Intravenous cannula

Abstract

An intravenous cannula apparatus configured to prevent blood reflux and needle stick injuries includes a catheter assembly and a needle guard assembly. The catheter assembly includes a hub having a coaxial recess and a valve member disposed therein. The valve member is cylindrical and includes a distal face having slits that collectively define prongs configured to open and close upon passage of a needle. The cannula apparatus configured to prevent needle stick injuries includes a safety release component at a distal end of the needle guard assembly. The safety release component includes a movable locking element configured to fit within an annular groove defined by a proximal portion of the hub upon movement of the needle through the safety release component. Proximal retraction of the needle through the safety release component displaces the movable locking element from the annular groove, thereby decoupling the catheter assembly from the needle guard assembly.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 592,805, entitled "INTRAVENUS CANNULA," filed on February 4, 2022, which in turn claims priority to Indian Patent Application No. 202211002361, entitled "INTRAVENUS CANNULA," filed on January 14, 2022, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for all purposes. [Technical field]

[0002] The present disclosure relates to medical devices. Embodiments include an venous cannula configured to prevent needle stick injuries. Embodiments also include an venous cannula configured to prevent unintended backflow of blood. Embodiments also include an venous cannula with an improved catheter coupling and release mechanism configured to facilitate reliable and safe disengagement of a catheter assembly from a needle guard assembly after placement of a distal end of the catheter assembly within a target blood vessel. [Background technology]

[0003] Intravenous cannulas are used to inject and / or withdraw fluids, such as medications, nutrients, or blood, directly into and / or from a patient's blood vessels. Intravenous cannulas typically include a catheter assembly and a needle insertion or protection assembly. A distal portion of a catheter tube contained within the catheter assembly can be introduced into the blood vessel using a needle, after which the cannula can be secured to the patient's skin with an adhesive, which may be, for example, tape. The catheter tube contained within such devices generally defines a lumen dimensioned to accommodate the insertion and retraction therethrough of a disposable hollow bore needle. For this reason, the device is sometimes referred to as an over-the-needle cannula.

[0004] Once the distal portion of the catheter is inserted into the patient's vasculature, a disposable needle passing through the catheter extends distally to puncture the patient's vein or artery, thereby providing an access point for the cannula to deliver or withdraw the desired fluid. The needle is then withdrawn, leaving the catheter assembly in place as a hub, which can be used to connect to various external interfaces, such as fluid bottles. The catheter hub can also be capped for later use.

[0005] Despite their widespread and long-standing use, existing intravenous cannulas remain problematic on multiple fronts. For example, cannulas often lack the safety features necessary to prevent the catheter needle from injuring the medical professional before or after the distal tip of the needle is inserted into the patient's vasculature. Due to the high prevalence of communicable diseases among hospitalized patients requiring catheter-based therapy, the consequences of an inadvertent needlestick injury can be severe.

[0006] Cannulas have been designed to solve this problem by enclosing a portion of the needle in a needle guard housing that is movable relative to the elongated needle tube, which may be dimensioned to accommodate the entire length of the needle before and after deployment in the patient's vasculature. The elongated needle tube may constitute a component of the needle insertion assembly that may be temporarily coupled to the catheter assembly such that the needle may be retracted into the elongated needle tube and the needle insertion assembly disengaged from the catheter assembly after the distal portion of the catheter is positioned in the blood vessel. Devices configured in this manner are vulnerable to untimely separation of the catheter assembly from the needle insertion assembly, as they often rely entirely on sufficient, but not excessive, friction to couple the two components together.

[0007] Another drawback associated with the use of existing over-needle cannulas is that when the associated needle is withdrawn, an open channel is often left within the cannula through which blood may drain and spill from the patient. Apart from excessive blood loss, such backflow and leakage further increases the risk of infection for healthcare workers. Blood leakage resulting from uncontrolled backflow creates unsanitary conditions for both the patient and healthcare workers, at a minimum.

[0008] Existing techniques to minimize blood leakage fail to minimize these risks and / or are overly cumbersome to perform. For example, a healthcare professional can manually apply pressure near the needle insertion site before withdrawing the needle to reduce blood flow, but this method requires skilled implementation of either a difficult two-handed technique performed by one operator or the involvement of two operators. Both techniques may ultimately fail to prevent the unwanted backflow of blood through the catheter. Closed system venous cannulas are sometimes used to stop this unwanted backflow by placing a dead stopper in the path of blood flow and an angled side port that allows an air escape route for flashback visualization and fluid injection, but these devices are bulky, complicated to use, and more expensive than most standard products.

[0009] Indian Patent Application No. 3031 / DEL / 2014 (hereinafter referred to as the '3031 patent application) provides another example of an existing defective catheter device. One problem associated with the device disclosed therein is that the needle cover does not disengage from the catheter hub when the needle is retracted from the needle cover, meaning that more force is required to disengage the needle cover from the catheter hub. Furthermore, the needle disclosed in the '3031 patent application does not engage the needle cover with the catheter hub, hindering the overall functionality of the catheter. This defect forces the operator to manipulate the catheter device to extract the needle cover from the hub, which may damage the target blood vessel and cause pain.

[0010] Other existing products and methods utilize mandrels or obturators to physically block unwanted blood flow, but again, these procedures require advanced skill and training, and the equipment required is typically expensive and complex.

[0011] The present disclosure is directed to an improved cannula designed to overcome the aforementioned problems in addition to providing other technical advantages. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0012] [Patent Document 1] Indian Patent Application No. 3031 / DEL / 2014 Summary of the Invention

[0013] One object of the present disclosure is to provide a venous cannula device configured to prevent backflow of blood.

[0014] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide an venous cannula apparatus having a novel one-way valve design configured to prevent backflow of blood.

[0015] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a mechanism for preventing backflow of blood that can be applied to a variety of catheter devices.

[0016] Another object of the present disclosure is to prevent needle stick injuries that may be incurred by medical professionals before or after puncturing a patient's vein or artery.

[0017] An embodiment of an venous cannula device described herein can include a catheter assembly configured to mate with a needle guard assembly, both components configured to accommodate passage of a needle therethrough. An embodiment of the catheter assembly can include a catheter hub having a proximal end and a distal end, a coaxial recess having an annular stopper disposed at or near the proximal end of the catheter hub, and an undercut portion disposed at or near the distal end of the catheter hub. "Coaxial" refers to tubes within tubes whose axes extend in the same direction, and the axes in a coaxial arrangement can, but need not, be coincident.

[0018] The embodiment may further include a valve member configured to be disposed inside the coaxial recess of the catheter hub. The valve member may define a cylindrical portion, a flat or curved portion disposed at one end of the cylindrical portion, and a coaxial recess extending from the cylindrical portion to the curved or flat portion. The flat or curved portion may include one or more slits defining a plurality of prongs through which a needle may pass to facilitate puncture of a patient's blood vessel.

[0019] An embodiment of the cannula device can include a flashback chamber configured to receive proximally flowing blood indicative of successful puncture of a target vessel by a needle extending distally from the cannula. The cannula device disclosed herein can also include an actuator member having an axial bore. The actuator member can be configured to be disposed within a coaxial recess of the valve member and can open a plurality of prongs of the valve member to form a passageway for fluid flow from the proximal end of the catheter hub to the distal end of the catheter hub when a luer lock member is removably connected to a proximal end of the catheter hub abutting the actuator member.

[0020] The embodiment may also include a valve closure member having a first surface at a proximal end, a second surface at a distal end, and a through hole extending between the proximal and distal ends. The valve closure member may be disposed within the catheter hub such that the first surface of the valve closure member abuts the undercut portion of the catheter hub and the second surface of the valve closure member abuts the curved or flat portion of the valve member. The valve closure member may be configured to close the multiple prongs of the valve member, thereby closing a passage for fluid flow and preventing blood flow from a punctured blood vessel of a patient from the distal end of the catheter hub to the proximal end of the catheter hub when a luer lock member abutting the actuator member is removed.

[0021] In some embodiments, the valve closure member can have a hardness ranging from about 50 Shore to about 80 Shore and the valve member can have a hardness ranging from about 20 Shore to about 45 Shore. The difference in hardness values ​​between the valve closure member and the valve member can facilitate closure of the valve member by the valve closure member in the absence of a needle within the member.

[0022] In some embodiments, the shape of the first surface of the valve closure member may be curved, concave, or frustoconical. In some embodiments, the first surface of the valve closure member may have a flat or substantially flat shape. The shape of the first surface of the valve closure member may be complementary to the distal surface of the valve member. Any suitable shape may be used.

[0023] In some embodiments, the surface of the valve member that defines the slit may be convex or frustoconical. In some embodiments, the surface of the valve member that defines the slit may be flat or substantially flat. Any suitable shape may be used.

[0024] In some embodiments, the valve member can be configured to be held in place within a coaxial recess in the catheter hub when a first end of the valve member abuts an annular stopper in the catheter hub.

[0025] In some embodiments, the valve member can be made of a flexible material, non-limiting examples of which include silicone, rubber, polymer, and / or nitinol or other materials, due at least in part to its flexible composition, the valve member can self-close after retracting the needle proximally therethrough.

[0026] In some embodiments, the slits defined by the valve member can form a Y-shape, an inverted Y-shape, an X-shape, a +-shape, any other shape or orientation, or a combination thereof.

[0027] In some embodiments, the cylindrical portion of the valve member can have a protrusion on its inner surface. In some embodiments, the actuator member can have a circular recess on its outer surface. According to such embodiments, the protrusion of the valve member can be configured to engage the circular recess of the actuator member, thereby forming an assembly of the valve member and the actuator member inside the catheter hub.

[0028] In some embodiments, the actuator member can include a first end having a radially extending flange, a second end having a convex surface, and an axial bore extending between the first and second ends. In some embodiments, the actuator member can include a first end having a radially extending flange, a second end having a flat or substantially flat surface, and an axial bore extending between the first and second ends.

[0029] In some embodiments, the valve closure member can be stiffer than the prongs of the valve member such that when the luer lock member is disengaged from the catheter hub, the valve closure member urges the prongs and the actuator member away from the distal end of the catheter hub, thereby preventing blood flow from a punctured blood vessel of a patient from the distal end of the catheter hub to the proximal end of the catheter hub.

[0030] In some embodiments, the actuator member can be made of a rigid material, including a rigid plastic or metal.

[0031] In some embodiments, the cannula device can include a flashback chamber having a porous filter and a cover to allow air to escape and blood to flow through the flashback chamber.

[0032] In some embodiments, the device may include a needlestick safety device or component.

[0033] In some embodiments, the needle guard assembly can include an elongated tubular member and a needle hub with a needle holder disposed inside the elongated tubular member. A distal end of the needle holder can be connected to a needle configured to puncture a target blood vessel within a patient. The embodiments can also include a safety release component secured or coupled to the distal end of the elongated tubular member. The safety release component can be configured to releasably couple with the catheter hub, thereby coupling the catheter assembly with the needle guard assembly. The safety release component can include one or more locking elements at or near its distal end, which can be configured to protrude and / or move radially outward when a needle is inserted within the safety release component. The outward protrusion and / or movement of the locking elements can cause the locking elements to fit within and thus engage an annular groove defined by a proximal portion of the catheter hub, thereby forming a locking engagement and / or close-fitting relationship between the needle guard assembly and the catheter assembly when the needle passes through the safety release component to puncture a blood vessel of a patient. When the needle is retracted through the catheter assembly and safety release component after puncturing a patient's blood vessel, the locking element can retract and / or displace from the annular groove in the catheter hub, thereby disengaging the safety release component and the catheter hub. This disengagement allows for separation of the catheter assembly from the needle guard assembly only if the needle is enclosed within the safety release component and the needle guard assembly. In this manner, embodiments of the cannula device disclosed herein can shield the distal tip of the needle as it is withdrawn from the patient to prevent inadvertent needlestick injuries.

[0034] In some embodiments, the safety release component can define a groove in an outer surface for receiving one or more locking elements.

[0035] In some embodiments, the locking element or elements may be solid and spherical. The locking elements may also be made of a rigid or substantially rigid material, such as a metal, for example, stainless steel and / or Nitinol.

[0036] In some embodiments, the groove of the safety release component can have a diameter equal to or greater than the diameter of the locking element.

[0037] In some embodiments, the proximal end of the safety release component can have a circular base portion defining a central bore and secured to the distal end of the elongate tubular member.

[0038] In some embodiments, the safety release component can include a tubular portion extending from a circular base portion and defining an axial bore configured to accommodate passage of a needle to and from the target insertion site.

[0039] In some embodiments, a groove defined by an outer surface of the tubular portion of the safety release component can extend toward the axial bore of the safety release component.

[0040] In some embodiments, the solid spherical element of the safety release component can be configured to extend outwardly to engage with an annular groove in the catheter hub, thereby forming a locking engagement and close-fitting relationship between the elongated tubular member and the catheter assembly when the needle passes through the safety release component in response to puncturing a patient's blood vessel.

[0041] In some embodiments, proximal retraction of the needle through the safety release component after puncturing a patient's blood vessel causes a locking element of the safety release component to disengage from an annular groove defined by the catheter hub, thereby disengaging the safety release component (and needle guard assembly) from the catheter assembly. Disengagement of the safety release component from the catheter assembly allows separation of the catheter assembly from the needle guard assembly only after the distal tip of the needle is fully enclosed within the safety release component.

[0042] In some embodiments, the safety release component included in the needle guard assembly can include a safety clip. The safety clip can be outwardly biased to engage at least one interlocking flange defined in a body portion of the needle guard assembly. The outward bias of the safety clip can allow the needle member to extend through the needle guard assembly and the catheter hub. Upon withdrawal of the needle member from the proximal end of the catheter hub, the safety clip can disengage from the interlocking flange and encapsulate a tip portion of the needle member within the safety clip, thereby reducing the possibility of a needle stick injury upon withdrawal of the needle member from the catheter hub.

[0043] In some embodiments, the safety clip may include a bracket defining an opening for receiving the needle member. The first resilient arm may extend from one end of the bracket and may have a connecting portion for engaging at least one interlocking flange and at least one portion of the body portion and the needle member. The first resilient arm may include a first section and a section. The second resilient arm may extend from an opposing end of the bracket and may further include a connecting portion for engaging at least one interlocking flange and the needle member of the body portion. The second resilient arm may also include a first section and a second section, the first section having a larger dimension than the second section. The connecting portion of each of the first and second resilient arms may be configured to engage the interlocking flange and the body portion of the needle member when the needle member extends through the catheter hub on its way to puncture the patient's blood vessel. The connecting portion may disengage from the interlocking flange and the body of the needle member when the needle member is withdrawn from the proximal end of the catheter hub.

[0044] In some embodiments, the connecting portion of each of the first and second resilient arms includes a curved protrusion at one end. The curved protrusion can be configured to engage at least one interlocking flange and the curved lip segment of the body portion. The curved lip segment can extend inwardly toward the bracket member and can be configured to engage the needle member. The curved lip can be configured to encapsulate a tip portion of the needle member within the safety clip when the needle member is withdrawn from the proximal end of the catheter hub.

[0045] In some embodiments, the curved protrusion includes a projection extending toward the bracket. The projection, together with the second portions of the first and second resilient arms, can define a seat that can be configured to receive and seat a tip portion of the needle member, thereby preventing displacement of the needle member during withdrawal from the catheter hub.

[0046] In some embodiments, the first resilient arm can be longer than the second resilient arm.

[0047] In some embodiments, at least one of the bracket, the first resilient arm, and / or the second resilient arm can define at least one rib member for reinforcement.

[0048] In some embodiments, the rib members can be disposed on the second sections of the first and second resilient arms to reinforce the first and second resilient arms.

[0049] In some embodiments, each of the at least one interlocking flanges of the body portion extends radially inward to ensure engagement with the safety clip in its biased configuration such that the safety clip is retained within the needle guard assembly.

[0050] In some embodiments, the needle can include a protrusion proximal to its distal end, which can be configured to engage the bracket during withdrawal of the needle from the proximal end of the catheter tube, thereby preventing release of the needle from the needle guard assembly.

[0051] Other features and aspects of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following description and the accompanying drawings. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0052] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an example of an venous cannula apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 2] 2 is a cross-sectional view of the venous cannula device shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 3A] FIG. 3 is an enlarged view of the catheter hub of the venous cannula apparatus shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. [Figure 3B] FIG. 3B is a perspective view of the catheter hub shown in FIG. 3A. [Figure 4A] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an example actuator member of the venous cannula apparatus shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. [Figure 4B] FIG. 4B is a cross-sectional view of the actuator member shown in FIG. 4A. [Figure 5A] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an example valve member of the venous cannula apparatus shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. [Figure 5B] FIG. 5B is a cross-sectional view of the valve member shown in FIG. 5A. [Figure 5C] FIG. 5B is a front view of the valve member shown in FIG. 5A. [Figure 5D] FIG. 5B is a rear view of the valve member shown in FIG. 5A. [Figure 6A] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of another example of a valve member of the venous cannula apparatus shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. [Figure 6B] FIG. 6B is a cross-sectional view of the valve member shown in FIG. 6A. [Figure 7A] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an example of a valve closure member of the venous cannula apparatus shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. [Figure 7B] FIG. 7B is a cross-sectional view of the valve closure member shown in FIG. 7A. [Figure 7C] FIG. 7B is a front view of the valve closure member shown in FIG. 7A. [Figure 7D] FIG. 7B is a rear view of the valve closure member shown in FIG. 7A. [Figure 8] 3 is a cross-sectional view of an example of a needle guard assembly configuration of the intravenous cannula device shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 when the distal tip of the needle is enclosed within the needle guard assembly. FIG. [Figure 9A] 1 is a cross-sectional view of an example of a safety release component coupled to a needle guard assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9B] FIG. 9B is a perspective view of the safety release component shown in FIG. 9A. [Figure 9C] FIG. 9B is another cross-sectional view of the safety release component shown in FIG. 9A. [Figure 9D] 13A-13C are cross-sectional views of an example of a configuration of a safety release component where the distal tip of a needle is enclosed within a needle safety component. [Figure 10] 1 is a cross-sectional view of an example of a needle guard assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11A] 11A-11C are progressive snapshots of a portion of the needle guard assembly shown in FIG. 10 as the configuration of the needle guard assembly moves from an injection state to a shielded state. [Figure 11B] 11A-11C are progressive snapshots of a portion of the needle guard assembly shown in FIG. 10 as the configuration of the needle guard assembly moves from an injection state to a shielded state. [Figure 11C] 11A-11C are progressive snapshots of a portion of the needle guard assembly shown in FIG. 10 as the configuration of the needle guard assembly moves from an injection state to a shielded state. [Figure 11D] 11A-11C are progressive snapshots of a portion of the needle guard assembly shown in FIG. 10 as the configuration of the needle guard assembly moves from an injection state to a shielded state. [Figure 11E] 11A-11C are progressive snapshots of a portion of the needle guard assembly shown in FIG. 10 as the configuration of the needle guard assembly moves from an injection state to a shielded state. [Figure 12]1 is a cross-sectional view of an example of a duckbill component configured to releasably couple a catheter assembly to a needle guard assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 13] 1 is a cross-sectional view of another example of a venous cannula apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is an enlarged view of portion "A" of the catheter hub of the venous cannula apparatus of FIG. 13. [Figure 15] 14 is a perspective view of an actuator member of the cannula apparatus shown in FIG. 13 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 16] 14 is a perspective view of a safety clip disposed within a needle guard assembly of the cannula apparatus shown in FIG. 13 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. [Figure 17] 14 is a cross-sectional view of the cannula apparatus shown in FIG. 13 with the needle member withdrawn from the catheter hub in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 18] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an example of a catheter hub according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 19] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of another example of a catheter hub according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 20] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of another example of a catheter hub according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0053] Non-limiting embodiments of the present disclosure are provided herein. References to specific embodiments and features are detailed throughout the present disclosure, and examples are shown in the accompanying drawings. Reference numbers are included in the drawings to refer to the same or corresponding parts. Although references to various elements described herein are made collectively or individually when there may be two or more elements of the same type, such references are merely exemplary in nature. Any reference to an element in the singular form may also be interpreted as relating to the plural form, and vice versa, without limiting the scope of the present disclosure to the exact number or type of such elements, unless expressly stated in the text.

[0054] As used herein, the term "proximal end" can refer to the end of the disclosed device that is closer to the operator. As used herein, the term "distal end" can refer to the end opposite the "proximal end" that is closer to the patient being treated by the disclosed device. Thus, the terms "distal" or "distal end" and "proximal" or "proximal end" can refer to the direction or end that is further from and closer to the operator who inserts the catheter into the patient's body, respectively.

[0055] As used herein, the terms "operator" and "user" may be used interchangeably and may include, but are not limited to, medical professionals and personnel such as nurses or paramedical staff who may work under the direction and supervision of a physician, physician, and / or surgeon and may also be considered users or operators according to the embodiments described herein.

[0056] The term "connected" or "fixedly connected" as used in this disclosure may refer to components that may be fixedly attached to one another, which may be permanent in the sense that disconnection requires specialized tools and / or excessive physical force. "Releasably connected" or "coupled" may refer to components that may be temporarily connected and disconnected through one or more device functions. The term "slidably connected" may refer to components assembled together such that any one or more of the components may slide relative to the other components during use of the device. The contacting surfaces of the components may allow such sliding. The term "disposed" as used herein may mean that a component or elements of an apparatus may be connected to another element such that a workable assembly is formed without interfering with the functionality of each individual element. The term "comprising" means that a given apparatus or components thereof may include additional components other than those explicitly identified herein.

[0057] This disclosure includes numerical terms and phrases such as "one or more," "at least," "a," and "an." The specific numbers associated with such terms are not to be construed as limiting.

[0058] Terms defining shapes, such as "convex," "frustoconical," "flat," "substantially flat," "cylindrical," "tubular," "elongated," "circular," "converging," "diverging," "tapered," or "expanding," should not be construed as limiting. Those skilled in the art will recognize that these shapes, whether modified by terms such as "generally" or "substantially," allow for some variations, such as "circular" shapes, but do not have to meet the theoretical definition of "circular" to be circular within the meaning of the term as used herein. In certain embodiments, other shapes may be possible. Thus, those skilled in the art may develop other shapes or combinations of shapes that maintain the operability of the disclosed device. Any such variations may still be encompassed within the present disclosure without departing from the invention.

[0059] The terminology used in this disclosure includes the words specifically mentioned, their derivatives, and words of similar meaning. The embodiments described below are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed. These embodiments have been chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the invention, its applications, its practical use, and to enable those skilled in the art to best utilize and develop the invention.

[0060] 1 and 2 show perspective and cross-sectional views, respectively, of a cannula 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The illustrated cannula 100 is a medical device that can be used to administer fluid medications via intravenous therapy and / or remove bodily fluids, such as blood, from a patient for subsequent analysis. The specific types of cannula devices disclosed herein may vary as may the associated tasks performed therewith. In the illustrated illustration, the cannula 100 is an intravenous cannula device. The term "intravenous cannula" is used interchangeably with "cannula" herein for brevity.

[0061] The cannula 100 shown in Figures 1 and 2 includes a catheter assembly 102 configured to reversibly couple to a needle hub, chamber, or guard assembly 104. As shown in Figure 1, the catheter assembly 102 may be coupled to the needle guard assembly 104, and as shown in Figure 2, the catheter assembly 102 may be removable from the needle guard assembly 104.

[0062] The catheter assembly 102 includes a catheter hub 103 secured or coupled to a catheter tube 106. Opposite a proximal end 107 of the catheter hub 103 is shown a needle 108 protruding distally from a distal end 109 of the catheter tube 106, which may be made of a flexible or soft material, non-limiting examples of which may include a plastic or polymer composition. In embodiments, other components of the catheter assembly 102, such as the catheter hub 103, may be made of a biocompatible material that may be substantially rigid. In some examples, the proximal end 107 of the catheter hub 103 may be attached to, integrally formed with, or otherwise coupled to a larger catheter body member such that the body member defines a coaxial recess or bore with the catheter hub 103. In such examples, the catheter body member may be coupled directly to the needle guard assembly 104 such that after coupling, the body member functions as a connector or adapter between the guard assembly 104 and the catheter assembly 102. For ease of explanation, the catheter hub 103 is referred to herein as a single component.

[0063] The cannula 100 is configured to allow the catheter assembly 102 to be decoupled from the needle guard assembly 104 after the needle 108 has punctured a target vessel and retracted proximally through the catheter assembly 102, thereby leaving at least a portion of the distal portion 109 of the catheter assembly 102 within the vessel to facilitate delivery and / or withdrawal of various medicaments and / or bodily fluids. As described further herein, embodiments of the cannula 100 may also be configured to prevent backflow of blood after catheter placement by including a blood control valve therein. Embodiments of the cannula 100 may also be configured to prevent inadvertent needle stick injuries by fully enclosing the needle 108 (including its distal tip) within the needle guard assembly 104 after puncturing a target vessel.

[0064] The catheter tube 106 defines an elongated longitudinal bore through which the needle 108 can slide. The catheter tube 106 can be secured to the catheter assembly 102 by a number of methods, including but not limited to a press fit, adhesive bonding, or any other suitable method. In some examples, the catheter tube 106 may be integrally formed with the catheter assembly 102. A thumb grip 110 can also be included for grasping and manipulating the cannula 100 to reposition the needle tube 106 during insertion and retraction of the needle 108.

[0065] In the illustrated embodiment, the catheter assembly 102 further includes a dispensing cap 112 that abuts an exterior surface 114 of the catheter hub 103. The dispensing cap 112 covers an outer port 116 that can be utilized as an auxiliary fluid path that is fluidly coupled with the coaxial recess of the catheter assembly 102. Thus, the venous cannula 100 can be adapted to have a bidirectional fluid mechanism. The dispensing cap 112 opens and closes the outer port 116 to allow for the delivery of fluid. Such opening and closing can be accomplished, in some examples, via a hinged or screw-type mechanism.

[0066] Distal to the proximal end 117 of the needle guard assembly 104 can include a luer lock member 118, which can be releasably coupled to the catheter assembly 102, for example, via a complementary tapered portion. In various embodiments, any luer lock member of a standard size or having an ISO standard that fits the catheter assembly 102 can be used. For example, ISO standards ISO-80369-20 and ISO-80369-7 can be used for luer lock members having a generic taper of 6%. In additional embodiments, the luer lock member 118 can have other configurations or shapes, such as a luer slip.

[0067] 1, one or more wing members 119 can be attached to or integrally formed with the catheter hub 103. The wing members 119 can help connect or secure the catheter assembly 102 to a patient's clothing or a body part, such as a hand, after puncturing a vein or artery.

[0068] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the cannula 100 with the catheter assembly 102 and needle guard assembly 104 not currently coupled thereto. As shown, the catheter assembly 102 can include a valve member 120 disposed inside a coaxial recess 122 of the catheter hub 103. The valve member 120 can be tubular in shape and can be referred to herein as a tubular valve member 120, although other suitable configurations can be used. The tubular valve member 120 is configured to prevent or reduce backflow of blood by closing after the needle 108 is retracted proximally therethrough. The catheter assembly 102 further includes an annular stopper 124 disposed within the coaxial recess 122 where it abuts against an inner surface of the catheter hub 103. The tubular valve member 120 is adapted to be held in place within the coaxial recess 122 of the catheter assembly 102 via abutment of its proximal end with the annular stopper 124. In some examples, the tubular valve member 120 is made of a flexible material, such as silicone or rubber. The annular stopper 124 may be integral with the valve member 120, connected to the valve member, or separate from the valve member.

[0069] Within the axial bore of the tubular valve member 120 is an actuator member 126. As described further herein, distal movement of the actuator member 126 contributes to opening the tubular valve member 120 to create a passage for distal fluid flow through the catheter assembly 102. A protrusion 127 defined by an inner surface of the tubular valve member 120 engages a complementary recess 129 defined by an outer surface of the actuator member 126, thereby facilitating coordinated motion between the tubular valve member 120 and the actuator member 126.

[0070] As further shown in FIG. 2, the needle guard assembly 104 can include an elongated tubular member 128 and a needle hub 130 with a needle holder 132. A gripping member or gripping surface 133 of the guard assembly 104 can surround at least a portion of the elongated tubular member 128. The needle holder 132 can be disposed inside the elongated tubular member 128 and connect a distal portion 134 of the needle holder 132 to the needle 108. The elongated tubular member 128 can be sized to accommodate the entire length of the needle 108 such that retraction of the needle 108 into the elongated tubular member 128 surrounds and shields the distal tip of the needle 108. The shape of the elongated tubular member 128 can vary and can be cylindrical, rectangular, or any other suitable configuration.

[0071] The needle guard assembly 104 also includes a safety release component 138 secured to a distal end 140 of the elongated tubular member 128. The safety release component 138 is releasably coupleable to the catheter hub 103 of the catheter assembly 102 such that following such coupling, the catheter assembly 102 is coupled to the needle guard assembly 104, with the safety release component 138 disposed between the proximal end 107 of the catheter hub 103 and the distal end 140 of the elongated tubular member 128.

[0072] To facilitate coupling of the catheter assembly 102 and the needle guard assembly 104, the catheter hub 103 includes a proximal cylindrical portion 142 that defines an annular groove 144 on an inner surface 146 thereof. The annular groove 144 of the proximal cylindrical portion 142 is configured to be complementary to, and thus engage, one or more locking elements 148a,b of the safety release component 138. The locking elements 148a,b can be inserted into the annular groove 144 only when the safety release component 138 is inserted into the axial bore 122 of the proximal cylindrical portion 142 and the needle 108 is inserted into the safety release component 138. By securely mating with the catheter hub 103 upon insertion of the needle 108 therethrough, the safety release component 138 increases the catheter separation force, thereby reducing the likelihood that the catheter assembly 102 will separate from the needle guard assembly 104 while the needle 108 remains wholly or partially disposed within the catheter assembly 102. Similarly, retracting the needle 108 proximally through the catheter assembly 102, safety release component 138 and into the needle guard assembly 104 significantly reduces the catheter release force, resulting in a relatively small amount of force being required to remove the needle guard assembly 104 from the catheter assembly 102. This reduced catheter release force allows for easier removal of the needle guard assembly 104 by the operator and reduces the possibility of disturbing the placement of the catheter assembly 102 within the patient. In the illustrated embodiment, the two locking elements 148a,b are solid and spherical, although embodiments are not limited to solid and spherical locking elements. Notches, ridges or protrusions may be used in place of grooves.

[0073] The needle guard assembly 104 may also include or be coupled with a flashback chamber, an example of which is shown in FIG. 13. Blood flow from the patient into the flashback chamber confirms successful puncture of the vein or artery by the needle 108. In an embodiment, the needle hub 130 may function as the flashback chamber. The needle hub 130 may also be telescopically received within the elongated tubular member 128 such that the two components may move relative to one another.

[0074] 3A shows that the coaxial recess 122 of the catheter hub 103 can include an undercut portion 150 that abuts the valve closure member 152. The inner bore 111 extends through the catheter hub 103 along an axis indicated from X' to X. In an embodiment, a distal portion of the needle guard assembly 104, e.g., the safety release component 138, and / or a proximal portion of the catheter assembly 102, e.g., the proximal cylindrical portion 142, can include one or more radial seals configured to prevent the inflow and outflow of fluid through or around the cannula 100.

[0075] The multiple components of the cannula 100 can be configured to collectively control the flow of bodily fluids and medications therethrough. For delivery of fluids to a patient, for example, engagement of the luer lock member 118 with the proximal cylindrical portion 142 of the catheter hub 103 generates a force on the actuator member 126 along the longitudinal axis of the catheter hub 103 toward the distal end 109 of the cannula 100. A safety release component 138 disposed at the distal end of the luer lock member 118 can be adapted to contact a proximal flange of the actuator member 126 such that the actuator member 126 is displaced axially toward the distal end 109 of the cannula 100. This axial displacement of the actuator member 126 opens the multiple prongs of the tubular valve member 120 to form a fluid passageway from the proximal end of the catheter hub 103 through the inner bore 111 of the catheter hub 103 to the distal end 109 of the cannula 100. In an embodiment, the proximal cylindrical portion 142 of the catheter hub 103 may be a female Luer fitting defined by a tapered open mouth configured to receive the Luer lock component 118 of the needle guard assembly 104.

[0076] 3B shows a perspective view of the catheter hub 103, including its proximal end 107 and distal end 109. An inner bore 111 extends through the catheter hub 103 along an axis indicated from X' to X. In some embodiments, the catheter hub 103 can be made of a biocompatible material that is rigid and configured to secure the components coupled thereto.

[0077] 4A and 4B show perspective and cross-sectional views of one example of an actuator member 126 of an venous cannula 100. As shown, the actuator member 126 may include a proximal first end 154 having a radially extending flange 156, a distal second end 158 having a convex surface 160, and an axial bore 162 extending from the first end 154 to the second end 158. In an embodiment, the actuator member 126 may be made of a medical grade material, such as, but not limited to, a hard plastic material, such as, for example, polyoxymethylene (POM), or a metal, such as, for example, stainless steel or nitinol.

[0078] As further shown in the illustrated embodiment, the actuator member 126 can also define an annular recess 129 extending around its outer surface 166. The recess 129 is complementary to a protrusion 127 defined by the tubular valve member 120 such that the protrusion 127 is configured to engage with the circular recess 129. The engagement of the protrusion 127 defined by the tubular valve member 120 with the recess 129 of the actuator member 126 can maintain the coupling of the tubular valve member 120 and the actuator member 126, thus forming an assembly inside the catheter hub 103 in which the two components move together and do not fall out of the catheter hub 103. In additional or alternative embodiments, the tubular valve member 120 and the actuator member 126 can be connected by other mechanisms, such as a threaded connection or a snap-fit ​​mechanism. In some examples, actuator member 126 can include a protrusion similar to that of protrusion 127, and tubular valve member 120 can include a recess similar to circular recess 129 of actuator member 126. Thus, circular recess 129 and protrusion 127 should not be considered limiting.

[0079] The proximal flange 156 of the actuator member 126 can be configured to receive a force in a distal direction from the luer lock member 118, which causes the actuator member 126 to move axially toward the distal end 109 of the cannula 100. The axial displacement of the actuator member 126 opens the tubular valve member 120, thereby creating a fluid passageway from the proximal end of the catheter hub 103 to the distal end 109 of the cannula 100.

[0080] One embodiment of a tubular valve member 120 is shown in Figures 5A, 5B, 5C, and 5D. The tubular valve member 120 may be made of a flexible material selected from a non-limiting group of materials including silicone and rubber, and is configured to fit within a coaxial recess 122 of the catheter hub 103. In the illustrated example, the tubular valve member 120 is defined by a cylindrical portion 168 and a distal curved portion 170. The cylindrical portion 168 of the tubular valve member 120 defines a protrusion 127 on its inner surface 172, as shown in Figure 5B. The tubular valve member 120 defines a recess 174 configured to accommodate the actuator member 126 extending from the cylindrical portion 168 to the distal curved portion 170. The recess may be coaxial and may be referred to herein as a coaxial recess 174. In the illustrated embodiment, the distal curved portion 170 is convex to mate with the complementary convex surface 160 of the actuator member 126 shown in Figures 4A and 4B, however, the curved portion 170 may also be other shapes, for example, flat (or nearly flat), frustoconical, or any other suitable shape. The terms "curved portion" and "convex portion" are used interchangeably herein and may refer to the same portion of the tubular valve member 120.

[0081] The convex portion 170 of the tubular valve member 120 includes one or more slits 176 that together define a plurality of prongs 178. The one or more slits 176 are designed to pass the needle 108 therethrough and to automatically close once the needle 108 is withdrawn without the need for manually applied force. By self-repairing in this manner, the slits 176 and prongs 178 of the convex distal surface 170 can prevent or minimize backflow of blood through the tubular valve member 120, and thus the catheter assembly 102, as the needle 108 is withdrawn from the patient and retracted proximally through the coaxial recess 174 of the valve member 120. The slits 176 can include a variety of shapes, non-limiting examples of which include a Y-shape, an inverted Y-shape, an X-shape, a horizontal slit, a vertical slit, a “+” shape, or any combination thereof, or any other shape that facilitates opening and expansion of the multiple prongs 178 during insertion of the needle 108 and the actuator member 126, respectively, into the coaxial recesses 174 of the tubular valve member 120.

[0082] In the illustrated embodiment, the tubular valve member 120 is configured to be held in place within the coaxial recess 122 of the catheter hub 103 when the first proximal end 180 of the tubular valve member 120 abuts the annular stopper 124 of the catheter hub 103.

[0083] In operation, the needle 108 passes through the coaxial recess 122 of the catheter hub 103 via the actuator member 126, after which the needle 108 can pierce the slit 176 in the tubular valve member 120. After passing through the slit 176 in the tubular valve member 120, the needle 108 passes through and beyond the catheter tube 106 to puncture the patient's blood vessel.

[0084] When the needle 108 is withdrawn after puncturing a blood vessel, the slit 176 of the tubular valve member 120 can close without user engagement because the tubular valve member 120 is made of a flexible material configured to self-close the opening in the slit 176 of the protrusion 170 of the tubular valve member 120. Closure of the slit 176 can prevent backflow of blood from the punctured blood vessel of the patient through the cannula, such that the catheter assembly 102 remains within the vasculature and provides an access port after the needle 108 is retracted and the catheter hub 103 is released from the needle guard assembly 104. In this manner, the tubular valve member 120 can prevent blood from exiting the catheter hub 103 after implantation of the catheter tube 106 and before other components are attached to the catheter hub 103.

[0085] The particular shape of the tubular valve member 120 may vary. For example, Figures 6A and 6B show a tubular valve member having a flat or substantially flat distal surface. Similar to the tubular valve member 120, the illustrated tubular valve member 121 is configured to be placed within a coaxial recess 122 of the catheter hub 103. The tubular valve member 121 is defined by a cylindrical portion 169 having a protrusion 131 on its inner surface 173 that also defines a coaxial recess 175. Opposite its proximal end 181, the tubular valve member 121 has a flat distal surface 171 that includes one or more slits 177 that together define a plurality of prongs 179, similar to the convex distal surface 170 of the tubular valve member 120. The one or more slits 177 are designed to allow the needle member 108 to pass therethrough, and when the needle 108 is withdrawn, the slits 179 can close automatically without user action. By self-healing in this manner, the slits 177 and prongs 179 in the flat distal surface 171 can also prevent or minimize backflow of blood through the tubular valve member 121, and thus the catheter assembly 102, when the needle 108 is withdrawn from the patient and retracted proximally through the coaxial recess 175 in the valve member 121.

[0086] 7A, 7B, 7C, and 7D show various views of one embodiment of the valve closure member 152 of the venous cannula 100. The valve closure member 152 includes a first surface 182 at its proximal end 184, a second surface 186 at its distal end 188, and a through hole 190 extending from the proximal end 184 to the distal end 188. The valve closure member 152 may be positioned inside the catheter hub 103 such that the second surface 186 of the valve closure member 152 abuts the undercut portion 150 of the catheter hub 103 and the first surface 182 of the valve closure member 152 abuts the distal portion of the tubular valve member 120.

[0087] The valve closure member 152 can be configured to displace the prongs of the tubular valve member when the luer lock member 118 abutting the actuator member 126 is released to close or facilitate closing a passageway for fluid flow and prevent blood flow from the punctured blood vessel from the distal end 109 of the catheter tube 106 to the proximal end 107 of the catheter hub 107.

[0088] In the illustrated embodiment, the valve closure member 152 is configured for use with the tubular valve member 120 such that the convex portion 170 of the tubular valve member 120 conforms to the shape of the first surface 182 of the valve closure member 152. To accommodate valve members of different shapes, the valve closure member 152 may have different shapes as well. For example, to accommodate the tubular valve member 121, the first surface 182 of the valve closure member may be flat or substantially flat. The first surface 182 of the valve closure member 151 may also be convex, even when used with a distally flat tubular valve member 121. In non-limiting embodiments, the valve closure member 152 may have a hardness in the range of about 50 Shore to 80 Shore, and the tubular valve member 120 may have a hardness in the range of about 20 Shore to 45 Shore. The multiple prongs of the tubular valve member 120 / 121 may be more flexible relative to the valve closure member 152 so that the multiple prongs 178 / 179 can close by returning to their resting state automatically or with the assistance of the tubular valve member 152 when the needle 108 is withdrawn after puncturing the blood vessel.

[0089] Thus, the cannula 100 disclosed herein can prevent backflow of blood following needle retraction through coordinated motion and interaction between the tubular valve member, the actuator member, and / or the valve closure member. In particular, the disclosed valve closure member and actuator member can be repeatedly activated and deactivated without wear such that replacement of one or both components is not necessary, at least not frequently.

[0090] As described herein, the cannula 100 may also include a needlestick protection mechanism configured to enclose the distal tip of the needle 108 within the needle guard assembly 104 before and after insertion of the needle 108 into a patient. The safety release component 138, shown in cross section in the needle guard assembly 104 shown in FIG. 8, is one example of a component of a needlestick safety device implemented in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein. The safety release component 138 may include two movable locking elements 148a,b configured to control coupling of the catheter assembly 102 to the needle guard assembly 104 based on whether the needle 108 is present within either or both components. Although FIG. 8 is shown with two movable locking elements 148a,b, one, three, or more movable locking elements may be used.

[0091] 9A shows an enlarged cross-sectional view of the safety release component 138 and surrounding mechanism in a locked engagement state with the proximal cylindrical portion 142 of the catheter hub 103. As shown, the locking elements 148a,b each engage or lock with a portion of the annular groove 144 defined by the inner surface 146 of the proximal cylindrical portion 142 of the catheter hub 103. In this engaged state, the safety release component 138 is secured to the distal end 192 of the elongate tubular member 128 and releasably connected to the proximal cylindrical portion 142 of the catheter hub 103.

[0092] 9B is a perspective view of a safety release component 138 according to embodiments disclosed herein. The safety release component 138 includes a first proximal end 194 having a circular base 196 that can be secured to the distal end 192 of the elongated tubular member 128. In some examples, the circular base 196 can be press fit into the elongated tubular member 128, thereby uniting the two components. The safety release component 138 can also include a tubular portion 198 that defines an axial bore 200 dimensioned to accommodate passage of the needle 108.

[0093] 9C and 9D show the safety release component 138 in a disengaged or unlocked state relative to the catheter hub 103 at the time of a snapshot in which the needle 108 is retracted proximally or extended distally such that the needle tip 208 is momentarily positioned within the safety release component 138 and the tip is fully enclosed. The needle tip 208 has not yet been fully retracted into the needle guard assembly 104, but upon full separation of the safety release component 138 (and the needle guard assembly 104) from the catheter hub 103, the needle tip 208 is positioned in a safe, non-exposed area within the safety release component 138 so as not to cause an accidental puncture injury. In the disengaged or unlocked state, the safety release component 138 may not be coupled to the catheter hub 103, or at least may not be locked to the catheter hub 103, but may be locked in the process of being separated from the body member, such that the safety release component 138 and the needle guard assembly 104 to which it is attached may be easily separated in unison from the catheter assembly 102 by applying a small amount of tension. As shown, the safety release component 138 may include one or more grooves 202a,b defined by the outer surface 204 of the tubular portion 198. Each of the grooves 202a,b is dimensioned to receive one of the locking elements 148a,b. The solid spherical locking element may be in the form of a stainless steel ball, although the disclosed embodiments are not limited thereto. The locking element may be any suitable shape, including, but not limited to, spherical, generally spherical, spheroidal, cylindrical (with or without tabs or other elements to retain the locking element in the grooves 202a,b), conical, and the like. The locking element may be separate from the groove and / or may float within the groove and / or may be connected to the groove, such as in a groove-tethered configuration, or may be integral with the groove.

[0094] The diameter of each groove 202a,b may be substantially the same as or slightly larger than the diameter of each corresponding locking element 148a,b. The size of each groove 202a,b facilitates smooth movement of the locking elements 148a,b proximally through the safety release component 138, radially outward as the needle 108 passes through the axial bore 200 in response to puncture of a vein or artery, and radially inward following subsequent withdrawal of the needle 108 from the patient.

[0095] The locking elements 148a,b of the safety release component 138 are configured to engage with the annular groove 144 of the catheter hub 103, thereby forming a locked, close-fitting engagement between the elongated tubular member 128 of the needle guard assembly 104 and the catheter assembly 102 as the needle 108 passes through the safety release component 138 to puncture a patient's vein or artery. The needle 108 thus displaces the locking elements 148a,b away from the axial bore 200 and into the inner groove 144 to lock the catheter assembly 102 to the needle guard assembly 104. FIG. 9D illustrates that after the needle 108 is withdrawn from the patient, through the catheter assembly 102 and proximal to the distal end 206 of the needle guard assembly 104, the distal tip 208 of the needle 108 can be nested within the safety release component 138, at which point the locking engagement between the catheter hub 103 and the needle guard assembly can be released. Disengagement occurs because the locking elements 148a,b can be displaced inwardly from the annular groove 144 of the proximal cylindrical portion 142 of the catheter hub 103 after needle retraction, thereby releasing the locking engagement between the elongated tubular member 128 and the catheter assembly 102. Separation of the safety release component 138 from the catheter assembly 102 after nesting of the needle tip 208 within the safety release component 138 allows the needle 108 to be withdrawn from the patient and removed from the catheter assembly 102 only when the distal tip 208 of the needle 108 is hidden, thereby reducing the possibility of needle stick injuries.

[0096] The cannula embodiments described herein may also include mechanisms to ensure safe and reliable locking and unlocking of the needle guard assembly 104 in a manner that further reduces the possibility of needle stick injuries. Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view of one example of a portion of a needle guard assembly 104 configured in this manner. As shown, the interior of the needle guard assembly 104 may include a longitudinal notch 210 that defines a proximal receiving site 212. The notch 210 may further define a U-shaped slot detent cutout or notch 214 that defines a pair of fingers 216. The fingers 216 together define a narrow slot 218. The fingers 216 may be configured to be biased away from one another to widen the slot 218 in response to locking the needle guard assembly 104.

[0097] 2, the needle guard assembly 104 can be configured to have an injection position in which the needle 108 extends beyond the distal end 140 of the needle guard assembly 104 and a shielded position in which the distal tip 208 of the needle 108 is disposed proximal to the distal end 140 and nested within the needle guard assembly 104. To move the needle hub 130 from the injection position to the shielded position, the luer lock member 118 can be moved proximally such that a protrusion or rib 220, also included within the needle guard assembly 104, moves proximally through the longitudinal notch 210.

[0098] The proximal end of the rib 220 may define a ramp or cam surface 222. At rest, i.e., before the rib 220 passes therethrough, the slot 218 defined by the fingers 216 may be narrower than the width or thickness of the rib 220. As the needle hub 130 moves proximally toward the blocked position, the cam surface 222 of the rib 220 engages the fingers 216 and pushes them apart, thereby spacing the slot 218 apart to allow the rib 220 to pass therethrough. The proximal movement of the rib 220 through the longitudinal notch 210 and over the fingers 216 is shown progressively in FIGS. 11A, 11B, 11C, and 11D.

[0099] As the fingers 216 are biased apart, the needle hub 130 enters a locked phase in which the force generated by the camming of the camming surfaces 222 against the fingers 216 exerts increased resistance to movement of the needle hub 130. Entry into the locked phase is shown in Figure 11B, and passage through the locked phase is shown in Figure 11C.

[0100] After the fingers 216 have been biased apart as far as necessary for the ribs 220 to enter the slots 218, the total force acting against the movement of the ribs 220 is exerted by the sliding action of the fingers 216 against the ribs 220. This force decreases as the needle hub 130, and therefore the ribs 220, continue to move proximally toward the closed state, as shown in Figures 11D and 11E.

[0101] Continued proximal movement of needle hub 130 moves rib gap 224 past the proximal ends of fingers 216, thereby allowing fingers 216 to snap back to their original, unbent state with their ends nested within rib gap 224. This configuration defines a locked, blocked state in which needle 108 cannot be pushed distally without the application of a large external force in the distal direction. Cam surface 222 may extend to and contact the proximal end of receiving site 212 to prevent further proximal movement of needle hub 130 relative to elongate tubular member 128.

[0102] In some examples, the cannula 100 can additionally or alternatively include a duckbill release mechanism at the distal end 140 of the needle guard assembly 104, an example of which is shown in FIG. 12. As shown, the duckbill release mechanism can include a pair of cooperating members, e.g., arms, each extending distally from the distal end 140 of the needle guard assembly 104. The arms can be included in place of the movable locking elements 148a, b of the safety release component 138 disclosed herein. Similar to the safety release component 138, the arms can be dimensioned to fit within the proximal cylindrical portion 142 of the catheter hub 103. The force applied during entry to the lock activation stage described in connection with FIGS. 11A-11D can be applied while the duckbill release mechanism secures the needle guard assembly 104 to the catheter insertion assembly 102. The safety release component 138 and the duckbill release mechanism can be included in separate embodiments such that the two release mechanisms are not included in the same cannula.

[0103] The cooperating arms can define a passage therebetween configured to slidably receive the needle 108. One or both of the members can have a retaining portion, such as a radially outwardly projecting detent and / or a radially inwardly extending recess, configured to mate with a complementary feature of the catheter hub 103, which can be defined by the inner surface 146 of the proximal cylindrical portion 142. The inclusion of a duckbill feature can ensure a strong coupling of the catheter assembly 102 and the needle guard assembly 104 when the needle 108 is inserted therethrough. The duckbill feature can facilitate easy separation of the catheter assembly 102 from the needle guard assembly 104 when the needle 108 is not present.

[0104] Referring again to FIG. 12, an example of a duckbill mechanism included in some embodiments can include a distal cap 226 consisting of a nose 228 configured to be removably coupled with the proximal cylindrical portion 142 of the catheter hub 103 such that the distal cap 226 abuts the inner surface 146 of the proximal cylindrical portion 142. A pair of distally extending arms 230, 232 defining a split cylinder are also dimensioned to fit within the axial bore 122 of the catheter hub 103. The arms 230, 232 can be radially deflected toward one another when subjected to a compressive force, but in an uncompressed, relaxed state, the arms can define a passageway 234 therebetween configured to slidably receive the needle 108. Alternatively, the arms 230, 232 can be biased inwardly toward one another and forced into a parallel configuration when the needle is between them. An end of one or each arm 230, 232 can include a retaining portion in the form of a protrusion or detent 236. The inclusion of one or more detents 236 defines one or more recesses 238 proximal thereto. The outer periphery 240 of the detents 236 can define an annular ring having a diameter at least slightly larger than the inner diameter of the proximal cylindrical portion 142 of the catheter hub 103. In some examples, the detents 238 may be chamfered distally.

[0105] When the needle 108 is present in the passageway 234 between the arms 230, 232, compression of the arms 230, 232 is prevented, such that release of the distal cap 226 from the axial bore 122 of the catheter hub 103 requires significant force, thereby reducing the likelihood of the catheter assembly 102 separating from the needle guard assembly 104 while the needle 108 remains within the catheter assembly 102. Alternatively, when the arms are biased toward each other, retraction of the needle moves the arms away from the inner wall of the catheter hub and toward each other.

[0106] Embodiments of the disclosed device may include additional and / or alternative structures. As shown in Figures 13-17, for example, cannula 300 may include a safety clip 302 in addition to or instead of the ball release mechanism described above to prevent accidental needle sticks. Cannula 300 may include a needle guard assembly 304 having a body portion 306 connected to a catheter hub 308 such that a protrusion 310 on body portion 306 engages a recess 311 in catheter hub 308. Body portion 306 of needle guard assembly 304 defines an inner bore 312 configured to receive safety clip 302. Safety clip 302 may be disposed within body portion 306 such that safety clip 302 engages at least one interlocking flange 314 defined in body portion 306. In its resting, biased configuration, safety clip 302 may allow a needle to extend through body portion 306 and catheter hub 308. Upon withdrawal of the needle from the proximal end of the catheter hub 308, the safety clip 302 can disengage from the interlocking flange 314 and enclose the tip portion 316 of the needle 318 within the catheter hub 308, thereby preventing needle stick injuries during withdrawal of the needle 318 from the patient.

[0107] The body portion 306 may also feature a tubular sleeve 320 extending axially from the catheter hub 308 to a needle hub 322 connected to the body portion 306. The needle hub 322 is fixedly connected to the needle 318 and is in a close-fitting relationship with the body portion 306. As such, as the needle 318 is withdrawn from the needle hub 322, the needle hub 322 disengages from the body portion 306 and withdraws from the catheter hub 308, and the needle hub 322 disengages from the body portion 306. Also, due to the configuration of the safety clip 302 within the body portion 306, the safety clip 302 also disengages from the body portion 306 and withdraws with the needle 318. Thus, the tip portion 316 of the needle 318 is not exposed to the user during withdrawal of the needle 318 from the patient-user. In some embodiments, the needle hub 322 may be provided with a thumb grip 324 to allow a user to grip the cannula 300 during use.

[0108] The needle hub 322 may also be releasably coupled to a flow control hub 326 via an extension of the needle hub 322. The proximal end of the needle hub 322 may be closed using a threaded cap or a luer lock. The flow control hub 326 may include a flashback chamber 328 that may include a porous filter 330 and a cover to allow air to escape and blood to flow into the interior of the flashback chamber 328. The flashback chamber 328 may further include a hydrophobic filter to prevent leakage of blood therefrom.

[0109] As further shown, the catheter tube 332 may be fixedly connected to a distal end 333 of the catheter hub 308. The catheter tube 332 comprises a thin, elongated tubular structure having a first chamber 334. The bore of the catheter tube 332 may be configured to accommodate the needle 318. The catheter hub 308 may also include an annular stopper 336 on an inner surface of the catheter hub 308. The annular stopper 336 is disposed at a proximal end of the catheter hub 308. In one embodiment, a luer lock cap is provided to seal the proximal end of the catheter hub 308. The catheter hub 308 is adapted to accommodate a tubular valve member 338 within a coaxial recess 340 of the hub and abut a valve closure member 339. The tubular valve member 338 may define a flat distal face. The tubular valve member 338 is configured to be held in place within a coaxial recess 340 in the catheter hub 308 when a first end of the tubular valve member 338 abuts the annular stopper 336 .

[0110] 15 is a perspective view of an actuator member 346 disposed within a cannula 300, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. The actuator member 346 includes a first end having a radially extending flange 348, a second end having a convex surface 350, and an axial bore between the first and second ends. The actuator member 346 can also define a circular recess 342 on an outer surface such that a protrusion (e.g., protrusion 131) of the tubular valve member 338 is configured to engage with the circular recess 342. The engagement of the protrusion of the actuator member 346 with the circular recess 342 ensures that the tubular valve member 338 and the actuator member 346 remain coupled and fixed within the catheter hub 308.

[0111] 16 is an enlarged perspective view of the safety clip 302. The safety clip 302 is configured to block the needle 318 from entering the catheter hub 308 and retain the tip portion 316 of the needle 318 therein when the needle 318 is withdrawn from the catheter hub 308. The safety clip 302 includes a bracket 352 that defines an opening 354 for receiving the needle 318. The opening 354 may be sized based on the diameter of the needle 318 used with the cannula 300. The opening 354 allows the needle to move proximally through the safety clip 302 until the opening 354 reaches a bump, flattened portion, or protrusion near the distal end of the needle 318 that is larger than the opening 354 such that the safety clip 302 cannot slip off the distal end of the needle 318. For example, the needle 318 may define a crimp 355 near its distal tip 316. Crimp 355 of needle 318 can include a pair of generally opposed outwardly extending bulges 355a and a pair of generally opposed inwardly extending recesses 355b disposed generally perpendicular to bulges 355a. Bulges 355a define crimp 355 having a width W that is small enough to facilitate movement of needle 318 within cannula 300, yet large enough to prevent the distal end of needle 318 from passing through opening 354.

[0112] The first resilient arm 356 extends from one end of the bracket 352 and has a first portion 358 and a second portion 360, and in some embodiments, the dimensions of the first portion 358 may be greater than the dimensions of the second portion 360. As an example, the first portion 358 may be wider than the second portion 360. Such a structure of the safety clip 302 allows for easy and inexpensive manufacture of the safety clip 302 while ensuring sufficient spring or bias spring force requirements. The first portion 358 can further match the dimensions of the bracket 352, thus ensuring uniformity of the structure that retains the structural rigidity of the safety clip 302 when subjected to deformation.

[0113] The second resilient arm 362 extends from the other end of the bracket 352 and has a first portion 364 and a second portion 366, where in some embodiments the first portion 364 may have a larger dimension than the second portion 366. As an example, the first portion 364 may be wider than the second portion 366. Such a structure of the safety clip 302 allows for easy and inexpensive manufacture of the safety clip 302 while ensuring sufficient spring or bias force requirements. The first portion 364 may further match the dimensions of the bracket 352, thus ensuring uniformity of structure that retains the structural rigidity of the safety clip 302 when subjected to deformation.

[0114] A connecting portion 368 is also preferably included in the second portion 360. The connecting portion 368 is configured to engage at least one interlocking flange 314 configured on the body portion 306 and the inner surface of the needle 318. The connecting portion 368 is configured to engage the interlocking flange 314 and the body 370 of the needle 318 to puncture a vein of a subject. The connecting portion 368 further disengages from the interlocking flange 314 and the body 370 of the needle 318 when the needle 318 is withdrawn from the proximal end 372 of the catheter hub 308.

[0115] Connecting portion 368 includes a curved protrusion 374 at a forward end and a curved lip 376 at a rearward end. Curved protrusion 374 is configured to engage interlocking flange 314 of body portion 306 such that safety clip 302 is retained within body portion 306. Curved lip 376 at the rearward end extends inwardly toward bracket 352 and is configured to engage needle 318.

[0116] The curved protrusion 374 engages the interlocking flange 314 due to the bias of the first and second resilient arms 356, 362. The first and second resilient arms 356, 362 are biased or deflected by the insertion of the needle 318 into the catheter hub 308. The insertion or presence of the needle 318 in the needle guard assembly 304 deflects the first and second resilient arms 356, 362 away from one another, thereby engaging the curved protrusion 374 into engagement with the interlocking flange 314. At the same time, the curved lip 376 engages the body 370 of the needle 318, thereby maintaining the biasing force and retaining the safety clip 302 within the body portion 306.

[0117] In some embodiments, the curved protrusions 374 of the first and second arms 356, 362 are outwardly extending protrusions configured to engage with the interlocking flange 314 of the inwardly projecting body portion 306. Thus, the structure or shape or configuration of the curved protrusions 374 can be selected based on the structure of the interlocking flange 314 to ensure interlocking therebetween when the needle 318 is present within the catheter hub 308.

[0118] In another embodiment, the curved lip 376 of the first and second arms 356, 362 may comprise an inwardly extending protrusion configured to engage the needle 318 when the needle 318 is present within the catheter hub 308 and to enclose the tip portion 316 of the needle 318 within the safety clip 302 when the needle 318 is withdrawn from the catheter hub 308. The curved lip 376 is thus configured to prevent the entry or re-entry of the needle 318 beyond the safety clip 302 when the needle 318 is withdrawn from the catheter hub 308. Thus, the structure or shape or configuration of the curved lip 376 may be selected based on the configuration of the needle 318 or the location where the needle is inserted or withdrawn. As one non-limiting example, the curved protrusion 374 may be an inverted U-shaped member and the curved lip 376 may be a U-shaped member.

[0119] Additionally, the curved protrusions 374 of the first and second arms 356, 362 may include a protrusion 378 extending toward the bracket 352. The protrusions 378, together with a second portion of each arm, define a seat 380. The seat 380 is adapted to receive and seat the tip portion 316 of the needle 318 such that the tip portion 316 of the needle 318 is securely seated within the safety clip 302, thereby preventing displacement of the needle 318 during withdrawal from the catheter hub 308 or disposal of the needle 318.

[0120] In one embodiment, the first resilient arm 356 is longer than the second resilient arm 362. Such a configuration of the arms 356, 362 may be provided to ensure that a sufficient biasing force is applied to the interlocking flange 314 during use, thereby ensuring that the safety pin 302 is adequately retained within the body portion 306. Also, the asymmetric lengths of the arms can ensure that the connecting portion 368 contacts the body 370 of the needle 318 in the same plane A-A'. Such engagement can ensure uniform stress distribution on the needle 318, thereby preventing damage during assembly. In one embodiment, the needle 318 can be assembled to the catheter hub 308 of the body portion 306 by first bending the arms 356, 362 and then inserting the needle 318 through the tubular sleeve 320.

[0121] Additionally, each of the bracket 352 and the first and second resilient arms 356, 362 may be defined by at least one rib member 382. The rib member 382 reinforces the safety clip 302 and improves its overall strength. As an example, the rib member 382 may extend around a surface of the bracket 352. The rib member 382 may also extend along a second portion of the first and second arms 356, 362, which essentially improves the strength of the second portion. The length of extension of the rib member 382 may be configured based on the strength or rigidity requirements of the safety clip 302. In one embodiment, the rib member 382 may be formed in the bracket 352 and / or the arms via conventional manufacturing techniques, such as stamping.

[0122] In one embodiment, the rib member 382 may be provided on the bracket 352 as reinforcement to prevent damage to the bracket 352 from protrusions contacting the needle 318 during removal of the needle 318. Such a structure ensures that the needle 318 is retained within the safety clip 302 upon withdrawal. In some embodiments, the rib member 382 may be made of a metal material, a plastic material, a composite material, or any other material that serves the purpose of providing reinforcement to the safety clip 302.

[0123] In one embodiment, the bracket 352 and the first and second arms 356, 362 may be made of a metallic material or any other material that serves the purpose of ensuring interlocking with the body portion 306 when the needle 318 is present in the catheter hub 308, and enclosing the tip portion 316 when the needle 318 is withdrawn from the catheter hub 308.

[0124] When the needle 318 is withdrawn after puncturing the vein, the slits in the tubular valve member close because the tubular valve member is made of a flexible material that can self-close the opening of the slits in the flat portion of the valve member. Furthermore, when the tip portion 316 of the needle 318 is withdrawn from the proximal end 372, particularly past the connecting portion 368 of the arms 356, 362 of the safety clip 302, the biasing force acting on the arms 356, 362 due to contact with the needle 318 ceases. Thus, the arms retract to an unbiased configuration in which the curved lips 376 completely close the path for the tip portion 316 to move forward past the safety clip 302. Thus, the safety clip 302 retains the needle 318 upon withdrawal from the catheter hub 308. In this scenario, the safety clip 302 may be withdrawn from the body portion 306 together with the needle 318 via the needle hub 322.

[0125] Because the tip portion 316 rests on a seat 380 configured on the safety pin 302, alignment of the needle 318 is maintained regardless of the needle 318 upon withdrawal. Thus, exposure of the tip portion 316 of the needle 318 is prevented, reducing the possibility of needle stick injuries. In an embodiment, the tip portion 316 may be selectively rested on either of the seats 380 configured on the first and second arms 356, 362.

[0126] The disclosed venous cannula device can prevent a patient's blood from contacting the user's hands by blocking reverse proximal flow of blood when the prongs of the disclosed tubular valve member are closed, thus preventing blood-based infections and bodily injury.

[0127] The disclosed venous cannula device may be less expensive than alternative devices because the tubular valve member, actuator member, and valve closure member may be made from inexpensive plastic or biocompatible materials.

[0128] The disclosed venous cannula device can provide improved closure of the slit defined by the tubular valve member because the multiple prongs of the tubular valve member can be quickly and securely closed by the biasing force exerted by the valve closure member toward the proximal end of the catheter hub, thereby closing the internal fluid passageway defined by the device without allowing the backflow of blood.

[0129] The disclosed cannula devices can prevent the tip of the needle from contacting the user after the needle is withdrawn. For example, the disclosed needle safety components provide a safety mechanism in the form of one or more safety release components that shield the tip of the needle as it is withdrawn after puncturing a patient's blood vessel.

[0130] The disclosed locking elements, which in some examples may include a solid spherical ball, provide for selective disengagement of the catheter assembly from the needle guard assembly upon proximal retraction of the needle into the needle guard assembly, thereby generally preventing needle tip exposure and associated needle stick injuries.

[0131] The disclosed locking element, which includes a solid spherical ball, allows for easy removal of the needle by releasing the locking engagement between the catheter assembly and the needle guard assembly.

[0132] The disclosed devices may include or be compatible with various types of catheter hubs, including but not limited to hubs 103-A, 103-B, and 103-C shown in Figures 18, 19, and 20, respectively. Thus, the disclosed tubular valve members, actuator members, and valve closure members, among other components, may not be limited to cannulas with catheter hubs shown in Figures 1 and 13.

[0133] The embodiments described herein may also be configured with additional or alternative needle release and retraction mechanisms. For example, the disclosed cannula embodiments may include a coil spring biased to retract the needle proximally so that the needle is automatically retracted and enclosed within the needle guard assembly after and before deployment. The embodiments may also feature a push button mechanism configured to facilitate needle release and retraction and / or facilitate coupling and decoupling of the catheter assembly and the needle guard assembly. The embodiments may include a manually operable push button that, in some instances, extends outwardly from the needle guard assembly, protrudes from a surface of the cannula, or is accessible at a surface of the cannula. Actuation of the push button may be necessary to overcome a spring force within the needle guard assembly that biases the needle in a proximal direction. Outward displacement of the push button may allow an internal component of the needle guard assembly, such as the needle hub, to move distally along with the needle attached thereto. An example of a spring-loaded, push-button actuated cannula configuration compatible with one or more of the disclosed embodiments is described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,747,831, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0134] Although aspects of the present invention have been particularly shown and described with reference to the above embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various additional embodiments may be contemplated by modification of the disclosed apparatus without departing from the scope of what is disclosed. Such embodiments are to be understood to be within the scope of the present invention as determined based on the claims and any equivalents thereof.

Claims

1. 1. An intravenous cannula apparatus comprising: a catheter hub having a proximal end, a distal end, and a coaxial recess extending from said proximal end to said distal end; a tubular valve member disposed within the coaxial recess of the catheter hub, a cylindrical portion defining a longitudinal recess; a distal surface including one or more slits defining a plurality of prongs, the slits configured to open and close as the needle travels therethrough; a tubular valve member comprising: an actuator member having an axial bore disposed within the longitudinal recess of the tubular valve member, such that distal displacement of the actuator member within the catheter hub opens the prongs of the tubular valve member to form a passageway for fluid flow from the proximal end of the catheter hub to the distal end of the catheter hub; a valve closure member including a proximal end, a distal end, and a throughbore extending from the proximal end to the distal end, the valve closure member being disposed within the catheter hub such that the proximal end of the valve closure member abuts an undercut portion of the catheter hub and the distal end of the valve closure member abuts the distal end of the tubular valve member; 1. An intravenous cannula apparatus comprising:

2. the valve closure member has a hardness ranging from about 50 Shore to about 80 Shore, and the tubular valve member has a hardness ranging from about 20 Shore to about 45 Shore.

2. The venous cannula apparatus of claim 1.

3. the tubular valve member is configured to be held in place within the coaxial recess of the catheter hub when a first end of the tubular valve member abuts an annular stop of the catheter hub.

2. The venous cannula apparatus of claim 1.

4. the tubular valve member is made of a flexible material including silicone, rubber, or both; 2. The venous cannula apparatus of claim 1.

5. The slits form a Y shape, an inverted Y shape, an X shape, a + shape, or a combination thereof.

2. The venous cannula apparatus of claim 1.

6. the cylindrical portion of the tubular valve member having a radially extending protrusion on an inner surface thereof; 2. The venous cannula apparatus of claim 1.

7. the actuator member having an outer surface including a circular recess configured to engage the protrusion of the tubular valve member; 7. The venous cannula apparatus of claim 6.

8. The actuator member includes a radially extending flange.

2. The venous cannula apparatus of claim 1.

9. The actuator member comprises a hard plastic material or a metal.

2. The venous cannula apparatus of claim 1.

10. and a flashback chamber including a porous filter and / or cover configured to allow air to flow out and blood to flow in.

2. The venous cannula apparatus of claim 1.

11. a needle guard assembly configured to push the needle distally, retract the needle proximally, and enclose the needle; 2. The venous cannula apparatus of claim 1.

12. the needle guard assembly is configured to reversibly mate with the proximal end of the catheter hub.

12. The venous cannula apparatus of claim 11.

13. and further comprising a safety release component at a distal end of the needle guard assembly.

13. The venous cannula apparatus of claim 12.

14. the safety release component comprises a body having a longitudinal bore extending therethrough, at least one groove defined by an exterior surface, and one or more movable locking elements configured to engage an annular groove defined by a proximal cylindrical portion of the catheter hub.

14. The venous cannula apparatus of claim 13.

15. the one or more movable locking elements are spherical and complementary to the at least one groove defined by the exterior surface of the body of the safety release component; 15. The venous cannula apparatus of claim 14.

16. the one or more movable locking elements are configured to be displaced away from the longitudinal bore upon insertion of the needle into the longitudinal bore.

15. The venous cannula apparatus of claim 14.

17. the one or more movable locking elements are configured to nest within the at least one groove following withdrawal of the needle from the longitudinal bore.

15. The venous cannula apparatus of claim 14.

18. the distal surface of the tubular valve member is substantially flat; 2. The venous cannula apparatus of claim 1.

19. the distal surface of the tubular valve member is convex.

2. The venous cannula apparatus of claim 1.

20. further comprising a luer lock member coupled to the needle guard assembly.

12. The venous cannula apparatus of claim 11.

21. the valve closure member is configured to close the prongs of the tubular valve member, thereby preventing blood flow from the distal end of the catheter hub to the proximal end of the catheter hub.

2. The venous cannula apparatus of claim 1.

22. and a catheter tube extending distally from the distal end of the catheter hub, the catheter tube defining a lumen sized to accommodate passage of the needle.

2. The venous cannula apparatus of claim 1.

23. 1. An intravenous cannula apparatus comprising: a catheter assembly including a catheter hub having a distal end connected to a proximal end of a catheter tube, the inner surface of a proximal portion of the catheter hub including an annular groove; a needle guard assembly configured to couple to a proximal end of the catheter assembly, An elongated tubular member; a needle hub comprising a needle holder disposed within the elongated tubular member, a distal end of the needle holder being connected to a needle; a safety release component secured to a distal end of the elongate tubular member, the safety release component including a body and one or more movable locking elements configured to releasably couple to the catheter hub, each of the movable locking elements being dimensioned to fit into one of one or more complementary grooves defined by an exterior surface of the body; a needle guard assembly including: Equipped with each of the one or more movable locking elements is configured to engage the annular groove of the catheter hub by moving radially outward from one of the complementary grooves, thereby coupling the elongated tubular member of the needle guard assembly to the catheter assembly when the needle passes through the safety release component pursuant to puncturing a patient's blood vessel, in an intravenous cannula apparatus.

24. The body of the safety release component further comprises a longitudinal bore through which the needle passes.

24. The venous cannula apparatus of claim 23.

25. the one or more movable locking elements are spherical; 24. The venous cannula apparatus of claim 23.

26. the one or more movable locking elements are made of stainless steel; 26. The venous cannula apparatus of claim 25.

27. the safety release component includes a circular base secured to a distal end of the elongate tubular member; 24. The venous cannula apparatus of claim 23.

28. The safety release component includes a tubular portion extending from the circular base and defining an axial bore configured to accommodate passage of the needle.

28. The venous cannula apparatus of claim 27.

29. each of the one or more complementary grooves extending toward the axial bore of the tubular portion of the safety release component; 30. The venous cannula apparatus of claim 28.

30. each of the one or more movable locking elements is configured to receive within one of one or more complementary grooves following withdrawal of the needle from the longitudinal bore; 30. The venous cannula apparatus of claim 29.

31. 1. An intravenous cannula apparatus comprising: a catheter hub having a proximal end, a distal end, and a coaxial recess extending from said proximal end to said distal end; a tubular valve member disposed within the coaxial recess of the catheter hub, a cylindrical portion defining a longitudinal recess; a distal surface including one or more slits defining a plurality of prongs, the slits configured to open and close upon movement of a needle therethrough; a tubular valve member comprising: an actuator member having an axial bore disposed within the longitudinal recess of the tubular valve member, such that distal displacement of the actuator member within the catheter hub opens the prongs of the tubular valve member to form a passageway for fluid flow from the proximal end of the catheter hub to the distal end of the catheter hub; a valve closure member including a proximal end, a distal end, and a throughbore extending from the proximal end to the distal end, the valve closure member being disposed within the catheter hub such that the proximal end of the valve closure member abuts an undercut portion of the catheter hub and the distal end of the valve closure member abuts the distal end of the tubular valve member; A needle guard assembly configured to couple to the proximal end of the catheter hub, comprising: An elongated tubular member; a needle hub including a needle holder disposed within the elongated tubular member, a distal end of the needle holder being connected to the needle; a safety release component secured to a distal end of the elongate tubular member, the safety release component having one or more movable locking elements configured to releasably couple to a body and to the catheter hub; a needle guard assembly including: It is equipped with The one or more movable locking elements are configured to engage the proximal end of the catheter hub, thereby coupling the elongated tubular member of the needle guard assembly to the catheter hub when the needle passes through the safety release component pursuant to puncturing a patient's blood vessel.

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