20G.

[0077] In addition to the first passage 31 and second passage 32 described in the first embodiment, a third passage 33 and a fourth passage 34 are provided inside the intermediate section 22G. The third passage 33 is provided on the side of the third wing portion 26. The third passage 33 is a through-hole extending in the longitudinal direction of the catheter 1G, parallel to the second lumen 20L. A fifth lumen 33L is formed inside the third passage 33. The fifth lumen 33L is an internal space extending parallel to the second lumen 20L. The fifth lumen 33L communicates with the second lumen 20L. Both ends of the third passage 33 are connected to the second lumen 20L. The fifth lumen 33L has a constant width W33 from the proximal end to the distal end. The width W33 is also referred to as the width of the third passage 33. The cross-sectional shape of the fifth lumen 33L is circular. The width W33 is smaller than the inner diameter Φ20a of the small diameter portion 20La of the second lumen 20L, and smaller than the inner diameter Φ20b of the large diameter portion 20Lb of the second lumen 20L.

[0078] The fourth passage 34 is provided on the side of the fourth wing portion 27. The fourth passage 34 is a through-hole extending in the longitudinal direction of the catheter 1G, parallel to the second lumen 20L. A sixth lumen 34L is formed inside the fourth passage 34. The sixth lumen 34L is an internal space extending parallel to the second lumen 20L. The sixth lumen 34L communicates with the second lumen 20L. Both ends of the fourth passage 34 are connected to the second lumen 20L. The sixth lumen 34L has a constant width W34 from the proximal end to the distal end. The width W34 is also referred to as the width of the fourth passage 34. The cross-sectional shape of the sixth lumen 34L is circular. The width W34 is smaller than the inner diameter Φ20a of the small diameter portion 20La of the second lumen 20L and smaller than the inner diameter Φ20b of the large diameter portion 20Lb of the second lumen 20L. Other configurations of the third passage 33 and the fourth passage 34 are similar to those of the first passage 31.

[0079] As described above, the configuration of the hub 20G can be modified in various ways, and it may have three or more blades or three or more passages. For example, in the first and eighth embodiments, the number of blades and the number of passages are the same. The number of blades and the number of passages may differ. For example, multiple passages may be located on the side of one blade. For example, some blades may not include a passage. The eighth embodiment as described above can also achieve the same effects as the first embodiment. According to the eighth embodiment, the surgeon can select an appropriate path depending on either the curved shape of the guidewire tip end or the orientation of the guidewire tip end relative to the entrance of the passage. This further improves the usability of the hub 20G.

[0080] Ninth Embodiment FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view of a hub 20H of the ninth embodiment taken along line AA in FIG. 3. The catheter 1H of the ninth embodiment includes a hub 20H instead of the hub 20 described in the first embodiment. The hub 20H includes an intermediate section 22H instead of the intermediate section 22 described in the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 19, the intermediate section 22H is formed solely from a cylindrical body and does not include the first wing section 24 and the second wing section 25 described in the first embodiment. A first passage 31H and a second passage 32H are provided within the thick-walled portion inside the intermediate section 22H. As shown in FIG. 19, the first passage 31H and the second passage 32H extend in opposite directions. The other configurations of the first passage 31H and the second passage 32H are the same as those described in the first embodiment.

[0081] As described above, the configuration of the hub 20H can be modified in various ways, and the hub 20H may have an intermediate portion 22H without blades, with the first passage 31H and the second passage 32H provided inside the intermediate portion 22H. The number of passages formed inside the intermediate portion 22H can be any number equal to or greater than one. The outer shape of the intermediate portion 22H is not limited to the cylindrical shape shown as an example, and may be any shape, such as a rectangular tube. The ninth embodiment as described above can also achieve the same effects as the first embodiment. According to the ninth embodiment, the hub 20H can be made smaller, thereby improving the usability of the hub.

[0082] Tenth Embodiment Figure 20 is a cross-sectional view of a hub 20I of the tenth embodiment taken along line AA in Figure 3. The catheter 1I of the tenth embodiment includes a hub 20I instead of the hub 20 in the configuration described in the first embodiment. The main body of the hub 20I further has a protrusion 28 in the configuration described in the first embodiment.

[0083] The protrusion 28 is a portion that protrudes radially outward from the intermediate section 22. In the example of FIG. 20, the protrusion 28 is located on the outer peripheral surface of the intermediate section 22, at a position 90 degrees clockwise from the first wing 24, and protrudes in the +Z-axis direction. In other words, the protrusion 28 is located between the first wing 24 and the second wing 25. The outer shape of the protrusion 28 is a quadrangular prism with rounded corners on the outer sides. The length of the protrusion 28 in the longitudinal direction of the catheter 1I can be determined arbitrarily. For example, the length of the protrusion 28 in the longitudinal direction of the catheter 1I may be the same as or shorter than the length of the intermediate section 22.

[0084] As described above, the configuration of the hub 20I can be modified in various ways, and the hub 20I may have a configuration including a protrusion 28. In the illustrated example, the protrusion 28 may be located 90 degrees counterclockwise from the first blade 24. The protrusion 28 may be provided on the tip end 21 or the middle portion 22, rather than on the middle portion 22. The protrusion 28 may be provided on the tip end 21 or the middle portion 22 in addition to the middle portion 22. The hub 20I may be provided with multiple protrusions 28. The tenth embodiment as described above can also achieve the same effects as the first embodiment. According to the tenth embodiment, the surgeon can grip the protrusion 28 to operate the hub 20I, thereby further improving the usability of the hub 20I.

[0085] Eleventh Embodiment Figure 21 is an enlarged view of a hub 20J of the eleventh embodiment. Figure 22 is a cross-sectional view of the hub 20J taken along line DD in Figure 21. A catheter 1J of the eleventh embodiment includes a hub 20J instead of the hub 20 in the configuration described in the first embodiment. The main body of the hub 20J further includes a protrusion 29 in the configuration described in the first embodiment.

[0086] The protruding portion 29 is a portion of the outer peripheral surface of the intermediate portion 22 that protrudes radially outward. As shown in FIG. 22 , the outer shape of the protruding portion 29 is a shape that is an enlarged version of the outer shape of the intermediate portion 22, including the first wing portion 24 and the second wing portion 25. The length of the protruding portion 29 in the longitudinal direction of the catheter 1J can be determined arbitrarily. In the example of FIG. 21 , the length of the protruding portion 29 is approximately the same as the lengths of the first passage 31 and the second passage 32. This allows the surgeon to grasp the hub 20J by hooking their fingers on the step formed between the intermediate portion 22 and the protruding portion 29. The length of the protruding portion 29 may be longer or shorter than the length of the first passage 31.

[0087] As described above, the configuration of the hub 20J can be modified in various ways, and the hub 20J may have a protrusion 29. FIGS. 21 and 22 show an example of the outer shape of the protrusion 29. The outer shape of the protrusion 29 can be determined arbitrarily, and may be a cylindrical shape, a rectangular prism shape, a polygonal prism shape, or the like. The protrusion 29 may be provided on the distal end portion 21 or the intermediate portion 22, rather than on the intermediate portion 22. The protrusion 29 may be provided on the distal end portion 21 or the intermediate portion 22 in addition to the intermediate portion 22. The eleventh embodiment as described above can also achieve the same effects as the first embodiment. According to the eleventh embodiment, the surgeon can operate the hub 20J by grasping the protrusion 29 or the step between the intermediate portion 22 and the protrusion 29, thereby further improving the usability of the hub 20J.

[0088] <Twelfth embodiment> FIG. 23 is an enlarged view of a hub 20K of the twelfth embodiment. FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional view of the hub 20K taken along line EE in FIG. 23. A catheter 1K of the twelfth embodiment has a first passage 31K instead of the first passage 31 and a second passage 32K instead of the second passage 32 in the configuration described in the eleventh embodiment. As shown in FIG. 24, the first passage 31K is provided inside the intermediate section 22 and the protruding section 29. In other words, a portion of the first passage 31K is disposed inside the protruding section 29. Similarly, the second passage 32K is provided inside the intermediate section 22 and the protruding section 29. In other words, a portion of the second passage 32K is disposed inside the protruding section 29. Other configurations of the first passage 31K and the second passage 32 not described above are the same as those of the first embodiment.

[0089] As described above, the configuration of the hub 20K can be modified in various ways, and portions of the first passage 31K and the second passage 32K may be disposed inside the protruding portion 29. FIG. 24 shows an example in which portions of the first passage 31K and the second passage 32K are disposed inside the protruding portion 29. The entire first passage 31K and the entire second passage 32K may be disposed inside the protruding portion 29. In this case, the thickness of the protruding portion 29 may be a thickness that can include the entire first passage 31K and the entire second passage 32K. The twelfth embodiment as described above can also achieve the same effects as the first and eleventh embodiments. According to the twelfth embodiment, the degree of freedom in arranging the first passage 31K and the second passage 32K in the hub 20K is improved.

[0090] <Modification of this embodiment> The present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and can be implemented in various forms without departing from the spirit thereof. For example, the following modifications are also possible.

[0091] [Variation 1] The first to twelfth embodiments described above illustrate exemplary configurations of the catheters 1, 1A-1K. The configuration of the catheters 1, 1A-1K can be modified in various ways. For example, the catheter 1 may not include the marker 19 described in FIG. 1. For example, the catheter 1 may be configured as a multi-lumen catheter. For example, the catheter 1 may include a shaft 10 having a configuration different from that described in FIG. 2. For example, the shaft 10 may not include the braided body 102. For example, the shaft 10 may not include the liner 103. For example, the shaft 10 may further include a coating layer that covers the outer circumferential surface of the shaft 10 and improves the slidability of the catheter 1 within a biological lumen. For example, the shaft 10 may further include a coating layer that covers the inner circumferential surface of the shaft 10 and improves the slidability of a combined device in the first lumen 10L. The coating layer may be formed of either a hydrophilic resin or a hydrophobic resin.

[0092] [Variation 2] The first to twelfth embodiments described above illustrate one example of the configuration of the hubs 20, 20A to 20K. The configuration of the hubs 20, 20A to 20K can be modified in various ways. For example, the number of passages formed inside the main body of the hub 20 can be any number equal to or greater than one. For example, at least a portion of the first passage 31 and the second passage 32 may be disposed inside the distal end portion 21 or the proximal end portion 23. For example, at least one of the width W31 of the first passage 31 and the width W32 of the second passage 32 may be the same as the inner diameter Φ20a of the second lumen 20L or may be larger than the inner diameter Φ20a of the second lumen 20L. For example, at least one of the angles θ311 and θ312 of the first passage 31 and the angles θ321 and θ322 of the second passage 32 may not be an acute angle.

[0093] For example, the shapes of first wing 24 and second wing 25 may be changed as appropriate. For example, the outer shape of intermediate section 22 is not limited to the exemplified cylindrical shape, and may be any shape such as a prismatic or polygonal prism. For example, second lumen 20L may not have small diameter section 20La and large diameter section 20Lb, and may have the same inner diameter throughout the entire longitudinal direction of catheter 1.

[0094] [Variation 3] The hubs 20, 20A to 20K of the first to twelfth embodiments and the hubs 20, 20A to 20K of the first and second modifications may be combined as appropriate. For example, in any of the embodiments other than the second embodiment, the single passage described in the second embodiment may be employed. For example, in any of the embodiments other than the third embodiment, the passage having a non-circular cross section described in the third embodiment may be employed. For example, in any of the embodiments other than the fourth embodiment, the multiple passages with different arrangements described in the fourth embodiment may be employed. For example, in any of the embodiments other than the fifth embodiment, the passage with a large inlet described in the fifth embodiment may be employed. For example, in any of the embodiments other than the sixth embodiment, the groove-shaped passage described in the sixth embodiment may be employed. For example, in any of the embodiments other than the seventh embodiment, the groove-shaped passage described in the seventh embodiment may be employed. For example, in any of the embodiments other than the eighth embodiment, the configuration having three or more blades described in the eighth embodiment may be employed. For example, in any of the embodiments other than the ninth embodiment, the configuration without blades described in the ninth embodiment may be employed. For example, in any of the embodiments other than the tenth embodiment, the configuration having the protruding portion 28 described in the tenth embodiment may be employed. For example, in any of the embodiments other than the eleventh embodiment, the configuration having the protruding portion 29 described in the eleventh embodiment may be employed. For example, in any of the embodiments other than the twelfth embodiment, the configuration having the passage in the protruding portion 29 described in the twelfth embodiment may be employed.

[0095] This aspect has been described above based on embodiments and modifications. The above-described embodiments of the aspect are intended to facilitate understanding of this aspect and are not intended to limit this aspect. This aspect may be modified or improved without departing from the spirit and scope of the claims, and equivalents thereof are included in this aspect. If a technical feature is not described as essential in this specification, it may be deleted as appropriate.

Claims

1. A catheter (1, 1A to 1K), a shaft (10) having a first lumen (10L); A hub (20, 20A to 20K) is provided on the proximal end side of the shaft (10), and includes a main body (21, 22, 22A to 22H, 23) to which the proximal end of the shaft (10) is connected, and a second lumen (20L) formed inside the main body (21, 22, 22A to 22H, 23) and communicating with the first lumen (10L), and an internal space (31L) extending parallel to the second lumen (20L) is formed inside the main body (21, 22, 22A to 22H, 23). a hub (20, 20A to 20K) in which passages (31, 31B, 31D to 31F, 31H, 31K) having passages (31, 31B, 31D to 31F, 31H, 31LF) are provided, at least both ends of the passages (31, 31B, 31D to 31F, 31H, 31K) are connected to the second lumen (20L), and the internal space (31L, 31LB to 31LF) is in communication with the second lumen (20L) via at least both ends of the passages (31, 31B, 31D to 31F, 31H, 31K); A catheter (1, 1A to 1K) comprising:

2. A catheter (1, 1A to 1K) according to claim 1, The catheter (1, 1A to 1K), wherein the width of the passage (31, 31B, 31D to 31F, 31H, 31K) is smaller than the diameter of the second lumen (20L).

3. A catheter (1, 1A to 1K) according to claim 1 or claim 2, The second lumen (20L) is a large diameter portion (20Lb) located on the proximal end side of the second lumen (20L) and having a relatively large inner diameter; a small diameter portion (20La) located at the distal end side of the second lumen (20L) and having a relatively small inner diameter; a first end portion (311) located on the base end side of the passage (31, 31B, 31D to 31F, 31H, 31K) is connected to the large diameter portion (20Lb); A catheter (1, 1A to 1K) in which a second end (312) located on the distal side of the passage (31, 31B, 31D to 31F, 31H, 31K) is connected to the small diameter portion (20La).

4. A catheter (1, 1A to 1E, 1G to 1K) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, The passage (31, 31B, 31D, 31E, 31H, 31K) is curved in an arc shape from the distal end side toward the proximal end side of the catheter (1, 1A to 1E, 1G to 1K).

5. A catheter (1, 1A to 1K) according to claim 4, In a side view in which the curved shape of the passage (31, 31B, 31D to 31F, 31H, 31K) can be confirmed, The catheters (1, 1A to 1K) have an angle formed by an imaginary line drawn from the center of the first end (311) located on the base end side of the passage (31, 31B, 31D to 31F, 31H, 31K) along the base end portion of the passage (31, 31B, 31D to 31F, 31H, 31K) and the inner circumferential surface (20Li) of the second lumen (20L), and the angle located on the tip end side is an acute angle.

6. A catheter (1, 1A to 1K) according to claim 4 or claim 5, In a side view in which the curved shape of the passage (31, 31B, 31D to 31F, 31H, 31K) can be confirmed, Of the angles formed by an imaginary line drawn from the center of the second end (312) located on the distal side of the passage (31, 31B, 31D to 31F, 31H, 31K) along the distal portion of the passage (31, 31B, 31D to 31F, 31H, 31K) and the inner surface (20Li) of the second lumen (20L), the angle located on the proximal side is an acute angle.

7. A catheter (1, 1A to 1D, 1G to 1K) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, the passages (31, 31B, 31D, 31H, 31K) are third lumens formed inside the main body portions (21, 22, 22A to 22D, 22G, 22H, 23), both ends of the passage (31, 31B, 31D, 31H, 31K) are connected to the second lumen (20L) via openings formed in the inner circumferential surface of the second lumen (20L); The internal space (31L, 31LB to 31LD) communicates with the second lumen (20L) through the opening.

8. A catheter (1E, 1F) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, the passages (31E, 31F) are grooves formed on the inner circumferential surface of the second lumen (20L), The internal spaces (31LE, 31LF) communicate with the second lumen (20L) throughout the entire passages (31E, 31F), The width of the passage (31E, 31F) is the width of the groove portion.

9. A catheter (1, 1A to 1K) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, The catheter (1, 1A to 1K) has a width of the passage (31, 31B, 31D to 31F, 31H, 31K) of 0.1 mm or more and 0.9 mm or less.

10. A catheter (1, 1A to 1K) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, The catheter (1, 1A to 1K) has a width of the passage (31, 31B, 31D to 31F, 31H, 31K) of 0.4 mm or more and 0.8 mm or less.

11. A catheter (1, 1A to 1G, 1I to 1K) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, The catheter (1, 1A to 1G, 1I to 1K) further includes two or more wing portions (24, 25, 26, 27) that protrude radially outward from the main body portion (21, 22, 22A to 22G, 23) and are provided at equal intervals on the outer peripheral surface of the main body portion (21, 22, 22A to 22G, 23).

12. A catheter (1, 1A to 1G, 1I to 1K) according to claim 11, At least a portion of the passage (31, 31B, 31D to 31F, 31K) is disposed inside the wing portion (24, 25, 26, 27).

13. A catheter (1I to 1K) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, The catheter (1I to 1K) further includes a main body (21, 22, 23) having protrusions (28, 29) protruding radially outward.

14. A catheter (1K) according to claim 13, A catheter (1K) wherein at least a portion of the passage (31K) is disposed inside the protrusion (29).

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