Providing resistance to separation of the catheter adapter and needle hub

Abstract

The catheter system may include a catheter adapter and wings extending outward from the catheter adapter. The wings may include grooves or slots. The catheter system may include a needle hub and paddles extending outward from the needle hub. The paddles may include extensions disposed in the grooves or slots to reduce axial movement between the catheter adapter and the needle hub, which may be advantageous during insertion of the catheter system into a patient. For example, the extensions may be removable from the grooves or slots to allow axial movement between the catheter adapter and the needle hub during removal of the needle hub from the catheter adapter. The paddles and / or wings may include shapes that reduce axial movement between the catheter adapter and the needle hub, which may also be advantageous during insertion of the catheter system.

Description

[Background technology]

[0001] Intravenous catheters are commonly used for a variety of infusion therapies. For example, intravenous catheters may be used to infuse a patient with fluids such as normal saline, various medications, and total parenteral nutrition. Intravenous catheters may also be used to withdraw blood from a patient.

[0002] Common types of intravenous catheters are peripheral intravenous catheters ("PIVCs"), peripherally inserted central catheters ("PICCs"), and midline catheters. Intravenous catheters may include "over-the-needle" catheters, which may be fitted over an introducer needle with a sharp distal tip. The sharp distal tip may be used to puncture the patient's skin and vasculature. Insertion of the intravenous catheter into the vasculature may follow puncture of the vasculature with the needle. The needle and intravenous catheter are generally inserted at a shallow angle through the skin into the patient's vasculature with the bevel of the needle facing up and away from the patient's skin. Once placement of the needle within the vasculature is confirmed, the user may withdraw the needle, temporarily blocking flow within the vasculature, and the intravenous catheter is left in place for future blood withdrawal and / or fluid injection.

[0003] To verify correct placement of the introducer needle and / or intravenous catheter in the vasculature, the user will typically confirm the presence of blood flashback, which may be visible to the user. As an example, the introducer needle may include a notch disposed toward the distal end of the introducer needle, such that in response to the distal tip of the introducer needle being positioned within the vasculature, blood may flow proximally through the needle lumen, exit the needle lumen via the notch, and move proximally between the outer surface of the introducer needle and the inner surface of the PIVC. Thus, if the PIVCs are at least partially transparent, the user may visualize a small amount of blood "flashback," thereby confirming placement of the PIVC within the vasculature. The presence of a vasculature entry indicator, such as a flashback, may facilitate successful placement of the PIVCs.

[0004] The subject matter claimed herein is not limited to embodiments that solve any shortcomings or that operate only in environments such as those described herein above. Rather, this background is only provided to illustrate one example technology area in which some implementations described herein may be practiced. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In some embodiments, the catheter system may include a catheter adapter and may include a proximal end, a distal end, and a lumen extending through the proximal and distal ends. In some embodiments, wings may extend outwardly from the catheter adapter. In some embodiments, the wings may include grooves or slots. In some embodiments, the catheter may extend distally from the catheter adapter. In some embodiments, the catheter system may include a needle hub.

[0006] In some embodiments, the paddle may extend outwardly from the needle hub. In some embodiments, the paddle may include an extension or may include a protrusion. In some embodiments, the extension may be disposed in a groove or slot to reduce axial movement between the catheter adapter and the needle hub. In some embodiments, the catheter system may include a cannula, which may extend through the catheter adapter and the catheter. In some embodiments, the cannula may include a proximal end and a distal end. In some embodiments, the proximal end of the cannula may be secured within the needle hub.

[0007] In some embodiments, the catheter system may include one or more features configured to reduce axial movement between the catheter adapter and the needle hub, which may be advantageous during insertion of the catheter system into a patient. For example, in some embodiments, the bottom of the wings may be smooth. In some embodiments, the extension may include a ball shape and the wings may include a socket that receives the ball shape. In some embodiments, the groove or slot may be generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the catheter system and the extension may be configured to move laterally but not axially within the groove or slot.

[0008] In some embodiments, the extensions may include ribs. In some embodiments, the wings may include grooves. In some embodiments, the grooves may be elongated to generally match the shape of the ribs. In some embodiments, the extensions may be part of a chevron pattern surface and / or the wings may include a corresponding chevron pattern that includes grooves.

[0009] In some embodiments, for example, the extension may be removable from the groove or slot to allow axial movement between the catheter adapter and the needle hub during removal of the needle hub from the catheter adapter. In some embodiments, the extension may be removable from the groove or slot in response to a force applied by a user. In some embodiments, the wings may be constructed of a flexible material such that removal of the extension from the groove or slot allows the wings to be pulled away from the paddle.

[0010] In some embodiments, the paddle may include a shape to reduce distal movement of the catheter adapter relative to the needle hub. In some embodiments, the shape may include a rough texture. In some embodiments, a proximal portion of the paddle may include a rough texture and / or a distal portion of the paddle may be smooth. In some embodiments, a portion of the paddle may be located under the wing. In some embodiments, the shape may include an arm configured to move independently of a portion of the paddle located under the wing. In some embodiments, in response to the arm being in a first position, the arm may contact a distal end of the wing and reduce distal movement of the wing. In some embodiments, in response to the arm being in a second position, the arm may be deployed under the wing and the wing may be configured to move in a distal direction.

[0011] In some embodiments, the shape may include a raised distal edge configured to reduce distal movement of the wing. In some embodiments, the paddle may include a raised proximal end. In some embodiments, the end of the paddle between the raised distal edge and the raised proximal edge may not be raised.

[0012] In some embodiments, the wing may include a recess and the shape may include a cantilever element movable between a first position within the recess and a second position outside the recess. In some embodiments, the shape may include a bend forming an upper and lower portion of the paddle, the wing is disposed between the upper and lower portions of the paddle and in response to pinching the upper and lower portions together, movement of the wing is reduced relative to the paddle.

[0013] In some embodiments, the wing may be a first wing. In some embodiments, the catheter system may include a second wing, which may extend outwardly from the catheter adapter. In some embodiments, the second wing may be movable between an upper position and a lower position. In some embodiments, the second wing may be smaller than the first wing. In some embodiments, the second wing may include a protrusion.

[0014] In some embodiments, the paddle may include a groove. In some embodiments, in response to the second wing being deployed in the lower position, the protrusion may be deployed within the groove. In some embodiments, in response to the second wing being deployed in the upper position, the protrusion may not be deployed within the groove.

[0015] In some embodiments, the distal end of the paddle may include a concave curved surface. In some embodiments, the concave curved surface may face in a distal direction. In some embodiments, a lateral side of the catheter adapter may include a different concave curved surface. In some embodiments, the concave curved surface and the other concave curved surface may be configured to be gripped with a ported grip. In some embodiments, the catheter adapter may include a protrusion configured to contact the paddle and inhibit rotation of the needle hub relative to the catheter adapter. In some embodiments, the paddle may include a groove and the catheter adapter may include a rib slidable within the groove, which may facilitate alignment between the catheter adapter and the needle hub.

[0016] It should be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and illustrative and are not restrictive of the claimed invention. It should be understood that the various embodiments are not limited to the arrangement and instrumentality shown in the drawings. It should also be understood that the embodiments may be combined or other embodiments may be utilized, and structural changes may be made without departing from the scope of the various embodiments of the present invention, unless otherwise claimed. Therefore, the following detailed description is not to be taken in a limiting sense. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0017] Example embodiments will be described and become apparent with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings.

[0018] [Figure 1A] FIG. 1A is a top perspective view of an exemplary catheter system illustrating the catheter system in an insertion configuration for insertion into a patient, according to some embodiments. [Figure 1B] FIG. 1B is a top perspective view of a catheter system illustrating an exemplary needle hub detached from an exemplary catheter adapter, according to some embodiments. [Figure 1C] FIG. 1C is an underside perspective view of a catheter system, according to some embodiments. [Figure 2A] FIG. 2A is a top perspective view of a catheter system illustrating an exemplary extension and an exemplary slot, according to some embodiments. [Figure 2B] FIG. 2B is a top perspective view of the catheter system illustrating the needle hub detached from the catheter adapter, according to some embodiments. [Figure 2C] FIG. 2C is a distal end view of a catheter system, according to some embodiments. [Figure 2D] FIG. 2D is a different distal end view of the catheter system illustrating an exemplary wing detached from an exemplary paddle, according to some embodiments. [Figure 2E]FIG. 2E is an underside perspective view of a catheter system, according to some embodiments. [Figure 3A] FIG. 3A is a top perspective view of a catheter system, according to some embodiments. [Figure 3B] FIG. 3B is a top perspective view of the catheter system illustrating the needle hub detached from the catheter adapter, according to some embodiments. [Figure 3C] FIG. 3C is an underside perspective view of a catheter system, according to some embodiments. [Figure 3D] FIG. 3D is a cross-sectional view of the catheter system along line 3D-3D of FIG. 3A, according to some embodiments. [Figure 4A] FIG. 4A is a top perspective view of a catheter system, according to some embodiments. [Figure 4B] FIG. 4B is a top perspective view of the catheter system illustrating the needle hub detached from the catheter adapter and exemplary rib, according to some embodiments. [Figure 4C] FIG. 4C is an underside perspective view of a catheter system, according to some embodiments. [Figure 4D] FIG. 4D is a cross-sectional view of the catheter system taken along line 4D-4D of FIG. 4A, according to some embodiments. [Figure 5A] FIG. 5A is a top perspective view of a catheter system, according to some embodiments. [Figure 5B] FIG. 5B is a top perspective view of the catheter system illustrating the needle hub detached from the catheter adapter and an exemplary chevron pattern surface according to some embodiments. [Figure 5C] FIG. 5C is an underside perspective view of a catheter system, according to some embodiments. [Figure 5D] FIG. 5D is a cross-sectional view of the catheter system taken along line 5D-5D of FIG. 5A, according to some embodiments. [Figure 5E]FIG. 5E is a top perspective view of the catheter system illustrating the needle hub detached from the catheter adapter and different example chevron pattern surfaces according to some embodiments. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is an alternative cross-sectional view of the catheter system taken along line 5D-5D of FIG. 5A, according to some embodiments. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a top perspective view of the catheter system illustrating the needle hub detached from the catheter adapter and an exemplary rough texture, according to some embodiments. [Figure 8A] FIG. 8A is a top view of a catheter system illustrating an exemplary arm, according to some embodiments. [Figure 8B] FIG. 8B is a top perspective view of an exemplary needle hub illustrating the arms, according to some embodiments. [Figure 9A] FIG. 9A is a top perspective view of a catheter system illustrating an exemplary raised distal edge and an exemplary raised proximal edge, according to some embodiments. [Figure 9B] FIG. 9B is a top perspective view of a needle hub illustrating an example of an exemplary raised distal edge and an exemplary raised proximal edge, according to some embodiments. [Figure 10A] FIG. 10A is a proximal end view of a catheter system illustrating an example of a wing having an exemplary upper portion and an exemplary lower portion, according to some embodiments. [Figure 10B] FIG. 10B is a side view of a catheter system, according to some embodiments. [Figure 11A] FIG. 11A is a top perspective view of a catheter system illustrating a needle hub and an exemplary cantilever element detached from a catheter adapter, according to some embodiments. [Figure 11B] FIG. 11B is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a cantilever element disposed within an exemplary recess, according to some embodiments. [Figure 12A]FIG. 12A is a top perspective view of a catheter system illustrating a needle hub detached from a catheter adapter and an exemplary slot, according to some embodiments. [Figure 12B] FIG. 12B is a top perspective view of a catheter system illustrating an exemplary protrusion disposed at the end of a slot, according to some embodiments. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of a catheter system illustrating an exemplary protrusion, according to some embodiments. [Figure 14A] FIG. 14A is a top perspective view of a catheter system illustrating a catheter adapter and a needle hub detached from an exemplary arm, according to some embodiments. [Figure 14B] FIG. 14B is a cross-sectional view of a catheter system illustrating an example of an arm, according to some embodiments. [Figure 15A] FIG. 15A is a top perspective view of a catheter system illustrating a needle hub removed from a catheter adapter and an exemplary protrusion engaged with the needle hub in a snap fit, according to some embodiments. [Figure 15B] FIG. 15B is a cross-sectional view of the catheter system illustrating the protrusion engaged in a snap fit with the needle hub, according to some embodiments. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of a catheter system illustrating an exemplary removable clip, according to some embodiments. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a top perspective view of the catheter system illustrating the raised proximal portion of the wings, according to some embodiments. [Figure 18A] FIG. 18A is a top perspective view of a catheter system illustrating an example of a paddle deployed above the wings, according to some embodiments. [Figure 18B] FIG. 18B is a distal end view of a catheter system, according to some embodiments. [Figure 19]FIG. 19 is a distal end view of a catheter system illustrating exemplary protrusions of a paddle, according to some embodiments. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is a side view of a catheter assembly, according to some embodiments. [Figure 21A] FIG. 21A is a top perspective view of a catheter system illustrating an exemplary groove configured for thumb positioning, according to some embodiments. [Figure 21B] FIG. 21B is a distal end view of the catheter system illustrating the grooves, according to some embodiments. [Figure 22] FIG. 22 is a top perspective view of a catheter system illustrating an exemplary ridge, according to some embodiments. [Figure 23A] FIG. 23A is a top perspective view of a catheter system illustrating an exemplary upper portion of a paddle, according to some embodiments. [Figure 23B] FIG. 23B is a distal end view of the catheter system illustrating an upper portion and an exemplary lower portion of a paddle, according to some embodiments. [Figure 24A] FIG. 24A is a top perspective view of an exemplary catheter adapter illustrating an exemplary other wing, according to some embodiments. [Figure 24B] FIG. 24B is a top perspective view of a catheter system illustrating a different exemplary wing deployed within an exemplary groove of a paddle and in an exemplary downward position, according to some embodiments. [Figure 24C] FIG. 24C is a top perspective view of the catheter system illustrating the other wing in an exemplary upward position, according to some embodiments. [Figure 24D] FIG. 24D is a diagram illustrating the proximal end of the catheter system, according to some embodiments. [Figure 24E] FIG. 24E is a side view of a catheter system illustrating an exemplary stopping feature, according to some embodiments. [Figure 25A]FIG. 25A is a top view of a catheter system illustrating multiple concave curved surfaces, according to some embodiments. [Figure 25B] FIG. 25B is a top perspective view of the catheter system illustrating a concave curved surface, according to some embodiments. [Figure 25C] FIG. 25C is a proximal end view of a catheter system, according to some embodiments. [Figure 25D] FIG. 25D is a top perspective view of a catheter adapter illustrating a stop feature, according to some embodiments. [Figure 25E] FIG. 25E is a top view of an exemplary catheter adapter, according to some embodiments. [Figure 25F] FIG. 25F is a top view of a catheter system illustrating a concave curved surface, according to some embodiments. [Figure 26A] FIG. 26A is a top view of a prior art catheter system. [Figure 26B] FIG. 26B is a top view of the catheter system illustrating the elongated portion of the needle hub inserted into the catheter adapter, according to some embodiments. [Figure 26C] FIG. 26C is a top view of a catheter system illustrating an exemplary press-fit washer, according to some embodiments. [Figure 26D] FIG. 26D is a top perspective view of an example distal end of a catheter system illustrating an example solid cannula, according to some embodiments. [Figure 26E] FIG. 26E is a top perspective view of a cannula, according to some embodiments. [Figure 27A] FIG. 27A is a top perspective view of a catheter adapter illustrating exemplary ribs, according to some embodiments. [Figure 27B] FIG. 27B is a top perspective view of a needle hub illustrating an exemplary groove configured to receive a rib, according to some embodiments. [Figure 27C]FIG. 27C is a cut-away view of a catheter system illustrating ribs deployed within grooves, according to some embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0019] 1A-1B, in some embodiments, the catheter system 10 may include a needle hub 12 and a paddle 14. In some embodiments, the needle hub 12 and the paddle 14 are a single component and may be integrally formed. In some embodiments, the needle hub 12 and the paddle 14 may be integrally formed as a single unit. In some embodiments, the paddle 14 may extend outwardly from the needle hub 12.

[0020] In some embodiments, the proximal end of the cannula 16 may be secured within the needle hub 12. In some embodiments, the cannula 16 may include a notch that may be deployed toward the distal end of the cannula 16 to provide a primary flashback indicating that the catheter 18 of the catheter system 10 is properly positioned within the patient's vasculature (not shown in FIGS. 1A-1C). In some embodiments, the cannula 16 may include an introducer needle having a sharp distal tip 20. In some embodiments, the bevel of the sharp distal tip 20 may face the crown of the catheter system 10. In some embodiments, the flashback may be visualized within the needle hub 12.

[0021] In some embodiments, the needle hub 12 may be removably coupled to the catheter adapter 22 of the catheter system 10. In some embodiments, one or more wings 24 may extend outwardly relative to the catheter adapter 22. As illustrated in FIG. 1A, in some embodiments, the wings 24a may overlap the paddle 14, which may facilitate a user pinching the wings 24a and the paddle 14 together during insertion of the catheter system 10 into the vasculature of a patient. In some embodiments, it may be important for a user to grip the paddle 14 during insertion of the catheter system 10 so that the force the user applies for insertion is transferred directly to the cannula 16. In some embodiments, the paddle 14 may include a ridge 15 that may abut the wings 24a. In some embodiments, the catheter system 10 may not include the wings 24a and / or the wings 24b.

[0022] In some embodiments, if the user fails to penetrate the vasculature with the cannula 16, the user may slightly retract the catheter system 10 to redirect the path of the cannula 16 for a different attempt to penetrate the vasculature. In some embodiments, during this retraction of the catheter system 10, the user may pinch the wings 24a and the paddle 14 together between the user's thumb and finger, which may inhibit the catheter adapter 22 from separating from the needle hub 12 in response to friction between the catheter system 10 and the patient's tissue during retraction.

[0023] Thus, in some embodiments, the overlap between the paddles 14 and the wings 24a may facilitate grasping by a user as the catheter system 10 and prevent premature separation of the needle hub 12 and the catheter adapter 22. Premature separation of the needle hub 12 and the catheter adapter 22 may result in the distal end 26 of the catheter 18 moving a distance proximate to the bevel of the cannula 16, which may result in the distal end 26 of the catheter 18 catching on tissue during a subsequent insertion movement by the user. catching the distal end 26 of the catheter 18 on tissue may be painful for the patient, may deform the distal end 26 of the catheter 18, and may make it difficult or impossible to make an entry into the vasculature.

[0024] In some embodiments, after the catheter 18 is successfully positioned within the vasculature, the cannula 16 may be withdrawn from the catheter 18, which may be left in place for blood sampling, infusion, or another suitable purpose. In some embodiments, to withdraw the cannula 16 from the catheter 18, the needle hub 12 may be separated from the catheter adapter 22, and the needle hub 12 may be removed from the catheter system 10 and / or discarded. In some embodiments, the overlap between the paddle 14 and the wings 24a may also facilitate separation of the needle hub 12 and the catheter adapter 22, as the user simply moves the thumb and fingers (of the same hand) that were engaged in pinching the needle hub 12 and the catheter adapter 22 during insertion away from each other. In these embodiments, a finger, such as the index finger, may be moved proximally relative to the thumb.

[0025] In some embodiments, during insertion, the thumb may be positioned on the top of the wing 24a and the fingers may be positioned on the bottom of the paddle 14. In some embodiments, the thumb and fingers may maintain their positions on the top of the wing 24a and the bottom of the paddle 14, respectively, to separate the needle hub 12 and the catheter adapter 22 after insertion is complete, thus facilitating ease of use of the catheter system 10 for the user. Figure 1B illustrates the wing 24a separated from the paddle 14, according to some embodiments.

[0026] In some embodiments, the catheter adapter 22 may include a push tab 28. In some embodiments, the push tab 28 or a different feature coupled to the catheter adapter 22 may align with one or more features of or landmarks on the paddle 14 when the catheter system 10 is in an insertion configuration ready for insertion into a patient. This may provide a visual cue or indication to the user that the catheter adapter 22 and needle hub 12 are in the correct position for insertion and have not separated. For example, the distal end of the push tab 28 may align or be flush with the distal end of the ridge 15. In some embodiments, one or more features of the catheter adapter 22 and / or the catheter system 10 may be described in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 969,584, entitled "INTRAVENOUS CATHETER SYSTEM AND METHODS," filed May 2, 2018, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0027] In some embodiments, the catheter adapter 22 may include a distal end 30, a proximal end 32, and a lumen extending through the distal end 30 and the proximal end 32. In some embodiments, the catheter 18 may be secured within the distal end 30 of the catheter adapter 22. In some embodiments, after the needle hub 12 is separated and removed from the catheter adapter 22, a medical device may be coupled to the proximal end 32 of the catheter adapter 22 for infusion and / or blood withdrawal.

[0028] In some embodiments, the catheter system 10 may include any suitable catheter adapter 22 and / or needle hub 12. In some embodiments, the catheter adapter 22 may include a side port 34 in fluid communication with the lumen of the catheter adapter. In some embodiments, the extension tube 36 may be integrated within the side port 34 or may be part of an extension set. In some embodiments, the catheter system 10 may include any suitable cannula 16. In some embodiments, the catheter 18 may include a peripheral intravenous catheter ("PIVC"), a midline catheter, a peripherally inserted central catheter ("PICC"), or a different suitable catheter.

[0029] 1C, in some embodiments, the wings 24a may include a bottom portion 38a and / or the wings 24b may include a bottom portion 38b. In some embodiments, the wings 24 may extend outwardly from the catheter adapter 22. In some embodiments, the wings 24 may be connected to one another or may be separate from one another. In some embodiments, the bottom portions 38a and 38b may form a generally planar surface. In some embodiments, the bottom portions 38a of the wings 24a and / or the tops of the paddles 14 may be smooth to increase contact between the wings 24a and the paddles 14. In some embodiments, the increased contact at the interface between the wings 24a and the paddles 14 may increase friction between the wings 24a and the paddles 14, reducing the risk of separation of the wings 24a and the paddles 14 during insertion and / or withdrawal of the catheter system 10 from the vasculature.

[0030] In some embodiments, all or a portion of the wings 24a and / or all or a portion of the paddle 14 may be lubricant-free so that friction between the wings 24a and the paddle 14 is increased and the risk of separation of the wings 24a and the paddle 14 during insertion of the catheter system 10 into the patient is reduced. In some embodiments, the wings 24a and / or the paddle 14 may be constructed of thermoplastic polyurethane ("TPU") or a different suitable material. In some embodiments, the TPU may be free of one or more additives that would otherwise act as a lubricant. In some embodiments, the paddle 14 may be harder than the wings 24. In some embodiments, the paddle 14 may be constructed of TPU or a different suitable material.

[0031] 2A-2E, in some embodiments, the catheter system 10 can include a slot 40 and an extension 42 disposed within the slot 40. In some embodiments, the slot 40 can be elongated. In some embodiments, the slot 40 can extend generally perpendicular to a longitudinal axis 44 of the catheter system 10, thus allowing some lateral movement of the extension 42. In some embodiments, the shape and orientation of the slot 40 can constrain the extension 42 (and the wings 24a or paddles 14 to which the extension 42 may be attached) from moving axially. More specifically, the shape and orientation of the slot 40 can constrain the extension 42 parallel to the longitudinal axis 44 and / or in a distal or proximal direction. Thus, in some embodiments, the slot 40 and the extension 42 can reduce the risk of separation of the wings 24a and the paddles 14 during insertion and / or withdrawal of the catheter system 10 from the vasculature.

[0032] In some embodiments, the extension 42 may extend upward from the paddle 14 and the wings 24a may include the slots 40. In some embodiments, the wings 24a may be constructed of a flexible material such that the wings 24a may be pulled or deflected away from the paddle 14 by a user to separate the needle hub 12 from the catheter adapter 22 after insertion of the catheter system 10 within the vasculature is complete. In some embodiments, the extension 42 may extend downward from the wings 24a and the paddle 14 may include the slots 40.

[0033] 2A-2B, the slot 40 may include an opening or hole that may extend through the wing 24a or the paddle 14. In some embodiments, as shown for example in FIGURE 2E, the slot 40 may include a groove that may not extend through the wing 24a or the paddle 14.

[0034] 3A-3E, in some embodiments, extension 46 may fit snugly within groove 48. By way of example, groove 48 may include a socket and extension 46 may include a ball shape. In some embodiments, the shape of groove 48 may correspond to the shape of extension 46 and / or the diameter of groove 48 may be approximately equal to the diameter of extension 46. Thus, in some embodiments, extension 46 may fit snugly within groove 48.

[0035] In some embodiments, the shape of the groove 48 can restrain the extension 46 from moving axially, especially when a user pinches the wings 24a and the paddle 14 together. In some embodiments, the groove 48 and the extension 46 can reduce the risk of separation of the wings 24a and the paddle 14 during insertion and / or withdrawal of the catheter system 10 from the vasculature. In some embodiments, after the catheter 18 is inserted into the vasculature, a user's thumb force in the distal direction may be able to remove the extension 46 from the groove 48 to separate the wings 24a and the paddle 14. In some embodiments, the groove 48 may be replaced with a similarly sized hole.

[0036] In some embodiments, the extension 46 may extend upward from the paddle 14 and the wing 24a may include a groove 48. As stated, in some embodiments, the wing 24a may be constructed of a flexible material such that the wing 24a may be pulled or deflected away from the paddle 14 by a user to separate the needle hub 12 from the catheter adapter 22 after insertion of the catheter system 10 within the vasculature is complete. In some embodiments, the extension 46 may extend downward from the wing 24a and the paddle 14 may include a groove 48.

[0037] 4A-4D, in some embodiments, the catheter system 10 may include one or more grooves 50 and / or one or more ribs 52. In some embodiments, the ribs 52 may be disposed within the grooves 50. In some embodiments, the grooves 50 and / or the ribs 52 may extend generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 44 of the catheter system 10. In some embodiments, the ribs 52 and / or grooves 50 may reduce the risk of separation of the wings 24a and the paddle 14 during insertion and / or withdrawal of the catheter system 10 from the vasculature, particularly when a user pinches the wings 24a and the paddle 14 together. In some embodiments, the ribs 52 and / or grooves 50 may provide resistance to the wings 24a moving proximally and distally relative to the paddle 14. In some embodiments, a user's thumb force in the distal direction may be able to remove the ribs 52 from the grooves 50 to separate the wings 24a and the paddle 14 after the catheter 18 is inserted into the vasculature.

[0038] In some embodiments, as illustrated, for example, in FIGS. 4B-4D, the ribs 52 may extend outwardly from the top of the paddle 14 and the bottom 38a of the wings 24a may include grooves 50. In some embodiments, the ribs 52 may extend outwardly from the bottom 38a of the wings 24a and the top of the paddle 14 may include grooves 50. In some embodiments, the catheter system 10 may include the ribs 52 but not the grooves 50. In some embodiments, the ribs 52 may increase friction and reduce movement between the wings 24a and the paddle 14. In some embodiments, the wings 24a may be constructed of a flexible material such that the wings 24a may be pulled or deflected away from the paddle 14 by a user to separate the needle hub 12 from the catheter adapter 22 after insertion of the catheter system 10 within the vasculature is complete.

[0039] 5A-5E, in some embodiments, the catheter system 10 can include a chevron pattern surface 54 and a corresponding chevron pattern surface 56. In some embodiments, the chevron pattern surface 54 can be substantially identical to the corresponding chevron pattern surface 56. In some embodiments, the chevron pattern surface 54 can be offset from the corresponding chevron pattern surface 56 such that the chevron pattern surface 54 fits within the corresponding chevron pattern surface 56. In some embodiments, the bottom 38a of the wing 24a can include the chevron pattern surface 54 or the corresponding chevron pattern surface 56. In some embodiments, the top of the paddle 14 can include the chevron pattern surface 54 or the corresponding chevron pattern surface 56. In some embodiments, the chevron pattern surface 54 and / or the corresponding chevron pattern surface 56 can be extension types provided with grooves in the extensions.

[0040] In some embodiments, the chevron pattern surface 54 and the corresponding chevron pattern surface 56 may extend generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 44 of the catheter system 10. In some embodiments, the chevron pattern surface 54 and the corresponding chevron pattern surface 56 may reduce the risk of separation of the wings 24a and the paddle 14 during insertion and / or withdrawal of the catheter system 10 from the vasculature. In some embodiments, the chevron pattern surface 54 and the corresponding chevron pattern surface 56 may inhibit the wings 24a from moving proximally and distally relative to the paddle 14 when a user pinches the wings 24a and the paddle 14 together during insertion and / or withdrawal.

[0041] In some embodiments, after the catheter 18 is inserted into the vasculature, a user's thumb force in a distal direction may move the chevron pattern surface 54 against the corresponding chevron pattern surface 56 to separate the wings 24a and the paddle 14. In some embodiments, the wings 24a may be constructed of a flexible material such that they may be pulled or deflected away from the paddle 14 by the user to separate the needle hub 12 from the catheter adapter 22 after insertion of the catheter system 10 within the vasculature is complete.

[0042] As illustrated in FIG. 5E, in some embodiments, the chevron pattern surface 54 may be generally V-shaped, and the corresponding chevron pattern surface 54 may also be V-shaped. More specifically, in some embodiments, the chevron pattern surface 54 may include one or more first grooves and / or one or more first extensions oriented in a first direction. Additionally, in some embodiments, the chevron pattern surface 54 may include one or more second grooves and / or one or more second extensions oriented in a second direction to form a generally V-shape. In some embodiments, for example, during insertion of the catheter system 10, the generally V-shape of the chevron pattern surface 54 may promote initial interlocking between the chevron pattern surface 54 and the corresponding chevron pattern surface 54, but in response to the chevron pattern surface 54 releasing from the corresponding chevron pattern surface 54, binding may be reduced and free sliding may be increased between the chevron pattern surface 54 and the corresponding chevron pattern surface 54.

[0043] 6, in some embodiments, the bottom 38a of the wing 24a and the top of the paddle 14 may be sloped. In some embodiments, the thickness of the sloped surface 58 of the paddle 14 may be greater at the distal end of the sloped surface 58 than at the proximal end of the sloped surface 58 such that the wing 24a resists distal movement. In some embodiments, the sloped surface 60 of the wing 24a may contact the sloped surface 58 along all or a portion of the length of the sloped surface 58. In some embodiments, the thickness of the sloped surface 60 of the wing 24a may be greater at the proximal end of the sloped surface 60 than at the distal end of the sloped surface 60.

[0044] In some embodiments, the ramps 58 and 60 may reduce the risk of separation of the wings 24a and the paddle 14 during insertion and / or withdrawal of the catheter system 10 from the vasculature, especially when a user pinches the wings 24a and the paddle 14 together. In some embodiments, after the catheter 18 is inserted into the vasculature, the force of the user's thumb in the distal direction may be able to overcome the ramps 58 to separate the wings 24a and the paddle 14.

[0045] With reference to FIG. 7, in some embodiments, the top of the paddle 14 and / or the bottom 38a of the wing 24a may include a rough texture 62, which may provide resistance to the wing 24a moving proximally and / or distally relative to the paddle 14 when a user pinches the wings 24a and the paddle 14 together, particularly during insertion of the catheter 18 into the vasculature.

[0046] In some embodiments, the rough texture 62 may be disposed on a proximal portion of the paddle 14 and / or the lateral side of the wing 24a. In some embodiments, the distal portion or lateral side of the paddle 14 and / or the wing 24a may be smooth. In some embodiments, the rough texture 62 may be disposed on the crown of the paddle 14 and may have a height sufficient to embed into the flexible material of the wing 24a. In some embodiments, the rough texture 62 may be hard.

[0047] 8A-8B, in some embodiments, the paddle 14 may include an arm 64, which may be separate from a portion 66 of the paddle 14 located under the wing 24a, such that the arm 64 may move independently of the portion of the paddle 14 located under the wing 24a. In some embodiments, the arm 64 may be movable between a first position in which distal movement between the wing 24a and the catheter adapter 22 is inhibited, and a second position in which distal movement of the wing 24a and the catheter adapter 22 is permitted. In some embodiments, when the arm 64 is in the first position, the distal end of the wing 24a may contact the arm 64. In some embodiments, when the arm 64 is in the second position, the arm 64 may be deployed below the wing 24a, such that the wing 24a may move distally. In some embodiments, the curvature of the arm 64 may generally mirror the curvature of the outer edge of the wing 24a.

[0048] 9A-9B, in some embodiments, the wings 24a may be disposed between a raised distal edge 68 of the paddle 14 and / or a raised proximal edge 70 of the paddle 14. In some embodiments, the raised distal edge 68 and / or the raised proximal edge 70 may reduce the risk of separation of the wings 24a and the paddle 14 during insertion and / or withdrawal of the catheter system 10 from the patient's vasculature.

[0049] In some embodiments, after insertion of the catheter 18 into the vasculature, the user may lift and slightly rotate the wing 24a to overcome the raised distal edge 68 in order to advance the catheter 18 distally and / or to remove the needle hub 12 from the catheter adapter 22. In some embodiments, the raised distal edge 68 may be tapered such that an outer portion of the raised proximal edge 70 is thicker than an inner portion of the raised proximal edge 70. In some embodiments, the raised proximal edge 70 may be tapered such that an outer portion of the raised proximal edge 70 is thicker than an inner portion of the raised proximal edge 70. In some embodiments, the raised distal edge 68 may be connected to the raised proximal edge 70 by a raised intermediate edge such that the raised distal edge 68, the raised intermediate edge, and the raised proximal edge 70 form a U-shape around the wing 34a (not shown).

[0050] 10A-10B, in some embodiments, the wing 34a may include a slot 72 disposed between an upper portion 74 and a lower portion 76 of the wing 34a. In some embodiments, the paddle 14 may be disposed within the slot 72. In some embodiments, the wing 34a may be disposed above and below the paddle 14. In some embodiments, a user may pinch the upper portion 74 and the lower portion 76 of the wing 34a together to constrain movement of the paddle 14 relative to the wing 34a during insertion and / or withdrawal of the catheter system 10 from the vasculature.

[0051] 11A-11B, in some embodiments, the catheter system 10 may include a cantilever element 78 and a groove or recess 79 configured to receive the cantilever element 78. In some embodiments, the paddle 14 may include the cantilever element 78 and the bottom 38a of the wing 24a may include the recess 79. In some embodiments, the cantilever element 78 may not be disposed within the recess 79. In these embodiments, the cantilever element 78 may be inserted into the recess 79 in response to a user pinching the wings 24a and the paddle 14 together and pushing the cantilever element 78 upward during insertion of the catheter 18 into the vasculature.

[0052] In some embodiments, one or more lateral sides 80 of the cantilever element 78 may be cut away from the paddle 14 to permit movement of the cantilever element 78. In some embodiments, the cantilever element 78 may be configured to bend at a base 82 of the cantilever element 78 proximate the lateral side of the cantilever element 78. In some embodiments, the cantilever element 78 may be elongated, for example, as illustrated in FIG. 11, which may facilitate securing the cantilever element 78 within the recess 79 in response to movement by the user. In some embodiments, the cantilever element 78 may include any suitable shape. In some embodiments, the cantilever element 78 may be generally level with a portion of the wing 34a surrounding the cantilever element 78 when the user is not deflecting the cantilever element 78 upward within the recess 79.

[0053] 12A-12B, in some embodiments, the exterior surface of the catheter adapter 22 may include a protrusion 84, and the needle hub 12 may include a slot 86 configured to receive the protrusion 84. In some embodiments, the slot 86 may include an L-shape. In some embodiments, the protrusion 84 may be disposed at an end 88 of the L-shape. In some embodiments, in response to the protrusion 84 being disposed at the end 88 of the L-shape, the needle hub 12 and the catheter adapter 22 may be restrained from moving axially relative to one another in separation. In some embodiments, to remove the protrusion 84 from the L-shape and separate the catheter adapter 22 from the needle hub 12, a user may rotate the catheter adapter 22 to remove the protrusion from the end 88 of the L-shape and align the protrusion with an opening 90 of the L-shape opposite the end 88 of the L-shape.

[0054] 13, in some embodiments, the outer surface of the catheter adapter 22 may include one or more protrusions 92 extending radially outward from the outer surface of the catheter adapter 22. In some embodiments, one of the protrusions 92a may be offset from a different one of the protrusions 92b such that the protrusion 92a is adjacent to the protrusion 92b. In some embodiments, the protrusions 92 may be secured to one or more grooves 94 in the needle hub 12. In some embodiments, the protrusions a, b are offset so that the needle hub 12 and the catheter adapter 22 may not separate even if there is a slight rotation of the catheter adapter 22 and the needle hub 12 relative to each other during insertion and / or withdrawal of the catheter system 10 from the vasculature. In some embodiments, to separate the catheter adapter 22 and the needle hub 12, a user may rotate the needle hub 12 such that the protrusion 92 is removed from the groove 94.

[0055] 14A-14B, in some embodiments, the distal end of the needle hub 12 may include an arm 96 and may include opposing edges 98 and a base 100. In some embodiments, the opposing edges 98 may extend through a wall of the needle hub 12 such that the arm 96 moves independently of the remainder of the needle hub 12. In some embodiments, the inner surface of the arm 96 may include a recess 102 or stepped surface and may be configured to receive a protrusion 104 on the proximal end 32 of the catheter adapter 22 to secure the catheter adapter 22 to the needle hub 12 and inhibit separation of the catheter adapter 22 and the needle hub 12. In some embodiments, the arm 96 may be flexible such that it can bend, allowing the arm 96 to releasably couple the catheter adapter 22 to the needle hub 12.

[0056] 15A-15B, in some embodiments, the proximal end 32 of the catheter adapter 22 may include one or more protrusions 106 that may be engaged in a snap-fit ​​with one or more recesses 108 in the needle hub 12. In some embodiments, the protrusions 106 may each include a ball shape and the one or more recesses may each include a socket shape.

[0057] 16, in some embodiments, a removable clip 110 may be used to couple the catheter adapter 22 and the needle hub 12 together. In some embodiments, after the catheter 18 is inserted into the patient's vasculature, the removable clip 110 may be removed to allow separation between the catheter adapter 22 and the needle hub 12. In some embodiments, the removable clip 110 may include any suitable type of clip. In some embodiments, ends of the removable clip 110 may be deployed into recesses in the catheter adapter 22 and the needle hub 12 to couple the catheter adapter 22 and the needle hub 12 together. In some embodiments, the removable clip 110 may be oriented parallel to the longitudinal axis 44. Thus, in some embodiments, only one end of the removable clip 110 may be removed from the particular recess in which it is deployed to allow separation between the catheter adapter 22 and the needle hub 12.

[0058] Referring to FIG. 17, in some embodiments, the wings 24a may include a raised proximal portion 112, which may thicken the wings 24a and facilitate a better grip of the wings 24a by the user if the user wishes to reposition the catheter adapter 22 and needle hub 12 after they have separated.

[0059] 18A-18B, in some embodiments, the paddle 14 extending from the body 114 of the needle hub 12 may be disposed on the top of the wing 24a. In some embodiments, when the paddle 14 is disposed on the top of the wing 24a, separation of the catheter 18 and the needle hub 12 may be inhibited. This is because it is a user's natural tendency to lead with their thumb when inserting the catheter 18. In some embodiments, the thumb may be positioned on the top of the paddle 14 and / or the index finger of the user's same hand may be positioned under the wing 24a.

[0060] 19 , in some embodiments, the shape of the bottom of the paddle 14 may facilitate gripping of the paddle 14 by a user. In some embodiments, the bottom outer portion 116 of the paddle 14 may include a protrusion 118. In some embodiments, the bottom inner portion 120 of the paddle 14 proximate the protrusion 118 may be generally planar. In some embodiments, the paddle 14 may be thinner at the inner portion 120 than the bottom outer portion 116 of the paddle 14.

[0061] 20, in some embodiments, the proximal portion of the ridge 15 may be thicker than the distal portion of the ridge 15 to facilitate a user's grip of the ridge 15 and the paddle 14. In some embodiments, the thickness of the distal portion of the ridge 15 may be generally uniform to reduce the tipping effect in which the thumb pushes the wing 24a forward in response to contacting the taper in the distal direction. In some embodiments, the thickness of the distal portion of the ridge 15 may increase in the distal direction to reduce the tipping effect.

[0062] 21A-21B, in some embodiments, the top of the wing 24a may include a groove 122, which may be saddle-shaped with a ridge between two high points or peaks. In some embodiments, the groove 122 may be approximately thumb-sized and configured for placement of a user's thumb. In some embodiments, the groove 122 may be proximate to the distal edge of the wing 24a, although the location of the groove 122 may vary. In some embodiments, the groove 122 may provide a natural placement for the thumb to inhibit premature movement of the wing 24a distally from the paddle 14.

[0063] 22, in some embodiments, the proximal end of the ridges 15 may be removed, for example, as illustrated in FIG 22. Thus, in some embodiments, the ridges 15 may not extend to the body 114 of the needle hub 12. In these and other embodiments, the ridges 15 may be configured to inhibit the forward tipping effect described hereinabove.

[0064] 23A-23B, the paddle 14 may include a bend or U-shape to form an upper portion 124 of the paddle 14 and a lower portion 126 of the paddle 14. In some embodiments, the upper portion 124 and the lower portion 126 are disposed above and below the wing 24a, respectively, and sandwich the wing 24a. In some embodiments, the upper portion 124 and the lower portion 126 may be spaced apart from the wing 24a to facilitate separation and movement between the catheter adapter 22 and the needle hub 12. In some embodiments, in response to a user pinching the upper portion 124 and the lower portion 126 together during insertion of the catheter 18, the upper portion 124 and the lower portion 126 may contact and pinch the wing 24a, thus inhibiting separation between the catheter adapter 22 and the needle hub 12. In some embodiments, the outer edge 128 of the wing 24a may be spaced from the paddle 14 before and / or after pinching by a user. In some embodiments, the upper portion 124 and / or the lower portion 126 may be constructed of a flexible material.

[0065] 24A-24B, in some embodiments, the paddle 14 may be disposed on the top of the wing 24a. In some embodiments, the catheter system 10 may be smaller than the wing 24a and / or the paddle 14 and may include a wing 130. In some embodiments, the wing 130 may be formed of a flexible material and may be movable between an upper position and a lower position. In some embodiments, the top of the paddle 14 may include a slot or groove 132.

[0066] In some embodiments, when wings 130 are deployed in the lowered position, a portion of wings 130 may be deployed in grooves 132. In some embodiments, in response to wings 130 being deployed in the lowered position, wings 130 may be configured to move along grooves 132 to inhibit bending of cannula 16 during separation of catheter adapter 22 and needle hub 12. In some embodiments, grooves 132 may be straight and aligned parallel to longitudinal axis 44.

[0067] In some embodiments, the wings 130 may not extend further than the outer edge 128 of the wings 24a. In some embodiments, the wings 130 may extend from the catheter adapter 22 or the wings. Figure 24B illustrates the wings 130 in a lowered position and Figure 24C illustrates the wings 130 in an upper position, according to some embodiments. In some embodiments, the bottom of the wings 130 may include a protrusion or other shape that may fit within the groove 132.

[0068] In some embodiments, the wings 130 may facilitate one-handed use of the catheter system 10 and inhibit premature separation of the catheter adapter 22 and the needle hub 12. In some embodiments, a user may contact the wings 130 with their thumb and pinch the wings 130, the paddle 14, and the wings 24a between their thumb and their index finger positioned under the wings 24a. In some embodiments, the wings 130 may be moved between a lowered position and an upper position by the user's thumb to release the catheter adapter 22 from the needle hub 12. In some embodiments, the catheter adapter 22 may include a stop feature 133 that may be configured to contact the bottom of the paddle 14 to inhibit rotation of the needle hub 12 relative to the catheter adapter 22.

[0069] 25A-25F, the distal end of the paddle 14 may include a curved surface 134, which may include a concave curved surface or a U-shape facing generally in a distal direction. In some embodiments, the curved surface 134 may be configured to receive a user's index finger in a ported grip. In some embodiments, the catheter adapter 22 may include a curved surface 136 on the opposite side of the longitudinal axis 44 as the curved surface 134. In some embodiments, the curved surface 136 includes a concave curved surface or a U-shape facing generally toward a lateral side of the catheter system 10. In some embodiments, the curved surface 136 may be configured to receive a user's thumb in a ported grip.

[0070] In some embodiments, curved surface 136 may include one or more tactile features, which may facilitate gripping by a user. In some embodiments, tactile features may include ribs, protrusions, grooves, bumps, etc. In some embodiments, as shown, for example, in Figures 25C-25D, catheter adapter 22 may include stop feature 133, which may be configured to contact the bottom of paddle 14 to inhibit rotation.

[0071] Referring to FIG. 26A, a prior art catheter system 138 is illustrated. The prior art catheter system 138 may include a septum 140 disposed within a catheter adapter 142, and a portion 144 of a needle hub 146 may be inserted into the catheter adapter 142. Referring to FIG. 26B-26C, the catheter system 10 may include a septum 147 that is shorter than the septum 140 of the prior art catheter system 138. In some embodiments, when the catheter adapter 22 and the needle hub 12 are coupled together, a portion 148 of the needle hub 12 is inserted into the catheter adapter 22 and may be longer than the portion 144, facilitating greater stability and enhanced alignment between the catheter adapter 22 and the needle hub 12 during insertion of the catheter 18 into the vasculature. In some embodiments, the catheter adapter 22 may include a low drag septum, for example, the septum 147 may be low drag.

[0072] In some embodiments, the distal end of the septum 147 may be near or adjacent to the junction of the lumen of the catheter adapter 22 with the lumen of the side port 34 that extends between the distal end 30 and the proximal end 32 of the catheter adapter 22. In some embodiments, the proximal end of the septum 147 may be distal to the proximal end of the side port 34. In some embodiments, a press fit washer 150 may be disposed between the portion 148 and the septum 147, allowing the catheter system 10 to withstand high pressures.

[0073] 26D-26E, in some embodiments, cannula 16 may include a solid introducer needle, which may not include any cuts. In some embodiments, the solid introducer needle may reduce the length of septum 147 and / or increase the length of portion 148. In some embodiments, the solid introducer needle may be constructed via extrusion, grinding, laser, etching, or another suitable method.

[0074] 27A-27C, in some embodiments, the catheter adapter 22 may include ribs 152, which may be generally aligned with the longitudinal axis 44. In some embodiments, the inner portion of the paddle 14 may include grooves 154, which may also be generally aligned with the longitudinal axis 44. In some embodiments, the ribs 152 may be disposed within the grooves 154, which may facilitate alignment of the catheter adapter 22 and the needle hub 12 during insertion of the catheter 18 into the patient's vasculature and / or withdrawal of the cannula 16 from the catheter adapter 22. In some embodiments, the cannula 16 may include a solid introducer needle or a lumen extending therethrough. In some embodiments, the user may push or pull the paddle 14 relative to the catheter adapter 22 to overcome any friction resisting movement of the ribs 152 relative to the grooves 154.

[0075] All examples and conditional statements described in this specification are intended for educational purposes to help the reader understand the concepts contributed by the inventor to advance the present invention and the art, and are not to be construed as being limited to the examples and conditions as specifically described. Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail, it should be understood that various changes, substitutions, and alterations can be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. It should be understood that the embodiments may be combined.

Claims

1. a catheter adapter including a proximal end, a distal end, and a lumen extending along a longitudinal axis through the proximal end and the distal end; a wing extending outwardly from the catheter adapter and including a groove or slot; a catheter extending distally from the catheter adapter; Needle hub and a paddle including a concave surface and a ridge, the paddle secured to and extending distally from the distal end of the needle hub, the concave surface having an extension configured to engage the groove or slot of the wing, the ridge extending from the needle hub and forming a periphery of the paddle and defining the concave surface; a cannula extending through the catheter adapter and the catheter and including a proximal end and a distal end, the proximal end being secured within the needle hub; Equipped with the concave surface is adapted to receive the wing such that a proximal end of the wing is adjacent the ridge, an upper surface of the wing is in the same plane as an upper surface of the ridge, and the extension engages the groove or slot to constrain movement of the wing relative to the paddle in a distal or proximal direction parallel to the longitudinal axis. A catheter system comprising:

2. The catheter system of claim 1 , wherein the bottoms of the wings are smooth.

3. The catheter system of claim 1 , wherein the extension is configured to move laterally within the groove or slot.

4. The catheter system of claim 1 , wherein the extension has a ball shape, the wings include the grooves, and the grooves include sockets.

5. The catheter system of claim 1 , wherein the wings are constructed of a flexible material such that the wings can be pulled away from the paddle to remove the extension from the groove or slot.

6. The catheter system of claim 1 , wherein the extension includes a rib and the wings include a groove, the groove being elongated to generally match a shape of the rib.

7. The catheter system of claim 1 , wherein the extension is part of a chevron pattern surface and the wings have a corresponding chevron pattern including the grooves.

8. a catheter adapter having a proximal end, a distal end, and a lumen extending through the proximal end and the distal end; a wing extending outwardly from the catheter adapter and including a groove or slot; a catheter extending distally from the catheter adapter; a needle hub removably secured to the catheter adapter; a paddle secured to and extending distally from a distal end of the needle hub, the paddle having a concave surface with an extension configured to engage the groove or slot of the wing, and a ridge extending from the needle hub and forming a periphery of the paddle, the ridge defining the concave surface; a cannula extending through the catheter adapter and the catheter and including a proximal end and a distal end, the proximal end being secured within the needle hub; Equipped with the concave surface is adapted to receive the wings such that the ridges contact the wings when the catheter adapter and the needle hub are in contact with each other, the upper surfaces of the wings are in the same plane as the upper surfaces of the ridges, and the grooves or slots and the extensions contact each other to restrict movement of the wings relative to the paddle in either the distal or proximal direction. A catheter system comprising:

9. 9. The catheter system of claim 8, wherein the paddle further comprises a rough texture, a proximal portion of the paddle having the rough texture and a distal portion of the paddle being smooth.

10. The wing is a first wing extending outwardly from the catheter adapter and including the groove or slot; a second wing extending from the catheter adapter in a direction away from the first wing; The catheter system of claim 1 ,

Images