Safety IV Catheter with V-Clip Interlock and Needle Tip Capture

Abstract

To provide a catheter assembly in which improved clip and needle shield are used for protecting a needle, the improved device being more compact, improving needle protection, and reducing the size and complexity of the catheter assembly.SOLUTION: A catheter assembly includes: a catheter; a needle with a distal tip disposed in the catheter, in which the distal tip extends through the catheter at a first position; a catheter hub for storing the catheter and the needle; a needle shield configured so as to be connected to the catheter hub; and a clip disposed in the needle shield cooperating with the needle, by which the distal tip is surrounded in the needle shield at a second position of the needle, and which includes a spade for attaching the clip to the needle shield at the first position of the needle and the second position of the needle. The spade is disposed on the top face of an outer wall of the clip.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 50

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] Various exemplary embodiments of the present invention relate to a catheter. [Background technology]

[0002] Related Applications This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 077,760, filed November 10, 2014, International Published Application PCT / US2015 / 026542, filed April 17, 2015, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 220,629, filed September 18, 2015, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0003] Catheter assemblies are used to place catheters within a patient's vascular system. Once in place, catheters, such as intravenous catheters, can be used to infuse fluids, including normal saline, medicinal compounds, and / or nutritional components, into a patient in need of such treatment. Catheters also allow for the removal of fluids from the circulatory system and the monitoring of conditions within the patient's vascular system. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] US Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0364809 [Patent Document 2] U.S. Pat. No. 4,231,367 [Patent Document 3] U.S. Patent No. 6,749,588 [Patent Document 4] U.S. Pat. No. 7,604,616 Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] An aspect of the present invention is to provide a catheter assembly in which an improved clip and needle shield are used for needle protection. The improved device is more compact, improving needle protection and reducing the size and complexity of the catheter assembly. The improved clip provides a narrower design, increased strength and flexibility, and a variety of mounting configurations for securing the clip to the needle shield. The addition of a release notch in the collar of the catheter hub and disengagement of the clip with the notch allows the needle shield to be more compact than the prior art, where without the notch the clip would have to travel a longer distance to disengage the catheter hub. Additionally, the width of the needle shield is reduced by the improved mounting interface between the clip and the needle shield. In particular, a spade attaches the clip to the needle shield with the outer surface of the spade exposed to the outside of the needle shield.

[0006] The above and / or other aspects of the present invention may be accomplished by providing a catheter assembly including a catheter, a needle having a sharp distal tip disposed within the catheter, a catheter hub housing the catheter and the needle, the catheter hub having a notch, a needle shield coupled to the catheter hub when the needle is in a first position, and a clip disposed within the needle shield cooperating with the needle, the clip engaging a collar in the first position of the needle and the clip disengaging the collar by the notch when the needle is retracted to a second position to enclose or cover at least a portion of the needle.

[0007] The above and / or other aspects of the present invention may also be accomplished by providing a catheter assembly comprising a catheter, a needle having a sharpened distal tip disposed within the catheter, a catheter hub housing the catheter and the needle, a needle shield configured to be coupled to the catheter hub, and a clip disposed within the needle shield cooperating with the needle, the clip including a spade attaching the clip to the needle shield, wherein an outer surface of the spade is exposed outside the catheter assembly. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0008] The above aspects and features of the present invention will become more apparent from the following description of exemplary embodiments of the present invention with reference to the accompanying figures. [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a top left perspective view of a catheter assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a left perspective view of the catheter assembly. [Diagram 3] FIG. 1C is an alternative left side perspective view of the catheter assembly. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a top plan view of the catheter assembly. [Diagram 5] FIG. 2 is a right side view of the catheter assembly. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a bottom plan view of the catheter assembly. [Figure 7] FIG. 1 is a left perspective view of an assembled catheter hub, needle shield, and needle of the catheter assembly. [Figure 8] FIG. 1C is a right perspective view of the assembled catheter hub, needle shield, and needle of the catheter assembly. [Figure 9] FIG. 1C is a right side view of the assembled catheter hub, needle shield, and needle of the catheter assembly. [Figure 10] FIG. 2 is a bottom plan view of the assembled catheter hub, needle shield, and needle of the catheter assembly. [Figure 11]FIG. 2 is a bottom plan view of the assembled catheter hub, needle shield, and needle of the catheter assembly. [Figure 12] FIG. 2 is a top plan view of the assembled catheter hub, needle shield, and needle of the catheter assembly. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of the right side of the assembled catheter hub, needle shield, and needle of the catheter assembly. [Figure 14] FIG. 1 is a left perspective view of the catheter hub, needle shield, and needle of the catheter assembly separated. [Figure 15] FIG. 1C is a right perspective view of the catheter hub, needle shield, and needle of the catheter assembly separated. [Figure 16] FIG. 13 is a right side view of the catheter hub, needle shield, and needle of the catheter assembly separated. [Figure 17] FIG. 13 is a second right side view of the catheter hub, needle shield, and needle of the catheter assembly separated. [Figure 18] FIG. 2 is a bottom plan view of the catheter hub, needle shield, and needle of the catheter assembly separated. [Figure 19] FIG. 2 is a top plan view of the catheter hub, needle shield, and needle of the catheter assembly separated. [Figure 20] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of the right side of the catheter hub, needle shield, and needle of the catheter assembly separated. [Figure 21] FIG. 2 is a right perspective view of a catheter hub of the catheter assembly. [Figure 22] FIG. 2 is a top plan view of the catheter hub of the catheter assembly. [Diagram 23] FIG. 2 is a left perspective view of a catheter hub of the catheter assembly. [Figure 24] FIG. 2 is a front view of the catheter hub of the catheter assembly. [Diagram 25] FIG. 2 is a right side view of the catheter hub of the catheter assembly. [Figure 26]FIG. 2 is a rear view of the catheter hub of the catheter assembly. [Figure 27] FIG. 2 is a left perspective view of a catheter hub of the catheter assembly. [Figure 28] FIG. 2 is a bottom plan view of the catheter hub of the catheter assembly. [Figure 29] FIG. 2 is a right perspective view of a catheter hub of the catheter assembly. [Diagram 30] FIG. 13 is a right perspective view of the needle shield outer housing of the catheter assembly. [Diagram 31] FIG. 1 is a left perspective view of a needle shield outer housing of a catheter assembly. [Diagram 32] FIG. 13 is a second left perspective view of the needle shield outer housing of the catheter assembly. [Diagram 33] FIG. 13 is a second right perspective view of the needle shield outer housing of the catheter assembly. [Diagram 34] FIG. 2 is a front side view of the needle shield outer housing of the catheter assembly. [Diagram 35] FIG. 13 is a rear side view of the needle shield outer housing of the catheter assembly. [Diagram 36] FIG. 13 is a right side view of the needle shield outer housing of the catheter assembly. [Figure 37] FIG. 1 is a left side view of the needle shield outer housing of the catheter assembly. [Figure 38] FIG. 2 is a top plan view of the needle shield outer housing of the catheter assembly. [Figure 39] FIG. 2 is a bottom plan view of the needle shield outer housing of the catheter assembly. [Diagram 40] FIG. 13 is a left perspective view of the V-shaped metal clip of the catheter assembly. [Diagram 41] FIG. 13 is a right perspective view of the V-shaped metal clip of the catheter assembly. [Diagram 42] FIG. 13 is a second right perspective view of the V-shaped metal clip of the catheter assembly. [Diagram 43]FIG. 13 is a front view of the V-shaped metal clip of the catheter assembly. [Diagram 44] FIG. 2 is a rear view of the V-shaped metal clip of the catheter assembly. [Diagram 45] FIG. 13 is a left side view of the V-shaped metal clip of the catheter assembly. [Figure 46] FIG. 13 is a right side view of the V-shaped metal clip of the catheter assembly. [Figure 47] FIG. 13 is a top plan view of the V-shaped metal clip of the catheter assembly. [Figure 48] FIG. 13 is a bottom plan view of the V-shaped metal clip of the catheter assembly. [Figure 49] FIG. 13 is a right perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a V-shaped metal clip of a catheter assembly. [Figure 50] FIG. 13 is a right perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a V-shaped metal clip of a catheter assembly. [Figure 51] FIG. 13 is a left perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a V-shaped metal clip of a catheter assembly. [Figure 52] FIG. 52 is a left perspective view of the V-shaped metal clip of FIG. 51 inserted into the needle shield. [Diagram 53] FIG. 13 is a right perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a V-shaped metal clip of a catheter assembly. [Figure 54] FIG. 54 is a right perspective view of the V-shaped metal clip of FIG. 53 inserted into the needle shield. [Figure 55] FIG. 13 is a left perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a V-shaped metal clip of a catheter assembly. [Figure 56] FIG. 13 is a right perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a V-shaped metal clip of a catheter assembly. [Figure 57] FIG. 13 is a right perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a V-shaped metal clip of a catheter assembly. [Figure 58] FIG. 58 is a right perspective view of the V-shaped metal clip of FIG. 57 inserted into the needle shield. [Figure 59]FIG. 13 is a right perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a V-shaped metal clip of a catheter assembly. [Figure 60] FIG. 60 is a left perspective view of the V-shaped metal clip of FIG. 59 inserted into the needle shield. [Figure 61] FIG. 13 is a left rear perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a V-shaped metal clip of a catheter assembly. [Figure 62] FIG. 62 is a left bottom perspective view of the V-shaped metal clip of FIG. 61 of the catheter assembly. [Figure 63] FIG. 62 is a top view of the V-shaped metal clip of FIG. 61 of the catheter assembly. [Figure 64] 62 is a side cross-sectional view of the V-shaped metal clip of FIG. 61 in a first and second state disposed within a needle shield. [Figure 65] FIG. 62 is a left rear perspective view of the V-shaped metal clip of FIG. 61 inserted into a needle shield. [Figure 66] FIG. 13 is a right perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a V-shaped metal clip of a catheter assembly. [Figure 67] FIG. 13 is a right perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a V-shaped metal clip of a catheter assembly. [Figure 68] FIG. 13 is a right perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a V-shaped metal clip of a catheter assembly. [Figure 69] FIG. 13 is a front cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of a V-shaped metal clip of a catheter assembly. [Figure 70] FIG. 13 is a right perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a V-shaped metal clip of a catheter assembly. [Figure 71] FIG. 13 is a right perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a V-shaped metal clip of a catheter assembly. [Figure 72] FIG. 13 is a right perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a V-shaped metal clip of a catheter assembly. [Figure 73] FIG. 73 is another right perspective view of the V-shaped metal clip of FIG. 72 of the catheter assembly. [Figure 74]FIG. 13 is a left perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a V-shaped metal clip of a catheter assembly. [Figure 75] FIG. 13 is a right rear perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a V-shaped metal clip of a catheter assembly. [Figure 76] FIG. 13 is a right perspective view of a washer of the catheter assembly. [Figure 77] FIG. 13 is a left perspective view of a washer of the catheter assembly. [Figure 78] FIG. 13 is a front view of a washer of the catheter assembly. [Figure 79] FIG. 2 is a bottom plan view of a washer of the catheter assembly. [Figure 80] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of the left side of the washer of the catheter assembly. [Figure 81] FIG. 13 is a right perspective view of an alternative catheter hub with wings. [Figure 82] FIG. 1 is a top plan view of a winged catheter hub. [Figure 83] FIG. 1 is a left perspective view of a winged catheter hub. [Figure 84] FIG. 1 is a front view of a winged catheter hub. [Figure 85] FIG. 13 is a left side view of the winged catheter hub. [Figure 86] FIG. 2 is a rear view of a winged catheter hub. [Figure 87] FIG. 1 is a left perspective view of a winged catheter hub. [Figure 88] FIG. 1 is a bottom plan view of a winged catheter hub. [Figure 89] FIG. 13 is a second right perspective view of the winged catheter hub. [Figure 90] FIG. 13 is a right perspective view of an alternative side port catheter hub. [Figure 91] FIG. 2 is a top plan view of a side port catheter hub. [Figure 92] FIG. 1 is a left perspective view of a side port catheter hub. [Figure 93] FIG. 2 is a front view of a side port catheter hub. [Figure 94] FIG. 13 is a right side view of the side port catheter hub. [Figure 95] FIG. 2 is a rear view of the side port catheter hub. [Figure 96] FIG. 1 is a second left perspective view of the side port catheter hub. [Figure 97] FIG. 2 is a bottom plan view of the side port catheter hub. [Figure 98] FIG. 13 is a second right perspective view of the side port catheter hub. [Figure 99] FIG. 1C is a left perspective view of an alternative side port catheter hub assembly with a needle shield and needle hub. [Figure 100] FIG. 13 is a right perspective view of an alternative side port catheter hub assembly with a needle shield and needle hub. [Figure 101] FIG. 13 is a top plan view of an alternative side port catheter hub assembly with a needle shield and needle hub. [Figure 102] FIG. 13 is a right side view of an alternative side port catheter hub assembly with a needle shield and needle hub. [Figure 103] FIG. 13 is a bottom plan view of an alternative side port catheter hub assembly with a needle shield and needle hub. [Figure 104] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of the catheter assembly of FIGS. 1-12 when the introducer needle is retracted. [Figure 105] FIG. 13 is a second cross-sectional view of the catheter assembly of FIGS. 1-12 with the introducer needle retracted. [Figure 106] FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of the catheter assembly of FIGS. 1-16 as the introducer needle passes through the V-shaped metal clip and the needle shield separates from the catheter hub. [Figure 107] FIG. 17 is a second cross-sectional view of the catheter assembly of FIGS. 1-16 as the introducer needle passes through the V-shaped metal clip and the needle shield separates from the catheter hub. [Figure 108] FIG. 13 shows a V-shaped metal clip latch engaged with a catheter hub. [Figure 109]FIG. 13 shows the V-shaped metal clip latch disengaged from the catheter hub. [Figure 110] FIG. 13 shows the V-shaped metal clip latch disengaged and separated from the catheter hub. [Figure 111] FIG. 13 shows a V-shaped metal clip that blocks the needle. [Figure 112] FIG. 13 shows a V-shaped metal clip in a closed position. [Figure 113] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram of the range of motion of a V-shaped metal clip and a catheter hub collar without a notch. [Fig. 114] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram of the range of motion of a V-shaped metal clip and a catheter hub collar without a notch. [Fig. 115] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram of the range of motion of a V-shaped metal clip and a catheter hub collar with a notch. [Fig. 116] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram of the range of motion of a V-shaped metal clip and a catheter hub collar with a notch. [Fig. 117] FIG. 13 illustrates actuation of the catheter hub valve actuator in its free state. [Figure 118] FIG. 13 illustrates actuation of the catheter hub valve actuator in a compressed state. [Figure 119] 14A-14D illustrate the operation of a second embodiment of a catheter hub valve actuator in a free state. [Figure 120] 14A-14D illustrate the operation of a second embodiment of a catheter hub valve actuator in a compressed state. [Figure 121] 13A-13C show another embodiment of a catheter hub valve actuator. [Figure 122] 1A-1C illustrate exemplary blood flashback features of a catheter assembly. [Figure 123] FIG. 123 illustrates the needle blood flashback feature of the catheter assembly of FIG. 122. [Figure 124] FIG. 13 illustrates a second exemplary blood flashback feature of the catheter assembly. [Fig. 125] FIG. 125 shows a second exemplary blood flashback feature of the catheter assembly of FIG. 124 having blood flashback in two locations. [Fig. 126] FIG. 13 shows a third exemplary blood flashback feature of a catheter assembly having blood flashback in three locations. [Figure 127] FIG. 122 is a right side view of the exemplary embodiment of the actuator of FIG. 121. [Figure 128] FIG. 128 is a cross-sectional view of the actuator of FIG. 127 within a catheter hub assembly. [Figure 129] A cross-sectional view of the catheter hub assembly of Figure 128 when piercing the septum. [Fig. 130] FIG. 129 is a left cross-sectional perspective view of the catheter hub assembly of FIG. 128 when piercing the septum. [Fig. 131] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of another exemplary embodiment of a catheter hub assembly. [Fig. 132] A cross-sectional view of the catheter hub assembly of Figure 131 when piercing the septum. [Fig. 133] FIG. 132 is a left cross-sectional perspective view of the catheter hub assembly of FIG. 131 when piercing the septum. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0009] The catheter assembly disclosed herein is an improvement over that disclosed in commonly owned US Pat. No. 6,333,993, which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0010] 1-12 show a catheter assembly 10 including a hollow metal introducer needle 12, a catheter hub 14, a needle hub 16, and a needle shield 20. The needle 12 has a sharply beveled distal end and initially extends through the needle shield 20 and the catheter hub 14. A flexible catheter tube 22 extends from the distal end of the catheter hub 14, with the introducer needle 12 passing through the catheter tube 22. The needle 12 is initially inserted into a patient's vein. The catheter tube 22 is carried by the needle 12 into the vein. After the catheter tube 22 is inserted, the needle 12 is removed from the patient's vein and the catheter hub 14. The needle shield 20 encapsulates or covers the tip of the needle 12, protecting it from being pierced by the needle 12 during and after retraction of the needle from the catheter hub 14. The needle shield 20 can be used with a variety of different catheters.

[0011] As shown in FIGS. 12 to 20, the catheter assembly includes a catheter hub 14 and a catheter. The catheter hub 14 includes a flexible catheter tube 22 extending from the catheter hub 14. A metal wedge 24 is disposed within the catheter hub 14 to retain the catheter tube 22. A resilient septum 26 is positioned to control fluid flow through the catheter hub 14. An actuator 28 is movably disposed within the catheter hub 14 to engage the septum 26. A biasing member 30 engages the actuator 28 to bias the actuator 28 in a proximal direction.

[0012] The resilient septum 26 has one or more preformed slits that are normally closed to selectively prevent undesired fluid flow through the septum 26. For example, the septum 26 can have three slits that form three triangular flaps that open when engaged by the actuator 28. The septum 26 is made from a resilient material, such as silicone rubber, that provides a resilient closing force to the slits. As will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art, other septum 26 configurations may be used.

[0013] An actuator 28 and a biasing member 30, e.g., a metal or plastic compression spring, are disposed within the catheter hub 14. The actuator 28 engages the septum 26 to open the slit and allow fluid flow through the catheter hub 14. The biasing member 30 can return the actuator 28 to a position that allows the slit to close, thereby preventing fluid flow through the catheter hub 14.

[0014] As best shown in the exemplary embodiment of Figures 21-29, the catheter hub 14 includes a proximal end having external luer threads 32 and a notched collar 34. The collar 34 extends around at least a portion of the catheter hub 14 and is preferably disposed at the proximal end of the catheter hub 14. The collar 34 has an interruption, opening, or notch 36 that separates a first end and a second end of the collar 34.

[0015] A portion of the collar 34 includes an outer diameter that is greater than a portion of the outer diameter of the catheter hub 14 adjacent the collar 34. In particular, the portion of the outer diameter of the collar 34 is elevated relative to the adjacent outer diameter surface of the catheter hub 14. Additionally, the opening 36 in the collar 34 has an outer diameter that is substantially equal to or greater than the portion of the outer diameter of the catheter hub 14 adjacent the collar 34.

[0016] In the exemplary embodiment, the needle shield 20 includes an outer housing 38, a resilient clip 40, and a washer 42. The outer housing 38 includes an opening having a distal opening 44 and a proximal opening 46 to receive the needle 12. The outer housing 38 couples to the catheter hub 14 and encloses the clip 40 and the washer 42. As best shown in FIGS. 30-39 , the distal end of the outer housing 38 includes a head 48, an upper flange 50, and a base 52. When the needle shield 20 is coupled to the catheter hub 14, the head 48 extends into the interior of the catheter hub 14.

[0017] In the exemplary embodiment, the headland 48 is sized slightly smaller than the interior of the catheter hub 14 to fit with a loose tolerance. The upper flange 50 is spaced from the base 52 by a pair of side recesses that receive the Luer threads 32 and prevent rotation of the catheter hub 14 relative to the needle shield 20 when assembled. The base 52 includes a protrusion 54 having a curved upper surface and a curved cutout portion 56. The protrusion 54 is sized to fit within the opening 36 of the collar 34 and the cutout portion 56 is sized to allow the collar 34 to pass therethrough.

[0018] According to the exemplary embodiment shown in FIGS. 40-48, the clip 40 is a substantially V-shaped resilient clip 40 having a first leg 60 and a second leg 62 connected by a sloped or curved V-section 64. The first leg 60 includes a substantially U-shaped spade 66 having a sloped lead-in portion 68. The spade 66 includes an outer wall 70 and an inner wall 72 connected by a base 74. A pair of barbs 76 extend outwardly from the inner wall 72 of the spade 66. A first flag 78 extends from the second leg 62 toward the first leg 60, and a second flag 80 extends from the first leg 60 toward the second leg 62. A foot 82 extends from the first flag 78 outwardly from the first and second legs 60, 62, and a latch 84 extends upwardly from the foot 82 and is disposed between the first and second legs 60, 62. In particular, the latch 84 is disposed between a plane representing the first leg 60 and a plane representing the second leg 62. Such a configuration is desired to create a more compact clip 40. An optional stiffener 86 may extend downwardly from the foot 82.

[0019] Figures 49-75 show an alternative embodiment of clip 710 having similar features to the preferred embodiment of clip 40 of Figures 40-48 as described above. Details of the alternative embodiment of clip 710, particularly the features that distinguish it from clip 40 of Figures 40-48, are described below. For the sake of brevity, the description of the similar features of the clip of Figures 40-75 will not be repeated and will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art based on the preceding description herein. Features of the exemplary embodiment of Figures 49-75 may be combined with features of other exemplary embodiments disclosed herein, where appropriate.

[0020] 49 shows an alternative embodiment of a clip 710 having a substantially V-shape with a first leg 712 and a second leg 714 connected by a curved section 716. The second leg 714 includes a spade 718. The spade 718 includes an outer wall 720 connected to the second leg 714 by a bottom portion 724. The inner wall of the spade 718 is absent in this embodiment because the second leg 714 extends all the way to the top of the spade 718. Thus, the spade 718 does not have a substantially U-shape. A pair of barbs 726 (only one shown visible) extend outwardly from the outer wall 720 of the spade 718.

[0021] 49 further shows that a foot 732 extends outwardly from the first and second legs 712, 714 and a latch 734 extends upwardly from the foot 732. The latch 734 is disposed outside of the area between the first and second legs 712, 714. Specifically, the latch 734 is disposed outside of the area between a plane representing the first leg 712 and a plane representing the second leg 714. A rib 736 extends downwardly from the foot 732 to stiffen and strengthen the clip 710.

[0022] FIG. 50 shows an alternative embodiment of clip 710 including a U-shaped spade 718 having an outer wall 720 and an inner wall 722. The spade 718 is located on a bottom portion of the outer and inner walls 720, 722. The inner wall 722 reduces the length of the second leg 714, but the inner wall 722 includes a barb 726 that secures the clip 710 to the needle shield. Moving the barb 726 from the outer wall 720 to the inner wall 722 advantageously makes the clip 710 narrower. In particular, the outer wall of the needle shield may be removed while still securing the clip 710 in place. Additionally, the clip 710 includes a foot 732 and a latch 734 disposed between the first and second legs 712, 714. In other words, the foot 732 and the latch 734 are disposed between a plane representing the first leg 712 and a plane representing the second leg 714 .

[0023] 51 and 52 show an alternative embodiment of clip 710 having a longer second leg 714 exposed outside of needle shield 750. In particular, needle shield 750 is covered by a needle hub, such that clip 710 is not exposed to the outside environment, only the outside of needle shield 750. A spade 718 is disposed between a plane representing first leg 712 and a plane representing second leg 714 to further narrow clip 710. A barb (not shown) may also be present on inner wall 722 of spade 718 to secure clip 710.

[0024] According to another alternative embodiment of the clip 710 of FIG. 51, the curved section 716 between the first and second legs 712, 714 can be a flat surface. In that way, the spade 718 can pinch or draw the flat surface and the bottom portion 724 together. Such a design can provide improved retention of the clip 710.

[0025] The longer second leg 714 has several advantages. The longer spring leg creates a more flexible V-shaped spring where the spring force is more evenly applied across the length of the second leg 714. Additionally, the more flexible clip 710 reduces stiffness and internal stress while improving the overall life of the spring. However, in this case, the opening 752 in the needle shield 750 for the clip 710 for assembly access and actuation reduces the stiffness and overall strength of the needle shield 750.

[0026] 53 and 54 show an alternative embodiment of clip 710 having a longer second leg 714 with the advantages discussed above. The outer wall 720 of spade 718 extends further upwardly to cover modified opening 752 in needle shield 750 when assembled. Such a design can thus block debris or blood from entering clip 710 and needle shield 750, protecting the catheter assembly from the outside environment.

[0027] The clip 710 includes a first flag 728 and a second flag 730. The first flag 728 is directly connected to the first leg 712 and the foot 732 for the following advantages: the flag design improves the overall strength of the clip 710, facilitates manufacturing, creates a more compact design, and reduces metal waste. The second flag 730, on the other hand, is directly connected only to the second leg 714. The two flags 728, 730 cooperate with each other to block the opening in the needle shield when the needle is in a retracted position inside the needle shield.

[0028] The spade 718 is not U-shaped. Instead, the outer wall 720 is bent inwardly on either side of the second leg 714 and then bent outwardly from each side of the second leg 714. Thus, while the inner wall 722 is substantially parallel to the outer wall 720, the inner wall 722 is not directly connected to the width of the second leg 714. On the other hand, the inner wall 722 lies adjacent the front and rear planar surfaces of the second leg 714. A slot 754 in the needle shield 750 engages the barb 726 and the inner wall 722 to secure the clip 710.

[0029] 52 embodiment, the modified openings 752 still weaken the needle shield 750. Also, the clip 710 includes additional bends and increased complexity that pose challenges during manufacturing.

[0030] 55 shows an alternative embodiment of clip 710 including ribs 736 on outer wall 720 and ribs 736 on foot 732. When barb 726 of outer wall 720 of spade 718 engages the outer wall of the needle shield, a reactive resistive force is exerted on clip 710. Depending on the amount of reactive force exerted, clip 710 on spade 718 may plastically deform and even fail. It is preferred that clip 710 on spade 718 only undergo elastic deformation to maintain adequate spring life.

[0031] The ribs 736 act as stiffeners to increase the strength of the clip 710 and reduce the likelihood of the clip 710 permanently bending or warping. The clip 710 also includes a flag 728. The flag 728 is directly connected only to the first leg 712. Thus, an air gap exists between the flag 728 and the foot 732, advantageously aiding in manufacturability setup, molding, and assembly purposes.

[0032] FIG. 56 shows an alternative embodiment of clip 710 including a spade 718 having only an inner wall 722. The spade 718 does not have an outer wall that wraps around the needle shield wall. The inner wall 722 includes a barb 726 that engages the needle shield when the clip 710 is assembled. Although only a single barb 726 is shown, another barb is contemplated on the other side of the second leg 714. A spring force within the clip 710 applies force to secure the barb 726 of the spade 718 to the needle shield. This clip 710 configuration advantageously provides a narrower design because the clip 710 does not wrap around the outside of the needle shield. Thus, this design may also improve assembly.

[0033] Clip 710 also includes a flag 728. Flag 728 is directly connected to first leg 712 and foot 732. This clip 710 design advantageously improves compression molding operations during manufacturing by creating a more compact design and reducing the amount of waste.

[0034] 57 and 58 show an alternative embodiment of clip 710 that includes a spade 718 disposed on an upper surface of an outer wall 720. The spade 718 includes the outer wall 720 and a barb 726 for securing the clip 710 to a needle shield 750. The outer wall 720 is connected to a second leg 714 by a bottom portion 724 of the spade 718. This configuration of clip 710 includes long spring legs for both the first and second legs 712, 714. The long spring legs provide the advantages of reduced stress and increased flexibility as discussed above.

[0035] 59 and 60 show an alternative embodiment of clip 710 that does not have a spade for attachment to needle shield 50. Instead, second leg 714 is bent approximately 180° at the bottom surface (corresponding to a folded surface) to form shelves 723 on either side of second leg 714, inner walls 722 (on either side, not shown) and barbs 726.

[0036] When the clip 710 is assembled, the ledge 723 is disposed on the bottom surface of the needle shield 750. The inner wall 722 and the barb 726 engage the inner cavity of the needle shield 750 to secure the clip 710. This configuration allows the second leg 714 to have a longer length to achieve the benefits discussed above. However, the 180° bend can create high stresses during manufacturing and operation.

[0037] 61-65 show an alternative embodiment of a clip 710 within a needle shield 750. FIG. 61 shows clip 710 including a long second leg 714 that has a bend at its lowermost portion to form a shelf 723. Second leg 714 includes similar advantages as discussed above with respect to its extended length. Additionally, clip 710 includes a mounting cavity 738 for engaging and securing clip 710 to a needle shield (as described further below).

[0038] 61 and 62 show the foot 732 and latch 734 on the bottom portion of the clip 710. The flag 728 is directly connected to the second leg 714. The clip 710 further includes a barb 726 that is attached to the ledge 723 at approximately a 90 degree angle. The barb 726 secures the clip 710 to the needle shield 750 (as described further below).

[0039] 63 shows a top view of clip 710 showing how clip 710 is assembled into a needle shield. Specifically, a user applies pressure to the outer surfaces of first and second legs 712, 714 to compress them toward one another. More specifically, a user can hold clip 710 on the outer surface of foot 732 and on the outer surface of shelf 723 (see arrows indicating gripping points) and bring these two surfaces together to begin assembly. Such a configuration aids in assembling clip 710 into a needle shield.

[0040] 64 shows clip 710 mounted within needle shield 750. Clip 710 is shown in two states. The first state is a compressed state, where clip 710 is compressed to aid in assembly within needle shield 750. Additionally, the first state shows the needle of needle shield 750 in an actuated state. During actuation, first leg 712 contacts the needle (not shown). In the first state, mounting cavity 738 is not engaged by mounting protrusion 756 of needle shield 750.

[0041] In the second state, when the needle is retracted and the needle tip enters the needle shield 750, the needle is no longer in contact with the first leg 712 (not shown) and the clip 710 is released. As a result, the mounting cavity 738 of the clip 710 engages with the mounting protrusion 756 in the needle shield 750. Additionally, the flag 728 blocks the needle from exiting the needle shield 750.

[0042] Thus, the engagement between the mounting cavity 738 and the mounting protrusion 756 advantageously prevents the clip 710 from being accidentally released from the needle shield 750. The engagement also advantageously prevents undesired movement of the clip 710 within the needle shield 750, and tampering with the clip 710 by unauthorized persons.

[0043] 65 shows clip 710 assembled within needle shield 750. Needle shield 750 includes a housing slot 754 that receives barb 726 of clip 710. Shelf 723 is disposed on a bottom surface of needle shield 750. Engagement of barb 726 within housing slot 754 advantageously prevents clip 710 from moving upwardly and exiting needle shield 750. Additionally, barb 726 of clip 710 eliminates the need for a spade to go around the outer wall of needle shield 750 to secure clip 710. Thus, the width of clip 710 and needle shield assembly is reduced.

[0044] 66 shows an alternative embodiment of clip 710 including a front wall 742 and a rear wall 740. The front and rear walls 742, 740 are perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the needle within the needle shield (not shown). In particular, the outer wall 720 of the spade 718 is bent inwardly at approximately 90 degrees on each side of the second leg 714 toward the longitudinal axis of the needle. The front and rear walls 742, 740 include holes 743 that allow the needle to pass through during actuation. A barb 726 is disposed on each of the rear and front walls 740, 742 for proper fit within the needle shield.

[0045] Figure 67 illustrates an alternative embodiment of a clip 710 similar to the embodiment of Figure 66. Clip 710 includes a rear wall 740 but does not include a front wall 742. In particular, an upper portion of second leg 714 is bent inwardly approximately 90 degrees into top wall 744. A rear end of top wall 744 is bent downwardly approximately 90 degrees to form rear wall 740. Barb 726 is disposed on rear wall 740 for secure attachment to the needle shield.

[0046] 68 shows an alternative embodiment of clip 710 that acts as a tension spring instead of a compression spring. In all of the other embodiments of clips described herein, the needle compresses the clip during actuation (like a compression spring). When the needle is removed and moves into the needle shield, the clip releases the needle and blocks it from exiting (releasing the compression spring).

[0047] However, according to this embodiment, the clip 710 includes a first middle leg 746 and a second middle leg 748 disposed between the first leg 712 and the second leg 714. The first and second legs 712, 714 are attached to opposing surfaces of the needle shield.

[0048] When the needle is in an activated state, it contacts the second middle leg 748, placing the clip 710 in an extended position. Such a position causes the second middle leg 748 to act as a tension spring. Specifically, the second middle leg 748 would naturally tend to move toward the first leg 712, but the needle prevents this from happening.

[0049] When the needle retracts into the needle shield, the second middle leg 748 is released and moves towards the first leg 712 (the tension spring returns to its normal position), thus causing the flag 728 to move in front of the needle and block the needle from exiting the needle shield.

[0050] 69 illustrates an alternative embodiment of a clip 710 including an outer wall 720 of a spade 718 having an opening 727 that receives a mounting protrusion 756 of a needle shield 750 when the clip 710 is assembled. Such a configuration advantageously provides another simple method for mounting and securing the clip 710 to the needle shield 750.

[0051] According to an alternative embodiment of the clip 710 of Fig. 69, the outer wall 720 may include two vertically disposed barbs extending outwardly from the outer wall 720. The two barbs clamp or latch onto an inner rib or inner wall of the needle shield. Such a feature advantageously allows the clip 710 to be securely held while minimizing the overall width of the clip 710.

[0052] 70 illustrates an alternative embodiment of a clip 710 that includes a modified spade 718. In particular, the spade 718 includes an outer wall 720 with a barb 726 and an inner wall 722 with a flap 725. The barb 726 and the flap 725 can also be interchangeably disposed on opposing walls 720, 722 of the spade 718, respectively. When the clip 710 is attached to the needle shield, the barb 726 and the flap 725 each contact a side of the needle shield wall to secure the clip 710. In other words, contact between the barb 726 and the flap 725 tightens the clip 710 and secures it to the needle shield.

[0053] Figure 71 illustrates an alternative embodiment of a clip 710 similar to Figure 70 in which the outer and inner walls 720, 722 extend across the width of the clip 710. In particular, the outer and inner walls 720, 722 extend beyond the width of the second leg 714 on either side, advantageously providing a larger surface for securing the clip 710. Although not shown, the outer and inner walls 720, 722 can include barbs 726 and flaps 725 as illustrated in Figure 70.

[0054] 72 and 73 show an alternative embodiment of clip 710 that includes a shorter second leg 714. A bend is disposed between second leg 714 and an inner wall 722 of spade 718 to make second leg 714 shorter. As a result, second leg 714 advantageously provides a stiffer and stronger clip 710.

[0055] 74 illustrates an alternative embodiment of clip 710 including a foot 732 and a latch 734 disposed between first and second legs 712, 714. The foot 732 includes a rib 736 for improved stiffness and strength. Additionally, a flag 728 is directly connected to the first leg 712. The flag 728 is not directly connected to the foot 732 and the latch 734. The design of clip 710 in which the flag 728 is attached only to the first leg 712 advantageously provides extra space for setup operations during manufacturing and improves assembly.

[0056] 75 illustrates an alternative embodiment of clip 710 including a second leg 714 having a ledge 723 on an upper portion of the second leg 714. The second leg 714 further includes a rear wall 740 disposed below the ledge 723. The rear wall 740 bends inwardly approximately 90 degrees toward the first leg 712. The rear wall 740 includes a barb 726 that mounts over the needle shield to secure the clip 710.

[0057] 40-48, the clip 40 is coupled to the outer housing 38 with the spade 66 disposed about the exterior wall of the outer housing 38. The spade 66 is attached to the exterior wall of the outer housing 38 such that an outer wall 70 of the spade 66 is exposed to the exterior of the needle shield 20. This configuration advantageously reduces the width of the needle shield 20 as compared to an arrangement in which the spade 66 is received within an interior cavity of the outer housing 38 without exposing the outer wall 70 to the exterior of the outer housing 38. As best shown in FIGS. 106-112, the interior wall 72 of the spade 66 is disposed within a recess and two barbs 76 extend outwardly from the interior wall 72 to engage a pair of protrusions 89 within the needle shield 20. The two barbs 76 help securely fasten the clip 40 to the interior surface of the needle shield 20. The clip 40 may be formed of a metal, an elastomer, a polymer, or a composite material. In various exemplary embodiments, clip 40 is formed from a thin piece of resilient metal, such as stainless steel.

[0058] According to the exemplary embodiment shown in FIGS. 76-80, washer 42 includes a base 88 and a sidewall 90 coupled together in a substantially L-shape. Sidewall 90 includes a funnel 92 and an opening 94. Needle 12 includes a deformation 96, such as a crimp or protrusion, formed near the distal end of needle 12. Opening 94 in washer 42 is sized to allow passage of the needle shaft but not the deformation 96. Funnel 92 makes it easier for the proximal end of needle 12 to be initially inserted through washer 42 during assembly.

[0059] Figures 81-89 show an alternative exemplary catheter hub 214 having a pair of stabilizing wings 216. Figures 90-103 show another alternative exemplary side port catheter hub 314 having a pair of stabilizing wings 316 and a side port 318. The side port communicates with an internal tubular valve (not shown) as described in US Patent Publication No. 2005 / 0139994, which is incorporated herein by reference. Each of the alternative catheter hubs 214, 314 has a collar 234, 334 with an opening 236, 336 to receive the latch 84 of the needle shield 20.

[0060] The catheter assembly may include a plug 320 that is first attached to the needle hub 16. After the needle hub 16 and needle shield 20 are removed from the catheter hub, the plug 320 may be removed from the needle hub 16 and attached to the open proximal end of the catheter hub. Although shown only with the side port catheter 314, the plug 320 may be used with any of the catheter hubs 14, 214, 314.

[0061] 104-112 show the catheter assembly 10 of FIGS. 1-12 in operation. Initially, the needle shield 20 is coupled to the catheter hub 14 and the introducer needle 12 passes through the catheter hub 14 and the needle shield 20. The point 48 of the needle shield 20 (labeled in FIG. 30) may or may not extend into the catheter hub 14 when the needle 12 is in use (first position). The needle 12 cooperates with the clip 40 by pressing the first and second arms 60, 62 toward each other to bias the clip 40 into a locked position. In the locked position, the latch 84 engages the collar 34 to prevent removal of the needle shield 20 from the catheter hub 14, which is best shown in FIG. 108. At the same time, in the locked position, the latch 84 is offset from the collar opening 36. The position of the latch 84 is eccentric with respect to the needle 12. The clip 40 is also in an open position, allowing the needle 12 to traverse through the clip 40 .

[0062] As the needle 12 is retracted from the catheter hub 14 and into the needle shield 20, the tip of the needle 12 passes through the clip 40 which is forced to resiliently expand, thereby moving the second arm 62 away from the first arm 60. As the clip 40 expands laterally, the primary and secondary flags 78, 80 block the distal opening 44 of the aperture in the outer housing 38, preventing the tip of the needle 12 from exiting the distal end of the outer housing 38.

[0063] Movement of the second leg 62 moves the latch 84 laterally from engagement with the collar 34 to a position aligned with the collar opening 36, allowing the needle shield 20 to disengage or unlock from the catheter hub 14. The direction in which the latch 84 moves is transverse to the centerline of the needle 12. Movement of the latch 84 is not radial toward or away from the needle 12. Furthermore, when the latch 84 is adjusted, the latch 84 moves to a centered position and then eventually moves eccentrically relative to the needle 12. The eccentric positions of the latch 84 in the first and second positions on the needle 12 are symmetrically opposite one another.

[0064] The clip 40 moves to a closed position, in which the flags 78, 80 block the needle 12. At the same time, the needle 12 enters a second position, retracted from the first needle position, thereby preventing further use of the needle 12. The first position as explained above is understood to be, for example, all positions of the needle 12 prior to entering the second position.

[0065] As the needle 12 is pulled further proximally, the shaft of the needle 12 slides through the needle shield 20 until a deformation 96 formed near the distal end of the needle 12 cooperates and engages with the washer 42, as shown in FIG. 107. The opening in the washer 42 is sized to allow passage of the needle shaft, but not the deformation 96. Thus, the washer 42 prevents the distal tip of the needle 12 and the deformation 96 from exiting the needle shield 20 when the needle 12 is in the second position. The combination of the washer 42 and the needle shield 20 encapsulates or covers the distal tip of the needle 12 in this second position. Further proximal movement of the needle 12 results in the needle shield 20 being pulled away from the catheter hub 14.

[0066] The combination of clip 40 and washer 42 acts as an exemplary needle tip protection mechanism that encapsulates or covers the distal needle tip and deformation 96, preventing these portions of needle 12 from exiting needle shield 20.

[0067] Further information regarding needle tip protection mechanisms of the type used in this embodiment can be found in U.S. Patent Nos. 5,233,333 and 5,233,396, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. The features described in this embodiment, including the needle protection feature, can be used in combination with features described throughout this application.

[0068] 113-116, the use of clip 40 and notched collar 34 allows for a smaller, more compact design. Without collar opening 36, latch 84 would need to travel a distance B1 to clear the collar and allow disengagement of needle shield 20. With collar opening 36, latch 84 does not need to clear the entire catheter hub 14 and only needs to travel a distance B2, which is less than B1.

[0069] 117 and 118 illustrate the use of the catheter valve actuator 28. The introducer needle 12 initially extends through the actuator 28, the septum 26, the wedge 24, and the catheter tube 22. After the introducer needle 12 and catheter tube 22 are inserted into the patient, the needle 12 is retracted to close the septum 26. When the male luer connector 98 is inserted into the catheter hub 14, the luer connector 98 abuts the actuator 28 and moves it distally, compressing the biasing member 30. Further insertion of the luer connector 98 causes the actuator 28 to move through the septum 26, opening the slit and allowing fluid to flow through the catheter hub 14.

[0070] When the luer connector 98 is removed, the biasing member 30 moves the actuator 28 in the opposite direction, removing it from the septum 26 and closing the slit to prevent fluid from flowing therethrough. This allows the catheter to be reused while in the patient's vein, as opposed to a single-use catheter in which the actuator remains in the septum after the luer connector 98 is removed. However, single-use catheters can also be used with the needle shield 20 described herein.

[0071] The actuator 28 has an actuator barrel 100 that encloses an internal passageway. The actuator barrel 10 is a substantially tubular member and the internal passageway is substantially cylindrical. A first end of the actuator barrel 100 has a head with a chamfered outer surface for engaging the septum 26. The tubular member has one or more openings 102 to permit fluid flow in and out of the actuator barrel 100. The actuator 28 includes a rear portion for engaging a male Luer connector.

[0072] In a first exemplary embodiment shown in Figure 117, the actuator 28 includes first and second sets of openings 102 in the barrel, with the first set of openings near the head end. Openings are also shown in the actuator 28 of Figures 106-107. The rear portion of the actuator 28 in Figure 117 also includes a set of legs 104 extending from the barrel and connected to a ring 106. Features described in this embodiment may be used in combination with features described throughout this application.

[0073] In a second exemplary embodiment shown in FIGS. 119-121, the actuator 28A includes a set of grooves 101A and a set of openings 102A. The grooves 101A extend from the tip toward the rear of the actuator barrel 100A. The openings 102A are disposed toward the rear of the barrel 100A. As the actuator 28A extends through the septum 26, the grooves 101A direct the fluid to the openings 102A that remain proximal to the septum 26. The grooves 101A can be disposed to the side of the openings 102A or directly along the openings 102A. The rear portion of the actuator includes a set of legs 104A extending from the barrel. As shown in FIG. 121, a ring 106A can be coupled to the legs 104A to engage the luer connector 98, or the luer connector 98 can directly engage the legs 104A as shown in FIGS. 119 and 120. The features described in this embodiment may be used in combination with the features described throughout this application.

[0074] In an exemplary embodiment, the biasing member 30 is a spring, such as, for example, a helical compression spring with a distal end and a proximal end. The spring may be made of metal, plastic, elastomer, or another suitable elastic material. The distal end of the spring forms an interference fit with the inner surface of the catheter hub 14. The interference fit may be sufficient to retain the spring even during loading. The proximal end of the spring couples with the actuator 28. Features described in this embodiment may be used in combination with features described throughout this application.

[0075] 122-126 show various exemplary blood flashback features of the catheter assembly. Flashback is the visibility of blood confirming that the tip of the needle has entered the vein. Primary flashback 400 is seen through the catheter tube as blood travels into the open distal end of the hollow needle 12, exits a notch or opening 402 in the needle 12 near the needle tip (also visible in FIG. 13), and rises through the internal annular space between the needle 12 and the inside of the catheter tubing 22. Secondary flashback 404 is seen in the needle hub / grip 16 as it exits the rear of the needle 12 and enters a flash chamber in the needle hub / grip. Air is evacuated by a plug in the rear of the needle hub / grip 16, by a porous membrane or micro-grooves. Tertiary flashback 406 is in the catheter hub 14, into which blood from the primary flashback 400 flows and stops at the blood control septum 26. Air is evacuated by micro-grooves in the periphery of the blood control septum 26. The features described in this embodiment may be used in combination with the features described throughout this application.

[0076] FIG. 127 illustrates the actuator of FIG. 121 in greater detail. The actuator 554 may be used in the catheter assemblies illustrated in FIGS. 117-120. The actuator 554 includes a point 558 that reduces friction when penetrating into the septum 538 of the catheter hub assembly. The actuator 554 further includes an opening 555 that extends through the actuator 554 in a direction perpendicular to the centerline of the actuator 554. For example, the actuator 554 may include two rectangular shaped openings 555, although more or less are contemplated.

[0077] The actuator 554 also includes a plurality of grooves 557 that extend axially along the distal portion of the outer surface of the actuator 554 in a plane parallel to the centerline of the actuator 554. For example, four grooves 557 that are substantially equally radially spaced from one another can be present along the outer surface of the distal portion of the actuator 554, although more or fewer grooves 557 are contemplated. The grooves 557 can be of various depths into the actuator 554. The grooves 557 are distinct from the openings 555 because they do not extend all the way through the actuator 554.

[0078] The openings 555 and grooves 557 advantageously provide an increased area for fluid to travel inside the catheter hub assembly. The increased area advantageously allows for flushing of the fluid and prevents solidification of the fluid within the proximal and distal ends of the septum. Additionally, the openings 555 and the plurality of grooves 557 advantageously minimize stagnation of the fluid and allow for better mixing. The grooves 557 also prevent the septum from sealing against the outer surface of the actuator during actuation. By not forming a sealing interface, fluid is permitted to leak out of the septum through the grooves 57 and provide further flushing.

[0079] Figure 128 illustrates the actuator 554 of Figure 127 within a catheter hub assembly. Similar to the embodiments described above, the catheter hub assembly further includes a catheter hub 514, a septum 538, and a biasing member 556. As shown, the openings 555 and grooves 557 in the actuator 554 provide more area for fluid flow inside the catheter hub 514, thus achieving the benefits described above.

[0080] 129 and 130 show the catheter hub assembly when the biasing member 556 is compressed and the actuator 554 pierces the septum 538. The catheter hub assembly may be optionally configured such that the opening 555 and / or groove 557 of the actuator 554 pierces the septum 538. In this embodiment, the opening 555 in the actuator 554 does not pierce the septum 538. However, the groove 557 in the actuator 554 pierces the septum 538. This configuration allows for increased fluid flow through the groove 557 from the proximal end to the distal end of the septum 538 in addition to the advantages discussed above. After actuation of the catheter assembly is complete, the actuator 554 is retracted from the septum 538 by the force exerted by the biasing member 556. The catheter assembly is configured for multiple uses upon depression of the actuator 554. Features described in this embodiment, including the actuator, may be used in combination with features described throughout this application.

[0081] FIG. 131 illustrates another embodiment of an actuator 664 in a catheter hub assembly. The catheter hub assembly includes a catheter hub 662 having a side port 668. The side port 668 provides secondary access to fluid flow within the catheter hub 662. The intersection of the main bore of the catheter hub 662 and the side port 668 includes a sleeve 672. The sleeve 672 provides selective fluid communication between the side port 668 and the catheter hub 662. In particular, when sufficient fluid pressure is applied through the side port 168, the sleeve 672 compresses. The compression of the sleeve 672 allows fluid to enter the catheter hub 662. The catheter hub assembly further includes a septum 670 and a biasing member 666 that provides tension to the actuator 664.

[0082] The actuator 664 includes a plurality of openings 665 extending therethrough in a manner similar to that described above. The actuator 664 includes two rows of four openings 665 having different sizes and similar spacing, although various numbers, sizes, and spacing of the openings 665 are contemplated. As shown, the openings 665 provide more area for fluid flow inside the catheter hub 662, thereby achieving similar benefits as described above for FIGS. 127-130.

[0083] 132 and 133 show the catheter hub assembly as the actuator 664 pierces the septum 670 and compresses the biasing member 666. The catheter hub assembly is optionally configured such that the opening 665 of the actuator 664 pierces the septum 670. In this embodiment, the opening 665 in the actuator 664 does not pierce the septum 670. This configuration allows for increased fluid flow between the side port 668 and the catheter hub 662 at the proximal end of the septum 670, in addition to the advantages discussed above. When the opening 665 in the actuator 664 pierces the septum 670, increased mixing of the fluid also occurs at the distal end of the septum 670.

[0084] When actuation of the catheter assembly is complete, the actuator 664 is retracted from the septum 670 by the force exerted by the biasing member 666. The catheter assembly is configured for multiple use upon depression of the actuator 664. Features described in this embodiment, such as the actuator, can be used in combination with features described throughout this application.

[0085] In another exemplary embodiment, the collar of the catheter hub as described above may be replaced by any other structure that defines a cutout. For example, the collar may be a groove or a recess in the catheter hub. Thus, the groove in the catheter hub may be used to engage and disengage the clip in a similar manner as described above. The features described in this embodiment may be used in combination with features described throughout this application.

[0086] The foregoing detailed description of certain exemplary embodiments is provided for the purpose of illustrating the principles of the invention and its practical application, thereby enabling those skilled in the art to understand the invention to various embodiments and with various modifications as adapted to the particular use contemplated. This description is not necessarily intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the exemplary embodiments disclosed. Any of the embodiments and / or elements disclosed herein may be combined with each other to form various additional embodiments not specifically disclosed. Thus, additional embodiments are possible and are intended to be encompassed within the scope of this specification and the appended claims. This specification describes specific examples to achieve a more general goal that may be achieved in another way.

[0087] In this application, the terms "front", "rear", "upper", "lower", "upward", "downward", and other orientation descriptive terms are intended to facilitate the description of the exemplary embodiments of the present invention, and are not intended to limit the structures of the exemplary embodiments of the present invention to any particular location or orientation. Terms of degree, such as "substantially" or "about", will be understood by those skilled in the art to refer to appropriate ranges outside of a given value, such as typical tolerances associated with the manufacture, assembly, and use of the described embodiments.

Claims

1. 1. A catheter assembly comprising: A catheter; a needle having a distal tip disposed within the catheter, the distal tip extending through the catheter at a first needle position; a catheter hub housing the catheter and the needle; a needle shield configured to be coupled to the catheter hub; a clip disposed within the needle shield cooperating with the needle, the distal tip being surrounded by the clip within the needle shield at the second needle position, the clip including a U-shaped portion that engages a wall of the needle shield to attach the clip to the needle shield at the first needle position and at the second needle position; A catheter assembly, characterized in that an outer wall extending from the U-shaped portion is exposed to the outside of the needle shield by engagement of the U-shaped portion.

2. the U-shaped portion includes a foot configured to engage the catheter hub; The catheter assembly of claim 1, wherein the foot portion and the U-shaped portion are disposed on opposite sides of the clip.

3. The clip has a first leg and a second leg, The U-shaped portion is connected to the second leg. The catheter assembly of claim 1 .

4. A catheter assembly as described in claim 3, characterized in that the U-shaped portion is located between the second leg and an outer wall of the clip.

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