Catheter system with needle retraction mechanism

Abstract

The catheter system may include a catheter assembly including a catheter adapter and a catheter. The catheter system may include a needle assembly including a barrel, an introducer needle, a needle hub attached to the introducer needle, and a spring disposed around the needle hub. The needle assembly may include a push button for selectively engaging the needle hub and a distally extending arm that contacts the barrel. The needle hub may include a distally extending arm that forms the push button within a side hole in the barrel. The needle assembly may include a telescoping barrel that includes an inner sleeve with a distally extending arm that forms the push button within a side hole in the main barrel. The needle assembly may include a lever arm coupled to the barrel. In response to depression of the lever arm, the lever arm may release a flexible extension of the needle hub.

Description

[Background technology]

[0001] A common type of catheter assembly includes a trocar peripheral intravenous catheter ("PIVC"). As the name suggests, a trocar PIVC can be attached over an introducer needle with a sharp distal tip. The catheter assembly can include a catheter adapter, a PIVC extending distally from the catheter adapter, and an introducer needle extending through the PIVC. The PIVC and introducer needle can be assembled such that the distal tip of the introducer needle extends beyond the distal tip of the PIVC and the bevel of the needle points away from the patient's skin just prior to insertion into the skin. The PIVC and introducer needle are typically inserted through the skin into the patient's vasculature at a shallow angle.

[0002] To verify that the introducer needle and / or PIVC are properly inserted into the vessel, the clinician can check for blood flashback in the flashback chamber of the catheter assembly or in the space between the introducer needle and the PIVC. Once inserting the introducer needle is confirmed, the clinician may remove the introducer needle and leave the PIVC in place for subsequent blood collection or infusion.

[0003] In some instances, catheter assemblies, such as the BD INSYTE® AUTOGUARD® shielded IV catheter available from Becton Dickinson and Company of Franklin Lakes, New Jersey, can include a push button configured to retract the introducer needle after the IV catheter is in place within the vein. A common problem with this type of retraction mechanism is blood splatter due to abrupt and / or nonlinear retraction of the introducer needle after the push button is depressed. Blood splatter can contribute to increased exposure to blood-borne viruses. Silicone gel is often used as a damper to delay the release time of a spring configured to retract the introducer needle, thereby reducing blood splatter. However, silicone gel can be cumbersome and / or difficult to apply.

[0004] The subject matter claimed herein is not limited to embodiments that solve the problems or that operate only in the contexts described above. Rather, this background is only provided to illustrate one example technology area where some embodiments described herein may be practiced. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] U.S. Patent No. 5,501,675 Summary of the Invention

[0006] The present disclosure relates generally to vascular access. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to a catheter system including a needle retraction mechanism, and related devices and methods. In some embodiments, the needle retraction mechanism can be configured to reduce blood splatter, thereby reducing the risk of exposure to blood-borne viruses. A first set of embodiments will now be described. In some embodiments, the catheter system can include a catheter assembly including a catheter adapter. In some embodiments, the catheter adapter can include a distal end, a proximal end, and a catheter adapter lumen extending through the distal end of the catheter adapter and the proximal end of the catheter adapter. In some embodiments, the catheter system can include a catheter extending from the distal end of the catheter adapter.

[0007] In some embodiments, the catheter system may include a needle assembly including a barrel. In some embodiments, the barrel may include a proximal end and a distal end. In some embodiments, the needle assembly may include an introducer needle including a sharp distal tip and a proximal end. In some embodiments, the needle assembly may include a needle hub attached to the introducer needle and movably disposed within the barrel. In some embodiments, the needle assembly may include a spring disposed around the needle hub.

[0008] In some embodiments, the needle assembly may include a push button configured to selectively engage the needle hub. In some embodiments, the push button may hold the needle hub against the bias of a spring. In some embodiments, the introducer needle may extend beyond the distal end of the barrel and through the catheter when the catheter adapter is adjacent the distal end of the barrel. In some embodiments, the needle assembly may include a protrusion extending from the push button for engaging the catheter adapter to prevent movement of the push button when the catheter adapter is adjacent the distal end of the barrel. In some embodiments, the needle assembly may include a distally extending arm that contacts the inner surface of the barrel. In some embodiments, the distally extending arm may be configured to scrape the inner surface of the barrel in response to depression of the push button and extension of the spring.

[0009] In some embodiments, the distal end of the distally extending arm may include a hook. In some embodiments, the distally extending arm may be integrally formed with the spring as a single unit. In some embodiments, the needle assembly may include a fastener separate from the spring, and the fastener may include the distally extending arm. In some embodiments, the distally extending arm may be a first distally extending arm. In some embodiments, the needle assembly may include a second distally extending arm opposite the first distally extending arm. In some embodiments, the fastener may include a coil. In some embodiments, a first end of the coil may include a first distally extending arm, and a second end of the coil may include a second distally extending arm. In some embodiments, the distal end of the first distally extending arm may include a hook, and the distal end of the second distally extending arm may include another hook.

[0010] A second set of embodiments will now be described. In some embodiments, a catheter system may include a catheter assembly including a catheter adapter. In some embodiments, the catheter adapter may include a distal end, a proximal end, and a catheter adapter lumen extending through the distal end of the catheter adapter and the proximal end of the catheter adapter. In some embodiments, the catheter system may include a catheter extending from the distal end of the catheter adapter.

[0011] In some embodiments, the catheter system may include a needle assembly including a barrel. In some embodiments, the barrel may include a proximal end, a distal end, and a side hole between the proximal end of the barrel and the distal end of the barrel. In some embodiments, the needle assembly may include an introducer needle including a sharp distal tip and a proximal end. In some embodiments, the needle assembly may include a needle hub attached to the introducer needle and movably disposed within the barrel. In some embodiments, the needle hub may include a distally extending arm within the side hole that forms a push button. In some embodiments, the push button may be configured to selectively engage the barrel.

[0012] In some embodiments, the needle assembly can include a spring disposed around the needle hub. In some embodiments, when the push button is within the side hole, the push button can hold the needle hub against the bias of the spring. In some embodiments, the spring can be configured to extend and retract the introducer needle in response to depression of the push button. In some embodiments, the distally extending arm can be a first distally extending arm. In some embodiments, the needle assembly can include a second distally extending arm opposite the first distally extending arm. In some embodiments, the side hole can be a first side hole. In some embodiments, the barrel can include a second side hole opposite the first side hole, with the second distally extending arm forming another push button within the second side hole. In some embodiments, the push button can be configured to selectively engage the barrel. In some embodiments, the spring can be configured to extend and retract the introducer needle in response to depression of the push button and the other push button. In some embodiments, the catheter system may include a vent plug at the proximal end of the needle hub.

[0013] A third set of embodiments will now be described. In some embodiments, a catheter system may include a catheter assembly including a catheter adapter. In some embodiments, the catheter adapter may include a distal end, a proximal end, and a catheter adapter lumen extending through the distal end of the catheter adapter and the proximal end of the catheter adapter. In some embodiments, the catheter assembly may include a catheter extending from the distal end of the catheter adapter. In some embodiments, the catheter system may include a needle assembly including a telescoping body. In some embodiments, the telescoping body may include a main body and one or more inner sleeves nested within the main body. In some embodiments, the main body may include a side hole. In some embodiments, the inner sleeve may include a distally extending arm within the side hole that forms a push button. In some embodiments, the push button may be configured to selectively engage the main body.

[0014] In some embodiments, the needle assembly can include an introducer needle including a sharp distal tip and a proximal end. In some embodiments, the needle assembly can include a needle hub secured to the introducer needle and coupled to the telescoping barrel. In some embodiments, the needle assembly can include a spring disposed around the needle hub. In some embodiments, when the push button is within the side hole, the push button can hold the needle hub against the bias of the spring.

[0015] In some embodiments, the spring can be configured to expand in response to depression of the push button. In some embodiments, in response to expansion of the spring, the telescoping barrel can expand and the introducer needle can be retracted into the telescoping barrel. In some embodiments, the push button can include a distal stop surface configured to contact an edge of the main barrel to prevent retraction of the telescoping barrel after the telescoping barrel expands and the introducer needle is retracted into the telescoping barrel. In some embodiments, the distal stop surface can be perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the telescoping barrel. In some embodiments, the catheter system can include a vent plug at the proximal end of the telescoping barrel.

[0016] A fourth set of embodiments will now be described. In some embodiments, a catheter system may include a catheter assembly including a catheter adapter. In some embodiments, the catheter adapter may include a distal end, a proximal end, and a catheter adapter lumen extending through the distal end of the catheter adapter and the proximal end of the catheter adapter. In some embodiments, the catheter assembly may include a catheter extending from the distal end of the catheter adapter.

[0017] In some embodiments, the catheter assembly can include a needle assembly. In some embodiments, the needle assembly can include a barrel, the barrel including a proximal end, a distal end, and a side hole between the proximal end of the barrel and the distal end of the barrel. In some embodiments, an introducer needle can extend beyond the distal end of the barrel and through the catheter.

[0018] In some embodiments, the needle assembly can include an introducer needle including a sharp distal tip and a proximal end. In some embodiments, the needle assembly can include a needle hub attached to the introducer needle. In some embodiments, the needle hub can include a flexible extension disposed within the side hole and holding the needle hub against the bias of a spring. In some embodiments, the needle assembly can include a spring disposed around the needle hub.

[0019] In some embodiments, the needle assembly can include a lever arm coupled to the barrel and aligned with a side hole in the barrel. In some embodiments, in response to depression of the lever arm into the side hole, the lever arm can release the flexible extension from the side hole and the spring can expand. In some embodiments, in response to expansion of the spring, the needle hub can move proximally, retracting the introducer needle.

[0020] In some embodiments, the needle hub may include another flexible extension opposite the flexible extension. In some embodiments, the other flexible extension may be configured to rub against an inner surface of the barrel in response to expansion of the spring. In some embodiments, the proximal end of the lever arm may include a protrusion. In some embodiments, the flexible extension may be configured to rub against an inner surface of the barrel in response to expansion of the spring.

[0021] It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the claimed invention. It is to be understood that the various embodiments are not limited to the arrangements and instrumentality shown in the drawings. Also, it is to be understood that embodiments may be combined or other embodiments may be utilized, and that structural changes may be made without departing from the scope of the various embodiments of the invention, unless so claimed. Therefore, the following detailed description is not to be taken in a limiting sense. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0022] Example embodiments will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings. [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of a prior art catheter system. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 2-2 of FIG. 1 prior to actuation of the spring mechanism. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a prior art catheter system similar to the view shown in FIG. 2, showing the catheter advanced distally relative to the introducer needle assembly and the spring actuating to retract the needle into the barrel. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a top perspective view of a push button of a catheter system according to the prior art. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a partial cross-sectional view of a portion of a prior art catheter system prior to activation of the spring mechanism, according to some embodiments. [Figure 6A] FIG. 6A is a top perspective view of an exemplary catheter system, according to some embodiments. [Figure 6B] FIG. 6B is a top perspective view of an exemplary needle assembly of the catheter system of FIG. 6A, according to some embodiments. [Figure 6C] FIG. 6C is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the catheter system of FIG. 6A prior to actuation of an exemplary push button and tensioning of an exemplary spring, according to some embodiments. [Figure 6D] FIG. 6D is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of FIG. 6C according to some embodiments. [Figure 7A] FIG. 7A is a top perspective view of an exemplary spring showing exemplary distally extending arms, according to some embodiments. [Figure 7B] FIG. 7B is a top perspective view of a spring showing another example of a distally extending arm, according to some embodiments. [Figure 7C] FIG. 7C is a top perspective view of a spring showing another exemplary distally extending arm, according to some embodiments. [Figure 7D]FIG. 7D is a top perspective view of another exemplary distally extending arm and spring in an extended position after depression of a push button, according to some embodiments. [Figure 7E] FIG. 7E is an enlarged top perspective view of the proximal end of the spring with distally extending arms of FIG. 7D, according to some embodiments. [Figure 8A] FIG. 8A is a top perspective view of an exemplary fastener, according to some embodiments. [Figure 8B] FIG. 8B is a top perspective view of another exemplary fastener, according to some embodiments. [Figure 8C] FIG. 8C is a top perspective view of an exemplary needle hub showing an exemplary fastener, according to some embodiments. [Figure 8D] FIG. 8D is a top perspective view of an exemplary catheter system, according to some embodiments. [Figure 9A] FIG. 9A is a side view of an exemplary catheter system prior to tensioning of an exemplary spring, according to some embodiments. [Figure 9B] FIG. 9B is a top view of the catheter system of FIG. 9A after spring extension, according to some embodiments. [Figure 9C] FIG. 9C is a top perspective view of the catheter system of FIG. 9A after spring extension, according to some embodiments. [Figure 9D] FIG. 9D is a top perspective view of an exemplary needle assembly in the catheter system of FIG. 9A after spring extension, according to some embodiments. [Figure 10A] FIG. 10A is a top perspective view of an exemplary needle cover, according to some embodiments. [Figure 10B] FIG. 10B is a top perspective view of an exemplary needle hub of the catheter system of FIG. 9A, according to some embodiments. [Figure 10C] FIG. 10C is a side view of a needle hub and an exemplary introducer needle coupled to the needle hub, according to some embodiments. [Figure 10D]FIG. 10D is a side view of a spring surrounding a needle hub, showing the spring compressed before extension, according to some embodiments. [Figure 10E] FIG. 10E is a cross-sectional view of a spring surrounding a needle hub, showing the spring before compression and expansion of the spring, according to some embodiments. [Figure 10F] FIG. 10F is a top perspective view of an exemplary catheter assembly, according to some embodiments. [Figure 10G] FIG. 10G is a cross-sectional view of the catheter assembly of FIG. 10F, according to some embodiments. [Figure 10H] FIG. 10H is a side view of a spring in a compressed state, according to some embodiments. [Figure 10I] FIG. 10I is a top perspective view of an exemplary vent plug, according to some embodiments. [Figure 10J] FIG. 10J is a top view of an exemplary barrel of a needle assembly in the catheter system of FIG. 9A, according to some embodiments. [Figure 11A] FIG. 11A is a top view of the catheter system of FIG. 9A before tensioning of an exemplary spring, according to some embodiments. [Figure 11B] FIG. 11B is a top perspective view of a portion of the catheter system of FIG. 9A before spring tension, according to some embodiments. [Figure 11C] FIG. 11C is a top view of the catheter system of FIG. 9A before spring tension, according to some embodiments. [Figure 11D] FIG. 11D is a top perspective view of a portion of the catheter system of FIG. 9A before tensioning of the spring, according to some embodiments. [Figure 12A] FIG. 12A is a top perspective view of an exemplary catheter system showing an exemplary telescoping barrel having an exemplary first inner sleeve and an exemplary second inner sleeve nested within an exemplary main barrel, according to some embodiments. [Figure 12B] FIG. 12B is a top perspective view of the catheter system of FIG. 12A showing the telescoping barrel in an extended position, according to some embodiments. [Figure 12C] FIG. 12C is a top perspective view of the first inner sleeve, according to some embodiments. [Figure 12D] FIG. 12D is a top perspective view of the main body, according to some embodiments. [Figure 12E] FIG. 12E is a top perspective view of an exemplary needle hub and an exemplary introducer needle, according to some embodiments. [Figure 12F] FIG. 12F is a top perspective view of an exemplary needle assembly of the catheter system of FIG. 12A showing the telescoping barrel in an extended position, according to some embodiments. [Figure 13A] FIG. 13A is a top perspective view of an exemplary catheter system showing an exemplary flexible extension inserted into an exemplary side hole in an exemplary barrel to prevent extension of an exemplary spring and retraction of an exemplary introducer needle, according to some embodiments. [Figure 13B] FIG. 13B is a top perspective view of the catheter system of FIG. 13A showing a flexible extension inserted into a side hole in the barrel to prevent extension of the exemplary spring and retraction of the introducer needle, according to some embodiments. [Figure 13C] FIG. 13C is a cross-sectional view of the catheter system of FIG. 13A showing a flexible extension inserted into a side hole in the barrel to prevent extension of the exemplary spring and retraction of the introducer needle, according to some embodiments. [Figure 13D] FIG. 13D is an enlarged top perspective view of a portion of the catheter system of FIG. 13A showing a flexible extension inserted into a side hole in the barrel to prevent extension of the exemplary spring and retraction of the introducer needle, according to some embodiments. [Figure 13E] FIG. 13E is a top perspective view of an exemplary needle hub of the catheter system of FIG. 13A, according to some embodiments. [Figure 13F] FIG. 13F is a top perspective view of the spring in the catheter system of FIG. 13A in a contracted state, according to some embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0023] 1-5, a prior art catheter assembly 10 is shown. The catheter 20 includes a tube 21 attached to a catheter adapter 22. The needle assembly 30 includes a handle or barrel 31, an introducer needle 32, a carrier or needle hub 33, a spring 39, and an actuation latch or push button 34. The spring 39 is disposed around the introducer needle 32 and the needle hub 33 and extends between the needle hub 33 and the distal end of the barrel 31. The push button 34 extends into the barrel 31 through a slot 35 formed in the barrel 31 adjacent the distal end. The push button 34 includes a keyhole-shaped opening 36 that allows the introducer needle 32 and the needle hub 33 to extend through the push button 34. The push button 34 also includes a protrusion 40 that extends toward the distal end of the catheter 20 and the prior art catheter system 10.

[0024] When the push button 34 is in the inactivated "up" position, the smaller portion of the keyhole-shaped opening 36 communicates with the lumen of the barrel 31. In this position, the smaller opening engages the needle hub 33, holding it adjacent to the distal end of the barrel 31 against the force of the spring 39. The needle hub 33 has a generally hourglass shape, with its midsection having a smaller diameter than either end. This shape facilitates engagement between the smaller opening of the keyhole-shaped opening 36 in the push button 34 and the needle hub 33. When the push button 34 is in the inactivated position, the protrusion 40 is located inside the catheter adapter 22. Thus, when the catheter 20 is still on the introducer needle 32 and the catheter adapter 22 is adjacent the distal end of the barrel 31, the protrusion 40 prevents the push button 34 from moving "down" to the activated position. The protrusion 40 may have a length of from about 0.5 mm to about 2.5 mm. The length used must be long enough to allow projection 40 to engage catheter adapter 22 when catheter adapter 22 is adjacent the distal end of barrel 31. However, projection 40 must not be so long as to prevent catheter 20 and introducer needle 32 from being used.

[0025] When catheter 20 is moved from introducer needle 32 so that catheter adapter 22 is no longer adjacent to the distal end of barrel 31, catheter adapter 22 no longer obstructs movement of prong 40, allowing push button 34 to be depressed or moved "down," i.e., activated. In this position, the larger opening of keyhole-shaped opening 36 no longer engages needle hub 33. The larger opening of keyhole-shaped opening 36 must be larger than the maximum diameter of needle hub 33. In this manner, spring 39 can push needle hub 33 into the proximal end of barrel 31, retracting the sharp distal tip of introducer needle 32 into barrel 31.

[0026] The protrusion 40 on the push button 34 can also be angled. This configuration allows the clinician to actuate the push button 34 by firmly depressing it. This downward force transfers some axial force to the catheter adapter 22 due to the wedge shape of the protrusion. This causes the catheter adapter 22 to advance distally, clearing the way for the push button 34 to be fully depressed. The wedge can be angled between about 15 degrees and about 25 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis of the catheter adapter 22. In some embodiments, the push button 34 of the prior art catheter system 10 can operate similarly to the actuation latch described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2009 / 0129944, entitled "Safety Catheter Assembly with Safety Stop Push Button," filed December 27, 1994, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0027] The spring 39 of the prior art catheter system 10 is uniformly tapered on the inside from the distal end 42 to the proximal end 44 of the spring 39. Therefore, the outer and inner diameters of the spring 39 at the distal end 42 can be larger than the outer and inner diameters of the spring 39 at the proximal end 44, respectively. The uniformly tapered spring 39 can contribute to blood splatter when the push button 34 is depressed and the spring 39 expands, pushing the needle hub 33 into the proximal end of the barrel 31.

[0028] 6A-6C , in some embodiments, a catheter system 50 may include a catheter assembly 52 that includes a catheter adapter 54. In some embodiments, the catheter adapter 54 may include a distal end 56, a proximal end 58, and a catheter adapter lumen extending through the distal end 56 of the catheter adapter 54 and the proximal end 58 of the catheter adapter 54. In some embodiments, the catheter system 50 may include a catheter 60 extending from the distal end 56 of the catheter adapter 54.

[0029] In some embodiments, the catheter system 50 may include a needle assembly 62 including a barrel 64. In some embodiments, the barrel 64 may act as a grip for the user. In some embodiments, the barrel 64 may include a proximal end 66 and a distal end 68. In some embodiments, the needle assembly 62 may include an introducer needle 70 including a sharp distal tip 72 and a proximal end 74. In some embodiments, the needle assembly 62 may include a needle hub 76 attached to the introducer needle 70 and movably disposed within the barrel 64. In some embodiments, the needle assembly 62 may include a spring 78 disposed around the needle hub 76.

[0030] In some embodiments, the needle assembly 62 can include a push button 80 configured to selectively engage the needle hub 76. In some embodiments, the push button 80 can hold the needle hub 76 against the bias of a compressed spring 78. In some embodiments, the introducer needle 70 can extend beyond the distal end 68 of the barrel 64 and through the catheter 60 when the catheter adapter 54 is adjacent the distal end 68 of the barrel 64. In some embodiments, the needle assembly 62 can include a protrusion 82 extending from the push button 80 for engaging the catheter adapter 54 to prevent movement or depression of the push button 80 when the catheter adapter 54 is adjacent the distal end 68 of the barrel 64.

[0031] In some embodiments, needle assembly 62 can include a distally extending arm 84 that contacts an inner surface 86 of barrel 64. In some embodiments, distally extending arm 84 can be configured to rub against inner surface 86 of barrel 64 in response to depression of push button 80 and extension of spring 78. In some embodiments, the distal end of distally extending arm 84 can rub against inner surface 86 of barrel 64 the entire distance, and the distal end of distally extending arm 84 moves during extension of spring 78 after depression of push button 80 to retract introducer needle 70.

[0032] In some embodiments, the distal end of the distally extending arm 84 may include a hook 88, which increases friction between the distally extending arm 84 and the inner surface 86 of the barrel 64. In some embodiments, the distally extending arm 84 may create friction between the inner surface 86 and the spring 78, which may slow the velocity of the needle hub 76 as the spring 78 expands and the introducer needle 70 is retracted. This reduction in velocity of the needle hub 76 may prevent blood from splashing during retraction of the needle hub 76. In some embodiments, the reduction in velocity of the needle hub 76 as the introducer needle 70 is retracted may allow the catheter system 50 to avoid including a septum and / or a silicone gel or similar gel within the barrel 64. In some embodiments, the distally extending arm 84 may extend across a gap or space between the coil portion 90 of the spring and the inner surface 86 of the barrel 64.

[0033] In some embodiments, the catheter system 50 may be similar or identical in one or more features and / or operation to the prior art catheter system 10 of Figures 1-5. For example, Figures 6A-6D show a push button 80, a needle hub 76, and a barrel 64 that may be similar or identical in one or more features and / or operation to the push button 34, the needle hub 33, and the barrel 31, respectively, of the prior art catheter system 10 of Figures 1-5, according to some embodiments.

[0034] 7A-7C , in some embodiments, distally extending arm 84 may be coupled to coil portion 90 of spring 78 such that distally extending arm 84 moves with spring 78. In some embodiments, distally extending arm 84 may be integrally formed with spring 78 as a single unit, as shown in FIGS. 7A-7E . In some embodiments, distally extending arm 84 may be disposed proximate the proximal end of spring 78 and / or the proximal end 92 of coil portion 90 of spring 78, which may include one or more turns of non-separate coil portion 90 to support distally extending arm 84. In some embodiments, distal end 94 of coil portion 90 may include one or more turns of non-separate coil portion 90 to support spring 78 against body 64 when spring 78 is extended, as shown, for example, in FIG. 7D . In some embodiments, distally extending arm 84 may include a hook 88. In other embodiments, distally extending arm 84 may be generally straight, for example, as shown in Figure 7A. In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 7B-7D, the size and / or orientation of hook 88 may vary, for example, according to the amount of friction desired.

[0035] 8A-8D , in some embodiments, needle assembly 62 may include a catch 96 that is separate from spring 78. More particularly, in some embodiments, catch 96 may be separate from spring 78. In some embodiments, catch 96 may include a distally extending arm 84. In some embodiments, catch 96 may be coupled to spring 78 such that distally extending arm 84 moves with spring 78. In some embodiments, distally extending arm 84 may be coupled to and / or extend from coil 98 of catch 96.

[0036] In some embodiments, distally extending arm 84 can be a first distally extending arm. In some embodiments, needle assembly 62 can include a second distally extending arm 100 opposite the first distally extending arm. In some embodiments, first end 102 of coil 98 can include a first distally extending arm, and second end 104 of coil 98 can include a second distally extending arm 100. In some embodiments, the distal end of the first distally extending arm can include a hook 88, and the distal end of the second distally extending arm 100 can include another hook 106.

[0037] In some embodiments, the first and second distally extending arms 100 can be configured to rub against the inner surface 86 of the barrel 64 in response to depression of the push button 80 and extension of the spring 78. In some embodiments, the first and second distally extending arms 100 can rub against the inner surface 86 of the barrel 64 along their entire distance, with the distal ends of the distally extending arms moving while the spring 78 extends after depression of the push button 80, retracting the introducer needle 70. In some embodiments, the first and second distally extending arms 100 can create friction between the inner surface 86 and the spring 78, thereby slowing the velocity of the needle hub 76 as the spring 78 extends and retracts the introducer needle 70.

[0038] 9A-11D, in some embodiments, a catheter system 108 may include a catheter assembly 110 that may include a catheter adapter 112. In some embodiments, the catheter system 108 may be similar or identical in one or more features and / or operation to the prior art catheter system 10 of FIGS. 1-5 and / or the catheter system 50 of FIGS. 6-8. In some embodiments, the catheter adapter 112 may include a distal end 114, a proximal end 116, and a catheter adapter lumen 117 extending through the distal end 114 and the proximal end 116 of the catheter adapter 112. In some embodiments, the catheter system 108 may include a catheter 118 extending from the distal end 114 of the catheter adapter 112.

[0039] In some embodiments, the catheter system 108 may include a needle assembly 120 including a body 122. In some embodiments, the body 122 may include a proximal end 124, a distal end 126, and a side hole 128 between the proximal end 124 of the body 122 and the distal end 126 of the body 122. In some embodiments, the needle assembly 120 may include an introducer needle 130 including a sharp distal tip 132 and a proximal end 134. In some embodiments, the needle assembly 120 may include a needle hub 136 attached to the introducer needle 130 and movably disposed within the body 122.

[0040] In some embodiments, needle hub 136 may include a distally extending arm 138 forming a push button 140 within side bore 128. In some embodiments, push button 140 may be configured to selectively engage barrel 122. In some embodiments, needle assembly 120 may include a spring 142 disposed about needle hub 136. In some embodiments, push button 140 may hold needle hub 136 against the bias of spring 142 when push button 140 is within side bore 128. In some embodiments, spring 142 may be configured to expand and retract introducer needle 130 in response to depression of push button 140.

[0041] In some embodiments, distally extending arm 138 can be a first distally extending arm. In some embodiments, needle hub 136 can include a second distally extending arm 144 opposite the first distally extending arm, which can facilitate linear retraction of needle hub 136. In some embodiments, side hole 128 can be a first side hole. In some embodiments, barrel 122 can include a second side hole 146 opposite the first side hole, and second distally extending arm 144 can form another push button 148 within the second side hole. In some embodiments, push button 148 can be configured to selectively engage barrel 122. In some embodiments, in response to depression of push button 140 and other push button 148, first distally extending arm 144 and second distally extending arm 144 can slide within the shield as spring 142 expands to retract introducer needle 130. In some embodiments, push button 140 in side hole 128 and other push button 148 in second side hole 146 can prevent accidental activation or expansion of spring 142.

[0042] In some embodiments, the catheter system 108 may include a vent plug 150 at the proximal end 152 of the needle hub 136. In some embodiments, the catheter system 108 may include a needle cover 154 configured to cover the sharp distal tip 132 when the introducer needle 130 is in an insertion position ready for insertion into a patient, as shown, for example, in FIG. 9A . In some embodiments, the catheter adapter 112 may include a septum 156 and / or a septum actuator 158 configured to pierce the septum 156 in response to insertion of a medical device into the proximal end 116 of the catheter adapter 112.

[0043] In some embodiments, the proximal end of the barrel 122 can include opposing slots 160, each configured to receive one of the distally extending arm 138 and the second distally extending arm 144. In some embodiments, the opposing slots 160 can allow the distally extending arm 138 and the second distally extending arm 144 to move outward after being biased inward against the inner surface of the barrel 122. In some embodiments, the distal end of each of the opposing slots 160 can also function as a stop, contacting the distally extending arm 138 and the second distally extending arm 144 to prevent the needle hub 136 from moving distally after the introducer needle 130 is retracted into the barrel 122. In some embodiments, a ridge 162 in the proximal end of the barrel 122 can function as a retention feature, retaining the needle hub 136 within the barrel 122.

[0044] 12A-12F, in some embodiments, a catheter system 164 may include a catheter assembly 166 that includes a catheter adapter 168. In some embodiments, the catheter adapter 168 may include a distal end 170, a proximal end 172, and a catheter adapter lumen extending through the distal end 170 and the proximal end 172 of the catheter adapter 168. In some embodiments, the catheter system 164 may be similar or identical in one or more features and / or operation to one or more of the prior art catheter system 10 of FIGS. 1-5, the catheter system 50 of FIGS. 6-8, and the catheter system 108 of FIGS. 9-11.

[0045] In some embodiments, the catheter assembly 166 may include a catheter 174 extending from the distal end 170 of the catheter adapter 168. In some embodiments, the catheter system 164 may include a needle assembly 176 including a telescoping body 178. In some embodiments, the telescoping body 178 may include a main body 180 and at least one inner sleeve 182 nested within the main body 180. In some embodiments, the main body 180 may include a side hole 184. In some embodiments, the inner sleeve 182 may include a distally extending arm 186 within the side hole 184 that forms a push button 188. In some embodiments, the push button 188 may be configured to selectively engage the main body 180. In some embodiments, inner sleeve 182 can be a first inner sleeve 182a, and telescoping body 178 can include a second inner sleeve 182b that nests within the first inner sleeve and main body 180, as shown, for example, in Figures 12A-12B. In some embodiments, friction between main body 180 and inner sleeve 182 can slow the initial acceleration of needle hub 196, which can reduce blood splatter.

[0046] In some embodiments, needle assembly 176 can include an introducer needle 190 including a sharp distal tip 192 and a proximal end 194. In some embodiments, needle assembly 176 can include a needle hub 196 attached to introducer needle 190 and coupled to telescoping barrel 178. In some embodiments, needle assembly 176 can include a spring 198 disposed around needle hub 196. In some embodiments, push button 188 can hold needle hub 196 against the bias of spring 198 when push button 188 is within side hole 184.

[0047] In some embodiments, the spring 198 can be configured to expand in response to depression of the push button 188. In some embodiments, in response to the expansion of the spring 198, the telescoping body 178 can expand and the introducer needle 190 can be retracted into the telescoping body 178. In some embodiments, when the introducer needle 190 is retracted into the telescoping body 178, the main body 180 can surround the sharp distal tip 192 and / or notch of the introducer needle 190 to reduce the risk of blood leaking from the catheter system 164. In some embodiments, the push button 188 can include a distal stop surface 200 configured to contact a rim 202 of the main body 180 to prevent retraction of the telescoping body 178 after the telescoping body 178 expands and the introducer needle 190 is retracted into the telescoping body 178. In some embodiments, the distal stop surface 200 can be perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 204 of the telescoping body 178. In some embodiments, the catheter system 164 can include a vent plug 206 at the proximal end of the telescoping body 178.

[0048] In some embodiments, the catheter system 164 may include a vent plug 206 that allows the passage of air therethrough. In some embodiments, the vent plug 206 may be located at the proximal end of the needle hub 196 to allow the telescoping barrel 178 to collapse or the at least one inner sleeve 182 within the main barrel 180 to nest.

[0049] 13A-13F , in some embodiments, a catheter system 210 may include a catheter assembly 212 that includes a catheter adapter 214. In some embodiments, the catheter system 210 may be similar or identical in one or more features and / or operation to one or more of the prior art catheter system 10 of FIGS. 1-5 , the catheter system 50 of FIGS. 6-8 , the catheter system 108 of FIGS. 9-11 , and the catheter system 164 of FIG. 12 . In some embodiments, the catheter adapter 214 may include a distal end 216, a proximal end 218, and a catheter adapter lumen 220 extending through the distal end 216 and the proximal end 218 of the catheter adapter 214. In some embodiments, the catheter assembly 212 may include a catheter 222 extending from the distal end 216 of the catheter adapter 214.

[0050] In some embodiments, catheter assembly 212 may include a needle assembly 224. In some embodiments, needle assembly 224 may include a barrel 226, which may include a proximal end 228, a distal end 230, and a side hole 232 between the proximal end 228 of barrel 226 and the distal end 230 of barrel 226.

[0051] In some embodiments, needle assembly 224 may include an introducer needle 234 including a sharp distal tip 236 and a proximal end 238. In some embodiments, introducer needle 234 may extend beyond distal end 230 of barrel 226 and through catheter 222. In some embodiments, needle assembly 224 may include a needle hub 240 attached to introducer needle 234. In some embodiments, needle hub 240 may include a flexible extension 242 disposed within side bore 232 and holding needle hub 240 against the bias of a spring 244 disposed around needle hub 240.

[0052] In some embodiments, needle assembly 224 may include a lever arm 246 coupled to barrel 226 and aligned with side hole 232 in barrel 226. In some embodiments, in response to depression of lever arm 246 into side hole 232, lever arm 246 may release flexible extension 242 from side hole 232 and spring 244 may expand. In some embodiments, in response to expansion of spring 244, needle hub 240 may be moved proximally and introducer needle 234 may be retracted.

[0053] In some embodiments, needle hub 240 can include another flexible extension 248, which can be opposite flexible extension 248. In some embodiments, another flexible extension 248 can be configured to rub against an inner surface 250 of barrel 226 in response to extension of spring 244. In some embodiments, proximal end 252 of lever arm 246 can include a protrusion 254. In some embodiments, flexible extension 242 can be configured to rub against an inner surface 250 of barrel 226 in response to extension of spring 244.

[0054] All examples and conditional language described herein are intended for educational purposes to help the reader understand the present invention and the concepts provided by the inventors to facilitate the present technology, and should be construed as not being limited to the specifically recited examples and conditions. Although embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail, it should be understood that various changes, substitutions, and alterations can be made herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. 1. A catheter system comprising:

1. A catheter assembly comprising: a catheter adapter including a distal end, a proximal end, and a catheter adapter lumen extending through the distal end of the catheter adapter and the proximal end of the catheter adapter; a catheter extending from the distal end of the catheter adapter; a catheter assembly comprising:

1. A needle assembly comprising: a body portion including a proximal end and a distal end; an introducer needle including a sharp distal tip and a proximal end; a needle hub attached to the introducer needle and movably positioned on the barrel; a spring disposed around the needle hub; a push button configured to selectively engage the needle hub, the push button holding the needle hub against the bias of the spring such that the introducer needle extends through the catheter beyond the distal end of the barrel when the catheter adapter is adjacent the distal end of the barrel; and a protrusion extending from the push button that engages the catheter adapter to prevent movement of the push button when the catheter adapter is adjacent the distal end of the barrel; a distally extending arm contacting an inner surface of the barrel, the distally extending arm configured to rub against the inner surface of the barrel in response to depression of the push button and extension of the spring; a needle assembly comprising: A catheter system comprising:

2. The catheter system of claim 1 , wherein the distal ends of the distally extending arms comprise hooks.

3. The catheter system of claim 1 , wherein the distally extending arms are integrally formed with the spring as a single unit.

4. The catheter system of claim 1 , wherein the needle assembly further comprises a catch separate from the spring, the catch comprising the distally extending arm.

5. 10. The catheter system of claim 1, wherein the distally extending arm is a first distally extending arm, and the needle assembly further comprises a second distally extending arm opposite the first distally extending arm.

6. 6. The catheter system of claim 5, wherein the needle assembly further includes a catch separate from the spring, the catch including a coil, a first end of the coil including the first distally extending arm, and a second end of the coil including the second distally extending arm.

7. The catheter system of claim 5 , wherein a distal end of the first distally extending arm includes a hook and a distal end of the second distally extending arm includes another hook.

8. 1. A catheter system comprising:

1. A catheter assembly comprising: a catheter adapter including a distal end, a proximal end, and a catheter adapter lumen extending through the distal end of the catheter adapter and the proximal end of the catheter adapter; a catheter extending from the distal end of the catheter adapter; a catheter assembly comprising:

1. A needle assembly comprising: a barrel including a proximal end, a distal end, and a side hole between the proximal end of the barrel and the distal end of the barrel; an introducer needle including a sharp distal tip and a proximal end; a needle hub attached to the introducer needle and movably disposed in the barrel, the needle hub including a distally extending arm forming a push button within the side hole, the push button configured to selectively engage the barrel; a spring disposed around the needle hub, the push button holding the needle hub against the bias of the spring when the push button is in the side hole; a needle assembly comprising: A catheter system comprising:

9. The catheter system of claim 8 , wherein the spring is configured to expand and retract the introducer needle in response to depression of the push button.

10. 9. The catheter system of claim 8, wherein the distally extending arm is a first distally extending arm, the needle hub further includes a second distally extending arm opposite the first distally extending arm, the side hole is a first side hole, the body includes a second side hole opposite the first side hole, the second distally extending arm forms another push button within the second side hole, the other push button configured to selectively engage the body, and the spring is configured to expand and retract the introducer needle in response to depression of the push button and the other push button.

11. The catheter system of claim 8 , further comprising a vent plug at the proximal end of the needle hub.

12. 1. A catheter system comprising:

1. A catheter assembly comprising: a catheter adapter including a distal end, a proximal end, and a catheter adapter lumen extending through the distal end of the catheter adapter and the proximal end of the catheter adapter; a catheter extending from the distal end of the catheter adapter; a catheter assembly comprising:

1. A needle assembly comprising: a telescoping body including a main body and an inner sleeve nested within the main body, the main body including a side hole, the inner sleeve including a distally extending arm forming a push button within the side hole, the push button configured to selectively engage the main body; an introducer needle including a sharp distal tip and a proximal end; a needle hub attached to the introducer needle and coupled to the telescoping barrel; a spring disposed around the needle hub, the push button holding the needle hub against the bias of the spring when the push button is in the side hole; a needle assembly comprising: A catheter system comprising:

13. 13. The catheter system of claim 12, wherein the spring is configured to expand in response to depression of the push button, and in response to the spring expanding, the telescoping barrel expands and the introducer needle is retracted into the telescoping barrel.

14. 14. The catheter system of claim 13, wherein the push button includes a distal stop surface configured to contact an edge of the main barrel to prevent retraction of the telescoping barrel after the telescoping barrel has expanded and the introducer needle has been retracted within the telescoping barrel.

15. The catheter system of claim 12 , wherein the distal stop surface is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the telescoping body.

16. The catheter system of claim 12, further comprising a vent plug at the proximal end of the telescoping body.

17. 1. A catheter system comprising:

1. A catheter assembly comprising: a catheter adapter including a distal end, a proximal end, and a catheter adapter lumen extending through the distal end of the catheter adapter and the proximal end of the catheter adapter; a catheter extending from the distal end of the catheter adapter; a catheter assembly comprising:

1. A needle assembly comprising: a barrel including a proximal end, a distal end, and a side hole between the proximal end of the barrel and the distal end of the barrel; an introducer needle having a sharp distal tip and a proximal end, the introducer needle extending through the catheter beyond the distal end of the barrel; a needle hub attached to the introducer needle, the needle hub including a flexible extension disposed within the side hole to hold the needle hub against the bias of a spring; a spring disposed around the needle hub; a lever arm coupled to the barrel and aligned with the side hole in the barrel, such that in response to the lever arm being pressed into the side hole, the lever arm releases the flexible extension from the side hole, causing the spring to expand and, in response to the expansion of the spring, causing the needle hub to move proximally and retracting the introducer needle; a needle assembly comprising: A catheter system comprising:

18. 18. The catheter system of claim 17, wherein the needle hub includes another flexible extension opposite the flexible extension, the other flexible extension configured to rub against an inner surface of the barrel in response to expansion of the spring.

19. The catheter system of claim 17 , wherein the proximal end of the lever arm comprises a protrusion.

20. 18. The catheter system of claim 17, wherein the flexible extension is configured to rub against an inner surface of the body in response to expansion of the spring.

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